Purpose

Chronic pain, depression, and fatigue are common effects resulting from the cancer experience; new interventions are needed. This study examined the effect of Reimagine, an online symptom self-management curriculum that teaches coping skills, on key outcomes.

Methods

Adult breast cancer survivors with chronic pain were recruited from the Army of Women volunteer registry for this randomized controlled trial and randomized 1:1 to Reimagine or usual care conditions. Electronic surveys collected demographic, clinical, and outcome data at baseline and 18 weeks post-intervention.

Results

Participants (N = 89) were mean age 56.7 ± 8.7 years; 67% married; 58% employed; mean years since diagnosis 8.2 ± 6.6; and 89% were in remission or cured of their breast cancer. There was a significant difference in the change in depression scores for treatment (M = - 1.7, SD = 4.5) and usual care (M = 0.3, SD = 3.8) conditions; t(85) = - 2.3, p = .03. Difference in the change in fatigue scores was significant for treatment (M = 4.8, SD = 9.0) and usual care (M = 1.2, SD = 6.6) conditions; t(87) = 2.2, p = .03. Most Reimagine users (94%) would recommend the curriculum to others.

Conclusions

These results suggest that Reimagine has an effect on depression and fatigue symptoms for breast cancer survivors. Online programs can be a feasible and effective alternative to in-person support. Additional research is recommended with larger and more diverse samples.