Strengths and Limitations
gastric cancer
SECONDARY, GASTRIC CANCER
This study provides useful information in relation to the feasibility and impact of the iNutrition intervention for post-discharged gastric cancer patients following gastrectomy, thus addressing an existing gap in the literature. The strengths of this study include the RCT design, combination of quantitative and qualitative measures, tailored mHealth app, and excellent retention rate. Additionally, a theory-based approach was applied for intervention development. Additionally, the MRC framework was used to ensure a complete feasibility evaluation. Although the results of this intervention are encouraging, there are several limitations that warrant consideration. Firstly, the small sample size in this study was chosen to be appropriate for the primary outcome (feasibility), but it was insufficient to enable powerful statistical analysis of secondary measures in this study. As a result, the secondary measures should be considered preliminary and treated with caution. Secondly, because the follow-up was restricted to post-intervention, the long-term consequences of the intervention in this population are unknown. Thirdly, we pre-contacted and screened patients when they were admitted to the hospital to establish a relationship of trust with the potential participants, which may have improved the retention rate. The participants received reimbursement for completing measurements at baseline and follow-ups, which may also have improved the retention rate. Fourthly, because of the pilot nature of this study, potential confounding factors such as supplementary pharmacy use and physical activity were not considered in the assessment of nutritional status or other health outcomes. These factors will be considered in the design and analyses of the future trial.