0195 Technology for Insomnia in Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors: A Thematic Analysis

Abstract Introduction An estimated 53% of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors report insufficient sleep, which is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and reduced quality of life. This study aims to qualitatively explore 1) the experiences of insomnia in AYA cancer survivors; 2) strategies employed to address sleep problems; and 3) potential implementations of technology that could improve sleep quality among AYA cancer survivors. Methods Two virtual focus groups were conducted with AYA cancer survivors with current insomnia (n=7) to explore their insomnia experiences, strategies used to address insomnia, and perceptions of technology to promote sleep quality. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis through a hermeneutic philosophical approach. Results All participants were female (age range: 28 – 36 years) and had a previous diagnosis of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or lymphoma. The average duration since diagnosis was 1.7 years (range: 1 – 3 years). Three themes were generated: (1) experiences of insomnia, (2) insomnia coping strategies, and (3) ideas for technology to help with sleep. The participants reported difficulties in initiating sleep (71.4 %), maintaining sleep (28.6%), 04and early awakening (57.1%). Insomnia was connected to stress, anxiety, fatigue, and stomach problems. To cope with insomnia, several strategies were employed: prescription and over-the-counter sleep medication: melatonin or cannabidiol, meeting with counselors, psychiatrists, or medical doctors, modifying their living patterns, and using technology. AYAs showed a positive sentiment toward using technology for sleep problems, and their current technology use included meditation content, tracking sleep or physical activity patterns, and sleeping applications. They suggested future designs that integrate technology to help improve sleep including sleep trackers, daily reminders, meditation videos, and user-friendly interfaces. Conclusion Here we report that AYA cancer survivors with insomnia used multiple strategies to address their insomnia, including technology, and showed a willingness to further utilize technology to assist them. The insights from this study can inform the design of insomnia interventions for AYA cancer survivors and can be further investigated in larger studies and with male AYA cancer survivors. Support (if any) Funding received from the Cancer Consortium Survivorship Program at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center.