Digital health technology in oncology: results from a survey by the ESMO Young Oncologists Committee and medical student alumni
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background and purpose: Digital health technologies are transforming oncology care, yet adoption remains inconsistent globally. This study evaluates current utilization patterns, perceived effectiveness, and barriers among oncology professionals worldwide. Methods: We conducted a global cross-sectional survey (27 questions) analyzing workplace characteristics, technology usage patterns, effectiveness, and barriers to adoption among oncology professionals to better understand the real-world adoption of digital health technologies. Using a questionnaire developed by the ESMO Young Oncologists Committee in collaboration with the medical student alumni, we assessed device availability, technology usage, effectiveness ratings, training experiences, and implementation barriers. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods to identify usage patterns, variations and barriers to adoption of digital health technologies. Results: = 0.014). Major barriers included system integration challenges (67.4%) and infrastructure limitations (57.3%), while 84.1% expressed a need for additional training. Effectiveness varied significantly by tool, from 80.5% for e-prescriptions to 45.2% for telemonitoring. Regional patterns emerged, with high-bandwidth tools predominant in well-resourced areas (Oceania 85.7% video telehealth) versus text-based systems where connectivity is more limited (Africa 63% chat-based). Discussion: Findings from the present survey highlight persistent disparities in digital health adoption, emphasizing the need for infrastructure investment, interoperable systems, and tailored training to ensure equitable implementation and maximize the potential of technology in oncology care globally.
Authors: P. Mandó, M. Moutafi, E.A. Connolly, L. Faulkner, P. Franco, D.C. Güven, M. Kfoury, M. Kloft, E. Kocakavuk, E. Mariamidze, G. Nader-Marta, S. Nasir, R. Pihlak, K. Punie, K.H.J. Lim, P. Sobczuk, A.M. Starzer, A. Tecic Vuger, H. Zhu, H.A.V. Phillips, P.A. Povilonis, T. Sabater-Fajardo, T. Teo, A. Cervantes, R. Sánchez-Bayona, M. Lambertini
Institutions: Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas Norberto Quirno, University General Hospital Attikon, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation, Cancer Research UK, Cancer Research UK Cambridge Center, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Hacettepe University, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Krankenhaus Nordwest, Essen University Hospital, Harvard University, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Aga Khan University Hospital, St Bartholomew's Hospital, GZA Ziekenhuizen Campus Sint-Augustinus, GZA Ziekenhuizen, National Health Service, The Francis Crick Institute, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, The Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Sisters of Charity Hospital, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Fudan University, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, Universitat de València, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer, Hospital Universitario 12 De Octubre, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliera Metropolitana, University of Genoa
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,170
OpenAlex ID: W7141161252