Use of the Android-Based Application "LEUMYLO TRACKER" to Monitor Treatment Adherence in Chronic Myelocytic Leukaemia Patients

Abstract

Leukaemia is a life-threatening cancer globally, characterized by the replacement of normal bone marrow elements with abnormal blood cells. Among various types, Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML) poses significant health concerns, particularly in Asia. Managing CML requires strict adherence to targeted therapies like tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which is often challenging due to complex treatment schedules and side effects. Information and communication technologies, such as Android-based applications, can offer innovative solutions to improve medication adherence. This study aims to design, develop, and evaluate the effectiveness of an Android-based application, "LEUMYLO TRACKER," in monitoring treatment adherence among CML patients. The research uses a quasi-experimental design with a developmental research approach. The study involved 51 CML patients undergoing therapy at the Haematology Oncology Medical Internal Medicine Polyclinic, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, selected through systematic random sampling. The primary factors studied were medication adherence using the Probabilistic Medication Adherence Scale and clinical response. The application development involved needs analysis, user interface design, and implementation of features such as medication reminders, adherence tracking, side effect notes, educational information, and communication capabilities with medical personnel. The application was developed using the Android platform and tested with a small group of patients to gather feedback and assess usability. Results from the univariate analysis indicated that 52.9% of respondents had good clinical responses, while 74.5% adhered to their medication regimen. Bivariate analysis showed a significant relationship between medication adherence and clinical response (p = 0.029), with non-adherent patients having a sixfold higher risk of poor clinical response. The LEUMYLO TRACKER application proved beneficial in improving adherence by providing automatic medication reminders and allowing real-time data collection for clinical evaluation. In conclusion, the LEUMYLO TRACKER application effectively enhanced medication adherence and clinical outcomes in CML patients. Its features, such as medication reminders and educational information, supported patients in managing their treatment schedules more consistently. The application also facilitated better communication between patients and medical personnel, allowing timely interventions. Ensuring ease of use and data security is crucial for maximizing the application's benefits. This study highlights the potential of mobile health applications in improving chronic disease management and patient outcomes.