Health Apps

Oncologym: The Fitness, Nutrition, and Coaching App for Cancer Patients

27/02/2024

Every year, millions of people are diagnosed with cancer, a disease that entails a physical and emotional struggle for patients and their loved ones. Cancer significantly affects the quality of life, weakening the physical and emotional state of those who suffer from it. During this process, maintaining an active and nutritionally balanced life becomes an additional challenge, beyond the impact of the disease on the overall health of the patient.

However, research has shown that exercise and proper nutrition can have a significant effect on improving the well-being and quality of life of cancer patients. Additionally, studies like the one by Kurz E and collaborators in 2022 suggest that exercise might even amplify the effects of critical treatments such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, opening new pathways in cancer treatment.

Nonetheless, access to specialized exercise and nutrition programs is often limited, especially for those who are undergoing active treatment or recovery. In this context of need, an important question arises: Is it possible to offer comprehensive support that addresses these critical areas of cancer recovery in a more accessible way?

The answer is Oncologym, an innovative solution that promises to transform support for cancer patients, offering a comprehensive service of exercise, nutrition, and coaching at the palm of our hand, through its app. This unique approach seeks to fill the existing gap in healthcare for those fighting cancer, providing an accessible and personalized resource. Through Oncologym, a new pathway of hope is opened, offering patients the necessary tools to face their disease with greater strength and optimism.

What is Oncologym?

Oncologym stands out as the first online gym dedicated exclusively to cancer patients, a space where recovery and well-being intertwine through a holistic and innovative approach. This pioneering service is based on the #oncologymmethod, a methodology proven in over 300 patients, integrating exercise, nutrition, and coaching to offer a comprehensive and personalized recovery. The vision of Oncologym aims to transform the word patient into “actient.” The person can and should be an active part of their recovery and health care through changing habits.

The essence of Oncologym lies in its deep understanding of the specific needs of its users, preparing them to face surgical interventions and/or treatment therapies with greater strength, as well as to manage, reduce, or even eliminate the side effects of treatment, substantially improving their quality of life. Oncologym goes beyond physical support, focusing on instilling healthy lifestyle habits, promoting a renewal process that projects patients towards their healthiest and most resilient version.

The multidisciplinary approach of Oncologym covers the three fundamental pillars for optimal recovery: exercise, designed specifically to counteract the effects of cancer and its treatments; nutrition, adapted to meet the particular needs and improve the overall well-being of the patient, and coaching, providing emotional and psychological support to strengthen resilience and motivation during this challenging journey.

The benefits of physical exercise in cancer patients are widely recognized and supported by scientific evidence, showing notable improvements in immune function, bone health, cardiovascular health, and mood, among others. Oncologym adopts this knowledge to offer training that is adapted, science-based, and personalized according to the clinical history and therapeutic needs of each patient, ensuring a positive impact on their recovery and quality of life.

Oncologym positions itself as an innovation in the care of cancer patients through its online service and, in turn, establishes a new standard in comprehensive care, where exercise, nutrition, and coaching come together to facilitate a complete recovery, empowering patients to take active control of their health and well-being.

The Oncologym Method

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As we previously introduced, the Oncologym method is distinguished by its comprehensive and personalized approach to the recovery of cancer patients, based on three pillars: exercise, nutrition, and coaching.

The exercise component within the Oncologym Method is designed to safely strengthen the body, taking into account the limitations and specific needs of each patient. Through adapted routines, the aim is to improve strength, cardiorespiratory capacity, and other markers of physical health, which are fundamental for both preoperative preparation and postoperative recovery. Similarly, this preparation is intended for different cancer therapies (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, etc.), applying both before, during, and after therapy.

Nutrition plays an essential role in this method, providing cancer patients with dietary plans designed to optimally nourish the body to face the impact of treatment, as well as to improve their overall well-being. These plans are personalized, considering the specific caloric and nutritional needs, thus contributing to a better response to treatment and a faster recovery.

Coaching, the third pillar of the Oncologym Method, focuses on emotional and motivational support, helping patients to face the diagnosis and treatment with a positive and resilient mindset. This support is vital for managing stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges that accompany the oncological process, promoting an active and positive attitude towards recovery.

Together, these three elements prepare the patient to face surgery and/or treatment in better physical and emotional conditions. The Oncologym Method transforms cancer recovery through personalized care and comprehensive support. This improves quality of life during treatment and increases hope for facing the future, as patients achieve a better state of physical and mental health.

Benefits of Exercise for Cancer Patients

Exercise plays a transformative role in the psychophysical health of cancer patients, offering benefits that go beyond physical recovery. The implementation of adapted exercise routines within the Oncologym program has shown to have a significant impact on improving the quality of life of these patients. Here are the top 10 benefits:

  1. Improved physical health: Exercise strengthens the immune system, helping to prevent diseases such as diabetes, chronic inflammation, or cancer.
  2. Improved bone health: Resistance and weightlifting exercises help strengthen the bones, preventing the onset of osteopenia or osteoporosis.
  3. Improved cardiovascular health: Physical activity strengthens the heart, improving the body’s endurance and reducing cholesterol and blood pressure.
  4. Prevention of respiratory problems: Increases lung capacity and improves tissue oxygenation.
  5. Improved Mental Health: Exercise reduces anxiety and depression, improves mood, and increases self-esteem.
  6. Strengthened muscles, tendons, and ligaments: Increases muscle mass reducing the toxicity of cancer treatments.
  7. Weight control: Physical activity prevents and reduces overweight and promotes fat oxidation.
  8. Reduces insulin resistance: a cause of diabetes.
  9. Stimulates the nervous system: Exercise increases the production of BDNF (Brain-derived neurotrophic factor), an important protein for neuronal survival.
  10. Improved Sleep Quality: Regular physical activity contributes to deeper and more restorative sleep.

These benefits highlight the importance of incorporating exercise as an integral part of the treatment and recovery process in cancer patients. Oncologym, through its personalized approach, facilitates patients’ access to these benefits, significantly contributing to their well-being and quality of life during and after treatment.

The treatment process through the app

The Oncologym platform, developed by GooApps, allows patients to access physical exercise programs specifically designed for their unique needs, tailored nutritional tracking to strengthen their body during and after treatment, and psychological coaching sessions to support their emotional well-being throughout the process. This three-dimensional approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care addressing all aspects of their recovery.

Program adaptability according to medical therapy

Personalization and adaptability are essential aspects of the Oncologym philosophy, especially when it comes to adjusting the service offered to the specific needs that arise from each patient’s medical therapy. This adaptability ensures that each individual receives the most effective support in their fight against cancer.

The adaptability of the service begins with a clear distinction between the different treatment phases. In case the patient has to undergo surgery, we can distinguish the following phases:

  • Pre-habilitation Phase: Before any surgical intervention, a preparatory training is offered designed to strengthen the body, improve resilience, and optimize postoperative recovery.
  • Post-surgical Recovery Phase: After the intervention, the focus is on regaining full mobility and functionality, through exercises specifically adapted for this purpose.

Subsequently, within the treatment phase, exercise planning is personalized according to the patient’s current needs and the therapies administered. Each training session is designed taking into account:

  • The Patient’s Current Needs: Depending on how the patient feels and the specific stage of treatment they are in, exercise is adapted to meet their immediate needs.
  • The Effects of Administered Therapies: Since each medical treatment, like chemotherapy for example, carries its own side effects, exercise programs are designed to mitigate these effects. This includes pre-treatment exercises to prepare the body, as well as post-treatment routines aimed at more quickly eliminating toxins, while maintaining the efficacy of the treatment’s active principles through increased muscle oxygenation.
  • Muscle Nutrition and Effect on Tumor Cells: An innovative aspect of exercise adaptation in Oncologym is the consideration of how muscle uses lactate, which also feeds tumor cells. By focusing on exercises that promote lactate consumption by the muscle, Oncologym not only improves the patient’s muscle health and strength but also contributes to “starving” the tumor cells.

Benefits of Using the App

Oncologym offers multiple benefits for both patients and healthcare centers:

  • Intuitive Tracking of Therapeutic Schedule: The app allows patients to manage their treatment schedules, exercise routines, nutritional consultations, and coaching sessions easily. This functionality ensures that patients can adhere to their therapeutic plans without complications.
  • Personalized Adaptation: Depending on the specific phases of therapy the patient is undergoing, the app adapts the training routines and offers additional resources. This means that each user’s experience is unique, adapting to their needs and progress.
  • Improved Communication: The integration of services facilitates smooth communication between patients and healthcare professionals. Users can share updates about their status, progress, and any adverse effects of their medical therapy, improving the quality of support received.
  • Effective Management of Medical History: The app stores the patient’s medical history, making critical information accessible at all times for both the patient and the medical team.
  • Patient Empowerment: By actively involving the patient in their recovery process and educating them about healthy habits, Oncologym fosters a proactive attitude towards health and well-being.
  • Integration of Specialized Services: The app allows healthcare centers to offer a comprehensive oncological recovery service. This enriches patient care, providing a more holistic and coordinated recovery.
  • Personalization of Care: With the ability to tailor exercise, nutrition, and coaching programs to the individual needs of each patient, Oncologym ensures that care is truly personalized, thus increasing the effectiveness of the treatment.

Oncologym, through its app, represents a step forward in oncological care, offering a platform that enhances the quality of life for patients during their treatment and becomes a support tool for healthcare centers to integrate specialized services effectively. With Oncologym, patients become active participants on their path to recovery, supported by a team of dedicated professionals and technology that places their needs as the highest priority.

Phase 1: Definition, Design, and Conceptualization by GooApps

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Every development of a technological application involves a preliminary phase of thorough planning, and the development process of Oncologym, an app dedicated to improving oncological recovery through exercise, coaching, and nutrition, follows this rule rigorously. At GooApps, we are aware that the success of any technological project is based on a solid foundation of preparation and design. Therefore, we dedicate the first stage of development to establishing the foundations of Oncologym, covering the Definition, Design, and Conceptualization of the application.

Aspects included in this phase

During this initial period, we focus on different critical elements to ensure that the application achieves its set goals:

  • Information and Technical Architecture: The structure of the app is determined, including its essential components, services, integrations, APIs, and data management system.
  • Functional Documentation: We thoroughly document the planned functionalities for the application, ensuring a clear understanding of its objectives and scope by all stakeholders.
  • Development and Testing Planning: We develop a detailed plan for development and testing, which acts as a guide for the subsequent phases of the project.
  • UX/UI Analysis and Design Kit: We conduct an in-depth analysis of the user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design, resulting in the creation of low and high fidelity wireframes (LoFi & HiFi).
  • Digital Prototyping with Figma: We build a digital prototype in Figma that captures both the design and functionality of the app, facilitating usability tests with potential users.

How GooApps Manages the Project’s Specific Challenges

Supporting cancer patients through Oncologym requires careful and user-centered design. We use advanced UX Design and Visual Design techniques to develop solutions that are not only intuitive but also functional across various devices.

We are aware that programming is a costly and time-consuming component in app development. Therefore, rapid prototyping is essential, allowing us to efficiently validate the user experience and proposed functionalities. Our goal is to refine the project by removing superfluous elements and focusing on the functionalities that truly add value to the user.

Upon completing this phase, we deliver fundamental documentation and resources, including the technology diagram, technology stack, user journey, feature backlog, product roadmap, and development estimates. This positions us to move to the next stage with a defined strategy and a clear vision of the project.

This preliminary phase of Definition, Design, and Conceptualization acts as the necessary design blueprints before building a construction. Our goal is to avoid wasting resources on later modifications, focusing on validation by real users to ensure that each functionality and design element enriches an effective and appealing user experience.

Methodology and Technology at GooApps

Creating applications that truly impact the health sector goes beyond having the latest technology. It is essential to know how to apply these tools effectively to meet specific needs. At GooApps, we stand out for integrating our consolidated experience in health with technological innovation to generate transformative solutions.

Combining Experience and Expertise

With a track record of more than 15 years in the health sector, our interdisciplinary team possesses the knowledge and skill necessary to tackle complex challenges, such as those associated with cancer. From the beginning, we place special emphasis on thoroughly understanding our users, which allows us to develop technically advanced applications that also provide a superior user experience. We employ agile methodologies to maintain the project’s flexibility, adapting to changes without compromising quality or efficiency.

Adherence to Regulations and Standards

Strict compliance with regulations and standards is essential in the development of health solutions. We ensure that each solution complies with the most demanding legal and ethical requirements, protecting the security and privacy of users. For the Oncologym application, we have ensured compliance with required regulations, such as:

  • General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): We design the app’s functionalities to maximize the protection of personal data.
  • Organic Law on Data Protection and Guarantee of Digital Rights (LOPD-GDD): We guarantee data management according to this legislation, offering unbreakable security and privacy of information.
  • Patient Autonomy Law: We maintain informed consent at every stage of development, ensuring that users exercise full control over their information and health decisions.

This rigorous adherence to laws meets legal standards and promotes an indispensable trust environment for the success of any digital health application.

By combining a proven methodology with a comprehensive understanding of regulations and best practices in health, we manage to deliver an innovative, secure, reliable solution focused on the user’s well-being.

What makes GooApps stand out?

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Developing effective technological solutions in the health sector transcends mere technical knowledge; it requires a deep understanding of the specific needs and challenges of users. At GooApps, our reputation is built on these two fundamental aspects: extensive experience and a user-oriented approach. But, what are the reasons that make us the preferred choice for developing applications like Oncologym? Let’s find it out.

Our User-Centered Perspective

Our philosophy is that technology should serve people, not the other way around. We adopt a “User-Centric” methodology from start to finish. Before beginning development, we dedicate ourselves to deeply understanding our users: who they are, what they need, and how we can make their lives easier. This commitment guides us to create applications that not only solve specific problems but also offer an outstanding user experience. By placing the user at the center of our creative process, we ensure that every function, every interaction, and every design contributes to a solution that our users will desire and value.

Proven Experience in the Sector

Our track record of more than 15 years in the health, sports, and wellness sectors has equipped us with a detailed knowledge of the challenges and opportunities that exist. This knowledge allows us to tackle complex projects with a comprehensive understanding of the sector’s demands and a clear vision of how to implement appropriate technological solutions. Beyond application development, we offer consulting and strategies that accompany projects from their inception to execution and beyond.

Our clients particularly appreciate the trust, control, communication, and security that characterize our development process. As experts in eHealth, mHealth, and telemedicine, we master the critical aspects of data protection and regulatory compliance, offering an additional level of trust in our services.

By choosing GooApps, you’re not just selecting an application development provider; you’re also gaining a strategic ally committed to the success of your project, backed by extensive experience and an unwavering dedication to meeting users’ needs.

The Collaborative Experience between Oncologym and GooApps

The collaboration between Oncologym and GooApps has been a process of synergy and cooperation to develop a pioneering app in the treatment and recovery of cancer patients. This alliance has combined the expert vision of Oncologym in the field of oncology with the technological expertise of GooApps, specialized in digital health solutions.

As described by Emanuela Sotgiu, co-founder of Oncologym and health coach, her experience can be summarized as follows:

“From the beginning, GooApps has played an essential role in materializing the vision of Oncologym, bringing their extensive experience in the design and development of user-centered mobile applications. GooApps has been responsible for successfully integrating exercise, nutrition, and coaching services into a cohesive and easy-to-use platform, meeting the highest standards of data security and privacy, in addition to providing an exceptional user experience.

A highlight of this collaboration has been the focus on personalization and accessibility. Recognizing the diversity in health conditions and the needs of cancer patients, GooApps has implemented advanced technological solutions that allow for personalized adjustments, ensuring that each patient receives a program tailored to their specific needs.

Furthermore, the collaboration has placed significant emphasis on improving communication between patients and healthcare professionals. The developed app facilitates a direct and efficient channel for information exchange, enabling medical teams to monitor patient progress in real time and adjust treatment plans as necessary.”

On the other hand, Ángel Meléndez, responsible for the physical rehabilitation of cancer patients and co-founder of Oncologym, shares his assessment of the collaboration through the following video:

In conclusion, the collaboration between Oncologym and GooApps has set a new standard in the application of technology for oncological recovery, demonstrating the power of digital innovation when applied with empathy and a deep understanding of patient needs. This joint effort has resulted in an extremely useful application for cancer patients and has opened new paths for digital healthcare, establishing a new milestone where technology and healthcare come together to improve lives.

Next Steps: Phase 2 and Beyond

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Our collaboration with initiatives like Oncologym has led us to achieve significant milestones so far, but we are even more excited about the future. The next stage in the app’s development, called Phase 2, promises to materialize the digital process for comprehensive support to cancer patients. But, what does this next phase entail? Let’s delve into it.

Functional Implementation of the Application

If we consider Phase 1 as the preliminary design of our “construction,” Phase 2 represents the time to actually erect that structure. In this critical stage, we carry out the creation of practical solutions accessible from mobile devices, using the most advanced technologies and combining Continuous Delivery practices with Agile and Lean methodologies.

In this phase, we focus on programming the initial version of the product, or the Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Thanks to the rigorous preparation and validation carried out in Phase 1, we have a clear vision of what we need to build. The programming is organized into short sprints, each culminating in a quality control to ensure the absence of errors that could delay the launch.

Security and Scalability

Our programming approach is agile, secure, and scalable. We ensure compliance with all data protection regulations, advanced security standards, and in the case of health-related applications, we also proceed with the relevant certification processes.

Deliverables of Phase 2

Upon completing this phase, we will deliver:

  • A clean and visual App
  • App source code
  • A “Task Report” detailing the hours spent
  • Executed test plan
  • Deployment of the application in app stores like Apple Store and Google Play

Additionally, we will offer our clients and their teams the opportunity to conduct live tests before the application’s public launch.

With Phase 2, we are positioning the support for cancer patients in a digital reality that does not yet exist, creating a solution that is more accessible, secure, and effective than ever. While this stage represents the most significant effort in terms of time and budget, every moment and resource invested brings us closer to a future where comprehensive and personalized support for cancer patients is a consolidated reality in the lives of many.

Final Thoughts

As we conclude the analysis of the various stages, approaches, and achievements associated with the development of Oncologym, it becomes clear that we are facing an innovation capable of revolutionizing cancer management and support for cancer patients. Endowed with a robust infrastructure and a design that places the user at the center, this application is not merely a technological advancement but a concrete and effective response to the needs of those facing cancer.

Early intervention and continuous support are essential for improving the quality of life of cancer patients. Through Oncologym, we are facilitating access to personalized exercise, nutrition, and coaching resources, thus optimizing the recovery process and empowering patients in their fight against cancer. Success stories underline the effectiveness of this proposal, showing a tangible impact on the well-being of users.

This journey through Oncologym emphasizes both its potential to change current models of oncological care and its ability to offer real and tangible solutions, substantially improving the lives of affected individuals and their families.

Invitation to Investors for Phase 2

We are at a decisive moment: Phase 2 of Oncologym, where our visions and preliminary efforts evolve into a fully operational and scalable application. This stage is critical, as it requires considerable resources but, in turn, offers the promise of a profound impact on the lives of cancer patients. Therefore, we extend a special invitation to investors who wish to contribute to this transformative project.

Investing in Phase 2 goes beyond funding a simple app. It represents a commitment to a future in which every cancer patient can receive the necessary support and understanding from the beginning. This is a unique opportunity to positively influence society, participating in a project with great potential both socially and economically.

If you are motivated by our vision, we invite you to contact us and explore ways in which you can participate in the development and success of Oncologym.

Join the Initiative

If you’ve made it this far, it’s clear you understand the importance of our goal with Oncologym. Enhancing support for cancer patients is an act that has the power to transform lives. Now, we offer you the chance to be an active part of this change.

For Interested Individuals

If you are a patient, family member, healthcare professional, or simply someone committed to improving the quality of life of cancer patients, we encourage you to stay informed about Oncologym’s progress. Subscribe to our news newsletter, participate in our user tests, and spread the word among those who could benefit.

For Potential Investors

For investors looking for a project with real impact and potential return, this is your opportunity. Phase 2 is the turning point where research becomes a tangible and scalable solution. Contact us to discuss how your contribution can accelerate the success of this project, which promises both significant social contribution and attractive economic potential.

The fight against cancer is a challenge that concerns us all. Your participation, whether as a collaborator or investor, is vital to taking this project to its next stage. Don’t miss this opportunity, be part of this transformative change.

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