Digital App Could Improve Insomnia During Cancer Care
A study found that women with cancer who used a digital therapy app saw significant improvements in sleep and related symptoms.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Cancer
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A phase 3 clinical trial shows that a digital cognitive behavior therapy app, Sleepio, significantly improves insomnia and related symptoms in women undergoing cancer treatment. Patients using the six-week program saw notable remission rates compared to those receiving standard sleep hygiene education.
Why it matters
Insomnia affects up to 60% of women with cancer, often compounding fatigue, anxiety, and depression. This digital intervention offers a scalable, non-pharmacological treatment option that addresses these symptoms alongside sleep quality.
In the Sleepio After Cancer phase 3 trial of 308 participants, the intervention group achieved a 62% insomnia remission rate at 24 weeks with a 6.36-point mean improvement in Sleep Condition Indicator scores versus the control group. These findings remain preliminary regarding long-term durability.
The players
Sleepio
A digital therapeutic application that utilizes cognitive behavior therapy to treat insomnia and is recommended by health authorities over traditional sleep medications.
University College Dublin
An Irish academic institution serving as the host for the lead research team behind the Sleepio After Cancer clinical trial.
The details
The program utilizes digital cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) delivered over six weekly sessions to restructure sleep patterns. By tracking daily sleep diaries, the app provides personalized adjustments and in-the-moment support to help users shift their circadian rhythms. This approach targets the psychological and behavioral drivers of insomnia common in cancer populations without the use of medication.
Timeline
2023: The European Society for Medical Oncology established CBT as the standard treatment for insomnia.
24 weeks: The duration of the study before primary assessment of remission and symptom scores.
Health Landscape
The study marks a significant step in the integration of digital therapeutics into oncology supportive care, challenging the reliance on pharmacological sleep aids. It aligns with the current move toward non-drug interventions for managing cancer-related symptoms.
If you are managing cancer-related insomnia, discuss whether digital cognitive behavior therapy or other non-drug sleep strategies might be appropriate for your care plan. Always coordinate with your oncology team before initiating new wellness apps to ensure they align with your specific treatment regimen.
The takeaway
Digital cognitive behavior therapy can significantly reduce insomnia and related fatigue in cancer patients. Patients struggling with sleep should talk to their physician about evidence-based digital programs that avoid the risks of traditional sleep medications.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest evidence-based approaches to supportive care in our Cancer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Healio.
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