Abstract
BackgroundHypovitaminosis D is a significant health concern in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly among females. Wearable devices designed to encourage safe sun exposure could potentially help individuals achieve and sustain healthy vitamin D levels. ObjectiveThis qualitative, proof-of-concept study aimed to explore the evaluations of Emirati women with hypovitaminosis D regarding the usability and effectiveness of wearing a novel heliometric device to promote and measure safe sun exposure. MethodsNine Emirati women, aged between 19 and 21, adhered to a protocol stipulating that they wear the heliometric device (a wristband) for 10 min daily over one week. Participants were also asked to follow recommended sun exposure guidance. After one week, qualitative evaluations of participant experiences were elicited via open-ended survey questions (an online evaluation form). All participants were also interviewed to elaborate on their written answers. All qualitative data were explored using thematic analysis. ResultsOverall, participants' evaluations of the device were positive. There was broad agreement that the heliometric wristband encouraged compliance with the recommended sun exposure guidance. Other factors that influenced compliance included climatic conditions, religio-cultural clothing norms, and physical activity preferences. Participants were generally favorable about the device's usability and accuracy, although there were some concerns about wearability and connection challenges. Participants suggested improvements in device design and functionality to enhance usability, wearability, and connectivity. The device appeared to help raise awareness and correct misconceptions among participants. ConclusionThe wearable heliometric device was well tolerated, and such devices could be used as an adjunctive technology to help combat hypovitaminosis D by encouraging safe sun behaviors. Further quantitative research using larger samples, longer durations, and control conditions could assess the clinical effectiveness of such devices.
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