Abstract W P341: Smartphone Applications as a Source of Information on Stroke

Abstract

Introduction: Smartphone applications (apps) have been increasingly identified as a novel platform for dissemination of healthcare related information. Many studies have evaluated the content quality of these apps for health conditions like cancer, diabetes and other chronic illnesses. However, there have been no studies done to evaluate the availability and content of stroke related apps. Aim: This study aims to identify and analyze stroke-related applications available on the Apple iTunes and Android Google Play Store. Methods: The Apple iTunes store and Android Google Play Store were searched for stroke-related applications on July 27, 2013 using keywords “stroke” or “brain attack”. The content of the applications was analyzed by two independent investigators for cost, target audience, type of information, validity, involvement of health-care agencies and usefulness based on audience reviews and ratings. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS Statistics 19.0 for Windows. Results: A total of 93 relevant applications (46.2% android and 53.8% iPhone) were identified of which 47.3% were available free of cost. 92.5 % of apps were identified as useful by the users and over 60% had scientifically valid information. Nearly one third of the available apps provided information regarding symptoms, management or prevention of stroke. There is a significant participation of healthcare agencies in dissemination of stroke related information with 47.3% apps being uploaded by them. Over half of all stroke related apps are aimed towards health care workers, 75% of which can be utilized as bedside tools for patient care and remainder had information related to recent research advances. The difference in scientific validity between the apps aimed at general population versus healthcare professionals was statistically significant ( P <0.01). There was no statistical association between cost of app and scientific validity or usefulness. Conclusion: Smartphone apps are a significant source of information related to stroke. An increasing participation of healthcare agencies should be encouraged to promote dissemination of scientifically valid information.