The use of mobile applications as a tool supporting health

Abstract

Abstract Background Mobile health (m-health) covers activities in the field of medicine and public health carried out by using mobile devices. It also includes mobile applications, which are one of the main branches of e-health. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between the use of mobile health applications by students and everyday behaviour activities that promote health. Methods The study involved 208 students of three Wrocław universities. It was conducted from March till April 2018 and the online diagnostic survey (CAWI) method was used. Results 70.2% of respondents declared they had mobile health applications installed on their smartphone. 49% declared that they used mobile health applications, while 51% did not. Respondents who used the application significantly more often than non-users, took care of their health in almost all of the ways listed in the questionnaire: care about mental health(28%), the quality and duration of sleep(41%), healthy diet(64 %), physical activity(81%), implementation of health-related activities in everyday behaviour(28%), monitoring my health(52%). People, who use health applications significantly more often, undertake most of the physical activities (running 42.2%, working out the gym 39.2%, riding bike 38.2%, attending group classes 33,3%, swimming 21.6%). Respondents use application mostly for 'Registering, supporting physical activity'(80%) Conclusions Almost half of the examined group of students use mobile health applications in their daily lives and this group assesses themselves as health-conscious people in its various manifestations and aspects. These people are more likely to engage in various types of physical activity Key messages The results of the research clearly indicate the positive relationship between the use of mobile applications and health-promoting behaviours and undertaking physical activities. The development and dissemination of mobile applications can significantly affect the extension of possibilities for health promotion activities and supporting a healthy lifestyle.