Management Apps Research Articles

A retrospective study of WeChat app-based health management for patients with gestational diabetes mellitus

Background This study aimed to explore and evaluate the effectiveness of WeChat app-based health management in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods This study retrospectively analysed a cohort of 100 patients with GDM. Since the application we used went live in April 2023, we enrolled patients from April 2022 to June 2022 into the control group (n = 50) and patients from April 2023 to June 2023 into the observation group (n = 50) for contemporaneous comparisons. The control group received routine health management procedures, whereas the observation group received app-based health management. Fasting plasma glucose, 2-hour postprandial blood glucose, and haemoglobin A1c levels were compared between the two groups before and four and eight weeks after app management; the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes and weight gain before and after pregnancy was also compared between the two groups. Results Fasting plasma glucose and 2-hour postprandial blood glucose levels were lower in the observation group than in the control group four and eight weeks after intervention (p < 0.05). In addition, the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes and weight gain was lower in the observation group than in the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusions Implementing WeChat app-based health management can effectively improve blood glucose levels, reduce adverse pregnancy events in patients with GDM, and decrease weight gain during pregnancy.

Effectiveness and equity of mHealth apps for preeclampsia management in LMICs: A rapid review protocol.

Preeclampsia remains a formidable public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where it significantly contributes to the high rates of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The advent of mobile health (mHealth) applications presents a promising avenue for enhancing the management of preeclampsia. This review protocol is designed to systematically assess the effectiveness and equity of mHealth apps in managing preeclampsia within LMICs, with a focus on clinical outcomes and the broader implications for accessibility, affordability, and cultural relevance. To achieve the objectives of this review, a rapid review methodology will be employed, encompassing a structured search strategy to identify pertinent studies from databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, as well as grey literature. The inclusion criteria are set to encompass randomized controlled trials (RCTs), controlled clinical trials (CCTs), observational studies, and qualitative studies that offer insights into the effectiveness and user experience of mHealth apps for preeclampsia management. Participants in these studies will include pregnant women at risk for or diagnosed with preeclampsia, healthcare providers, and app developers. The quality of the included studies will be critically appraised using standardized tools, and data extraction will focus on study characteristics, interventions, outcomes, and equity considerations. The implications of this review are far-reaching, offering the potential to inform stakeholders including policymakers, healthcare providers, and app developers about the deployment and development of mHealth solutions for preeclampsia management in LMICs. Ultimately, the anticipated findings of this review are expected to contribute significantly to the understanding of mHealth apps' role in improving preeclampsia management and addressing healthcare disparities, thereby guiding future strategies to enhance maternal and neonatal health outcomes in LMICs.

A Novel Web App for Dietary Weight Management: Development, Implementation, and Usability Study.

Online weight loss programs have ambiguous efficacy. There is a growing body of evidence that weight loss programs when combined with apps have better outcomes; however, many apps lack an evidence-based approach to dietary changes for weight loss and do not rely on a theoretical framework for behavior change. This study aimed to describe the development and the preliminary usability and acceptability testing of a web app that uses behavior change techniques (BCTs) to support users of a comprehensive online weight loss program. The weight loss program intervention components were nutrient and weight tracking charts that needed a remotely accessible and online format. The app was designed by nutrition researchers and developers in a collaborative effort. A review of BCTs in weight loss and web apps was performed as well as an assessment of user needs to inform the initial prototype. A preliminary app prototype, version 1.0, was provided to participants of a weight loss trial (N=30) to assess for feasibility of its use. A full app prototype, version 2.0, was feasibility and acceptability tested by trial participants (n=11) with formal feedback by Likert-scale survey and open-ended questions. In the final round of testing, a user group of scientists and developers (n=11) was selected to provide a structured 3-month review through which the group met weekly for collective feedback sessions. The process resulted in a fully developed web app, MealPlot, by the Applied Research Institute, for meal planning and weight tracking that can be used by weight loss users and health professionals to track their patients. MealPlot includes a weight chart, a protein-fiber chart, and a chat feature. In addition, MealPlot has 2 distinct platforms, 1 for weight loss users and 1 for health professionals. Selected BCTs for incorporation into the app were goal setting, feedback, problem-solving, self-monitoring, and social support. Version 1.0 was used successfully to provide a functioning, online weight chart over the course of a 1-year trial. Version 2.0 provided a functional weight chart and meal planning page, but 8 out of 11 participants indicated MealPlot was difficult to use. Version 3.0 was developed based on feedback and strategies provided from user group testing. The web app, MealPlot, was developed to improve outcomes and functionality of an online weight loss program by providing a remote method of tracking weight, food intake, and connecting users to health professionals for consistent guidance that is not otherwise available in a traditional in-person health care setting. The final version 3.0 of the web app will be refined based on findings of a review study gathering feedback from health professionals and from actual weight loss users who are part of a clinical weight loss trial.

Analysis of willingness to use health management APP for female college students: application of UTAUT model based on Fogg theory.

As the development process of medical industry informatization has entered the stage of smart healthcare, health management applications (apps) have played an important role in improving people's health and preventing diseases, especially among female college students. This study combines the UTAUT model and the Fogg behavioral model (FBM) as a theoretical framework to investigate the factors affecting female college students' willingness to use health management apps. A survey was conducted with 624 female college students regarding their usage of AI health management mobile applications. The analysis reveals that social influence (β = 0.497, p < 0.001), performance expectancy (β = 0.268, p < 0.001), effort expectancy (β = 0.359, p < 0.001), and facilitating conditions (β = 0.603, p < 0.001) positively predict attitude; social influence (β = 0.36, p < 0.001) and effort expectancy (β = 0.183, p < 0.001) positively predict perceived risk, while facilitating conditions negatively predict perceived risk (β = -0.108, p < 0.01). Additionally, performance expectancy (β = 0.231, p < 0.001), effort expectancy (β = 0.285, p < 0.001), facilitating conditions (β = 0.25, p < 0.01), and attitude (β = 0.291, p < 0.05) positively predict an individual's intention to use such applications, which in turn affects actual behavior (β = 0.804, p < 0.001). This study develops a comprehensive theoretical framework to explore the psychological and social factors influencing female college students' utilization of health management applications. The findings underscore the significant roles of social influence, performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and facilitating conditions in shaping user attitudes and intentions. These insights offer valuable guidance for formulating effective interventions to enhance the adoption of these applications.

Harnessing Digital Initiatives for Improved Health Outcomes in Diabetes Management: An Observational Patient Program.

Patients with diabetes have easy access to a wide range of digital applications that may help with self-management and lower barriers; however, robust evidence of their effectiveness remains somewhat elusive. Zyla is a medical artificial intelligence (AI)-based personalized care management app that assists the treating physician in improving the standard of patient care by offering the patients comprehensive and individualized care. This preliminary evaluation of data collected through the Zyla app aims to understand the impact of diabetes disease outcomes among patients subscribed to this app. This was a retrospective, observational program conducted through the Zyla app in the calendar year 2020. The Zyla app's objective is to assist the treating physician in improving the standard of patient care by giving them the choice of assembling a personalized team (consisting of clinical nutritionists, physiotherapists, and counselors over a virtual platform) that can offer patients comprehensive and individualized care. Data on parameters like glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood sugar (FBS), post-prandial glucose (PPG), serum creatinine (SC), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were collected through the Zyla app. Clinical outcomes assessed were the change from baseline to last reported levels of the mentioned parameters and are reported using descriptive analysis. The glycemic control parameters, HbA1c (change from baseline (CFB): -1.08), FBS (CFB: -15.93), and PPG levels (-18.42), were significantly lower (P<0.0001) at the last assessment compared with baseline. For the lipid profile, levels of TGs (P<0.0001) and TC (P = 0.0037) were significantly lower compared with baseline, while HDL-C levels were comparatively higher (CFB: 0.68) and LDL-C levels were lower (CFB:11.60), however non-significant. Serum creatinine was also lower compared to baseline (CFB: -0.25); however, the difference was not statistically significant. A significant improvement in all glycemic parameters was seen with the use of the Zyla app along with numerical improvements in kidney function parameters and cholesterol status among patients. These preliminary findings warrant further rigorous studies to validate the impact of medical apps in the management of diabetics in India.

Mobile apps for diabetes self-management: An updated review of app features and effectiveness.

Self-management of diabetes is extremely challenging and non-adherence is common. Health consequences are significant for those unable to adhere to the complex treatment regimen, which includes regular oral medication and/or insulin use, frequent blood sugar checks, strict dietary management, and regular physical activity. Mobile applications (apps) present a tremendous opportunity to help patients improve adherence to these behaviors. The availability of commercial diabetes self-management apps is increasing exponentially, making it difficult for patients and providers to stay informed about app options and benefits. Previous reviews have described commercial diabetes apps and their features and usability for patients with diabetes. A smaller number have reviewed the effectiveness of these apps in improving blood glucose as well as other aspects of diabetes management. The aim of this article is to update our 2016 review, summarize the results of new reviews, review outcomes of diabetes apps described in the literature, and offer recommendations for app features, effectiveness research, and marketing in apps for diabetes self-management. Although higher-quality research is needed, current reviews suggest that many diabetes apps are effective in lowering HbA1c. Recommendations for future research include reporting critical details such as patient demographics and intervention elements and designing studies to identify the most effective components of diabetes management apps. Furthermore, clearly labeling apps that have data supporting clinical efficacy in app stores would allow both providers and patients to easily identify apps that might be most beneficial. Future research should explore the use of apps for the prevention of diabetes in individuals diagnosed with prediabetes.

Assessing the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of the ‘TraumaRelief’ app for PTSD symptom management in Turkey: Study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial

The rate of exposure to traumatic events is high globally, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most serious consequences. It was reported that approximately 14 million people were affected by earthquakes in Turkey in February 2023. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapeutic approach to treating PTSD and has a proven efficacy. However, access to face-to-face therapies such as CBT is limited and there is a high dropout rate. Technology-based interventions can offer new solutions to make CBT more accessible and integrated into daily life. In this study, we will develop an application called TraumaRelief, which aims to relieve PTSD symptoms. We will test the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of this application through a pilot randomized controlled study conducted in Turkey, with 105 participants aged between 18 and 65 years who have experienced a traumatic event. Participants will be randomly assigned to the Application Plus Online Therapist Support Group (AT + OT Group), Application Only Group (Group A), and Waitlist Control Group (WLC Group). This study aims to evaluate symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety, as well as their effects on quality of life. In addition, the feasibility and acceptability of the study; the attrition, consent, recruitment, and adherence rate to the application; fidelity of intervention delivery; system usability score; preferred and least preferred module components; app utilization frequency; and likelihood to recommend the application will be examined. Application efficacy will be monitored with follow-ups at one and three months. The results could provide important information on the integration of technology-based treatments with psychotherapy. In addition, it could allow the evaluation of potential mobile applications in the field of psychotherapy and represents an important step in the development and evaluation of a customized mobile application for a society with unique cultural and social dynamics, such as Turkey. It could also be an important resource for increasing the capacity to cope with the effects of traumatic events that have occurred in Turkey or future events. Clinical Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT06288594. Unique Protocol ID: DEU-PSI-HA-001.

Exploring female fitness app users' motivations and perceptions: A qualitative study.

Women make up nearly 60% of fitness App users and play an important role in the operation and development of these Apps. Despite the widespread adoption of fitness Apps in recent years due to their many physical and mental benefits, the use of Apps tends to be short-term, and user engagement is relatively low. Little is known about the factors that motivate female users to consistently use fitness Apps. This study aimed to study attributes of fitness Apps that are most likely to influence female users during their use of Apps. The means-ends chain theory and the soft-laddering interview technique were used to analyze the attributes that influenced females' perceptions of fitness apps, focusing on the features most likely to provide them with benefits and value. The results of the study indicated that instructiveness, interaction, personalization, ease of use, and convenience were the most important attributes valued by female fitness App users; peer support, entertainment, and exercise adherence were the most important consequences; and health, self-fulfillment, enjoyment of life and sense of achievement were the most important values. The findings provide researchers and management of fitness Apps and women's sports with valuable insights from the means-ends chain theory, as well as suggestions for applying App design and promotion.

EvalDepApps: How to evaluate depression management based on evidence and end users

Abstract The use of apps is increasing in the field of mental health due to their ease of use and accessibility, although there is not enough evidence on their effectiveness and safety. EvalDepApps aims to develop an evaluation tool for depression management apps. A systematic review with meta-analysis (SRMA) was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of apps for depression, and to identify the evaluation criteria used. PRISMA methodology was followed. The MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Embase databases were consulted. The risk of bias was assessed with the RoB2 scale. An online 2 rounds Delphi was carried out to prioritize the most relevant criteria identified. 44 people (26 professionals, 18 patients) were invited. They were asked to rate the importance of each criterion on a Likert scale (1 - 6). Those that obtained a high consensus were selected; those with a medium were submitted to the 2nd round. Empathization (6) and co-design (6) sessions were held with patients (23) and professionals (33) in Catalonia, the Canary Islands and Andalusia to identify what relevant aspects the tool should have. Twenty-nine studies were included in the SRMA (67% unclear bias), finding a significant effect of mHealth interventions in reducing depressive symptoms compared to non-active control (Hedges g = −0.62, 95% CI: −0.87 to − 0.37, I2 = 87%). In Round 1 of the Delphi (59% participation) 24 criteria obtained a high consensus, 20 a medium and 7 a low. In Round 2 (52% participation), 4 criteria reached high consensus. The empathy sessions showed that the actions most requested by patients were reduce anxiety, and information about their condition; for professionals, suicide prevention. Regarding co-design, it was proposed that the tool provide ranking of the apps, recommendation systems and a very visual format. The RSMA and Delphi guarantee that the tool will be based on scientific evidence and expert judgment, while empathization and co-design that it will fit with the needs of end users. Key messages • It is relevant to evaluate the quality of health apps, especially those addressed to vulnerable populations such as people with depression. • It is crucial that the development of evaluation tools for digital health interventions will be developed based on evidence-based but also includes end users.

A Culturally Sensitive Mobile App (DiaFriend) to Improve Self-Care in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: Development Study.

Mobile apps designed with cultural sensitivity have demonstrated higher user acceptability and greater effectiveness in enhancing self-care skills. However, a significant gap exists in developing such apps for specific populations, such as Portuguese Americans living in southern Massachusetts, home to the second-largest Portuguese community in the United States. This group possesses unique cultural traditions, particularly in dietary practices, including a tendency toward high carbohydrate intake. Tailoring diabetes self-care apps to address these specific cultural requirements could substantially improve diabetes management within this population. The aim of this app development project was to develop a prototype diabetes management app for Portuguese Americans with type 2 diabetes mellitus using the design thinking methodology, incorporating user-centered design principles and cultural sensitivity. This paper describes the phase-2 results, focusing on app design and development. Phase 2 of this app development project adhered to the design thinking methodology delineated by the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design at Stanford University, focusing on 2 critical steps: ideation and prototyping. This phase started in March 2022 and continued until April 2024. The project was driven by a multidisciplinary team consisting of 2 nurse educators; an app development specialist; and 2 graduate research assistants from the university's Computer and Information Sciences Department, both well-versed in mobile app development. Data collected during phase 1, which will be published separately, informed the app design and development process. The prototype of the DiaFriend app (version 1) was designed and developed. The app comprises five features: (1) blood glucose monitoring, (2) weight tracking, (3) carbohydrate tracking, (4) exercise log, and (5) medication reminder. The carbohydrate tracking feature was explicitly tailored to correspond to Portuguese food culture. This paper presents the front-end interface flowchart, demonstrating how the user navigates through each screen. It also discusses the challenges faced during the backend development, such as data not being able to be stored and retrieved. The DiaFriend app (version 1) distinguishes itself from conventional diabetes self-care apps through its emphasis on cultural sensitivity. The development of this app underscores the importance of cultural considerations in health informatics. It establishes a foundation for future research in developing and evaluating culturally sensitive mobile health apps. The adaptation of such technologies has the potential to enhance self-care practices among Portuguese Americans with type 2 diabetes mellitus, with improved glycated hemoglobin levels as a potential outcome. The last step of the design thinking methodology, testing the app, will be conducted in phase 3 and the results will be published elsewhere.

An mHealth App to Support Caregivers in the Medical Management of Their Child With Cancer: Beta Stage Usability Study.

Previous research demonstrated that caregivers of children with cancer desired a mobile health (mHealth) tool to aid them in the medical management of their child. Prototyping and alpha testing of the Cope 360 app (Commissioning Agents, Inc) resulted in improvements in the ability to track symptoms, manage medications, and prepare for urgent medical needs. This study aims to engage caregivers of children with cancer in beta testing of a smartphone app for the medical management of children with cancer, assess acceptance, identify caregivers' perceptions and areas for improvement, and validate the app's design concepts and use cases. In this pilot, study caregivers of children with cancer used the Cope 360 mHealth app for 1 week, with the goal of daily logging. Demographics and a technology acceptance survey were obtained from each participant. Recorded semistructured interviews were transcribed and analyzed iteratively using NVivo (version 12, QSR International) and analyzed for information on usage, perceptions, and suggestions for improvement. A total of 10 caregivers participated in beta testing, primarily women (n=8, 80%), married, with some college education, and non-Hispanic White (n=10, 100%). The majority of participants (n=7, 70%) had children with acute lymphocytic leukemia who were being treated with chemotherapy only (n=8, 80%). Overall, participants had a favorable opinion of Cope 360. Almost all participants (n=9, 90%) believed that using the app would improve their ability to manage their child's medical needs at home. All participants reported that Cope 360 was easy to use, and most would use the app if given the opportunity (n=8, 80%). These values indicate that the app had a high perceived ease of use with well-perceived usefulness and behavioral intention to use. Key topics for improvement were identified including items that were within the scope of change and others that were added to a future wish list. Changes that were made based on caregiver feedback included tracking or editing all oral and subcutaneous medications and the ability to change the time of a symptom tracked or medication administered if unable to do so immediately. Wish list items included adding a notes section, monitoring skin changes, weight and nutrition tracking, and mental health tracking. The Cope 360 app was well received by caregivers of children with cancer. Our validation testing suggests that the Cope 360 app is ready for testing in a randomized controlled trial to assess outcome improvements.

Can a mobile application improve glucose-related and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus? A randomized controlled trial using the mySugr® app.

Mobile applications (apps) have proven to be highly effective tools to empower patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and enable them to achieve better self-care, quality of life (QOL), and glycemic control. The aim of the study is to examine whether mySugr®, an app for diabetes management, together with teleconsultations, can have a positive impact on these factors and, thereby, replace current clinical care. This study concerns an exploratory randomized clinical trial of 12 months' duration. People with T1DM using multiple daily injections were randomized to usual care (bolus calculator, five face-to-face visits) or intervention (mySugr® app, three face-to-face visits, and two teleconsultations). The main outcome was increase in empowerment assessed with the Diabetes Empowerment Scale Short Form questionnaire (DES-SF-S). Secondary outcomes were change in additional glucose-related (blood glucose monitoring, mean blood glucose, standard deviation, coefficient of variation (CV), and high and low blood glucose index) and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) (self-management, QOL, and distress). A total of 25 out of 28 participants completed the study (52% men, age 44.52 years, diabetes duration 21.28 years). At 12 months, no significant differences were identified in the change of DES-SF-S and additional PROMs between arms. Similarly, no differences were observed in glucose-related outcomes except for the change in CV at 9 (control - 1.87 ± 4.98 vs. intervention 5.89 ± 11.33, p = 0.008) and 12 months (control - 2.33 ± 3.54 vs. intervention 5.12 ± 11.32, p = 0.018). Adherence to and satisfaction with the app were high. Patients with diabetes using the mySugr® app and teleconsultation achieved similar results to those following usual care in empowerment, other PROMs, and most glucose-related outcomes, thus supporting its use in combination with face-to-face visits. The RCT was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03819335, first registration 28/01/2019).

Technology and Continuous Glucose Monitoring Access, Literacy, and Use Among Patients at the Diabetes Center of an Inner-City Safety-Net Hospital: Mixed Methods Study.

Despite the existence of an increasing array of digital technologies and tools for diabetes management, there are disparities in access to and uptake and use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices, particularly for those most at risk of poor diabetes outcomes. This study aims to assess communication technology and CGM access, literacy, and use among patients receiving treatment for diabetes at an inner-city safety-net hospital. A survey on digital technology ownership and use was self-administered by 75 adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes at the diabetes clinic of Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. In-depth interviews were conducted with 16% (12/75) of these patient participants and 6 health care providers (HCPs) to obtain additional insights into the use of communication technology and CGM to support diabetes self-management. Most participants were African American (66/75, 88%), over half (39/75, 52%) were unemployed or working part time, and 29% (22/75) had no health insurance coverage, while 61% (46/75) had federal coverage. Smartphone ownership and use were near universal; texting and email use were common (63/75, 84% in both cases). Ownership and use of tablets and computers and use and daily use of various forms of media were more prevalent among younger participants and those with type 1 diabetes, who also rated them as easier to use. Technology use specifically for diabetes and health management was low. Participants were supportive of a potential smartphone app for diabetes management, with a high interest in such an app helping them track blood sugar levels and communicate with their care teams. Younger participants showed higher levels of interest, perceived value, and self-efficacy for using an app with these capabilities. History of CGM use was reported by 56% (42/75) of the participants, although half (20/42, 48%) had discontinued use, above all due to the cost of the device and issues with its adhesive. Nonuse was primarily due to not being offered CGM by their HCP. Reasons given for continued use included convenience, improved blood glucose control, and better tracking of blood glucose. The in-depth interviews (n=18) revealed high levels of satisfaction with CGM by users and supported the survey findings regarding reasons for continued use. They also highlighted the value of CGM data to enhance communication between patients and HCPs. Smartphone ownership was near universal among patients receiving care at an inner-city hospital. Alongside the need to address barriers to CGM access and continued use, there is an opportunity to leverage increased access to communication technology in combination with CGM to improve diabetes outcomes among underresourced populations.

Menstrual Cycle Management and Period Tracker App Use in Millennial and Generation Z Individuals: Mixed Methods Study.

Menstruation is a physical symptom that occurs in women of reproductive age. It has a significant impact on the daily life and health of women when their academic and social activities are most active. Since many women experience difficulties in daily life because of premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea, it is important to identify, prepare for, and manage the menstrual cycle in advance. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between menstruation-related experiences and the use of mobile-based period tracker apps by millennial and generation Z (gen Z) individuals. The objectives of this study are to investigate (1) menstrual cycle management, (2) factors affecting app usage (3) factors affecting cycle management, and (4) motivators and barriers to using period tracker apps, in millennial and gen Z women. A mixed methods design was used for this study. The participants were young women aged 20-39 years and recruited via the Ovey application. Data were collected through surveys and focus group interviews. The survey was conducted among 700 women, and 8 of them participated in the focus group interviews. In total, 431 (62.3%) participants used period tracker apps primarily to predict their next menstrual cycle. Factors affecting app usage included childbirth experience (odds ratio [OR] 0.475, P<.05), number of dysmenorrhea symptoms (OR 1.136, P<.05), and cycle management level (OR 2.279, P<.001). Additionally, education level (OR 1.122, P<.05 [university level compared high school level]) and the number of dysmenorrhea symptoms (OR 1.024, P<.05) showed a positive association with the cycle management level. However, childbirth experience (OR 0.902, P<.05) and period irregularity (OR 0.929, P<.001) were negatively associated with the cycle management level. Period tracker apps are becoming the new normal among millennials and gen Z individuals for managing their menstrual cycles. The use of a period tracker app empowers women by helping them gain a better understanding of their bodies, ultimately enhancing their social, academic, and health-related lives. Improving the accuracy and literacy of the app is an ongoing task for period-tracking apps, and it is important to provide added value tailored to users' needs. Therefore, the findings of this study should be considered when designing or upgrading period tracker apps to facilitate the adoption of digital technology among young women, thereby promoting their overall well-being and reproductive health.

Desirable design: What aesthetics are important to young people when designing a mental health app?

Objectives: Smartphone apps can be highly effective in supporting young people experiencing mood disorders, but an appealing visual design is a key predictor of engagement with such apps. However, there has been little research about the interaction between visual design, mood and wellbeing in young people using a mental health app. This study aimed to explore young people's perspectives on colour and visual design in the development of a music-based app for mood management. Methods: Workshops were conducted with 24 participants (aged 13-25 years) with data analysis following a general inductive approach. Results: Results indicated that colour could impact wellbeing in both positive and negative ways. Participants favoured a subtle use of colour within sophisticated, dark palettes and were influenced by a complex interplay of common semiotic values, experiences with other apps, and mood. Conclusions: These findings highlight the highly contextual nature of the relationship between colour and mood, emphasising the importance of co-design in app development.

아파트 관리 애플리케이션 인터페이스 디자인 비교·분석 연구 - 국내 아파트 앱을 중심으로

Recently, among the O2O mobile application services, apartment management apps that provide convenience have been released. They are digital service apps for residents’ use; inquiry and payment of management fees, energy cost checks and non-face-to-face civil complaints are the main services provided by the apps. However, the usability or user experience of the service has not been studied yet. Thus, the purpose of this study is to present necessary improvements for U.I design for Aptner and Apti, the representative apartment app service in Korea. First of all, In the theoretical background, the concept and current status of apartment management apps and components of interface design were summarized. In addition, previous overseas studies that had been investigated were reviewed and organized, and evaluation factors that can be applied to apartment app U.I usability evaluation criteria were also derived. Second, in the analysis of the study subject, the component analysis of the interface visual design, the apartment management app questionnaire, and the usability evaluation task list were created. Third, in the research results, reasonable improvements were presented by comparing and analyzing usability evaluation factor items.

국내 2형 당뇨병 애플리케이션의 디자인 사례 연구 - 20~30대가 선호하는 애플리케이션 중심으로

According to statistics from the Korea Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, the number of diabetes patients in their 30s stood at 121,568 as of 2020, up 25.5% from four years ago. In particular, the prevalence of young diabetes patients in their 20s increased by 47% from 23,798 in 2016 to 35,005 in 2020. They are at high risk of complications due to their long disease life, so the importance of the diabetes management app is drawing attention for steady management and continuous information, but most apps are being developed focused on middle-aged people. There is inevitably a difference between the living environment of middle-aged people and those in their 20s and 30s, but due to the characteristics of the younger generation, which has a high proportion of single-person households, it is difficult to manage diabetes on their own. For young diabetics and diabetes patients in their 40s or older, there will be differences in the areas that are directly or indirectly affected by the living environment and social environment, so the preferred design will change and the physical situation will be affected, which will affect the user interface. Looking at the two objects together and developing diabetes applications will inevitably cause inconvenience to users. Recognize the gap between the two targets and see the need for applications used by young diabetes patients who have been pushed out of development targets, not applications for existing middle-aged people. Therefore, the study conducted a basic study for developing applications suitable for young diabetes patients by comparing applications preferred by people in their 20s and 30s with the design characteristics of diabetes management apps in order to develop applications that can help young diabetics manage diabetes on their own. The paper compared and analyzed the most frequently used and existing diabetes applications in their 20s and 30s. Currently, for diabetes applications, there is a lack of fun factors that can increase user access, leading to the need to develop fun factors that can help young diabetics manage continuously.

Development of a T2D App for Elderly Users: Participatory Design Study via Heuristic Evaluation and Usability Testing

Diabetes management applications effectively help patients monitor blood glucose levels and adjust diet and exercise plans. However, most diabetes management apps, including the SugarShift application developed in 2023, use generalized designs that often fail to consider the unique cognitive and physiological characteristics of elderly users, thereby impacting their acceptance and usage. This paper proposes an enhancement for the SugarShift application by introducing a mode specifically designed for elderly users. This proposed enhancement aims to directly involve elderly patients so as to meet their needs better through a participatory design approach. A heuristic evaluation conducted with six experts identified 126 usability issues and 179 heuristic violations in the current version, which has led to the recommendation to develop optimization strategies tailored for elderly users. Subsequent usability testing with 28 elderly patients and six experts emphasized the importance of interface simplicity, logical operation, and interaction quality in enhancing user experience. These factors improve usability, facilitate information processing, and reduce cognitive load. Despite the overall usability of SUS scores, significant challenges still need to be addressed in information display, system feedback, and user interaction. Recommendations for future enhancements include simplifying data entry and presentation, improving readability, and providing timely feedback to enhance usability and user satisfaction, ultimately increasing user retention.

Pain management apps in palliative care. Landscape, challenges & possibilities

The prevalence of pain places an enormous burden on individuals and the healthcare system. The management of chronic pain has long been a complex and multifaceted challenge, requiring a comprehensive approach that encompasses various treatment modalities. As the field of palliative care evolves, the integration of technology, particularly pain management apps, presents a promising avenue for enhancing patients’ outcomes. This review aims to identify the challenges related to the implementation of these applications into clinical practice while highlighting the potential they hold for pain management strategies. We also analyzed the ClinicalTrials.gov dataset to scope the ongoing landscape and future perspectives of mobile app interventions in pain management at the end of life.

Unveiling User Perspectives: Exploring Themes in Femtech Mobile App Reviews for Enhanced Usability and Privacy

Femtech, a growing sector in mobile healthcare technology, caters to women's needs across various life stages with digital solutions like period tracking and pregnancy management apps. Maintaining robust data privacy is crucial due to the sensitive nature of the information involved, such as menstrual cycles and pregnancy status. Our research analyzes user feedback from platforms like the Apple App Store and Google Play Store to understand perceptions of femtech apps, covering accessibility, interface, features, and privacy concerns. Understanding user perspectives helps developers enhance usability and trust, driving further adoption. Prioritizing privacy also fosters industry advancement. This paper stresses the importance of dialogue among developers, users, and policymakers in femtech. Our findings aim to facilitate positive change within the femtech sector, leading to more inclusive, user-centric, and ethically driven advancements, benefiting both the industry and its users.