Mobile Health Applications Research Articles

Cost-effectiveness analysis of mHealth applications for depression in Germany using a Markov cohort simulation

AbstractRegulated mobile health applications are called digital health applications (“DiGA”) in Germany. To qualify for reimbursement by statutory health insurance companies, DiGA have to prove positive care effects in scientific studies. Since the empirical exploration of DiGA cost-effectiveness remains largely uncharted, this study pioneers the methodology of cohort-based state-transition Markov models to evaluate DiGA for depression. As health states, we define mild, moderate, severe depression, remission and death. Comparing a future scenario where 50% of patients receive supplementary DiGA access with the current standard of care reveals a gain of 0.02 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) per patient, which comes at additional direct costs of ~1536 EUR per patient over a five-year timeframe. Influencing factors determining DiGA cost-effectiveness are the DiGA cost structure and individual DiGA effectiveness. Under Germany’s existing cost structure, DiGA for depression are yet to demonstrate the ability to generate overall savings in healthcare expenditures.

Telehealth to Address Preventable Maternal Deaths: A Call to Action.

Over 80% of maternal deaths are preventable. Telehealth approaches can help address disparities by increasing access to quality maternal health care. In this position statement, we advocate for the utility of telehealth to address maternal mortality disparities, focusing specifically on the postpartum period, where most maternal deaths occur. Specifically, we describe how telehealth visits, mobile health applications, and wearable devices for remote patient monitoring can be used to promote the uptake of postpartum care and adherence to evidence-based treatment for the most common causes of maternal death (i.e., cardiovascular conditions and mental health-related conditions). We discuss challenges that must be overcome to ensure the broad and equitable reach of telehealth and identify specific action steps to address this pressing public health issue.

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.

Computer-assisted Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mobile Apps for Depression and Anxiety: Evidence-based Digital Tools for Clinical Practice

Purpose of Review: Provider shortages and other barriers to traditional mental health care have led to the development of technology-based services designed to enhance access and improve the efficiency and convenience of treatment. We reviewed research on computer-assisted cognitive behavior therapy (CCBT) and mobile mental health applications to assess the effectiveness of these methods of delivering or augmenting treatment, evaluating patient and provider uptake, and making recommendations on the clinical use of these tools in the treatment of depression and anxiety. Results: Research on CCBT has found solid evidence for efficacy when the use of a therapeutic computer program is supported by a clinician or other helping professional. Lower levels of efficacy have been found when CCBT is used as a stand-alone treatment. Current CCBT programs have many desirable features; however, few of the current programs incorporate services such as artificial intelligence that have the potential to help improve communication with patients. An increasing number of mobile apps have been created that claim to be useful for depression and/or anxiety, yet caution is warranted before using most due to limited research on effectiveness, low retention rates, and other issues like safety concerns. Summary: Growth in the development of CCBT and mental health applications for depression/anxiety has provided several tools that could enhance treatment delivery. A large number of randomized, controlled trials have documented the effectiveness of CCBT, while research on mobile apps has been much less robust. The advantages and disadvantages of these digital technologies are identified, and recommendations are made for clinical use.

Advancements in Clinical Practice: A Comprehensive Review of Emerging Trends in Medical Development

This review article explores the latest advancements in clinical practice, focusing on emerging trends that are transforming healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. Key developments discussed include telemedicine and remote patient monitoring, personalized and precision medicine, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in diagnostics, robotics and automation in surgery, as well as mobile health applications and wearable devices. Each of these advancements has the potential to enhance the accessibility, accuracy, and efficiency of clinical care. However, these innovations also introduce challenges, such as concerns about data privacy, ethical considerations surrounding AI, and the need for updated regulatory frameworks. The review highlights how these trends contribute to improved patient engagement, cost efficiency, and overall healthcare quality. By examining both the benefits and challenges associated with these developments, this article underscores the importance of innovation in driving the future of clinical practice. Recommendations for future research and policy are also provided to support the continued evolution of healthcare practices.

Rural-Urban Disparities in Mobile Health Application Ownership and Utilization Among Cancer Survivors

Objective: Mobile health applications (mHealth apps) can provide health care and health-promoting information while contributing to improving cancer survivors’ quality of life and health outcomes. However, little is known about the rural-urban distribution of mHealth app ownership and utilization. In this study, we explore the characteristics of cancer survivors who own and use mHealth apps and examine rural-urban disparities in mHealth app ownership and utilization among cancer survivors. Methods: We utilized data from the “Health Information National Trends Survey–Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results” pilot study, fielded among cancer survivors from 3 U.S. cancer registries (Iowa, New Mexico, and California) in 2021. Our sample included 942 cancer survivors who reported owning a smart device (a smartphone and/or a tablet computer). The analyses included computing weighted proportions and fitting a multivariable regression model. Results: Overall, 60.3% of cancer survivors reported using mHealth apps, and 16.9% resided in rural areas. Approximately 45.0% of rural cancer survivors reported utilizing mHealth apps (vs 63.5% of urban survivors). Regression analysis revealed that rural cancer survivors had 46.0% lower odds of owning and using mHealth apps compared with their urban counterparts (adjusted odds ratio = 0.54; 95% CI: 0.36, 0.80). Conclusions: Rural cancer survivors were less likely to own and use mHealth apps compared with urban survivors. Rural cancer survivors usually face structural and health care system-related barriers to health care access and affordability. Leveraging mHealth technology as a tool could potentially contribute to improving health care delivery for rural cancer survivors, and help address existing structural and informational barriers to access.

Mobile health applications for individuals with psoriatic arthritis

Abstract Objectives Mobile health applications (Apps) hold promise as tools for symptom tracking and management of chronic rheumatic diseases, such as psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Apps for PsA have not been systematically evaluated. We conducted a comprehensive review of Apps designed for patients with PsA. Methods The iOS and Android App stores were searched for the term “arthritis”, and individual App descriptions were reviewed for “psoriatic arthritis”. Apps were downloaded and rated using the MARS standardized quality rating tool. Additionally, the Apps were evaluated to determine functionality, use of symptom scales, and potential for integration within clinical care. Results The search was conducted in Spring 2024 and 130 Apps were found that mentioned “arthritis”. Seven had specific mentions of psoriatic arthritis in their description. We found several other relevant Apps by following recommendations on the App stores. In total, 10 Apps for patients with PsA were identified. MARS scores suggest they were moderate to excellent in quality. The functionality of the 10 Apps differed: 7 allowed for symptom tracking; 3 allowed for data export to health records; 2 allowed for medication tracking; and 1 contained a patient community platform. The symptom tracking capabilities varied widely, and we could find only one published study of any of the Apps. Conclusions We analyzed Apps for PsA to identify potential unmet needs and found that there are few Apps publicly available, their functionality varies tremendously, and testing of these Apps is almost non-existent. There appears to be room for improvement of Apps for PsA.

Associations of stigma, loneliness, and treatment self-regulation with HIV medication adherence among individuals with substance use disorder using a mobile health application

IntroductionMedication adherence contributes to poor HIV outcomes, especially among people with HIV and Substance use disorder (SUD). Mobile health applications have been leveraged to improve behavioral health outcomes among this population. Our cross-sectional study examined the relationship between medication adherence with factors such as treatment self-regulation, isolation, and internalized stigma, among people with HIV and SUD using the Addiction Comprehensive Health Enhancement Support System (A-CHESS) mobile app.MethodsA sample of 208 participants using A-CHESS to improve treatment adherence completed a survey. Adherence was measured using the Four-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale and dichotomized (maximum score of 20 points considered as adherent). Positive and negative affect was measured separately using Positive Affect Negative Affect Schedule and loneliness was measured using UCLA three-item Loneliness Scale. Internalized stigma was measured using Internalized AIDS-Related Stigma Scale. Competence/Treatment self-regulation was measured using Treatment Self-regulation Questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the associations of affect, treatment self-regulation, isolation, and internalized stigma, with adherence to antiretroviral therapy adjusting for age, education, and gender.ResultsAmong 208 participants in this study, most were Black (n = 137; 66%), male (n = 156; 75%) and had a mean age of 46 (standard deviation = 11.3). The most reported substances associated with missing HIV medication were alcohol (27%) and cocaine/crack (20%). Logistic regression analysis revealed that internalized stigma was significantly associated with HIV medication adherence (OR = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.70–0.99; p = 0.034).ConclusionInternalized stigma was significantly associated with HIV medication adherence. Further research is needed to better understand this relationship and develop interventions addressing stigma in people with HIV and SUD.

Implementation and evaluation of a mobile application to support occupational therapy education

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the usability and effectiveness of a mobile application, ValTO, designed to enhance communication and professional reasoning skills in occupational therapy students through a case-based learning approach. Design/methodology/approach A descriptive exploratory study was conducted with 32 second-year occupational therapy students. The usability of the app was assessed using the Mobile Application Rating Scale and the System Usability Scale, complemented by the University of Oviedo’s Learning Satisfaction Survey. Findings The majority of students (77.8%) rated the app above average on the System Usability Scale, with 50% scoring it as excellent. Mobile Application Rating Scale scores revealed high ratings across functionality, aesthetics and information quality, with a significant correlation between app usability and user satisfaction. Increased student satisfaction was also observed in the Learning Satisfaction Survey compared to previous years. Originality/value ValTO integrates modern mobile health tools into occupational therapy education, enhancing students’ decision-making skills in an innovative, real-world context. This study contributes to the growing body of research on mobile health applications in educational settings, demonstrating their potential to improve both student engagement and learning outcomes.

Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial on the Development and Effectiveness of an Educational Mobile Application Using an Integrated Change Model to Prevent Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors

Background: An effective approach to preventing cardiovascular issues is the use of mobile health applications to improve modifiable risk factors. This protocol for a randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the development and effectiveness of an educational mobile app that employs an integrated change model to reduce risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) among individuals aged 20 to 69 years. Methods: This study will be a parallel, randomized, single-blind clinical trial utilizing the randomized block design involving 430 participants. The participants will be divided into a control group receiving standard clinical care and an intervention group receiving standard clinical care along with app-based education, over approximately 6 months. Conclusion: This application has been designed to enhance motivation, awareness, and positive habits to reduce risk factors in individuals at increased risk of ASCVD. Consequently, the results could improve cardiovascular health knowledge, manage biological risk factors, and modify cardiac behaviors through mobile applications. This research is expected to present a promising approach to utilizing mobile apps for managing cardiovascular health and contribute to the growing body of research on digital health interventions.

Improving Surgical Outcomes for Older Adults with Adoption of Technological Advances in Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment

Frailty is a well-recognized predictor of poor surgical outcomes for older adults, yet effective measurements and interventions remain limited. Technological advances offer an opportunity to address this gap and improve surgical care for older adults. This paper reviews the background of frailty and comprehensive geriatric assessments in surgery, and how technological innovations can advance frailty measurement and intervention in surgical settings. We review two broad areas of technological advancement as applied to frailty in surgery: 1) Innovation in the use of electronic health records (EHR) using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), and 2) Novel uses for wearable sensors and mobile health (mHealth) applications. We explore the integration of AI and ML with EHR systems, which can surpass traditional comorbidity indices by providing comprehensive health assessments and enhancing prediction models. Innovations like the electronic Frailty Index (eFI) show promise in expanding the reach of frailty assessments and facilitating real-time screening. Additionally, wearable devices and mobile health (mHealth) applications offer new ways to monitor and improve physical activity, nutrition, and psychological well-being, supporting perioperative rehabilitation. While these technologies present challenges, such as the need for infrastructure, training, and data interoperability, they offer promising strategies to facilitate the assessment and management of frailty among surgical patients. Continued research and tailored implementation strategies will be essential to fully realize the potential of these advancements in improving surgical outcomes for frail older adults.

Leveraging telemedicine for enhanced maternal and perinatal care in rural Nepal: opportunities and challenges.

This article explores the potential of telemedicine to revolutionize maternal and perinatal healthcare delivery in rural Nepal, where access to medical facilities is limited. By utilizing telemedicine technologies like remote consultations, mobile health applications, and tele-ultrasound, the authors can overcome barriers to healthcare access and improve outcomes for expectant mothers and newborns. The paper assesses the opportunities presented by telemedicine interventions and addresses the challenges that must be addressed for successful integration into rural healthcare systems.

Bibliometric Insights into Mental Health Challenges and Innovations in Contemporary Society

This bibliometric analysis examines the evolution and current state of mental health research from a comprehensive, data-driven perspective. Using VOSviewer for visual mapping, this study highlights key terms, thematic developments, and influential authors within the field over several decades. The analysis reveals a strong ongoing focus on core issues such as "mental illness," "anxiety," and "depression," alongside a notable rise in the integration of technological innovations like telepsychiatry and mobile health applications. The study also identifies significant authorship networks that suggest robust collaborative efforts, which are crucial for advancing research and implementing effective mental health interventions. The findings point towards an increasing recognition of the impact of social and environmental factors on mental health, suggesting new directions for future research and policy-making. This study underscores the need for a dynamic approach to mental health research, one that adapts to emerging challenges and leverages technological advances to improve access to care and treatment outcomes.

Identification of Barriers and Facilitators to the Use of a New Pain Assessment Mobile Health Application by Family Carers of People with Dementia: A Qualitative Study

This study identified potential barriers and facilitators to the implementation of a medical device in the form of a mobile health (mHealth) application, (app) called PainChek®, by family carers of individuals with dementia in the Australian community setting. Focus groups and a phone interview took place with family carers and healthcare professionals. Data were analysed thematically. 6 family carers and 8 healthcare professionals participated across 2 focus groups and 1 phone interview. Themes related to the user, innovation/PainChek®, and contextual factors were identified. Barriers to use included age, physical limitations, cost, technical issues, misinterpretation of how PainChek® works, and influence of family. Facilitators included a willingness to use mHealth Apps and previous experience. Some themes acted as both barriers and facilitators depending on the situation such as the healthcare team's acceptance. Targeted interventions and support strategies, leveraging facilitators are essential to overcome barriers related to user, intervention, and context and to enhance successful PainChek® implementation, thereby improving pain management in individuals with dementia. Future research is recommended to develop effective implementation strategies to utilise the facilitators and overcome the barriers to improve the implementation of PainChek®.

Telehealth innovations for cardiovascular disease management

Telehealth innovations and wearable technologies are revolutionizing the management of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), providing patients with more accessible and continuous care. The integration of remote monitoring tools and mobile health applications allows for real-time tracking of vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, enabling early detection of abnormalities and timely medical interventions. These technologies empower patients to actively participate in their own health management, encouraging adherence to prescribed lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and improved dietary habits, which are essential for preventing and controlling CVD. Wearable devices, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, play a critical role in the continuous monitoring of cardiovascular health. Combined with telehealth platforms, they offer personalized insights and facilitate communication between patients and healthcare providers, enhancing care coordination. This leads to improved patient outcomes, particularly in managing chronic conditions like hypertension and heart failure, where early intervention is key to preventing complications. Additionally, telehealth solutions reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, cutting healthcare costs and making care more convenient and accessible for patients in remote or underserved areas. As telehealth and wearable technologies continue to advance, they hold the potential to further transform cardiovascular care, contributing to more efficient healthcare delivery and better management of cardiovascular risk factors.

The intersection of clinical trial management and patient advocacy: How research professionals can promote patient rights while upholding clinical excellence

The purpose of this study was to investigate the intersection of clinical trial management and patient advocacy, focusing on how research professionals can promote patient rights while upholding clinical excellence. As clinical trials evolve to become more patient-centered, balancing ethical obligations with scientific rigor remains a significant challenge. This paper explores key concepts such as informed consent, patient engagement, data privacy, and the ethical responsibilities of research professionals. Additionally, it examines the role of emerging technologies, including mobile health applications, wearable devices, telemedicine, and blockchain, in enhancing patient advocacy and improving trial outcomes. A thorough literature review and analysis were conducted to identify the challenges faced in integrating patient advocacy into clinical trial management. The study also highlights the critical role of research professionals in ensuring that patient rights are respected while addressing the complexities of global clinical trials, where varying ethical standards pose additional challenges. The findings suggest that patient-centric approaches, supported by digital tools, can significantly improve the ethical integrity of clinical trials, ensuring greater inclusivity, accessibility, and retention of participants. However, these innovations also raise concerns regarding data security, necessitating the implementation of robust cybersecurity measures to protect patient confidentiality. In conclusion, the study recommends the adoption of decentralized clinical trials and the harmonization of global regulatory frameworks to ensure consistent ethical standards. Research professionals must prioritize patient welfare while embracing technological advancements that offer opportunities for more efficient and inclusive clinical research. By striking this balance, clinical trials can better serve both scientific progress and the ethical imperatives of patient advocacy.

Engaging wheelchair and scooter users in the co-design of an mHealth application for fall prevention and management: thematic analysis of focus group research

This study aimed to explore the potential of a mobile health (mHealth) application (app) to support the delivery of a fall prevention and management program, Individualized Reduction of FaLLs (iROLL), for people with spinal cord injury (SCI) and multiple sclerosis (MS) who use wheelchairs and scooters (WC/S) full-time by seeking end-users’ input into the functioning and ongoing design of the iROLL-O + mobile app. Two focus group discussions included nine adults with SCI or MS who used a WC/S for at least 75% of mobility, who experienced at least one fall in the past three years and have internet and access to an internet-capable device. One group had prior iROLL experience (n = 4); while the other had none (n = 5). The focus groups examined the app’s usefulness, accessibility, appearance, and ease of use. The participants with prior iROLL experience also discussed how the app would enhance their experience with the program. Thematic analysis revealed five app-related themes: perceived usefulness, perceived usability, accessibility, appearance, and enhancement of the iROLL experience, with participants providing actionable suggestions for improvement. Participants with previous exposure to the iROLL program emphasized the app’s potential to facilitate flexible access to the program and expand its reach to a wider audience. The iROLL-O + app was perceived positively, especially with respect to the enhancement of users’ access and experience with the program. Focus group findings will inform ongoing app development for optimized usability and reduced likelihood of technology abandonment. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION End-users’ impressions of the Individual Reduction of faLLs Online application (iROLL-O + app) highlight the potential for integrating mHealth apps in fall prevention and management education efforts, offering a promising and accessible avenue to support the delivery of tailored programs. The study notes that the app facilitates flexible access and wider reach to the program, indicating the importance of incorporating features that enhance accessibility and accommodate the diverse needs of individuals who use wheelchairs and scooters. Actionable suggestions provided by participants underscore the importance of a user-centered design approach in developing rehabilitation-related mobile apps.

The Types and Effectiveness of Mobile Health Applications Used in Improving Oral Cancer Knowledge: A Mixed Methods Systematic Review

ABSTRACTBackground and AimsThe global burden of oral cancer (OC) is enormous. Mobile health applications have been found to play a promising role in cancer prevention; however, no known systematic review evidence exists on whether the use of mobile health applications is effective in increasing public knowledge of OC or not. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence on the types and effectiveness of mobile health applications used for improving OC knowledge.MethodsThis study adopted a mixed methods systematic review design. The review methodology was informed by Joanna Brigg's Institute's PRISMA checklist and the AMSTAR‐2 guidelines. The literature used for this review were obtained through the search of multiple sources, including 12 electronic databases, web sources, and manual searching of the reference lists and citations of the included articles. Quality appraisal of the included articles was done using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, after which relevant data were collected, synthesized, and configured.ResultsA total of three high‐quality articles, from two studies conducted in India, were included in this review. The studies investigated 574 participants, who are predominantly doctors and community members, on two Android‐based mobile health applications (M‐OncoED and Prayaas). Only Prayaas was found to significantly increase OC knowledge among its users (p < 0.05). Only M‐OncoED was found to significantly increase the practice of OC screening advice provision among a selected group of users. No other significant finding was reported on the effect of OC knowledge obtained from the use of these applications on clinical, behavioral, and epidemiological outcomes.ConclusionMobile health application‐based education is a highly underutilised but very promising strategy that can be used to improve public knowledge of OC. This strategy needs to be adopted in public education programmes on OC.

Development of the iManage SCD mobile health application for transition

ObjectiveThis paper outlines the design and implementation of iManage SCD, a self-management mobile health application for adolescents and young adults (AYA) with sickle cell disease (SCD) during transition from pediatric to adult health care. MethodsThe Integrate, Design, Assess, Share (IDEAS) framework, emphasizing user insights, iterative design, rigorous assessment, and knowledge sharing, guided the development process. The design team consisted of researchers, psychologists, physicians, social workers, AYA with SCD, and parents of AYA with SCD (n = 16) across three states. Qualitative focus groups and interviews were conducted and analyzed using thematic analysis across the integrate and design phases. Point of use feedback from AYA with SCD was used to assess feasibility and acceptability. ResultsThe development process was centered around tenants of the Social-ecological Model of Adolescent and Young Adult Readiness to Transition. Development integrated multidisciplinary perspectives, fostering a person-centered approach. The iterative design process involved collaboration with a digital health firm, Agency39A. Health equity and implementation considerations were addressed at individual, community, and healthcare system levels. Themes that emerged from focus groups with AYA, clinicians, and researchers in the integrate and design phases of development included recommendations for content and user experience features. ConclusionsiManage SCD emerges as a comprehensive, user-friendly mobile health application, incorporating theoretical principles and direct user input. The development process demonstrated feasibility and acceptability, and the paper discusses dissemination strategies for the Community Health Workers and Mobile Health Programs to Help Young Adults with SCD Transition to Using Adult Healthcare Services (COMETS) study.

What to expect when generating data through the use of a mobile health application

Abstract Background Digitalization has significantly expanded the possibilities for collecting health data. Besides options such as online surveys, data can be collected through the use of digital applications (apps). Once users have given their consent, contact information from the app registration can be accessed to invite the relevant target group for further surveys. To generate a sufficient amount of data, a high level of willingness to participate and long-term involvement are required. This study aims to illustrate the willingness to share data and what can be expected from it by means of the Neo-MILK app, which supports mothers during lactation. Methods The willingness to share data and the data resulting from the use of the app is shown by the frequency of consent to the different data use options and the users’ participation. Results While over 68% of the n = 1079 registered app users consented to the use of their app data, 47% agreed to be contacted again for scientific purposes. Data from n = 421 active users were available for analysis. From n = 220 mothers, milk pumping data was available. In 36% of cases, little (<10) or no information on pumping was provided. Of the users who agreed to be contacted again for scientific purposes, n = 300 were invited to participate in another survey and 23% (n = 69) participated. Conclusions In this example, the general willingness to share data and participate in further studies shows great potential for data collection. However, the data collection methods differ primarily in the motivation to participate. When collecting data through app usage, ensuring that the design of the app meets the needs of the user is essential to optimize the user experience and thereby generating complete data. If the use of contact information has been agreed to, incentives may be considered to increase the willingness to participate. Required ethics approvals and data protection regulations should also be ensured for app-based data collection. Key messages • Generating data via app usage as well as the collection of data through the use of users’ contact information shows great potential for health research. • App-based data collection should be considered when planning future health research projects.