PREventive Care Infrastructure based On Ubiquitous Sensing (PRECIOUS): A Study Protocol

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Preventive Medicine
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Mobile health (mHealth) has grown significantly, offering new ways to manage health, especially for chronic conditions.
• Promoting healthy lifestyles via mHealth apps is a key area, but sustained user engagement remains a challenge.
• The PRECIOUS project addresses this by developing a system to support self-management and behavior change.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the pilot test protocol for the PReventive Care Infrastructure based on Ubiquitous Sensing (PRECIOUS) system.
• To validate the PRECIOUS system, including the Bodyguard2 sensor and app, with end-users in a real-world setting.
• To assess the system's potential for fostering behavior change, user acceptance, usability, and satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A pilot experimental study involving 31 morbidly obese prediabetic patients.
• Randomization into three groups: control (usual care + sensor), PRECIOUS system (sensor + app), and PRECIOUS system + Motivational Interviewing.
• Data collection over 3 months, focusing on healthy lifestyles, weight management, quality of life, and system usability.

Main Results:

• Recruitment is complete with 31 participants.
• Expected results indicate high patient acceptance and satisfaction with the PRECIOUS system, based on prior research.
• Anticipated findings include acceptable usability of the preventive health solution.

Conclusions:

• mHealth offers a powerful tool for continuous user support and feedback, crucial for adherence to healthy habits in chronic conditions.
• The PRECIOUS system is an innovative solution designed to boost intrinsic motivation for lifestyle changes.
• It integrates ubiquitous sensors and a scientifically grounded app to target physical activity, diet, and stress management.