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Pilot study of a smartphone-based intervention to promote cancer prevention behaviours

Nuno Ribeiro1, Luís Moreira2, Ana Margarida Pisco Almeida3

  • 1i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Portugal; Ipatimup - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, Portugal; Departamento de Comunicação e Arte, DigiMedia, Universidade de Aveiro, Portugal.

International Journal of Medical Informatics
|November 15, 2017
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study found that the Happy smartphone app is a viable tool for promoting cancer prevention behaviors. The app is usable and may help individuals adopt healthier lifestyles to reduce cancer risk.

Area of Science:

  • Digital Health
  • Behavioral Science
  • Cancer Prevention

Background:

  • Inadequate lifestyle choices contribute to over half of all cancer cases.
  • Smartphones offer a promising platform for supporting behavior change in cancer prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To field-test the Happy smartphone application for promoting cancer prevention behaviors.
  • To assess the usability, feasibility, message receptivity, and perceived impact of a tailored-message app.

Main Methods:

  • Thirty-two participants used the Happy app for 28 days.
  • Data collected via online questionnaires and interviews.
  • Evaluated usability, feasibility, message reception, and perceived impact.

Main Results:

  • The Happy app was rated as simple, intuitive, and easy to use.
  • App messages were perceived as clear, informative, and attention-grabbing.
  • Participants reported increased cancer prevention behaviors and an elevated overall prevention level.

Conclusions:

  • Smartphone-based interventions are viable for promoting cancer prevention.
  • The Happy app is usable and may effectively encourage healthier choices to reduce cancer risk.
Keywords:
Behaviour changeCancer preventionMobile applicationsSmartphonesmHealth

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