Russian-Language Mobile Apps for Reducing Alcohol Use: Systematic Search and Evaluation

Area of Science:

• Digital health interventions
• Public health
• Behavioral science

Background:

• Mobile applications for alcohol consumption reduction are prevalent in Russia.
• Systematic evaluation of their quality and content is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify Russian-language mobile apps for alcohol reduction.
• Evaluate app quality, behavior change potential, and suitability for primary care.
• Assess apps for screening and brief interventions in Russian primary healthcare.

Main Methods:

• Systematic search of app stores and forums (April 2020-March 2021).
• Quality assessment using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS).
• Evidence base evaluation via literature search.
• Behavior change feature assessment using App Behavior Change Scale (ABACUS).

Main Results:

• 63 apps identified; MARS scores high for functionality and aesthetics, low for engagement and information.
• No supporting studies found in electronic libraries.
• ABACUS scores indicate limited behavior change features (mean 5/25).
• Two apps show potential for primary care screening/brief interventions post-improvement.

Conclusions:

• Russian mobile apps for alcohol reduction are accessible but lack scientific validation.
• Apps are functional and aesthetically pleasing but offer minimal engagement and information.
• Need for evidence-based app development to effectively mitigate alcohol consumption in Russia and globally.