Mobile Apps for Common Noncommunicable Disease Management: Systematic Search in App Stores and Evaluation Using the...

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Health Informatics
• Mobile Health (mHealth)

Background:

• Mobile apps are increasingly used for self-management of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
• Limited understanding exists regarding the quality of available mHealth apps for conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.
• The growth of mHealth necessitates an evaluation of app quality for NCD self-management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the availability, characteristics, and quality of mHealth apps for NCD management.
• To assess features related to dietary aspects, health outcome promotion, and self-monitoring.
• To evaluate app quality using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS).

Main Methods:

• Systematic search of Google Play Store and Apple App Store (August-September 2022).
• Screening of apps based on descriptions for self-management features related to NCDs and diet.
• Analysis of app categories, involvement of healthcare professionals, scientific basis, and self-monitoring capabilities.
• Quality assessment using the validated Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS).

Main Results:

• 42 mHealth apps were identified, with weight management apps being the most common (74%).
• 86% of apps included self-management features, but 88% lacked indication of healthcare professional involvement.
• No apps reported scientific evidence of efficacy; the average MARS score was 3.2/5.
• Functionality (3.9/5) and aesthetics (3.2/5) were better rated than information (3.1/5) and engagement (2.9/5).

Conclusions:

• The quality of mHealth apps for chronic disease management is inconsistent, with many falling below acceptable standards.
• A significant lack of information regarding scientific evidence and developer expertise was noted.
• Optimizing mHealth apps with healthcare professional input is crucial for enhancing user confidence and achieving health outcomes.