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Mobile app improves treatment of functional constipation in children: a randomized single-blind study

Julia Leszkowicz1, Wojciech Nazar2, Karolina Wysokińska-Zakrzewska3

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Gastroenterology, Allergology & Paediatric Nutrition, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland. julia.leszkowicz@gumed.edu.pl.

BMC Pediatrics
|December 9, 2025
PubMed

Insights

A mobile app significantly improved symptom control in children with functional constipation compared to printed materials. This digital health intervention enhances adherence and self-efficacy for better pediatric gastrointestinal health management.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Digital Health Interventions
  • Evidence-Based Medicine

Background:

  • Functional constipation is a common pediatric gastrointestinal disorder impacting quality of life and healthcare costs.
  • Adherence to treatment guidelines is a significant challenge in managing pediatric functional constipation.
  • Mobile health (mHealth) interventions show promise for improving adherence and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the efficacy of a mobile application versus printed educational materials in managing pediatric functional constipation.
  • To assess the impact of a digital intervention on symptom control and quality of life in children with functional constipation.
  • To evaluate adherence and self-efficacy in a pediatric functional constipation management program.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized, single-blind, per-protocol study involving 100 pediatric patient-caregiver dyads.
  • Intervention group used a mobile application; control group received printed educational materials.
  • Outcomes measured over six months using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL™) Gastrointestinal Symptoms Module.

Main Results:

  • The mobile application group showed significantly greater improvements in symptom control compared to the printed materials group (21.4 vs. 12.3 points).
  • Improvements were particularly noted in domains related to constipation, abdominal pain, and bloating.
  • The intervention demonstrated a statistically significant effect on symptom management (p=0.014).

Conclusions:

  • Mobile health interventions, featuring interactive tools and rewards, can enhance adherence and self-efficacy in pediatric functional constipation management.
  • The study supports the utility of mobile applications as adjuncts to standard care for pediatric functional constipation.
  • Digital health tools offer a valuable approach to improving therapeutic success in managing chronic pediatric conditions.
Abstract

Keywords:
AdherenceConstipationFunctional disordersMobile app

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