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

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.