Real-word evidence on the effectiveness of the Endo-App in reducing endometriosis-related complaints: a retrospective
Meletios P Nigdelis1, Christine Anderl2, Erich-Franz Solomayer3
1Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Reproductive Medicine, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany. meletios.nigdelis@uks.eu.
Purpose:
Randomized controlled clinical trials have shown that symptoms of chronic pain conditions, such as endometriosis, can be improved with the use of specialized health apps. In the current study, real-world evidence was collected from Endo-App users to determine whether there was a sustained and positive effect on endometriosis symptoms.
Methods:
Users of the Endo-App were offered an optional, six-question anonymous survey through the platform upon first registration (T0), after 3 (T1), and 6 to 7 (T3) months of use. The survey questions were not standardized and aimed to assess the severity of endometriosis symptoms and overall quality of life. Data were analyzed using MatLab using a parametric paired t-test when pairs of data between T0-T1 and/or T0-T2 were available. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05.
Results:
A total of 143 users of the app completed at least part of the survey at 3 months and 55 users at 6 to 7 months. After 3 and 6 to 7 months of using the app average pain levels and days requiring medical assistance were significantly reduced compared to baseline values. In addition, the average reported number of sick days taken was significantly reduced at the 6-to-7-month timepoint compared to baseline.
Conclusion:
This real-world study demonstrates that use of a specialized app for endometriosis, such as the Endo-App, documents and may lead to a significant and sustained improvement of some endometriosis symptoms.