%0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 8 %P e14630 %T Digital Health Apps in the Clinical Care of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Scoping Review %A Yin,Andrew Lukas %A Hachuel,David %A Pollak,John P %A Scherl,Ellen J %A Estrin,Deborah %+ Medical College, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY,, United States, 1 212 746 1067, aly2011@med.cornell.edu %K digital health %K mHealth %K mobile health %K mobile technology %K smartphone %K eHealth %K review %K inflammatory bowel disease %K Crohn’s disease %K ulcerative colitis %D 2019 %7 19.08.2019 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Digital health is poised to transform health care and redefine personalized health. As Internet and mobile phone usage increases, as technology develops new ways to collect data, and as clinical guidelines change, all areas of medicine face new challenges and opportunities. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is one of many chronic diseases that may benefit from these advances in digital health. This review intends to lay a foundation for clinicians and technologists to understand future directions and opportunities together. Objective: This review covers mobile health apps that have been used in IBD, how they have fit into a clinical care framework, and the challenges that clinicians and technologists face in approaching future opportunities. Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, and ClinicalTrials.gov to identify mobile apps that have been studied and were published in the literature from January 1, 2010, to April 19, 2019. The search terms were (“mobile health” OR “eHealth” OR “digital health” OR “smart phone” OR “mobile app” OR “mobile applications” OR “mHealth” OR “smartphones”) AND (“IBD” OR “Inflammatory bowel disease” OR “Crohn's Disease” (CD) OR “Ulcerative Colitis” (UC) OR “UC” OR “CD”), followed by further analysis of citations from the results. We searched the Apple iTunes app store to identify a limited selection of commercial apps to include for discussion. Results: A total of 68 articles met the inclusion criteria. A total of 11 digital health apps were identified in the literature and 4 commercial apps were selected to be described in this review. While most apps have some educational component, the majority of apps focus on eliciting patient-reported outcomes related to disease activity, and a few are for treatment management. Significant benefits have been seen in trials relating to education, quality of life, quality of care, treatment adherence, and medication management. No studies have reported a negative impact on any of the above. There are mixed results in terms of effects on office visits and follow-up. Conclusions: While studies have shown that digital health can fit into, complement, and improve the standard clinical care of patients with IBD, there is a need for further validation and improvement, from both a clinical and patient perspective. Exploring new research methods, like microrandomized trials, may allow for more implementation of technology and rapid advancement of knowledge. New technologies that can objectively and seamlessly capture remote data, as well as complement the clinical shift from symptom-based to inflammation-based care, will help the clinical and health technology communities to understand the full potential of digital health in the care of IBD and other chronic illnesses. %M 31429410 %R 10.2196/14630 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/8/e14630/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/14630 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31429410 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 8 %P e12687 %T A Comparison of Physical Activity Mobile Apps With and Without Existing Web-Based Social Networking Platforms: Systematic Review %A Petersen,Jasmine Maria %A Prichard,Ivanka %A Kemps,Eva %+ College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide,, Australia, 61 8 82013713, jasmine.petersen@flinders.edu.au %K physical activity %K mobile applications %K social networking %D 2019 %7 16.08.2019 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Physical activity mobile apps present a unique medium to disseminate scalable interventions to increase levels of physical activity. However, the effectiveness of mobile apps has previously been limited by low levels of engagement. Existing Web-based social networking platforms (eg, Facebook and Twitter) afford high levels of popularity, reach, and sustain engagement and, thus, may present an innovative strategy to enhance the engagement, and ultimately the effectiveness of mobile apps. Objective: This study aimed to comparatively examine the effectiveness of, and engagement with, interventions that incorporate physical activity mobile apps in conjunction with and without existing Web-based social networking platforms (eg, Facebook and Twitter). Methods: A systematic review was conducted by following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Guidelines. A systematic search of the following databases was conducted: Medline, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, ProQuest, SPORTDiscus, EMBASE, and Cochrane. According to the comparative objective of this review, 2 independent literature searches were conducted. The first incorporated terms related to apps and physical activity; the second also incorporated terms related to Web-based social networking. The results of the two searches were synthesized and compared narratively. Results: A total of 15 studies were identified, 10 incorporated a physical activity app alone and 5 incorporated an app in conjunction with an existing Web-based social networking platform. Overall, 10 of the 15 interventions were effective in improving one or more physical activity behaviors. Specifically, improvements in physical activity behaviors were reported in 7 of the 10 interventions incorporating physical activity apps alone and in 3 of the 5 interventions incorporating physical activity apps in conjunction with existing Web-based social networking platforms. Interventions incorporating physical activity apps alone demonstrated a decline in app engagement. In contrast, the physical activity apps in conjunction with existing Web-based social networking platforms showed increased and sustained intervention engagement. Conclusions: The interventions incorporating physical activity apps in conjunction with and without existing Web-based social networking platforms demonstrated effectiveness in improving physical activity behaviors. Notably, however, the interventions that incorporated existing Web-based social networking platforms achieved higher levels of engagement than those that did not. This review provides preliminary evidence that existing Web-based social networking platforms may be fundamental to increase engagement with physical activity interventions. %M 31420956 %R 10.2196/12687 %U https://www.jmir.org/2019/8/e12687/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12687 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31420956 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-9694 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 3 %P e10010 %T Artificial Intelligence Versus Clinicians in Disease Diagnosis: Systematic Review %A Shen,Jiayi %A Zhang,Casper J P %A Jiang,Bangsheng %A Chen,Jiebin %A Song,Jian %A Liu,Zherui %A He,Zonglin %A Wong,Sum Yi %A Fang,Po-Han %A Ming,Wai-Kit %+ Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, , China, 86 14715485116, wkming@connect.hku.hk %K artificial intelligence %K deep learning %K diagnosis %K diagnostic imaging %K image interpretation, computer-assisted %K patient-centered care %D 2019 %7 16.08.2019 %9 Review %J JMIR Med Inform %G English %X Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) has been extensively used in a range of medical fields to promote therapeutic development. The development of diverse AI techniques has also contributed to early detections, disease diagnoses, and referral management. However, concerns about the value of advanced AI in disease diagnosis have been raised by health care professionals, medical service providers, and health policy decision makers. Objective: This review aimed to systematically examine the literature, in particular, focusing on the performance comparison between advanced AI and human clinicians to provide an up-to-date summary regarding the extent of the application of AI to disease diagnoses. By doing so, this review discussed the relationship between the current advanced AI development and clinicians with respect to disease diagnosis and thus therapeutic development in the long run. Methods: We systematically searched articles published between January 2000 and March 2019 following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis in the following databases: Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. According to the preset inclusion and exclusion criteria, only articles comparing the medical performance between advanced AI and human experts were considered. Results: A total of 9 articles were identified. A convolutional neural network was the commonly applied advanced AI technology. Owing to the variation in medical fields, there is a distinction between individual studies in terms of classification, labeling, training process, dataset size, and algorithm validation of AI. Performance indices reported in articles included diagnostic accuracy, weighted errors, false-positive rate, sensitivity, specificity, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. The results showed that the performance of AI was at par with that of clinicians and exceeded that of clinicians with less experience. Conclusions: Current AI development has a diagnostic performance that is comparable with medical experts, especially in image recognition-related fields. Further studies can be extended to other types of medical imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging and other medical practices unrelated to images. With the continued development of AI-assisted technologies, the clinical implications underpinned by clinicians’ experience and guided by patient-centered health care principle should be constantly considered in future AI-related and other technology-based medical research. %M 31420959 %R 10.2196/10010 %U http://medinform.jmir.org/2019/3/e10010/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10010 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31420959 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 8 %P e14318 %T Counseling With Guided Use of a Mobile Well-Being App for Students Experiencing Anxiety or Depression: Clinical Outcomes of a Feasibility Trial Embedded in a Student Counseling Service %A Broglia,Emma %A Millings,Abigail %A Barkham,Michael %+ Research Department, British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, 15 St John's Business Park, Lutterworth, Leicestershire,, United Kingdom, 44 1455 883318, emma.broglia@bacp.co.uk %K counseling %K students %K mental health %K mobile app %K feasibility studies %K outcome measures %K depressive symptoms %K generalized anxiety %K universities %D 2019 %7 15.08.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Anxiety and depression continue to be prominent experiences of students approaching their university counseling service. These services face unique challenges to ensure that they continue to offer quality support with fewer resources to a growing student population. The convenience and availability of mobile phone apps offer innovative solutions to address therapeutic challenges and expand the reach of traditional support. Objective: The primary aim of this study was to establish the feasibility of a trial in which guided use of a mobile phone well-being app was introduced into a student counseling service and offered as an adjunct to face-to-face counseling. Methods: The feasibility trial used a two-arm, parallel nonrandomized design comparing counseling alone (treatment as usual, or TAU) versus counseling supplemented with guided use of a mobile phone well-being app (intervention) for 38 university students experiencing moderate anxiety or depression. Students in both conditions received up to 6 sessions of face-to-face counseling within a 3-month period. Students who approached the counseling service and were accepted for counseling were invited to join the trial. Feasibility factors evaluated include recruitment duration, treatment preference, randomization acceptability, and intervention fidelity. Clinical outcomes and clinical change were assessed with routine clinical outcome measures administered every counseling session and follow-up phases at 3 and 6 months after recruitment. Results: Both groups demonstrated reduced clinical severity by the end of counseling. This was particularly noticeable for depression, social anxiety, and hostility, whereby clients moved from elevated clinical to low clinical or from low clinical to nonclinical by the end of the intervention. By the 6-month follow-up, TAU clients’ (n=18) anxiety had increased whereas intervention clients’ (n=20) anxiety continued to decrease, and this group difference was significant (Generalized Anxiety Disorder–7: t22=3.46, P=.002). This group difference was not replicated for levels of depression: students in both groups continued to decrease their levels of depression by a similar amount at the 6-month follow-up (Physical Health Questionnaire–9: t22=1.30, P=.21). Conclusion: Supplementing face-to-face counseling with guided use of a well-being app is a feasible and acceptable treatment option for university students experiencing moderate anxiety or depression. The feasibility trial was successfully embedded into a university counseling service without denying access to treatment and with minimal disruption to the service. This study provides preliminary evidence for using a well-being app to maintain clinical improvements for anxiety following the completion of counseling. The design of the feasibility trial provides the groundwork for the development of future pilot trials and definitive trials embedded in a student counseling service. Trial registration: ISRCTN registry ISRCTN55102899; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN55102899 %M 31418424 %R 10.2196/14318 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/8/e14318/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/14318 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31418424 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 8 %P e15062 %T Association Between the Use of a Mobile Health Strategy App and Biological Changes in Breast Cancer Survivors: Prospective Pre-Post Study %A Lozano-Lozano,Mario %A Melguizo-Rodríguez,Lucia %A Fernández-Lao,Carolina %A Galiano-Castillo,Noelia %A Cantarero-Villanueva,Irene %A Martín-Martín,Lydia %A Arroyo-Morales,Manuel %+ Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, Avda de la Ilustracion, 60, Granada, 18016, Spain, 34 958242070, lydia@ugr.es %K mHealth %K interleukin-6 %K C-reactive protein %K breast cancer survivors %K low-grade inflammatory %D 2019 %7 14.08.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: There is a bidirectional relationship between chronic low-grade inflammation and cancer. Inflammatory markers, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), have been associated with both the malignant transformation of epithelial cells and tumor progression, thus linking low-grade inflammation with a higher risk of cancer and recurrence in the survival phase. Therefore, they are considered valuable prognostic biomarkers. Knowing and finding appropriate primary prevention strategies to modify these parameters is a major challenge in reducing the risk of cancer recurrence and increasing survival. Different therapeutic strategies have shown efficacy in the modification of these and other biological parameters, but with contradictory results. There are apparently no strategies in which telemedicine, and specifically mobile health (mHealth), are used as a means to potentially cause biological changes. Objective: The objectives of this study were to: (1) check whether it is feasible to find changes in inflammation biomarkers through an mHealth strategy app as a delivery mechanism of an intervention to monitor energy balance; and (2) discover potential predictors of change of these markers in breast cancer survivors (BCSs). Methods: A prospective quasi-experimental pre-post study was conducted through an mHealth energy balance monitoring app with 73 BCSs, defined as stage I-IIIA of breast cancer and at least six months from the completion of the adjuvant therapy. Measurements included were biological salivary markers (IL-6 and C-reactive protein [CRP]), self-completed questionnaires (the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30, the user version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale [uMARS] and an ad hoc clinical and sociodemographic questionnaire) and physical objective measures (accelerometry, weight and height). In addition, using the logging data of the mHealth app, the rate of use (in days) was recorded during the entire experimental phase of the study. Using Stata software, a paired two-tailed t test, Pearson and Spearman correlations, and a stepwise multiple regression analysis were used to interpret the data. Results: Analyzing changes in inflammatory biomarker concentrations after using the mHealth app, differences between preassessment CRP (4899.04 pg/ml; SD 1085.25) and IL-6 (87.15 pg/ml; SD 33.59) and postassessment CRP (4221.24 pg/ml; SD 911.55) and IL-6 (60.53 pg/ml; SD 36.31) showed a significant decrease in both markers, with a mean difference of –635.25 pg/ml (95% CI –935.65 to –334.85; P<.001) in CRP and –26.61 pg/ml (95% CI –42.51 to –10.71; P=.002) in IL-6. Stepwise regression analyses revealed that changes in global quality of life, as well as uMARS score and hormonal therapy, were possible predictors of change in CRP concentration after using the mHealth app. In the same way, the type of tumor removal surgery conducted, as well as changes in weight and pain score, were possible predictors of change in IL-6 concentration after using the app. Conclusions: In conclusion, through the results of this study, we hypothesize that there is a possible association between an mHealth energy balance monitoring strategy and biological changes in BCSs. These changes could be explained by different biopsychosocial parameters, such as the use of the application itself, quality of life, pain, type of tumor removal surgery, hormonal treatment or obesity. %M 31414667 %R 10.2196/15062 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/8/e15062/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/15062 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31414667 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 8 %P e15023 %T Factors Influencing Patients’ Intentions to Use Diabetes Management Apps Based on an Extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology Model: Web-Based Survey %A Zhang,Yiyu %A Liu,Chaoyuan %A Luo,Shuoming %A Xie,Yuting %A Liu,Fang %A Li,Xia %A Zhou,Zhiguang %+ Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No 139, Renmin Road, Changsha, 410011, China, 86 073185292154, zhouzhiguang@csu.edu.cn %K diabetes mellitus %K mobile applications %K survey %K structural equation modeling %K China %D 2019 %7 13.08.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Diabetes poses heavy social and economic burdens worldwide. Diabetes management apps show great potential for diabetes self-management. However, the adoption of diabetes management apps by diabetes patients is poor. The factors influencing patients’ intention to use these apps are unclear. Understanding the patients’ behavioral intention is necessary to support the development and promotion of diabetes app use. Objective: This study aimed to identify the determinants of patients’ intention to use diabetes management apps based on an integrated theoretical model. Methods: The hypotheses of our research model were developed based on an extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). From April 20 to May 20, 2019, adult patients with diabetes across China, who were familiar with diabetes management apps, were surveyed using the Web-based survey tool Sojump. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data. Results: A total of 746 participants who met the inclusion criteria completed the survey. The fitness indices suggested that the collected data fit well with the research model. The model explained 62.6% of the variance in performance expectancy and 57.1% of the variance in behavioral intention. Performance expectancy and social influence had the strongest total effects on behavioral intention (β=0.482; P=.001). Performance expectancy (β=0.482; P=.001), social influence (β=0.223; P=.003), facilitating conditions (β=0.17; P=.006), perceived disease threat (β=0.073; P=.005), and perceived privacy risk (β=–0.073; P=.012) had direct effects on behavioral intention. Additionally, social influence, effort expectancy, and facilitating conditions had indirect effects on behavioral intention that were mediated by performance expectancy. Social influence had the highest indirect effects among the three constructs (β=0.259; P=.001). Conclusions: Performance expectancy and social influence are the most important determinants of the intention to use diabetes management apps. Health care technology companies should improve the usefulness of apps and carry out research to provide clinical evidence for the apps’ effectiveness, which will benefit the promotion of these apps. Facilitating conditions and perceived privacy risk also have an impact on behavioral intention. Therefore, it is necessary to improve facilitating conditions and provide solid privacy protection. Our study supports the use of UTAUT in explaining patients’ intention to use diabetes management apps. Context-related determinants should also be taken into consideration. %M 31411146 %R 10.2196/15023 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/8/e15023/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/15023 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31411146 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 8 %P e13938 %T Accuracy of 12 Wearable Devices for Estimating Physical Activity Energy Expenditure Using a Metabolic Chamber and the Doubly Labeled Water Method: Validation Study %A Murakami,Haruka %A Kawakami,Ryoko %A Nakae,Satoshi %A Yamada,Yosuke %A Nakata,Yoshio %A Ohkawara,Kazunori %A Sasai,Hiroyuki %A Ishikawa-Takata,Kazuko %A Tanaka,Shigeho %A Miyachi,Motohiko %+ Department of Physical Activity Research, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8636, Japan, 81 3 3203 8061 ext 4201, miyachi@nibiohn.go.jp %K physical activity %K accelerometry %K energy expenditure %K indirect calorimetry %K doubly labeled water %D 2019 %7 02.08.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Self-monitoring using certain types of pedometers and accelerometers has been reported to be effective for promoting and maintaining physical activity (PA). However, the validity of estimating the level of PA or PA energy expenditure (PAEE) for general consumers using wearable devices has not been sufficiently established. Objective: We examined the validity of 12 wearable devices for determining PAEE during 1 standardized day in a metabolic chamber and 15 free-living days using the doubly labeled water (DLW) method. Methods: A total of 19 healthy adults aged 21 to 50 years (9 men and 10 women) participated in this study. They followed a standardized PA protocol in a metabolic chamber for an entire day while simultaneously wearing 12 wearable devices: 5 devices on the waist, 5 on the wrist, and 2 placed in the pocket. In addition, they spent their daily lives wearing 12 wearable devices under free-living conditions while being subjected to the DLW method for 15 days. The PAEE criterion was calculated by subtracting the basal metabolic rate measured by the metabolic chamber and 0.1×total energy expenditure (TEE) from TEE. The TEE was obtained by the metabolic chamber and DLW methods. The PAEE values of wearable devices were also extracted or calculated from each mobile phone app or website. The Dunnett test and Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients were used to examine the variables estimated by wearable devices. Results: On the standardized day, the PAEE estimated using the metabolic chamber (PAEEcha) was 528.8±149.4 kcal/day. The PAEEs of all devices except the TANITA AM-160 (513.8±135.0 kcal/day; P>.05), SUZUKEN Lifecorder EX (519.3±89.3 kcal/day; P>.05), and Panasonic Actimarker (545.9±141.7 kcal/day; P>.05) were significantly different from the PAEEcha. None of the devices was correlated with PAEEcha according to both Pearson (r=−.13 to .37) and Spearman (ρ=−.25 to .46) correlation tests. During the 15 free-living days, the PAEE estimated by DLW (PAEEdlw) was 728.0±162.7 kcal/day. PAEE values of all devices except the Omron Active style Pro (716.2±159.0 kcal/day; P>.05) and Omron CaloriScan (707.5±172.7 kcal/day; P>.05) were significantly underestimated. Only 2 devices, the Omron Active style Pro (r=.46; P=.045) and Panasonic Actimarker (r=.48; P=.04), had significant positive correlations with PAEEdlw according to Pearson tests. In addition, 3 devices, the TANITA AM-160 (ρ=.50; P=.03), Omron CaloriScan (ρ=.48; P=.04), and Omron Active style Pro (ρ=.48; P=.04), could be ranked in PAEEdlw. Conclusions: Most wearable devices do not provide comparable PAEE estimates when using gold standard methods during 1 standardized day or 15 free-living days. Continuous development and evaluations of these wearable devices are needed for better estimations of PAEE. %M 31376273 %R 10.2196/13938 %U https://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/8/e13938/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/13938 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31376273 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 7 %P e14373 %T Assessment of Medication Adherence Using a Medical App Among Patients With Multiple Sclerosis Treated With Interferon Beta-1b: Pilot Digital Observational Study (PROmyBETAapp) %A Limmroth,Volker %A Hechenbichler,Klaus %A Müller,Christian %A Schürks,Markus %+ Bayer Vital GmbH, Neurologie, Immunologie & Ophthalmologie, Leverkusen, 51368, Germany, 49 2143051455, markus.schuerks@bayer.com %K digital observational study %K BETACONNECT %K myBETAapp %K interferon beta-1b %K multiple sclerosis %K medication adherence %K medication compliance %K medication persistence %D 2019 %7 29.07.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Accurate measurement of medication adherence using classical observational studies typically depends on patient self-reporting and is often costly and slow. In contrast, digital observational studies that collect data directly from the patient may pose minimal burden to patients while facilitating accurate, timely, and cost-efficient collection of real-world data. In Germany, ~80% of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated with interferon beta 1b (Betaferon) use an electronic autoinjector (BETACONNECT), which automatically records every injection. Patients may also choose to use a medical app (myBETAapp) to document injection data and their well-being (using a “wellness tracker” feature). Objective: The goal of this pilot study was to establish a digital study process that allows the collection of medication usage data and to assess medication usage among patients with MS treated with interferon beta-1b who use myBETAapp. Methods: The PROmyBETAapp digital observational study was a mixed prospective and retrospective, noninterventional, cohort study conducted among users of myBETAapp in Germany (as of December 2017: registered accounts N=1334; actively used accounts N=522). Between September and December 2017, users received two invitations on their app asking them to participate. Interested patients were provided detailed information and completed an electronic consent process. Data from consenting patients’ devices were collected retrospectively starting from the first day of usage if historical data were available in the database and collected prospectively following consent attainment. In total, 6 months of data on medication usage behavior were collected along with 3 months of wellness tracker data. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze persistence, compliance, and adherence to therapy. Results: Of the 1334 registered accounts, 96 patients (7.2%) provided informed consent to participate in the study. Of these, one patient withdrew consent later. For another patient, injection data could not be recorded during the study period. Follow-up of the remaining 94 patients ended in May 2018. The mean age of participants was 46.6 years, and 50 (53%) were female. Over the 6-month study period, persistence with myBETAapp usage was 96% (90/94), mean compliance was 94% of injections completed, and adherence (persistence and ≥80% compliance) was 89% (84/94). There was no apparent difference between male and female participants and no trend across age groups. The wellness tracker was used by 21% of participants (20/94), with a mean of 3.1 entries per user. Conclusions: This study provides important information on medication usage among patients with MS treated with interferon beta-1b and on consenting behavior of patients in digital studies. In future studies, this approach may allow patients’ feedback to be rapidly implemented in existing digital solutions. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03134573; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03134573 %M 31359863 %R 10.2196/14373 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/7/e14373/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/14373 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31359863 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 7 %P e13503 %T A Smart and Multifaceted Mobile Health System for Delivering Evidence-Based Secondary Prevention of Stroke in Rural China: Design, Development, and Feasibility Study %A Wu,Na %A Gong,Enying %A Wang,Bo %A Gu,Wanbing %A Ding,Nan %A Zhang,Zhuoran %A Chen,Mengyao %A Yan,Lijing L %A Oldenburg,Brian %A Xu,Li-Qun %+ Center of Excellence for mHealth and Smart Healthcare, China Mobile Research Institute, China Mobile Communications Corporation, 32 Xuanwumen West Street, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100032, China, 86 158 0169 6688 ext 35971, xuliqun@chinamobile.com %K stroke %K secondary prevention %K rural health services %K mobile application %K software design %K China %D 2019 %7 19.07.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mobile health (mHealth) technologies hold great promise in improving the delivery of high-quality health care services. Yet, there has been little research so far applying mHealth technologies in the context of delivering stroke care in resource-limited rural regions. Objective: This study aimed to introduce the design and development of an mHealth system targeting primary health care providers and to ascertain its feasibility in supporting the delivery of a System-Integrated techNology-Enabled Model of cAre (SINEMA) service for strengthening secondary prevention of stroke in rural China. Methods: The SINEMA mHealth system was designed by a multidisciplinary team comprising public health researchers, neurologists, and information and communication technology experts. The iterative co-design and development of the mHealth system involved the following 5 steps: (1) assessing the needs of relevant end users through in-depth interviews of stakeholders, (2) designing the functional modules and evidence-based care content, (3) designing and building the system and user interface, (4) improving and enhancing the system through a 3-month pilot test in 4 villages, and (5) finalizing the system and deploying it in field trial, and finally, evaluating its feasibility through a survey of the dominant user group. Results: From the in-depth interviews of 49 relevant stakeholders, we found that village doctors had limited capacity in caring for village-dwelling stroke patients in rural areas. Primary health care workers demonstrated real needs in receiving appropriate training and support from the mHealth system as well as great interests in using the mHealth technologies and tools. Using these findings, we designed a multifaceted mHealth system with 7 functional modules by following the iterative user-centered design and software development approach. The mHealth system, aimed at 3 different types of users (village doctors, town physicians, and county managers), was developed and utilized in a cluster-randomized controlled trial by 25 village doctors in a resource-limited county in rural China to manage 637 stroke patients between July 2017 and July 2018. In the end, a survey on the usability and functions of the mHealth system among village doctors (the dominant group of users, response rate=96%, 24/25) revealed that most of them were satisfied with the essential functions provided (71%) and were keen to continue using it (92%) after the study. Conclusions: The mHealth system was feasible for assisting primary health care providers in rural China in delivering the SINEMA service on the secondary prevention of stroke. Further research and initiatives in scaling up the SINEMA approach and this mHealth system to other resource-limited regions in China and beyond will likely enhance the quality and accessibility of essential secondary prevention among stroke patients. ClinicalTrial: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03185858; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03185858 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): RR2-10.1016/j.ahj.2018.08.015 %M 31325288 %R 10.2196/13503 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/7/e13503/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/13503 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31325288 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 6 %P e14592 %T Development and Testing of a Mobile Phone App for Risk Estimation of Gas Volume Expansion and Intraocular Pressure Elevation in Patients With Intravitreous Gas or Air Tamponade: Interobserver Assessment Study %A Zhang,Zhaotian %A Li,Fei %A Zhang,Haochuan %A Miao,Zhipeng %A Wei,Yantao %A Wang,Li %A Zhang,Shaochong %+ State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, 54S Xianlie Road, Guangzhou, 510060, China, 86 2087330415, zhangshaochong@gzzoc.com %K intraocular pressure %K mobile phone %K vitrectomy %K air %D 2019 %7 26.06.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with intravitreous tamponade of gas or air has been widely used for a series of vitreoretinal diseases. It is estimated that 100,000 patients per year undergo PPV globally, and half of them were subsequently tamponaded with gas or air. According to Boyle’s law (P1V1=P2V2), patients with an intravitreous remnant of gas or air will be under high risk of intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation and subsequent vision loss owing to the expanded intravitreous gas or air when traveling post operation to a place with a significantly higher altitude. We always explain to patients why postoperative travel is potentially risky. Emergency cases of elevated IOP caused by postoperative traveling would sometimes come to surgeons. However, there have been few disease education or reference tools for both the surgeons and patients to have better communication. Objective: The aim of this study was to introduce and evaluate a mobile phone app developed by surgeons (the authors) for preliminary risk estimation of volume expansion and IOP elevation in patients with intravitreous gas or air when traveling to a place of higher altitude. Methods: The app was developed on the iOS and Android operating systems. Boyle’s law (P1V1=P2V2) was the theoretical basis of the app. Intravitreous gas or air volume and altitude values were independent factors to deduce the risk report. Consecutive patients underwent vitrectomy, and those with an intravitreous remnant of gas or air were recruited. The surgeons judged the vertical height of the fluid/gas interface through the dilated pupil; the patients were instructed to judge it according to their visual field when looking straight ahead and line it out on a chart included in the app. Finally, all the patients were required to fill a Likert scale–based questionnaire with 2 main items to evaluate the participants’ user experience and attitudes toward the app. Results: A total of 50 patients were included (30 males and 20 females). All patients could independently operate the app to complete the test. The median heights of the fluid/gas interface independently judged by the surgeon and patients were 40% (range: 10%-75%) and 41% (range: 9%-78%), respectively (P=.63). The median altitude of the participants’ destinations was 150.0 m (range: 0-3490 m). The Bland-Altman analysis revealed a good agreement between the surgeons’ and patients’ judgments (bias of −0.3%), with 95% limits of agreement of −5.8% to 5.3%. Overall, the Likert scale revealed a positive attitude from the patients toward the app. Conclusions: The app is reliable for patients to have preliminary risk estimation of intravitreous gas or air volume expansion and IOP elevation if travel to a place of higher altitude is planned. The surgeons could also use it as a platform for better disease communication. %M 31244482 %R 10.2196/14592 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/6/e14592/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/14592 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31244482 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 6 %P e12505 %T Mobile Apps for Increasing Treatment Adherence: Systematic Review %A Pérez-Jover,Virtudes %A Sala-González,Marina %A Guilabert,Mercedes %A Mira,José Joaquín %+ Departamento Psicología de la Salud, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Altamira Building, Avda de la Universidad s/n, Elche, 03202, Spain, 34 966658600 ext 8984, mguilabert@umh.es %K mobile health %K medication alert systems %K medication adherence %D 2019 %7 18.06.2019 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: It is estimated that 20% to 50% of patients do not take their medication correctly, and this leads to increased morbidity and inefficacy of therapeutic approaches. Fostering treatment adherence is a priority objective for all health systems. The growth of mobile apps to facilitate therapeutic adherence has significantly increased in recent years. However, the effectiveness of the apps for this purpose has not been evaluated. Objective: This study aimed to analyze whether mobile apps are perceived as useful for managing medication at home and if they actually contribute to increasing treatment adherence in patients. Methods: We carried out a systematic review of research published using Scopus, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, and MEDLINE databases and analyzed the information about their contribution to increasing therapeutic adherence and the perceived usefulness of mobile apps. This review examined studies published between 2000 and 2017. Results: Overall, 11 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The sample sizes of these studies varied between 16 and 99 participants. In addition, 7 studies confirmed that the mobile app increased treatment adherence. In 5 of them, the before and after adherence measures suggested significant statistical improvements, when comparing self-reported adherence and missed dose with a percentage increase ranging between 7% and 40%. The users found mobile apps easy to use and useful for managing their medication. The patients were mostly satisfied with their use, with an average score of 8.1 out of 10. Conclusions: The use of mobile apps helps increase treatment adherence, and they are an appropriate method for managing medication at home. %M 31215517 %R 10.2196/12505 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/6/e12505/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12505 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31215517 %0 Journal Article %@ 2368-7959 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 6 %P e11701 %T Addressing Depression Comorbid With Diabetes or Hypertension in Resource-Poor Settings: A Qualitative Study About User Perception of a Nurse-Supported Smartphone App in Peru %A Brandt,Lena R %A Hidalgo,Liliana %A Diez-Canseco,Francisco %A Araya,Ricardo %A Mohr,David C %A Menezes,Paulo R %A Miranda,J Jaime %+ CRONICAS Center of Excellence in Chronic Diseases, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Avenida Armendariz 497, Miraflores, Lima, Peru, 51 12416978, fdiezcanseco@gmail.com %K mental health %K depression %K noncommunicable diseases %K mHealth %K smartphone %K developing countries %D 2019 %7 18.06.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Ment Health %G English %X Background: Smartphone apps could constitute a cost-effective strategy to overcome health care system access barriers to mental health services for people in low- and middle-income countries. Objective: The aim of this paper was to explore the patients’ perspectives of CONEMO (Emotional Control, in Spanish: Control Emocional), a technology-driven, psychoeducational, and nurse-supported intervention delivered via a smartphone app aimed at reducing depressive symptoms in people with diabetes, hypertension or both who attend public health care centers, as well as the nurses’ feedback about their role and its feasibility to be scaled up. Methods: This study combines data from 2 pilot studies performed in Lima, Peru, between 2015 and 2016, to test the feasibility of CONEMO. Interviews were conducted with 29 patients with diabetes, hypertension or both with comorbid depressive symptoms who used CONEMO and 6 staff nurses who accompanied the intervention. Using a content analysis approach, interview notes from patient interviews were transferred to a digital format, coded, and categorized into 6 main domains: the perceived health benefit, usability, adherence, user satisfaction with the app, nurse’s support, and suggestions to improve the intervention. Interviews with nurses were analyzed by the same approach and categorized into 4 domains: general feedback, evaluation of training, evaluation of study activities, and feasibility of implementing this intervention within the existing structures of health system. Results: Patients perceived improvement in their emotional health because of CONEMO, whereas some also reported better physical health. Many encountered some difficulties with using CONEMO, but resolved them with time and practice. However, the interactive elements of the app, such as short message service, android notifications, and pop-up messages were mostly perceived as challenging. Satisfaction with CONEMO was high, as was the self-reported adherence. Overall, patients evaluated the nurse accompaniment positively, but they suggested improvements in the technological training and an increase in the amount of contact. Nurses reported some difficulties in completing their tasks and explained that the CONEMO intervention activities competed with their everyday work routine. Conclusions: Using a nurse-supported smartphone app to reduce depressive symptoms among people with chronic diseases is possible and mostly perceived beneficial by the patients, but it requires context-specific adaptations regarding the implementation of a task shifting approach within the public health care system. These results provide valuable information about user feedback for those building mobile health interventions for depression. %M 31215511 %R 10.2196/11701 %U https://mental.jmir.org/2019/6/e11701/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11701 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31215511 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 6 %P e14094 %T A Mobile Health Intervention for Prostate Biopsy Patients Reduces Appointment Cancellations: Cohort Study %A Balakrishnan,Ashwin S %A Nguyen,Hao G %A Shinohara,Katsuto %A Au Yeung,Reuben %A Carroll,Peter R %A Odisho,Anobel Y %+ Department of Urology, University of California San Francisco, 400 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA,, United States, 1 415 476 1611, anobel.odisho@ucsf.edu %K text messaging %K appointments and schedules %K mHealth %K quality improvement %K urology %K prostate neoplasm %D 2019 %7 2.6.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Inadequate patient education and preparation for office-based procedures often leads to delayed care, poor patient satisfaction, and increased costs to the health care system. We developed and deployed a mobile health (mHealth) reminder and education program for patients scheduled for transrectal prostate biopsy. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the impact of an mHealth reminder and education program on appointment cancellation rates, communication frequency, and patient satisfaction. Methods: We developed a text message (SMS, short message service)–based program with seven reminders containing links to Web-based content and surveys sent over an 18-day period (14 days before through 3 days after prostate biopsy). Messages contained educational content, reminders, and readiness questionnaires. Demographic information, appointment cancellations or change data, and patient/provider communication events were collected for 6 months before and after launching the intervention. Patient satisfaction was evaluated in the postintervention cohort. Results: The preintervention (n=473) and postintervention (n=359) cohorts were composed of men of similar median age and racial/ethnic distribution living a similar distance from clinic. The postintervention cohort had significantly fewer canceled or rescheduled appointments (33.8% vs 21.2%, P<.001) and fewer same-day cancellations (3.8% vs 0.5%, P<.001). There was a significant increase in preprocedural telephone calls (0.6 vs 0.8 calls per patient, P=.02) in the postintervention cohort, but not a detectable change in postprocedural calls. The mean satisfaction with the program was 4.5 out of 5 (SD 0.9). Conclusions: An mHealth periprocedural outreach program significantly lowered appointment cancellation and rescheduling and was associated with high patient satisfaction scores with a slight increase in preprocedural telephone calls. This led to fewer underused procedure appointments and high patient satisfaction. %M 31199294 %R 10.2196/14094 %U https://www.jmir.org/2019/6/e14094/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/14094 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31199294 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 5 %P e13387 %T Feasibility and Acceptability of a Mobile Technology Intervention to Support Postabortion Care in British Columbia: Phase I %A Gill,Roopan %A Ogilvie,Gina %A Norman,Wendy V %A Fitzsimmons,Brian %A Maher,Ciana %A Renner,Regina %+ Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Women's Health Research Institute, University of British Columbia, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC,, Canada, 1 604 369 0774, roopan.gill@gmail.com %K mHealth %K family planning %K abortion, induced %K sexual health %K digital health %K user-centered design %D 2019 %7 29.05.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Over 30% of women in Canada undergo an abortion. Despite the prevalence of the procedure, stigma surrounding abortion in Canada leads to barriers for women to access this service. The vast majority of care is concentrated in urban settings. There is evidence to support utilization of innovative mobile and other technology solutions to empower women to safely and effectively self-manage aspects of the abortion process. This study is part 1 of a 3-phase study that utilizes user-centered design methodology to develop a digital health solution to specifically support follow-up after an induced surgical abortion. Objective: This study aimed to (1) understand how women at 3 surgical abortion clinics in an urban center of British Columbia utilize their mobile phones to access health care information and (2) understand women’s preferences of content and design of an intervention that will support follow-up care after an induced abortion, including contraceptive use. Methods: The study design was based on development-evaluation-implementation process from Medical Research Council Framework for Complex Medical Interventions. This was a mixed-methods formative study. Women (aged 14-45 years) were recruited from 3 urban abortion facilities in British Columbia who underwent an induced abortion. Adaptation of validated surveys and using the technology acceptance model and theory of reasoned action, a cross-sectional survey was designed. Interview topics included demographic information; type of wireless device used; cell phone usage; acceptable information to include in a mobile intervention to support women’s abortion care; willingness to use a mobile phone to obtain reproductive health information; optimal strategies to use a mobile intervention to support women; understand preferences for health information resources; and design qualities in a mobile intervention important for ease of use, privacy, and security. Responses to questions in the survey were summarized using descriptive statistics. Qualitative analysis was conducted with NVivo using a thematic analysis approach. This study was approved by the local ethics board. Results: A waiting-room survey was completed by 50 participants, and semistructured interviews were completed with 8 participants. The average age of participants was 26 years. Furthermore, 94% (47/50) owned a smartphone, 85% (41/48) used their personal phones to go online, and 85% would use their cell phone to assist in clinical care. Qualitative analysis demonstrated that women prefer a comprehensive website that included secure email or text notifications to provide tools and resources for emotional well-being, contraceptive decision making, general sexual health, and postprocedure care. Conclusions: A community-based mixed-methods approach allowed us to understand how women use their cell phones and what women desire in a mobile intervention to support their postabortion care. The findings from this formative phase will assist in the development and testing of a mobile intervention to support follow-up care after an induced surgical abortion. %M 31144668 %R 10.2196/13387 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/5/e13387/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/13387 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31144668 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 5 %P e13645 %T Smartphone Apps to Support Self-Management of Hypertension: Review and Content Analysis %A Alessa,Tourkiah %A Hawley,Mark S %A Hock,Emma S %A de Witte,Luc %+ Centre for Assistive Technology and Connected Healthcare, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield,, United Kingdom, 44 1142224399, l.p.dewitte@sheffield.ac.uk %K smartphone apps %K mobile apps %K self-management %K hypertension %K blood pressure %K mobile applications %D 2019 %7 28.05.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Hypertension is a widespread chronic disease, and its effective treatment requires self-management by patients. Health-related apps provide an effective way of supporting hypertension self-management. However, the increasing range and variety of hypertension apps available on the market, owing to the global growth in apps, creates the need for patients and health care professionals to be informed about the effectiveness of these apps and the levels of privacy and security that they provide. Objective: This study aimed to describe and assess all available apps supporting hypertension self-management in the most popular app stores and investigate their functionalities. Methods: In January 2018, the UK Apple and Google Play stores were scanned for all free and paid apps supporting hypertension self-management. Apps were included if they were in English, had functionality supporting hypertension self-management, and targeted adult users with hypertension. The included apps were downloaded and their functionalities were investigated. Behavior change techniques (BCTs) linked with the theoretical domain framework (TDF) underpinning potentially effective apps were independently coded by two reviewers. The data privacy and security of the apps were also independently assessed. Results: A total of 186 hypertension apps that met the inclusion criteria were included in this review. The majority of these apps had only one functionality (n=108), while the remainder offered different combinations of functionalities. A small number of apps had comprehensive functionalities (n=30) that are likely to be more effective in supporting hypertension self-management. Most apps lacked a clear theoretical basis, and 24 BCTs identified in these 30 apps were mapped to 10 TDF mechanisms of actions. On an average, 18.4 BCTs were mapped to 6 TDF mechanisms of actions that may support hypertension self-management behaviors. There was a concerning absence of evidence related to the effectiveness and usability of all 186 apps, and involvement of health care professionals in the app development process was minimal. Most apps did not meet the current standards of data security and privacy. Conclusions: Despite the widespread accessibility and availability of smartphone apps with a range of combinations of functionalities that can support the self-management of hypertension, only a small number of apps are likely to be effective. Many apps lack security measures as well as a clear theoretical basis and do not provide any evidence concerning their effectiveness and usability. This raises a serious issue, as health professionals and those with hypertension have insufficient information to make decisions on which apps are safe and effective. %M 31140434 %R 10.2196/13645 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/5/e13645/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/13645 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31140434 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 5 %P e11967 %T Methodology Used in Ecological Momentary Assessment Studies About Sedentary Behavior in Children, Adolescents, and Adults: Systematic Review Using the Checklist for Reporting Ecological Momentary Assessment Studies %A Romanzini,Catiana Leila Possamai %A Romanzini,Marcelo %A Batista,Mariana Biagi %A Barbosa,Cynthia Correa Lopes %A Shigaki,Gabriela Blasquez %A Dunton,Genevieve %A Mason,Tyler %A Ronque,Enio Ricardo Vaz %+ Londrina State University, Department of Physical Education, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid | Pr 445 Km 380 | Campus Universitário Cx Postal 10.011, Londrina, 86.057-970, Brazil, 55 4333714238, clpossamai@uel.br %K physical activity %K accelerometry %K health behavior %D 2019 %7 15.05.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The use of ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to measure sedentary behavior (SB) in children, adolescents, and adults can increase the understanding of the role of the context of SB in health outcomes. Objective: The aim of this study was to systematically review literature to describe EMA methodology used in studies on SB in youth and adults, verify how many studies adhere to the Methods aspect of the Checklist for Reporting EMA Studies (CREMAS), and detail measures used to assess SB and this associated context. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and SPORTDiscus databases, covering the entire period of existence of the databases until January 2018. Results: This review presented information about the characteristics and methodology used in 21 articles that utilized EMA to measure SB in youth and adults. There were more studies conducted among youth compared with adults, and studies of youth included more waves and more participants (n=696) than studies with adults (n=97). Most studies (85.7%) adhered to the Methods aspect of the CREMAS. The main criteria used to measure SB in EMA were self-report (81%) with only 19% measuring SB using objective methods (eg, accelerometer). The main equipment to collect objective SB was the ActiGraph, and the cutoff point to define SB was <100 counts/min. Studies most commonly used a 15-min window to compare EMA and accelerometer data. Conclusions: The majority of studies in this review met minimum CREMAS criteria for studies conducted with EMA. Most studies measured SB with EMA self-report (n=17; 81.0%), and a few studies also used objective methods (n=4; 19%). The standardization of the 15-min window criteria to compare EMA and accelerometer data would lead to a comparison between these and new studies. New studies using EMA with mobile phones should be conducted as they can be considered an attractive method for capturing information about the specific context of SB activities of young people and adults in real time or very close to it. %M 31094349 %R 10.2196/11967 %U https://www.jmir.org/2019/5/e11967/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11967 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31094349 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-326X %I JMIR Publications %V 3 %N 2 %P e12679 %T Feasibility of a Mobile Phone App to Promote Adherence to a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle: Single-Arm Study %A Lunde,Pernille %A Nilsson,Birgitta Blakstad %A Bergland,Astrid %A Bye,Asta %+ Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, P50, PB 4, St Olavs Plass, Oslo,, Norway, 47 48 06 35 37, plunde@oslomet.no %K mHealth %K eHealth %K mobile phone app %K cardiac rehabilitation %D 2019 %7 19.4.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Form Res %G English %X Background: Long-term maintenance of preventive activities is fundamental for achieving improved outcomes in cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Despite this, it has been shown to be a major challenge for many patients to follow recommendations and thereby adhere to a heart-healthy lifestyle. Mobile phone apps have been emphasized as potential tools to promote preventive activities after attendance in a CR program. Before commencing a trial to assess the potential effect of using an app to promote long-term adherence to preventive activities after attendance in CR, a study to assess if it is feasible to use an app is warranted. Objective: The goal of the research is to assess if it is feasible to use a mobile phone app for promoting and monitoring patients’ adherence to a heart-healthy lifestyle after CR. Methods: The study included an experimental, pre-post single-arm trial lasting for 12 weeks. All patients received access to an app aimed to guide individuals to change or maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle. During the study period, patients received weekly, individualized monitoring through the app, based on their own goals. Feasibility outcomes assessed were recruitment rate, adherence to the app, resource requirements, and efficacy regarding capability to detect a change in quality of life, health status, and perceived goal achievement as well as evaluating ceiling and floor effect in these outcomes. Criteria for success were preset to be able to evaluate whether the app was feasible to use in a potential future RCT. Results: In total, 71% (17/24) of the patients who completed CR were eligible for a potential RCT as well as for this study. All 14 patients included in the study used the app to promote preventive activities throughout the study. Satisfaction with the technology was high, and the patients found the technology-based follow-up intervention both useful and motivational. Ceiling effect was present in more than 20% of the patients in several domains of the questionnaires evaluating quality of life (36-Item Short Form Health Survey and COOP/WONCA functional health assessments) and health status (EQ-5D). Overall self-rated health status (EuroQol Visual Analog Scale) and perceived goal achievement were found to be outcomes able to detect a change. Conclusions: Individual follow-up through an app after attendance in CR is feasible. All patients used the app for preventive activities and found the app both useful and motivating. Several points of guidance from the patients in the study have been adopted and incorporated into the final design of the RCT now in the field. %M 31066684 %R 10.2196/12679 %U http://formative.jmir.org/2019/2/e12679/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12679 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31066684 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 4 %P e12251 %T Wearable Proximity Sensors for Monitoring a Mass Casualty Incident Exercise: Feasibility Study %A Ozella,Laura %A Gauvin,Laetitia %A Carenzo,Luca %A Quaggiotto,Marco %A Ingrassia,Pier Luigi %A Tizzoni,Michele %A Panisson,André %A Colombo,Davide %A Sapienza,Anna %A Kalimeri,Kyriaki %A Della Corte,Francesco %A Cattuto,Ciro %+ Data Science Laboratory, Institute for Scientific Interchange Foundation, Via Chisola 5, Torino, 10131, Italy, 39 3491973277, laura.ozella@gmail.com %K contact patterns %K contact networks %K wearable proximity sensors %K mass casualty incident %K simulation %K medical staff – patient interaction %K patients’ flow %D 2019 %7 26.04.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Over the past several decades, naturally occurring and man-made mass casualty incidents (MCIs) have increased in frequency and number worldwide. To test the impact of such events on medical resources, simulations can provide a safe, controlled setting while replicating the chaotic environment typical of an actual disaster. A standardized method to collect and analyze data from mass casualty exercises is needed to assess preparedness and performance of the health care staff involved. Objective: In this study, we aimed to assess the feasibility of using wearable proximity sensors to measure proximity events during an MCI simulation. In the first instance, our objective was to demonstrate how proximity sensors can collect spatial and temporal information about the interactions between medical staff and patients during an MCI exercise in a quasi-autonomous way. In addition, we assessed how the deployment of this technology could help improve future simulations by analyzing the flow of patients in the hospital. Methods: Data were obtained and collected through the deployment of wearable proximity sensors during an MCI functional exercise. The scenario included 2 areas: the accident site and the Advanced Medical Post, and the exercise lasted 3 hours. A total of 238 participants were involved in the exercise and classified in categories according to their role: 14 medical doctors, 16 nurses, 134 victims, 47 Emergency Medical Services staff members, and 27 health care assistants and other hospital support staff. Each victim was assigned a score related to the severity of his/her injury. Each participant wore a proximity sensor, and in addition, 30 fixed devices were placed in the field hospital. Results: The contact networks show a heterogeneous distribution of the cumulative time spent in proximity by the participants. We obtained contact matrices based on the cumulative time spent in proximity between the victims and rescuers. Our results showed that the time spent in proximity by the health care teams with the victims is related to the severity of the patient’s injury. The analysis of patients’ flow showed that the presence of patients in the rooms of the hospital is consistent with the triage code and diagnosis, and no obvious bottlenecks were found. Conclusions: Our study shows the feasibility of the use of wearable sensors for tracking close contacts among individuals during an MCI simulation. It represents, to our knowledge, the first example of unsupervised data collection—ie, without the need for the involvement of observers, which could compromise the realism of the exercise—of face-to-face contacts during an MCI exercise. Moreover, by permitting detailed data collection about the simulation, such as data related to the flow of patients in the hospital, such deployment provides highly relevant input for the improvement of MCI resource allocation and management. %M 31025944 %R 10.2196/12251 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/4/e12251/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12251 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31025944 %0 Journal Article %@ 2368-7959 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 4 %P e11698 %T Use of a Mobile Phone App to Treat Depression Comorbid With Hypertension or Diabetes: A Pilot Study in Brazil and Peru %A Menezes,Paulo %A Quayle,Julieta %A Garcia Claro,Heloísa %A da Silva,Simone %A Brandt,Lena R %A Diez-Canseco,Francisco %A Miranda,J Jaime %A Price,LeShawndra N %A Mohr,David C %A Araya,Ricardo %+ Department of Preventive Medicine, University of São Paulo, Rua Doutor Arnaldo 455, Cerqueira César, São Paulo, 01246903, Brazil, 55 1130617093, pmenezes@usp.br %K depression %K mHealth %K pilot study %K feasibility study %K PHQ-9 %D 2019 %7 26.04.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Ment Health %G English %X Background: Depression is underdiagnosed and undertreated in primary health care. When associated with chronic physical disorders, it worsens outcomes. There is a clear gap in the treatment of depression in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where specialists and funds are scarce. Interventions supported by mobile health (mHealth) technologies may help to reduce this gap. Mobile phones are widely used in LMICs, offering potentially feasible and affordable alternatives for the management of depression among individuals with chronic disorders. Objective: This study aimed to explore the potential effectiveness of an mHealth intervention to help people with depressive symptoms and comorbid hypertension or diabetes and explore the feasibility of conducting large randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: Emotional Control (CONEMO) is a low-intensity psychoeducational 6-week intervention delivered via mobile phones and assisted by a nurse for reducing depressive symptoms among individuals with diabetes or hypertension. CONEMO was tested in 3 pilot studies, 1 in São Paulo, Brazil, and 2 in Lima, Peru. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) at enrollment and at 6-week follow-up. Results: The 3 pilot studies included a total of 66 people. Most participants were females aged between 41 and 60 years. There was a reduction in depressive symptoms as measured by PHQ-9 in all pilot studies. In total, 58% (38/66) of the participants reached treatment success rate (PHQ-9 <10), with 62% (13/21) from São Paulo, 62% (13/21) from the first Lima pilot, and 50% (12/24) from the second Lima pilot study. The intervention, the app, and the support offered by the nurse and nurse assistants were well received by participants in both settings. Conclusions: The intervention was feasible in both settings. Clinical data suggested that CONEMO may help in decreasing participants’ depressive symptoms. The findings also indicated that it was possible to conduct RCTs in these settings. %M 31025949 %R 10.2196/11698 %U http://mental.jmir.org/2019/4/e11698/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11698 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31025949 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 4 %P e12223 %T Postvaccination Fever Response Rates in Children Derived Using the Fever Coach Mobile App: A Retrospective Observational Study %A Ahn,Sang Hyun %A Zhiang,Jooho %A Kim,Hyery %A Chang,Seyun %A Shin,Jaewon %A Kim,Myeongchan %A Lee,Yura %A Lee,Jae-Ho %A Park,Yu Rang %+ Department of Biomedical Systems Informatics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea, 82 2228 2493, yurangpark@yuhs.ac %K patient-generated health data %K vaccination %K postvaccination fever %K digital health care %K mobile app %D 2019 %7 22.04.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Postvaccination fever is a mild adverse event that naturally improves without complications, but is highly prevalent and can be accompanied by febrile convulsions in some cases. These adverse effects may cause parents to delay or avoid vaccinating their children. Objective: This study aimed to identify postvaccination fever patterns and the ability of antipyretics to affect changes in these patterns from data collected from a mobile app named Fever Coach. Methods: Data provided by parents of feverish children derived from a mobile app, Fever Coach, were used to identify postvaccination fever patterns according to vaccinations and the use of antipyretic drugs. We selected single vaccination records that contained five or more body temperature readings performed within 48 hours of vaccination, and we analyzed postvaccination fever onset, offset, duration, and maximum body temperature. Through observing the postvaccination fever response to vaccination, we identified the effects of antipyretic drugs on postvaccination fever onset, offset, and duration times; the extent of fever; and the rate of decline. We also performed logistic regression analysis to determine demographic variables (age, weight, and sex) involved in relatively high fevers (body temperature ≥39°C). Results: The total number of Fever Coach users was 25,037, with 3834 users having entered single vaccination records, including 4448 vaccinations and 55,783 body temperature records. Most records were obtained from children receiving the following vaccinations: pneumococcus (n=2069); Japanese encephalitis (n=911); influenza (n=669); diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (n=403); and hepatitis A (n=252). According to the 4448 vaccination records, 3427 (77.05%) children had taken antipyretic drugs, and 3238 (89.15%) children took antibiotics at body temperatures above 38°C. The number of children taking antipyretics at a body temperature of 38°C was more than four times that of those taking antipyretics at 37.9°C (307 vs 67 cases). The number of instances in which this temperature threshold was reached was more than four times greater than the number when the temperature was 37.9°C. A comparative analysis of antipyretic and nonantipyretic cases showed there was no difference in onset time; however, offset and duration times were significantly shorter in nonantipyretic cases than in antipyretic cases (P<.001). In nonantipyretic cases, offset times and duration times were 9.9 and 10.1 hours shorter, respectively, than in antipyretic cases. Body temperatures also decreased faster in nonantipyretic cases. Influenza vaccine-associated fevers lasted relatively longer, whereas pneumococcus vaccine-associated fevers were relatively short-lived. Conclusions: These findings suggest that postvaccination fever has its own fever pattern, which is dependent on vaccine type and the presence of antipyretic drugs, and that postvaccination temperature monitoring may ease fever phobia and reduce the unnecessary use of antipyretics in medical care. %M 31008712 %R 10.2196/12223 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/4/e12223/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12223 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31008712 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 4 %P e13404 %T Wearable Sensors Reveal Menses-Driven Changes in Physiology and Enable Prediction of the Fertile Window: Observational Study %A Goodale,Brianna Mae %A Shilaih,Mohaned %A Falco,Lisa %A Dammeier,Franziska %A Hamvas,Györgyi %A Leeners,Brigitte %+ Ava AG, Gutstrasse 73, Zurich, 8055, Switzerland, 41 788737163, brianna.goodale@avawomen.com %K algorithms %K fertility/physiology %K heart rate %K machine learning %K menstrual cycle %K ovulation detection/methods %K respiratory rate %K perfusion %K skin temperature %K wearable electronic devices %D 2019 %7 18.04.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Previous research examining physiological changes across the menstrual cycle has considered biological responses to shifting hormones in isolation. Clinical studies, for example, have shown that women’s nightly basal body temperature increases from 0.28 to 0.56 ˚C following postovulation progesterone production. Women’s resting pulse rate, respiratory rate, and heart rate variability (HRV) are similarly elevated in the luteal phase, whereas skin perfusion decreases significantly following the fertile window’s closing. Past research probed only 1 or 2 of these physiological features in a given study, requiring participants to come to a laboratory or hospital clinic multiple times throughout their cycle. Although initially designed for recreational purposes, wearable technology could enable more ambulatory studies of physiological changes across the menstrual cycle. Early research suggests that wearables can detect phase-based shifts in pulse rate and wrist skin temperature (WST). To date, previous work has studied these features separately, with the ability of wearables to accurately pinpoint the fertile window using multiple physiological parameters simultaneously yet unknown. Objective: In this study, we probed what phase-based differences a wearable bracelet could detect in users’ WST, heart rate, HRV, respiratory rate, and skin perfusion. Drawing on insight from artificial intelligence and machine learning, we then sought to develop an algorithm that could identify the fertile window in real time. Methods: We conducted a prospective longitudinal study, recruiting 237 conception-seeking Swiss women. Participants wore the Ava bracelet (Ava AG) nightly while sleeping for up to a year or until they became pregnant. In addition to syncing the device to the corresponding smartphone app daily, women also completed an electronic diary about their activities in the past 24 hours. Finally, women took a urinary luteinizing hormone test at several points in a given cycle to determine the close of the fertile window. We assessed phase-based changes in physiological parameters using cross-classified mixed-effects models with random intercepts and random slopes. We then trained a machine learning algorithm to recognize the fertile window. Results: We have demonstrated that wearable technology can detect significant, concurrent phase-based shifts in WST, heart rate, and respiratory rate (all P<.001). HRV and skin perfusion similarly varied across the menstrual cycle (all P<.05), although these effects only trended toward significance following a Bonferroni correction to maintain a family-wise alpha level. Our findings were robust to daily, individual, and cycle-level covariates. Furthermore, we developed a machine learning algorithm that can detect the fertile window with 90% accuracy (95% CI 0.89 to 0.92). Conclusions: Our contributions highlight the impact of artificial intelligence and machine learning’s integration into health care. By monitoring numerous physiological parameters simultaneously, wearable technology uniquely improves upon retrospective methods for fertility awareness and enables the first real-time predictive model of ovulation. %M 30998226 %R 10.2196/13404 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/4/e13404/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/13404 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30998226 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 8 %N 4 %P e13119 %T Reducing Alcohol Consumption Among Risky Drinkers in the General Population of Sweden Using an Interactive Mobile Health Intervention: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial %A Bendtsen,Marcus %A McCambridge,Jim %+ Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping University, Linköping, 58183, Sweden, 46 733140708, marcus.bendtsen@liu.se %K telemedicine %K alcohol drinking %K randomized controlled trial %D 2019 %7 18.04.2019 %9 Protocol %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Harmful use of alcohol continues to be a leading contributor to premature deaths globally. Not only does harmful drinking have consequences for the individuals consuming at increased levels, but it may also result in a range of negative consequences for their family members and friends. Interventions delivered via mobile phones (mobile health [mHealth] interventions) could potentially support risky drinkers seeking help to reduce their alcohol consumption. Objective: This protocol describes a randomized controlled trial that aims to validly estimate the effect of a novel mHealth intervention targeting risky drinkers in the general population of Sweden. Nested within the trial are 3 substudies that focus on methodological and user satisfaction research questions. Methods: A 2-arm parallel group randomized controlled trial will be employed to estimate the effect of the novel intervention. Participants will be recruited through Web advertisements and social media. The inclusion criteria are as follows: 18 years or older, ownership of a mobile phone, and being classified as a risky drinker according to Swedish guidelines. Participants allocated to the intervention group will receive a novel mHealth intervention. The intervention consists of weekly screening, personalized feedback on current consumption, functions allowing for planning of future consumption, as well as a series of messages delivered throughout the week. Participants allocated to the control group will receive a short message regarding negative consequences of alcohol consumption and a hyperlink that offers more information. Following 2 and 4 months after randomization, both groups will be asked to complete follow-up questionnaires (2-month interval being primary). Primary outcomes are weekly alcohol consumption and heavy episodic drinking. Participants in the control group will be given access to the novel intervention after completing the 4-month follow-up. The trial includes 3 substudies: We will explore whether the mode of presenting information before participants giving informed consent affects participation rates and recall of trial parameters, investigate if the content of the short message received by the control group affects study outcomes and requests for more information, and explore user satisfaction with the intervention and reactions of the control group. Results: Participant recruitment is planned to begin in April 2019 and to last for a maximum of 24 months. The first dataset will be available approximately 2 months after the final participant has been recruited, and the final dataset will be available approximately 2 months later. No participants had been recruited at the time of submitting this protocol. Conclusions: If found effective, the intervention has the potential to reduce negative consequences of alcohol consumption for individuals. The technology has been designed to have potential for extensive reach among those who may benefit. Trial Registration: ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN48317451; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN48317451 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/779tKLsu3) International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/13119 %M 30998221 %R 10.2196/13119 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2019/4/e13119/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/13119 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30998221 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 4 %P e12368 %T Augmented Reality in Emergency Medicine: A Scoping Review %A Munzer,Brendan William %A Khan,Mohammad Mairaj %A Shipman,Barbara %A Mahajan,Prashant %+ Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan, 1501 E Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, United States, 1 602 403 3296, bmunzer@med.umich.edu %K augmented reality %K emergency medicine %K education %K telemedicine %D 2019 %7 17.04.2019 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Augmented reality is increasingly being investigated for its applications to medical specialties as well as in medical training. Currently, there is little information about its applicability to training and care delivery in the context of emergency medicine. Objective: The objective of this article is to review current literature related to augmented reality applicable to emergency medicine and its training. Methods: Through a scoping review utilizing Scopus, MEDLINE, and Embase databases for article searches, we identified articles involving augmented reality that directly involved emergency medicine or was in an area of education or clinical care that could be potentially applied to emergency medicine. Results: A total of 24 articles were reviewed in detail and were categorized into three groups: user-environment interface, telemedicine and prehospital care, and education and training. Conclusions: Through analysis of the current literature across fields, we were able to demonstrate that augmented reality has utility and feasibility in clinical care delivery in patient care settings, in operating rooms and inpatient settings, and in education and training of emergency care providers. Additionally, we found that the use of augmented reality for care delivery over distances is feasible, suggesting a role in telehealth. Our results from the review of the literature in emergency medicine and other specialties reveal that further research into the uses of augmented reality will have a substantial role in changing how emergency medicine as a specialty will deliver care and provide education and training. %M 30994463 %R 10.2196/12368 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/4/e12368/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12368 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30994463 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 4 %P e12772 %T Validation of Two Automatic Blood Pressure Monitors With the Ability to Transfer Data via Bluetooth %A Wetterholm,Madeleine %A Bonn,Stephanie Erika %A Alexandrou,Christina %A Löf,Marie %A Trolle Lagerros,Ylva %+ Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Eugeniahemmet T2, Stockholm, SE 171 76, Sweden, 46 851779183, madeleine.wetterholm@ki.se %K blood pressure monitors %K diabetes mellitus, type 2 %K hypertension %K methods %K mHealth %K self-care %K self-management %D 2019 %7 17.04.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Patients with chronic diseases are in need of regular health controls. Diabetes mellitus type 2 is currently the most prevalent chronic metabolic disease. A majority of diabetic patients have at least one comorbid chronic disease, where hypertension is the most common. The standard for blood pressure (BP) measurement is manual BP monitoring at health care clinics. Nevertheless, several advantages of self-measured BP have been documented. With BP data transfer from an automatic BP monitor via Bluetooth to software, for example, a smartphone app, home measurement could effectively be integrated into regular care. Objective: The aim of this study was to validate two commercially available automatic BP monitors with the ability to transfer BP data via Bluetooth (Beurer BM 85 and Andersson Lifesense BDR 2.0), against manual BP monitoring in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods: A total of 181 participants with type 2 diabetes were recruited from 6 primary care centers in Stockholm, Sweden. BP was first measured using a manual BP monitor and then measured using the two automatic BP monitors. The mean differences between the automatic and manual measurements were calculated by subtracting the manual BP monitor measurement from the automatic monitor measurement. Validity of the two automatic BP monitors was further assessed using Spearman rank correlation coefficients and the Bland-Altman method. Results: In total, 180 participants, 119 men and 61 women, were included. The mean age was 60.1 (SD 11.4) years and the mean body mass index was 30.4 (SD 5.4) kg/m2. The mean difference between the Beurer BM 85 and the manual BP monitor was 11.1 (SD 11.2) mmHg for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and 8.0 (SD 8.1) mmHg for diastolic blood pressure (DBP). The mean difference between the Andersson Lifesense BDR 2.0 and the manual BP monitor was 3.2 (SD 10.8) mmHg for SBP and 4.2 (SD 7.2) mmHg for DBP. The automatic BP measurements were significantly correlated (P<.001) with the manual BP measurement values (Andersson Lifesense BDR 2.0: r=0.78 for SBP and r=0.71 for DBP; Beurer BM 85: r=0.78 for SBP and r=0.69 for DBP). Conclusions: The two automatic BP monitors validated measure sufficiently accurate on a group level, with the Andersson Lifesense BDR 2.0 more often falling within the ranges for what is acceptable in clinical practice compared with the Beurer BM 85. %M 30994459 %R 10.2196/12772 %U https://www.jmir.org/2019/4/e12772/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12772 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30994459 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 4 %P e11029 %T Mood Prediction of Patients With Mood Disorders by Machine Learning Using Passive Digital Phenotypes Based on the Circadian Rhythm: Prospective Observational Cohort Study %A Cho,Chul-Hyun %A Lee,Taek %A Kim,Min-Gwan %A In,Hoh Peter %A Kim,Leen %A Lee,Heon-Jeong %+ Korea University College of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul,, Republic of Korea, 82 029205815, leehjeong@korea.ac.kr %K mood disorder %K circadian rhythm %K projections and predictions %K machine learning %K digital phenotype %K wearable device %D 2019 %7 17.04.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Virtually, all organisms on Earth have their own circadian rhythm, and humans are no exception. Circadian rhythms are associated with various human states, especially mood disorders, and disturbance of the circadian rhythm is known to be very closely related. Attempts have also been made to derive clinical implications associated with mood disorders using the vast amounts of digital log that is acquired by digital technologies develop and using computational analysis techniques. Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the mood state or episode, activity, sleep, light exposure, and heart rate during a period of about 2 years by acquiring various digital log data through wearable devices and smartphone apps as well as conventional clinical assessments. We investigated a mood prediction algorithm developed with machine learning using passive data phenotypes based on circadian rhythms. Methods: We performed a prospective observational cohort study on 55 patients with mood disorders (major depressive disorder [MDD] and bipolar disorder type 1 [BD I] and 2 [BD II]) for 2 years. A smartphone app for self-recording daily mood scores and detecting light exposure (using the installed sensor) were provided. From daily worn activity trackers, digital log data of activity, sleep, and heart rate were collected. Passive digital phenotypes were processed into 130 features based on circadian rhythms, and a mood prediction algorithm was developed by random forest. Results: The mood state prediction accuracies for the next 3 days in all patients, MDD patients, BD I patients, and BD II patients were 65%, 65%, 64%, and 65% with 0.7, 0.69, 0.67, and 0.67 area under the curve (AUC) values, respectively. The accuracies of all patients for no episode (NE), depressive episode (DE), manic episode (ME), and hypomanic episode (HME) were 85.3%, 87%, 94%, and 91.2% with 0.87, 0.87, 0.958, and 0.912 AUC values, respectively. The prediction accuracy in BD II patients was distinctively balanced as high showing 82.6%, 74.4%, and 87.5% of accuracy (with generally good sensitivity and specificity) with 0.919, 0.868, and 0.949 AUC values for NE, DE, and HME, respectively. Conclusions: On the basis of the theoretical basis of chronobiology, this study proposed a good model for future research by developing a mood prediction algorithm using machine learning by processing and reclassifying digital log data. In addition to academic value, it is expected that this study will be of practical help to improve the prognosis of patients with mood disorders by making it possible to apply actual clinical application owing to the rapid expansion of digital technology. %M 30994461 %R 10.2196/11029 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/4/e11029/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11029 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30994461 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 4 %P e11245 %T Mobile Health Interventions: Exploring the Use of Common Relationship Factors %A Grekin,Emily R %A Beatty,Jessica R %A Ondersma,Steven J %+ Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, 5057 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI, 48202, United States, 1 313 577 2366, grekine@wayne.edu %K mobile health %K mHealth %K smartphone %K empathy %K mobile applications %K therapeutic alliance %D 2019 %7 15.04.2019 %9 Viewpoint %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X The use of mobile health (mHealth) interventions has risen dramatically over the past two decades. It is important to consider mHealth intervention research within the broader therapy outcome literature. Among other key findings, this broader literature suggests that common relationship factors such as empathy, positive regard, and genuineness may play a critical role in therapy effectiveness. These findings raise intriguing questions for mobile interventions. For example, can mobile interventions incorporate aspects of common factors to augment their efficacy? Will the absence of relationship-based common factors make mobile interventions less effective? This viewpoint paper addresses these questions as well as related issues such as how to operationalize relationship qualities in the context of a mobile intervention and whether common relationship factors apply to computers or computerized narrators. The paper concludes by outlining a future research agenda guided by theory and empirical studies. %M 30985281 %R 10.2196/11245 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/4/e11245/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11245 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30985281 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-9279 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 2 %P e8540 %T FightHPV: Design and Evaluation of a Mobile Game to Raise Awareness About Human Papillomavirus and Nudge People to Take Action Against Cervical Cancer %A Ruiz-López,Tomás %A Sen,Sagar %A Jakobsen,Elisabeth %A Tropé,Ameli %A Castle,Philip E %A Hansen,Bo Terning %A Nygård,Mari %+ HPV Research Group, Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, Ullernchausseen 64, 0379 Oslo, Norway, Oslo,, Norway, 47 95181886, mari.nygard@kreftregisteret.no %K papillomavirus vaccines %K educational technology %K uterine cervical neoplasms %K papillomavirus infections %K primary prevention %K secondary prevention %K early detection of cancer %K mobile applications %K health education %K learning %D 2019 %7 08.04.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Serious Games %G English %X Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection globally. High-risk HPV types can cause cervical cancer, other anogenital cancer, and oropharyngeal cancer; low-risk HPV types can cause genital warts. Cervical cancer is highly preventable through HPV vaccination and screening; however, a lack of awareness and knowledge of HPV and these preventive strategies represents an important barrier to reducing the burden of the disease. The rapid development and widespread use of mobile technologies in the last few years present an opportunity to overcome this lack of knowledge and create new, effective, and modern health communication strategies. Objective: This study aimed to describe the development of a mobile app called FightHPV, a game-based learning tool that educates mobile technology users about HPV, the disease risks associated with HPV infection, and existing preventive methods. Methods: The first version of FightHPV was improved in a design-development-evaluation loop, which incorporated feedback from a beta testing study of 40 participants, a first focus group of 6 participants aged between 40 and 50 years and a second focus group of 23 participants aged between 16 and 18 years. Gameplay data from the beta testing study were collected using Google Analytics (Google), whereas feedback from focus groups was evaluated qualitatively. Of the 29 focus group participants, 26 returned self-administered questionnaires. HPV knowledge before and after playing the game was evaluated in the 22 participants from the second focus group who returned a questionnaire. Results: FightHPV communicates concepts about HPV, associated diseases and their prevention by representing relationships among 14 characters in 6 episodes of 10 levels each, with each level being represented by a puzzle. Main concepts were reinforced with text explanations. Beta testing revealed that many players either failed or had to retry several times before succeeding at the more difficult levels in the game. It also revealed that players gave up at around level 47 of 60, which prompted the redesign of FightHPV to increase accessibility to all episodes. Focus group discussions led to several improvements in the user experience and dissemination of health information in the game, such as making all episodes available from the beginning of the game and rewriting the information in a more appealing way. Among the 26 focus group participants who returned a questionnaire, all stated that FightHPV is an appealing educational tool, 69% (18/26) reported that they liked the game, and 81% (21/26) stated that the game was challenging. We observed an increase in HPV knowledge after playing the game (P=.001). Conclusions: FightHPV was easy to access, use, and it increased awareness about HPV infection, its consequences, and preventive measures. FightHPV can be used to educate people to take action against HPV and cervical cancer. %M 30958271 %R 10.2196/games.8540 %U https://games.jmir.org/2019/2/e8540/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/games.8540 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30958271 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 4 %P e12033 %T A Mobile Phone–Based Approach for Hearing Screening of School-Age Children: Cross-Sectional Validation Study %A Chu,Yuan-Chia %A Cheng,Yen-Fu %A Lai,Ying-Hui %A Tsao,Yu %A Tu,Tzong-Yang %A Young,Shuenn Tsong %A Chen,Tzer-Shyong %A Chung,Yu-Fang %A Lai,Feipei %A Liao,Wen-Huei %+ Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No 201, Sec 2, Shipai Rd, Beitou District, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan, 886 938102333, whliaovictor@gmail.com %K hearing tests %K telemedicine %K mobile apps %K audiometry, pure-tone %D 2019 %7 01.04.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Pure-tone screening (PTS) is considered as the gold standard for hearing screening programs in school-age children. Mobile devices, such as mobile phones, have the potential for audiometric testing. Objective: This study aimed to demonstrate a new approach to rapidly screen hearing status and provide stratified test values, using a smartphone-based hearing screening app, for each screened ear of school-age children. Method: This was a prospective cohort study design. The proposed smartphone-based screening method and a standard sound-treated booth with PTS were used to assess 85 school-age children (170 ears). Sound-treated PTS involved applying 4 test tones to each tested ear: 500 Hz at 25 dB and 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz, and 4000 Hz at 20 dB. The results were classified as pass (normal hearing in the ear) or fail (possible hearing impairment). The proposed smartphone-based screening employs 20 stratified hearing scales. Thresholds were compared with those of pure-tone average (PTA). Results: A total of 85 subjects (170 ears), including 38 males and 47 females, aged between 11 and 12 years with a mean (SD) of 11 (0.5) years, participated in the trial. Both screening methods produced comparable pass and fail results (pass in 168 ears and fail in 2 ears). The smartphone-based screening detected moderate or worse hearing loss (average PTA>25 dB) accurately. Both the sensitivity and specificity of the smartphone-based screening method were calculated at 100%. Conclusions: The results of the proposed smartphone-based self-hearing test demonstrated high concordance with conventional PTS in a sound-treated booth. Our results suggested the potential use of the proposed smartphone-based hearing screening in a school-age population. %M 30932870 %R 10.2196/12033 %U https://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/4/e12033/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12033 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30932870 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-326X %I JMIR Publications %V 3 %N 1 %P e11300 %T Challenges in the Development of e-Quit worRx: An iPad App for Smoking Cessation Counseling and Shared Decision Making in Primary Care %A Doarn,Charles R %A Vonder Meulen,Mary Beth %A Pallerla,Harini %A Acquavita,Shauna P %A Regan,Saundra %A Elder,Nancy %A Tubb,Matthew R %+ Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way, ML0582, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, United States, 1 5135586148, charles.doarn@uc.edu %K mobile health %K smoking cessation %K primary care %K decision aid %D 2019 %7 29.03.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Form Res %G English %X Background: Smoking is the leading preventable cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States, killing more than 450,000 Americans. Primary care physicians (PCPs) have a unique opportunity to discuss smoking cessation evidence in a way that enhances patient-initiated change and quit attempts. Patients today are better equipped with technology such as mobile devices than ever before. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the challenges in developing a tablet-based, evidence-based smoking cessation app to optimize interaction for shared decision making between PCPs and their patients who smoke. Methods: A group of interprofessional experts developed content and a graphical user interface for the decision aid and reviewed these with several focus groups to determine acceptability and usability in a small population. Results: Using a storyboard methodology and subject matter experts, a mobile app, e-Quit worRx, was developed through an iterative process. This iterative process helped finalize the content and ergonomics of the app and provided valuable feedback from both patients and provider teams. Once the app was made available, other technical and programmatic challenges arose. Conclusions: Subject matter experts, although generally amenable to one another’s disciplines, are often challenged with effective interactions, including language, scope, clinical understanding, technology awareness, and expectations. The successful development of this app and its evaluation in a clinical setting highlighted those challenges and reinforced the need for effective communications and team building. %M 30924783 %R 10.2196/11300 %U https://formative.jmir.org/2019/1/e11300/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11300 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30924783 %0 Journal Article %@ 2371-4379 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 1 %P e10271 %T Appropriation of Mobile Health for Diabetes Self-Management: Lessons From Two Qualitative Studies %A Rossmann,Constanze %A Riesmeyer,Claudia %A Brew-Sam,Nicola %A Karnowski,Veronika %A Joeckel,Sven %A Chib,Arul %A Ling,Rich %+ Department of Media and Communication Science, University of Erfurt, Nordhaeuser Str 63, Erfurt, 99089, Germany, 49 3617374171, constanze.rossmann@uni-erfurt.de %K diabetes %K Germany %K mHealth %K mobile phone %K self-management %K Singapore %D 2019 %7 29.03.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Diabetes %G English %X Background: To achieve clarity on mobile health’s (mHealth’s) potential in the diabetes context, it is necessary to understand potential users’ needs and expectations, as well as the factors determining their mHealth use. Recently, a few studies have examined the user perspective in the mHealth context, but their explanatory value is constrained because of their limitation to adoption factors. Objective: This paper uses the mobile phone appropriation model to examine how individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes integrate mobile technology into their everyday self-management. The study advances the field beyond mere usage metrics or the simple dichotomy of adoption versus rejection. Methods: Data were gathered in 2 qualitative studies in Singapore and Germany, with 21 and 16 respondents, respectively. Conducting semistructured interviews, we asked respondents about their explicit use of diabetes-related apps, their general use of varied mobile technologies to manage their disease, and their daily practices of self-management. Results: The analysis revealed that although some individuals with diabetes used dedicated diabetes apps, most used tools across the entire mobile-media spectrum, including lifestyle and messaging apps, traditional health information websites and forums. The material indicated general barriers to usage, including financial, technical, and temporal restrictions. Conclusions: In sum, we find that use patterns differ regarding users’ evaluations, expectancies, and appropriation styles, which might explain the inconclusive picture of effects studies in the diabetes mHealth context. %M 30924786 %R 10.2196/10271 %U http://diabetes.jmir.org/2019/1/e10271/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10271 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30924786 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-7605 %I JMIR Publications %V 2 %N 1 %P e12850 %T Mentalizing Imagery Therapy Mobile App to Enhance the Mood of Family Dementia Caregivers: Feasibility and Limited Efficacy Testing %A Sikder,Abu Taher %A Yang,Francis Cheng %A Schafer,Rhiana %A Dowling,Glenna A %A Traeger,Lara %A Jain,Felipe Ananda %+ Depression Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, One Bowdoin Square, 6th Floor, Boston, MA, 02114, United States, 1 617 643 4682, felipe.jain@post.harvard.edu %K family caregivers %K mindfulness %K depression %K mobile apps %K psychotherapy %D 2019 %7 21.03.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Aging %G English %X Background: Family caregivers of patients with Alzheimer disease and related dementias (AD and ADRD) often experience high stress and are at high risk for depression. Technologically delivered therapy is attractive for AD and ADRD caregivers because of the time demands associated with in-person participation. Objective: We aimed to study the feasibility and conduct limited efficacy testing of a mobile app intervention delivering mentalizing imagery therapy (MIT) for family caregivers. Methods: A 4-week trial of the MIT app for family AD and ADRD caregivers was conducted to assess the feasibility of use and investigate changes in depression symptoms, mood, and caregiving experience. Semistructured interviews were conducted to characterize participants’ perceived feasibility and benefits. Results: A total of 17 of the 21 (80%) consented participants (mean age 67 years, range 54-79) utilized the app at least once and were further analyzed. Average usage of audio recordings was on 14 (SD 10) days out of 28 possible and comprised 29 (SD 28) individual sessions. There were improvements in depression with a large effect size for those who used the app at least moderately (P=.008), increases in positive mood postintervention (P<.05), and acute increases in mood following daily guided imagery practice (Stretching and Breathing, P<.001; Eye in the Center, P<.001; Nesting Doll, P=.002; Situation Solver, P=.003; and Life Globe, P=.006). Semistructured interviews revealed perceived benefits such as greater ability to remain “centered” despite caregiving challenges and positive reframing of the caregiver experience. Conclusions: App delivery of MIT is feasible for family AD and ADRD caregivers, including aging seniors. Results showed moderate to high usage of the app for a majority of users. Limited efficacy testing provides justification for studying the MIT app for AD and ADRD caregivers to improve mood and reduce depression in larger, controlled trials. %R 10.2196/12850 %U http://aging.jmir.org/2019/1/e12850/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12850 %0 Journal Article %@ 2368-7959 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 3 %P e11572 %T Exploring the Use of Multiple Mental Health Apps Within a Platform: Secondary Analysis of the IntelliCare Field Trial %A Kwasny,Mary J %A Schueller,Stephen M %A Lattie,Emily %A Gray,Elizabeth L %A Mohr,David C %+ Division of Biostatistics, Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University, Suite 1400, 680 N Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL, 60611, United States, 1 3125032294, m-kwasny@northwestern.edu %K mobile apps %K depression %K anxiety %K mobile phone %D 2019 %7 21.03.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Ment Health %G English %X Background: IntelliCare is a mental health app platform with 14 apps that are elemental, simple and brief to use, and eclectic. Although a variety of apps may improve engagement, leading to better outcomes, they may require navigation aids such as recommender systems that can quickly direct a person to a useful app. Objective: As the first step toward developing navigation and recommender tools, this study explored app-use patterns across the IntelliCare platform and their relationship with depression and anxiety outcomes. Methods: This is a secondary analysis of the IntelliCare Field Trial, which recruited people with depression or anxiety. Participants of the trial received 8 weeks of coaching, primarily by text, and weekly random recommendations for apps. App-use metrics included frequency and lifetime use. Depression and anxiety, measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, respectively, were assessed at baseline and end of treatment. Cluster analysis was utilized to determine patterns of app use; ordinal logistic regression models and log-rank tests were used to determine if these use metrics alone, or in combination, predicted improvement or remission in depression or anxiety. Results: The analysis included 96 people who generally followed recommendations to download and try new apps each week. Apps were clustered into 5 groups: Thinking (apps that targeted or relied on thinking), Calming (relaxation and insomnia), Checklists (apps that used checklists), Activity (behavioral activation and activity), and Other. Both overall frequency of use and lifetime use predicted response for depression and anxiety. The Thinking, Calming, and Checklist clusters were associated with improvement in depression and anxiety, and the Activity cluster was associated with improvement in Anxiety only. However, the use of clusters was less strongly associated with improvement than individual app use. Conclusions: Participants in the field trial remained engaged with a suite of apps for the full 8 weeks of the trial. App-use patterns did fall into clusters, suggesting that some knowledge about the use of one app may be useful in selecting another app that the person is more likely to use and may help suggest apps based on baseline symptomology and personal preference. %M 30896433 %R 10.2196/11572 %U http://mental.jmir.org/2019/3/e11572/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11572 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30896433 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 3 %P e11486 %T The Association Between Medication Adherence for Chronic Conditions and Digital Health Activity Tracking: Retrospective Analysis %A Quisel,Tom %A Foschini,Luca %A Zbikowski,Susan M %A Juusola,Jessie L %+ Evidation Health, 167 2nd Avenue, San Mateo, CA,, United States, 1 650 279 8855, jjuusola@evidation.com %K activity tracker %K health behavior %K eHealth %K mHealth %K medication adherence %D 2019 %7 20.03.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Chronic diseases have a widespread impact on health outcomes and costs in the United States. Heart disease and diabetes are among the biggest cost burdens on the health care system. Adherence to medication is associated with better health outcomes and lower total health care costs for individuals with these conditions, but the relationship between medication adherence and health activity behavior has not been explored extensively. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between medication adherence and health behaviors among a large population of insured individuals with hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of health status, behaviors, and medication adherence from medical and pharmacy claims and health behavior data. Adherence was measured in terms of proportion of days covered (PDC), calculated from pharmacy claims using both a fixed and variable denominator methodology. Individuals were considered adherent if their PDC was at least 0.80. We used step counts, sleep, weight, and food log data that were transmitted through devices that individuals linked. We computed metrics on the frequency of tracking and the extent to which individuals engaged in each tracking activity. Finally, we used logistic regression to model the relationship between adherent status and the activity-tracking metrics, including age and sex as fixed effects. Results: We identified 117,765 cases with diabetes, 317,340 with dyslipidemia, and 673,428 with hypertension between January 1, 2015 and June 1, 2016 in available data sources. Average fixed and variable PDC for all individuals ranged from 0.673 to 0.917 for diabetes, 0.756 to 0.921 for dyslipidemia, and 0.756 to 0.929 for hypertension. A subgroup of 8553 cases also had health behavior data (eg, activity-tracker data). On the basis of these data, individuals who tracked steps, sleep, weight, or diet were significantly more likely to be adherent to medication than those who did not track any activities in both the fixed methodology (odds ratio, OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.29-1.36) and variable methodology (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.32-1.43), with age and sex as fixed effects. Furthermore, there was a positive association between frequency of activity tracking and medication adherence. In the logistic regression model, increasing the adjusted tracking ratio by 0.5 increased the fixed adherent status OR by a factor of 1.11 (95% CI 1.06-1.16). Finally, we found a positive association between number of steps and adherent status when controlling for age and sex. Conclusions: Adopters of digital health activity trackers tend to be more adherent to hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia medications, and adherence increases with tracking frequency. This suggests that there may be value in examining new ways to further promote medication adherence through programs that incentivize health tracking and leveraging insights derived from connected devices to improve health outcomes. %M 30892271 %R 10.2196/11486 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/3/e11486/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11486 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30892271 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 3 %P e12053 %T Can Smartphone Apps Increase Physical Activity? Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis %A Romeo,Amelia %A Edney,Sarah %A Plotnikoff,Ronald %A Curtis,Rachel %A Ryan,Jillian %A Sanders,Ilea %A Crozier,Alyson %A Maher,Carol %+ Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, 5001, Australia, 61 8 830 22315, carol.maher@unisa.edu.au %K physical activity %K smartphone %K mobile phone %K app %K mobile apps %K program %K health behavior %K systematic review %K meta-analysis %D 2019 %7 19.03.2019 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Smartphone apps are a promising tool for delivering accessible and appealing physical activity interventions. Given the large growth of research in this field, there are now enough studies using the “gold standard” of experimental design—the randomized controlled trial design—and employing objective measurements of physical activity, to support a meta-analysis of these scientifically rigorous studies. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the effectiveness of smartphone apps for increasing objectively measured physical activity in adults. Methods: A total of 7 electronic databases (EMBASE, EmCare, MEDLINE, Scopus, Sport Discus, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) were searched from 2007 to January 2018. Following the Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome and Study Design format, studies were eligible if they were randomized controlled trials involving adults, used a smartphone app as the primary or sole component of the physical activity intervention, used a no- or minimal-intervention control condition, and measured objective physical activity either in the form of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity minutes or steps. Study quality was assessed using a 25-item tool based on the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials checklist. A meta-analysis of study effects was conducted using a random effects model approach. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to examine whether intervention effectiveness differed on the basis of intervention length, target behavior (physical activity alone vs physical activity in combination with other health behaviors), or target population (general adult population vs specific health populations). Results: Following removal of duplicates, a total of 6170 studies were identified from the original database searches. Of these, 9 studies, involving a total of 1740 participants, met eligibility criteria. Of these, 6 studies could be included in a meta-analysis of the effects of physical activity apps on steps per day. In comparison with the control conditions, smartphone apps produced a nonsignificant (P=.19) increase in participants’ average steps per day, with a mean difference of 476.75 steps per day (95% CI −229.57 to 1183.07) between groups. Sensitivity analyses suggested that physical activity programs with a duration of less than 3 months were more effective than apps evaluated across more than 3 months (P=.01), and that physical activity apps that targeted physical activity in isolation were more effective than apps that targeted physical activity in combination with diet (P=.04). Physical activity app effectiveness did not appear to differ on the basis of target population. Conclusions: This meta-analysis provides modest evidence supporting the effectiveness of smartphone apps to increase physical activity. To date, apps have been most effective in the short term (eg, up to 3 months). Future research is needed to understand the time course of intervention effects and to investigate strategies to sustain intervention effects over time. %M 30888321 %R 10.2196/12053 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/3/e12053/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12053 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30888321 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-9694 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 1 %P e12350 %T Understanding Determinants of Health Care Professionals’ Perspectives on Mobile Health Continuance and Performance %A Hsiao,Ju-Ling %A Chen,Rai-Fu %+ Department of Information Management, Chia-Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, No 60, Sec 1, Erren Rd, Rende Dist, Tainan City, 71710, Taiwan, 886 6 2664911 ext 5308, rafuchen@gmail.com %K delivery of health care %K mobile health %K health information management %K health care quality, access, and evaluation %D 2019 %7 18.03.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Med Inform %G English %X Background: With the widespread use of mobile technologies, mobile information systems have become crucial tools in health care operations. Although the appropriate use of mobile health (mHealth) may result in major advances in expanding health care coverage (increasing decision-making speeds, managing chronic conditions, and providing suitable health care in emergencies), previous studies have argued that current mHealth research does not adequately evaluate mHealth interventions, and it does not provide sufficient evidence regarding the effects on health. Objective: The aim of this study was to facilitate the widespread use of mHealth systems; an accurate evaluation of the systems from the users’ perspective is essential after the implementation and use of the system in daily health care practices. This study extends the expectation-confirmation model by using characteristics of individuals, technology, and tasks to identify critical factors affecting mHealth continuance and performance from the perspective of health care professionals (HCPs). Methods: A questionnaire survey was used to collect data from HCPs who were experienced in using mHealth systems of a Taiwanese teaching hospital. In total, 282 questionnaires were distributed, and 201 complete and valid questionnaires were returned, thus indicating a valid response rate of 71.3% (201/282). The collected data were analyzed using WarpPLS version 5.0 (ScriptWarp Systems). Results: The results revealed that mHealth continuance (R2=0.522) was mainly affected by perceived usefulness, technology maturity, individual habits, task mobility, and user satisfaction, whereas individual performance (R2=0.492) was affected by mHealth continuance. In addition, user satisfaction (R2=0.548) was affected by confirmation and perceived usefulness of mHealth, whereas perceived usefulness (R2=0.521) was affected by confirmation. This implied that confirmation played a key role in affecting perceived usefulness and user satisfaction. Furthermore, the results showed that mHealth continuance positively affected individual performance. Conclusions: The identified critical factors influencing mHealth continuance and performance can be used as a useful assessment tool by hospitals that have implemented mHealth systems to facilitate the use and infusion of the systems. Furthermore, the results can help health care institutions that intend to introduce or develop mHealth applications to identify critical issues and effectively allocate limited resources to mHealth systems. %M 30882353 %R 10.2196/12350 %U http://medinform.jmir.org/2019/1/e12350/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12350 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30882353 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 3 %P e11296 %T User Experience of an App-Based Treatment for Stress Urinary Incontinence: Qualitative Interview Study %A Asklund,Ina %A Samuelsson,Eva %A Hamberg,Katarina %A Umefjord,Göran %A Sjöström,Malin %+ Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine, Umeå University, The Research Unit, Region Jämtland Härjedalen, Box 654, Umeå, SE-831 27, Sweden, 46 704788148, ina.asklund@umu.se %K mobile applications %K urinary incontinence %K stress %K pelvic floor muscle training %K self-management %K qualitative research %K grounded theory %K women’s health %D 2019 %7 14.03.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) affects 10%-39% of women. Its first-line treatment consists of lifestyle interventions and pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), which can be performed supervised or unsupervised. Health apps are increasing in number and can be used to improve adherence to treatments. We developed the Tät app, which provides a 3-month treatment program with a focus on PFMT for women with SUI. The app treatment was evaluated in a randomized controlled trial, which demonstrated efficacy for improving incontinence symptoms and quality of life. In this qualitative interview study, we investigated participant experiences of the app-based treatment. Objective: This study aimed to explore women’s experiences of using an app-based treatment program for SUI. Methods: This qualitative study is based on telephone interviews with 15 selected women, with a mean age of 47 years, who had used the app in the previous randomized controlled trial. A semistructured interview guide with open-ended questions was used, and the interviews were transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed according to the grounded theory. Results: The results were grouped into three categories: “Something new!” “Keeping motivation up!” and “Good enough?” A core category, “Enabling my independence,” was identified. The participants appreciated having a new and modern way to access a treatment program for SUI. The use of new technology seemed to make incontinence treatment feel more prioritized and less embarrassing for the subjects. The closeness to their mobile phone and app features like reminders and visual graphs helped support and motivate the women to carry through the PFMT. The participants felt confident that they could perform the treatment program on their own, even though they expressed some uncertainty about whether they were doing the pelvic floor muscle contractions correctly. They felt that the app-based treatment increased their self-confidence and enabled them to take responsibility for their treatment. Conclusions: Use of the app-based treatment program for SUI empowered the women in this study and helped them self-manage their incontinence treatment. They appreciated the app as a new tool for supporting their motivation to carry through a slightly challenging PFMT program. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01848938; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01848938 (Archived by WebCite at https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01848938) %M 30869644 %R 10.2196/11296 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/3/e11296/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11296 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30869644 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 3 %P e11163 %T A Mobile Health Contraception Decision Support Intervention for Latina Adolescents: Implementation Evaluation for Use in School-Based Health Centers %A Tebb,Kathleen P %A Leng Trieu,Sang %A Rico,Rosario %A Renteria,Robert %A Rodriguez,Felicia %A Puffer,Maryjane %+ Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, 3333 California Street, Suite 245, San Francisco, CA, 94118, United States, 1 415 514 0941, Kathleen.tebb@ucsf.edu %K mobile health %K adolescent health %K pregnancy in adolescence %D 2019 %7 14.03.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Health care providers are a trusted and accurate source of sexual health information for most adolescents, and clinical guidelines recommend that all youth receive comprehensive, confidential sexual health information and services. However, these guidelines are followed inconsistently. Providers often lack the time, comfort, and skills to provide patient-centered comprehensive contraceptive counseling and services. There are significant disparities in the provision of sexual health services for Latino adolescents, which contribute to disproportionately higher rates of teenage pregnancy. To address this, we developed Health-E You or Salud iTu in Spanish, an evidence-informed mobile health (mHealth) app, to provide interactive, individually tailored sexual health information and contraception decision support for English and Spanish speakers. It is designed to be used in conjunction with a clinical encounter to increase access to patient-centered contraceptive information and services for adolescents at risk of pregnancy. Based on user input, the app provides tailored contraceptive recommendations and asks the youth to indicate what methods they are most interested in. This information is shared with the provider before the in-person visit. The app is designed to prepare youth for the visit and acts as a clinician extender to support the delivery of health education and enhance the quality of patient-centered sexual health care. Despite the promise of this app, there is limited research on the integration of such interventions into clinical practice. Objective: This study described efforts used to support the successful adoption and implementation of the Health-E You app in clinical settings and described facilitators and barriers encountered to inform future efforts aimed at integrating mHealth interventions into clinical settings. Methods: This study was part of a larger, cluster randomized control trial to evaluate the effectiveness of Health-E You on its ability to reduce health disparities in contraceptive knowledge, access to contraceptive services, and unintended pregnancies among sexually active Latina adolescents at 18 school-based health centers (SBHCs) across Los Angeles County, California. App development and implementation were informed by the theory of diffusion of innovation, the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute’s principles of engagement, and iterative pilot testing with adolescents and clinicians. Implementation facilitators and barriers were identified through monthly conference calls, site visits, and quarterly in-person collaborative meetings. Results: Implementation approaches enhanced the development, adoption, and integration of Health-E You into SBHCs. Implementation challenges were also identified to improve the integration of mHealth interventions into clinical settings. Conclusions: This study provides important insights that can inform and improve the implementation efforts for future mHealth interventions. In particular, an implementation approach founded in a strong theoretical framework and active engagement with patient and community partners can enhance the development, adoption, and integration of mHealth technologies into clinical practice. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02847858; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02847858 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/761yVIRTp). %M 30869649 %R 10.2196/11163 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/3/e11163/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11163 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30869649 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 3 %P e12143 %T Design and Preliminary Findings From a New Electronic Cohort Embedded in the Framingham Heart Study %A McManus,David D %A Trinquart,Ludovic %A Benjamin,Emelia J %A Manders,Emily S %A Fusco,Kelsey %A Jung,Lindsey S %A Spartano,Nicole L %A Kheterpal,Vik %A Nowak,Christopher %A Sardana,Mayank %A Murabito,Joanne M %+ Boston University's and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Framingham Heart Study, 73 Mount Wayte Ave, Framingham, MA, 01701, United States, 1 508 935 3400, murabito@bu.edu %K smartphone %K tele-medicine %K blood pressure monitoring %K ambulatory %K cohort studies %D 2019 %7 01.03.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: New models of scalable population-based data collection that integrate digital and mobile health (mHealth) data are necessary. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe a cardiovascular digital and mHealth electronic cohort (e-cohort) embedded in a traditional longitudinal cohort study, the Framingham Heart Study (FHS). Methods: We invited eligible and consenting FHS Generation 3 and Omni participants to download the electronic Framingham Heart Study (eFHS) app onto their mobile phones and co-deployed a digital blood pressure (BP) cuff. Thereafter, participants were also offered a smartwatch (Apple Watch). Participants are invited to complete surveys through the eFHS app, to perform weekly BP measurements, and to wear the smartwatch daily. Results: Up to July 2017, we enrolled 790 eFHS participants, representing 76% (790/1044) of potentially eligible FHS participants. eFHS participants were, on average, 53±8 years of age and 57% were women. A total of 85% (675/790) of eFHS participants completed all of the baseline survey and 59% (470/790) completed the 3-month survey. A total of 42% (241/573) and 76% (306/405) of eFHS participants adhered to weekly digital BP and heart rate (HR) uploads, respectively, over 12 weeks. Conclusions: We have designed an e-cohort focused on identifying novel cardiovascular disease risk factors using a new smartphone app, a digital BP cuff, and a smartwatch. Despite minimal training and support, preliminary findings over a 3-month follow-up period show that uptake is high and adherence to periodic app-based surveys, weekly digital BP assessments, and smartwatch HR measures is acceptable. %M 30821691 %R 10.2196/12143 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/3/e12143/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12143 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30821691 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 3 %P e10736 %T eHealth Apps Replacing or Complementing Health Care Contacts: Scoping Review on Adverse Effects %A Stevens,Wilhelmina Josepha Maria %A van der Sande,Rob %A Beijer,Lilian J %A Gerritsen,Maarten GM %A Assendelft,Willem JJ %+ Faculty of Health, Hogeschool van Arnhem en Nijmegen University of Applied Sciences, Kapittelweg 33, Nijmegen, 6525 EN, Netherlands, 31 651450260, marjo.stevens@han.nl %K eHealth %K adverse effects %K scoping review %D 2019 %7 01.03.2019 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The use of eHealth has increased tremendously in recent years. eHealth is generally considered to have a positive effect on health care quality and to be a promising alternative to face-to-face health care contacts. Surprisingly little is known about possible adverse effects of eHealth apps. Objective: We conducted a scoping review on empirical research into adverse effects of eHealth apps that aim to deliver health care at a distance. We investigated whether adverse effects were reported and the nature and quality of research into these possible adverse effects. Methods: For this scoping review, we followed the five steps of Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review methodology. We searched specifically for studies into eHealth apps that replaced or complemented the face-to-face contact between a health professional and a patient in the context of treatment, health monitoring, or supporting self-management. Studies were included when eHealth and adverse effects were mentioned in the title or abstract and when empirical data on adverse effects were provided. All health conditions, with the exception of mental health conditions, all ages, and all sample sizes were included. We examined the literature published between December 2012 and August 2017 in the following databases: PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklists. Results: Our search identified 79 papers that were potentially relevant; 11 studies met our inclusion criteria after screening. These studies differed in many ways and the majority were characterized by small research populations and low study quality. Adverse effects are rarely subject to systematic scientific research. So far, information on real adverse effects is mainly limited to incidental reporting or as a bycatch from qualitative pilot studies. Despite the shortage of solid research, we found some indications of possible negative impact on patient-centeredness and efficiency, such as less transparency in the relationship between health professionals and patients and time-consuming work routines. Conclusions: There is a lack of high-quality empirical research on adverse effects of eHealth apps that replace or complement face-to-face care. While the development of eHealth apps is ongoing, the knowledge with regard to possible adverse effects is limited. The available research often focuses on efficacy, added value, implementation issues, use, and satisfaction, whereas adverse effects are underexplored. A better understanding of possible adverse effects could be a starting point in improving the positive impact of eHealth-based health care delivery. %M 30821690 %R 10.2196/10736 %U https://www.jmir.org/2019/3/e10736/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10736 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30821690 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 2 %P e12895 %T Influences on the Implementation of Mobile Learning for Medical and Nursing Education: Qualitative Systematic Review by the Digital Health Education Collaboration %A Lall,Priya %A Rees,Rebecca %A Law,Gloria Chun Yi %A Dunleavy,Gerard %A Cotič,Živa %A Car,Josip %+ Evidence for Policy and Practice Information and Co-ordinating Centre, Social Science Research Unit, Department of Social Science, University College London Institute of Education, University College London, 18 Woburn Square, London, WCIH 0NR, United Kingdom, 44 07932 243030, rebecca.rees@ucl.ac.uk %K medical education %K nursing education %K distance education %K qualitative research %K systematic review %D 2019 %7 28.02.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: In the past 5 decades, digital education has increasingly been used in health professional education. Mobile learning (mLearning), an emerging form of educational technology using mobile devices, has been used to supplement learning outcomes through enabling conversations, sharing information and knowledge with other learners, and aiding support from peers and instructors regardless of geographic distance. Objective: This review aimed to synthesize findings from qualitative or mixed-methods studies to provide insight into factors facilitating or hindering implementation of mLearning strategies for medical and nursing education. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across a range of databases. Studies with the following criteria were selected: examined mLearning in medical and nursing education, employed a mixed-methods or qualitative approach, and published in English after 1994. Findings were synthesized using a framework approach. Results: A total of 1946 citations were screened, resulting in 47 studies being selected for inclusion. Most studies evaluated pilot mLearning interventions. The synthesis identified views on valued aspects of mobile devices in terms of efficiency and personalization but concerns over vigilance and poor device functionality; emphasis on the social aspects of technology, especially in a clinical setting; the value of interaction learning for clinical practice; mLearning as a process, including learning how to use a device; and the importance of institutional infrastructure and policies. Conclusions: The portability of mobile devices can enable interactions between learners and educational material, fellow learners, and educators in the health professions. However, devices need to be incorporated institutionally, and learners and educators need additional support to fully comprehend device or app functions. The strategic support of mLearning is likely to require procedural guidance for practice settings and device training and maintenance services on campus. %M 30816847 %R 10.2196/12895 %U https://www.jmir.org/2019/2/e12895/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12895 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30816847 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-9279 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 1 %P e11444 %T Effectiveness of a Behavior Change Technique–Based Smartphone Game to Improve Intrinsic Motivation and Physical Activity Adherence in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: Randomized Controlled Trial %A Höchsmann,Christoph %A Infanger,Denis %A Klenk,Christopher %A Königstein,Karsten %A Walz,Steffen P %A Schmidt-Trucksäss,Arno %+ Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, University of Basel, Birsstrasse 320 B, Basel, 4052, Switzerland, 41 612074740, arno.schmidt-trucksaess@unibas.ch %K behavior change %K exercise adherence %K gamification %K intrinsic motivation %K mhealth %K mobile phone game %K physical activity %K type 2 diabetes %D 2019 %7 13.02.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Serious Games %G English %X Background: Regular physical activity (PA) is an essential component of a successful type 2 diabetes treatment. However, despite the manifest evidence for the numerous health benefits of regular PA, most patients with type 2 diabetes remain inactive, often due to low motivation and lack of PA enjoyment. A recent and promising approach to help overcome these PA barriers and motivate inactive individuals to change their PA behavior is PA-promoting smartphone games. While short-term results of these games are encouraging, the long-term success in effectively changing PA behavior has to date not been confirmed. It is possible that an insufficient incorporation of motivational elements or flaws in gameplay and storyline in these games affect the long-term motivation to play and thereby prevent sustained changes in PA behavior. We aimed to address these design challenges by developing a PA-promoting smartphone game that incorporates established behavior change techniques and specifically targets inactive type 2 diabetes patients. Objective: To investigate if a self-developed, behavior change technique-based smartphone game designed by an interdisciplinary team is able to motivate inactive individuals with type 2 diabetes for regular use and thereby increase their intrinsic PA motivation. Methods: Thirty-six inactive, overweight type 2 diabetes patients (45-70 years of age) were randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group (one-time lifestyle counseling). Participants were instructed to play the smartphone game or to implement the recommendations from the lifestyle counseling autonomously during the 24-week intervention period. Intrinsic PA motivation was assessed with an abridged 12-item version of the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI) before and after the intervention. In addition, adherence to the game-proposed PA recommendations during the intervention period was assessed in the intervention group via the phone-recorded game usage data. Results: Intrinsic PA motivation (IMI total score) increased significantly in the intervention group (+6.4 (SD 4.2; P<.001) points) while it decreased by 1.9 (SD 16.5; P=.623) points in the control group. The adjusted difference between both groups was 8.1 (95% CI 0.9, 15.4; P=.029) points. The subscales “interest/enjoyment” (+2.0 (SD 1.9) points, P<.001) and “perceived competence” (+2.4 (SD 2.4) points, P<.001) likewise increased significantly in the intervention group while they did not change significantly in the control group. The usage data revealed that participants in the intervention group used the game for an average of 131.1 (SD 48.7) minutes of in-game walking and for an average of 15.3 (SD 24.6) minutes of strength training per week. We found a significant positive association between total in-game training (min) and change in IMI total score (beta=0.0028; 95% CI 0.0007-0.0049; P=.01). Conclusions: In inactive individuals with type 2 diabetes, a novel smartphone game incorporating established motivational elements and personalized PA recommendations elicits significant increases in intrinsic PA motivation that are accompanied by de-facto improvements in PA adherence over 24 weeks. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02657018; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02657018 %M 30758293 %R 10.2196/11444 %U http://games.jmir.org/2019/1/e11444/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11444 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30758293 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 2 %P e11268 %T Mobile Technology for Community Health in Ghana: Is Maternal Messaging and Provider Use of Technology Cost-Effective in Improving Maternal and Child Health Outcomes at Scale? %A Willcox,Michelle %A Moorthy,Anitha %A Mohan,Diwakar %A Romano,Karen %A Hutchful,David %A Mehl,Garrett %A Labrique,Alain %A LeFevre,Amnesty %+ Health Intelligence Initiative, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Falmouth Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa, 27 0767828704, aelefevre@gmail.com %K child health %K frontline health workers %K Ghana %K health information systems %K maternal health %K mHealth %K mobile phone %K newborn health %D 2019 %7 13.02.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Mobile technologies are emerging as tools to enhance health service delivery systems and empower clients to improve maternal, newborn, and child health. Limited evidence exists on the value for money of mobile health (mHealth) programs in low- and middle-income countries. Objective: This study aims to forecast the incremental cost-effectiveness of the Mobile Technology for Community Health (MOTECH) initiative at scale across 170 districts in Ghana. Methods: MOTECH’s “Client Data Application” allows frontline health workers to digitize service delivery information and track the care of patients. MOTECH’s other main component, the “Mobile Midwife,” sends automated educational voice messages to mobile phones of pregnant and postpartum women. We measured program costs and consequences of scaling up MOTECH over a 10-year analytic time horizon. Economic costs were estimated from informant interviews and financial records. Health effects were modeled using the Lives Saved Tool with data from an independent evaluation of changes in key services coverage observed in Gomoa West District. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were presented overall and for each year of implementation. Uncertainty analyses assessed the robustness of results to changes in key parameters. Results: MOTECH was scaled in clusters over a 3-year period to reach 78.7% (170/216) of Ghana’s districts. Sustaining the program would cost US $17,618 on average annually per district. Over 10 years, MOTECH could potentially save an estimated 59,906 lives at a total cost of US $32 million. The incremental cost per disability-adjusted life year averted ranged from US $174 in the first year to US $6.54 in the tenth year of implementation and US $20.94 (95% CI US $20.34-$21.55) over 10 years. Uncertainty analyses suggested that the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was most sensitive to changes in health effects, followed by personnel time. Probabilistic sensitivity analyses suggested that MOTECH had a 100% probability of being cost-effective above a willingness-to-pay threshold of US $50. Conclusions: This is the first study to estimate the value for money of the supply- and demand-side of an mHealth initiative. The adoption of MOTECH to improve MNCH service delivery and uptake represents good value for money in Ghana and should be considered for expansion. Integration with other mHealth solutions, including e-Tracker, may provide opportunities to continue or combine beneficial components of MOTECH to achieve a greater impact on health. %M 30758296 %R 10.2196/11268 %U http://www.jmir.org/2019/2/e11268/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11268 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30758296 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 2 %P e10930 %T Research-Tested Mobile Apps for Breast Cancer Care: Systematic Review %A Jongerius,Chiara %A Russo,Selena %A Mazzocco,Ketti %A Pravettoni,Gabriella %+ Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1100 DD, Netherlands, 31 205667787, c.jongerius@amc.uva.nl %K breast cancer care %K breast cancer management %K breast cancer prevention %K breast cancer survivorship %K mobile applications %K mHealth applications %D 2019 %7 11.02.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The use of mobile health (mHealth) apps in clinical settings is increasing widely. mHealth has been used to promote prevention, improve early detection, manage care, and support survivors and chronic patients. However, data on the efficacy and utility of mHealth apps are limited. Objective: The main objective of this review was to provide an overview of the available research-tested interventions using mHealth apps and their impact on breast cancer care. Methods: A systematic search of Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, and Scopus was performed to identify relevant studies. From the selected studies, the following information was extracted: authors, publication date, study objectives, study population, study design, interventions’ features, outcome measures, and results. Results: We identified 29 empirical studies that described a health care intervention using an mHealth app in breast cancer care. Of these, 7 studies were about the use of an mHealth application in an intervention for breast cancer prevention and early detection, 12 targeted care management, and 10 focused on breast cancer survivors. Conclusions: Our results indicate consistent and promising findings of interventions using mHealth apps that target care management in breast cancer. Among the categories of mHealth apps focusing on survivorship, mHealth-based interventions showed a positive effect by promoting weight loss, improving the quality of life, and decreasing stress. There is conflicting and less conclusive data on the effect of mHealth apps on psychological dimensions. We advocate further investigation to confirm and strengthen these findings. No consistent evidence for the impact of interventions using mHealth apps in breast cancer prevention and early detection was identified due to the limited number of studies identified by our search. Future research should continue to explore the impact of mHealth apps on breast cancer care to build on these initial recommendations. %M 30741644 %R 10.2196/10930 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/2/e10930/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10930 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30741644 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 1 %P e11919 %T Mobile Phone Apps Targeting Medication Adherence: Quality Assessment and Content Analysis of User Reviews %A Park,Jamie Yea Eun %A Li,Jenny %A Howren,Alyssa %A Tsao,Nicole Wen %A De Vera,Mary %+ Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada, 1 604 827 2138, mdevera@mail.ubc.ca %K medication adherence %K mobile apps %K mHealth %D 2019 %7 31.01.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: With the accessibility and widespread use of mobile phones, mobile phone apps targeting medication adherence may be useful tools to help patients take medications as prescribed. Objective: Our objectives were to (1) characterize and assess mobile phone medication adherence apps guided by a conceptual framework on the focus of adherence interventions and (2) conduct a content analysis of Web-based reviews to explore users’ perspectives and experiences with mobile phone medication adherence apps. Methods: We searched for mobile phone medication adherence apps using keyword searches in Apple and Android operating systems. We characterized all apps in terms of number of downloads, ratings, languages, cost, and disease target. We categorized apps according to 4 key features of (1) alerting to take medication, (2) tracking medication taking, (3) reminding to refill or indicating amount of medication left, and (4) storing medication information. We then selected representative apps from each operating system for detailed quality assessment and user testing. We also downloaded Web-based reviews for these selected apps and conducted a qualitative content analysis using an inductive approach involving steps of initial open coding, construction of categories, and abstraction into themes. Results: We identified 704 apps (443 from Apple and 261 from Android). The majority of apps across both operating systems had 1 or 2 features—specifically, 37.2% (165/443) and 38.1% (169/443) of Apple apps, respectively, and 41.4% (108/261) and 31.4% (108/261) of Android apps, respectively. Quality assessment and user testing of 20 selected apps revealed apps varied in quality and commonly focused on behavioral strategies to enhance medication adherence through alerts, reminders, and logs. A total of 1323 eligible Web-based reviews from these 20 selected apps were analyzed, and the following themes emerged: (1) features and functions appreciated by users, which included the ability to set up customized medication regimen details and reminders, monitor other health information (eg, vitals, supplements, and manage multiple people or pets), support health care visits (eg, having a list of medications and necessary health information in 1 app); (2) negative user experiences that captured technical difficulties (glitches, confusing app navigation, and poor interoperability), dosage schedule, and reminder setup inflexibility; and (3) desired functions and features related to optimization of information input, improvement of reminders, and upgrading app performance (better synchronization or backup of data and interoperability). Conclusions: A large number of mobile phone medication adherence apps are currently available. The majority of apps have features representing a behavioral approach to intervention. Findings of the content analysis offer mostly positive feedback as well as insights into current limitations and improvements that could be addressed in current and future medication adherence apps. %M 30702435 %R 10.2196/11919 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/1/e11919/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11919 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30702435 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 1 %P e11325 %T Barriers to and Facilitators of Engagement With mHealth Technology for Remote Measurement and Management of Depression: Qualitative Analysis %A Simblett,Sara %A Matcham,Faith %A Siddi,Sara %A Bulgari,Viola %A Barattieri di San Pietro,Chiara %A Hortas López,Jorge %A Ferrão,José %A Polhemus,Ashley %A Haro,Josep Maria %A de Girolamo,Giovanni %A Gamble,Peter %A Eriksson,Hans %A Hotopf,Matthew %A Wykes,Til %A , %+ Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, United Kingdom, 44 207 848 0762, sara.simblett@kcl.ac.uk %K acceptability %K barriers %K depression %K facilitators %K feasibility %K mHealth %K qualitative %D 2019 %7 30.01.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mobile technology has the potential to provide accurate, impactful data on the symptoms of depression, which could improve health management or assist in early detection of relapse. However, for this potential to be achieved, it is essential that patients engage with the technology. Although many barriers to and facilitators of the use of this technology are common across therapeutic areas and technology types, many may be specific to cultural and health contexts. Objective: This study aimed to determine the potential barriers to and facilitators of engagement with mobile health (mHealth) technology for remote measurement and management of depression across three Western European countries. Methods: Participants (N=25; 4:1 ratio of women to men; age range, 25-73 years) who experienced depression participated in five focus groups held in three countries (two in the United Kingdom, two in Spain, and one in Italy). The focus groups investigated the potential barriers to and facilitators of the use of mHealth technology. A systematic thematic analysis was used to extract themes and subthemes. Results: Facilitators and barriers were categorized as health-related factors, user-related factors, and technology-related factors. A total of 58 subthemes of specific barriers and facilitators or moderators emerged. A core group of themes including motivation, potential impact on mood and anxiety, aspects of inconvenience, and ease of use was noted across all countries. Conclusions: Similarities in the barriers to and facilitators of the use of mHealth technology have been observed across Spain, Italy, and the United Kingdom. These themes provide guidance on ways to promote the design of feasible and acceptable cross-cultural mHealth tools. %M 30698535 %R 10.2196/11325 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/1/e11325/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11325 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30698535 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 1 %P e11099 %T Assessing the Validity of the MyJump2 App for Measuring Different Jumps in Professional Cerebral Palsy Football Players: An Experimental Study %A Coswig,Victor %A Silva,Anselmo De Athayde Costa E %A Barbalho,Matheus %A Faria,Fernando Rosch De %A Nogueira,Claudio D %A Borges,Mariane %A Buratti,Jéssica R %A Vieira,Ivaldo B %A Román,Francisco Javier López %A Gorla,José I %+ Faculty of Physical Education, Federal University of Pará, Campus Castanhal, Rua Major Wilson 3094, Casa 180 qd 8, Castanhal, 68742-89, Brazil, 55 91984273036, vcoswig@gmail.com %K cerebral palsy football %K jump performance %K mobile apps %K mobile phone %K paralympic sports %D 2019 %7 30.01.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Vertical jumps can be used to assess neuromuscular status in sports performance. This is particularly important in Cerebral Palsy Football (CP Football) because players are exposed to high injury risk, but it may be complicated because the gold standard for assessing jump performance is scarce in field evaluation. Thus, field techniques, such as mobile apps, have been proposed as an alternative method for solving this problem. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the reliability of the measures of the MyJump2 app to assess vertical jump performance in professional CP Football. Methods: We assessed 40 male CP Football athletes (age 28.1 [SD 1.4] years, weight 72.5 [SD 6.2] kg, and height 176 [SD 4.2] cm) through the countermovement jump (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ) using a contact mat. At the same time, we assessed the athletes using the MyJump2 app. Results: There were no significant differences between the instruments in SJ height (P=.12) and flight time (P=.15). Additionally, there were no significant differences between the instruments for CMJ in jump height (P=.16) and flight time (P=.13). In addition, it was observed that there were significant and strong intraclass correlations in all SJ variables varying from 0.86 to 0.89 (both P<.001), which was classified as “almost perfect.” Similar results were observed in all variables from the CMJ, varying from 0.92 to 0.96 (both P ≤.001). Conclusions: We conclude that the MyJump2 app presents high validity and reliability for measuring jump height and flight time of the SJ and CMJ in CP Football athletes. %M 30698529 %R 10.2196/11099 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/1/e11099/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11099 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30698529 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 1 %P e9711 %T Farm Owners and Workers as Key Informants in User-Centered Occupational Health Prototype Development: A Stakeholder-Engaged Project %A Weichelt,Bryan %A Bendixsen,Casper %A Keifer,Matthew %+ Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, National Farm Medicine Center, 701 W Kalsched Ave, Marshfield, WI, 54449, United States, 1 715 221 7276, weichelt.bryan@mcrf.mfldclin.edu %K agriculture %K farmworkers %K injuries %K occupational medicine %K return to work %K software application %D 2019 %7 29.01.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The cost of workplace injuries and illnesses significantly impacts the overall cost of health care and is a significant annual economic burden in the United States. Many dairy and pork farm owners in the Upper Midwest have expanded operations and taken on the role of manager and employer yet receive little training in injury prevention, farm safety, or workers’ compensation programs and processes. Clinicians play a key role in the return to work of injured and ill farmers and farmworkers to their jobs, though little to no formal training is offered by medical schools. Objective: This stakeholder-engaged project aimed to develop a prototype application designed to assist clinicians in returning injured farmworkers to light-duty job assignments with their current employers and to assess farm owners’ and managers’ attitudes toward and barriers to adopting mobile health tools for themselves or their employees. Methods: We conducted 12 semistructured interviews with English-speaking farm owners and farmworkers from the Upper Midwest: 5 English-speaking and Spanish-speaking farmworker focus groups and 8 postproject interviews with farm owners that focused on attitudes and barriers to adoption of the developed software. Interviews and focus groups were audio recorded, and data were analyzed and thematically coded using audio coding. Results: Interviews and worker focus groups guided an iterative design and development cycle, which informed workflow design, button placement, and output sheets that offer specific light-duty farm work recommendations for the injured worker to discuss with his or her employer. Conclusions: The development of a complex prototype intended to impact patient care is a significant undertaking. Reinventing a paper-based process that can eventually integrate with an electronic health record or a private company’s human resources system requires substantial stakeholder input from each facet including patients, employers, and clinical care teams. The prototype is available for testing, but further research is needed in the form of clinical trials to assess the effectiveness of the process and the software’s impact on patients and employers. %M 30694202 %R 10.2196/jmir.9711 %U https://www.jmir.org/2019/1/e9711/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9711 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30694202 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 1 %P e10899 %T Mobile Health Interventions for Self-Control of Unhealthy Alcohol Use: Systematic Review %A Song,Ting %A Qian,Siyu %A Yu,Ping %+ Centre for IT-Enabled Transformation, School of Computing and Information Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Wollongong, 2522, Australia, 61 2 4221 5412, ping@uow.edu.au %K systematic review %K alcohol drinking %K self-control %K mobile health %K mHealth %K treatment outcome %D 2019 %7 29.01.2019 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Unhealthy alcohol use (UAU) is one of the major causes of preventable morbidity, mortality, and associated behavioral risks worldwide. Although mobile health (mHealth) interventions can provide consumers with an effective means for self-control of UAU in a timely, ubiquitous, and cost-effective manner, to date, there is a lack of understanding about different health outcomes brought by such interventions. The core components of these interventions are also unclear. Objective: This study aimed to systematically review and synthesize the research evidence about the efficacy of mHealth interventions on various health outcomes for consumer self-control of UAU and to identify the core components to achieve these outcomes. Methods: We systematically searched 7 electronic interdisciplinary databases: Scopus, PubMed, PubMed Central, CINAHL Plus with full text, MEDLINE with full text, PsycINFO, and PsycARTICLES. Search terms and Medical Subject Headings “mHealth,” “text message,” “SMS,” “App,” “IVR,” “self-control,” “self-regulation,” “alcohol*,” and “intervention” were used individually or in combination to identify peer-reviewed publications in English from 2008 to 2017. We screened titles and abstracts and assessed full-text papers as per inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were extracted from the included papers according to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials-EHEALTH checklist (V 1.6.1) by 2 authors independently. Data quality was assessed by the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Data synthesis and analyses were conducted following the procedures for qualitative content analysis. Statistical testing was also conducted to test differences among groups of studies. Results: In total, 19 studies were included in the review. Of these 19 studies, 12 (63%) mHealth interventions brought significant positive outcomes in improving participants’ health as measured by behavioral (n=11), physiological (n=1), and cognitive indicators (n=1). No significant health outcome was reported in 6 studies (6/19, 32%). Surprisingly, a significant negative outcome was reported for the male participants in the intervention arm in 1 study (1/19, 5%), but no change was found for the female participants. In total, 5 core components reported in the mHealth interventions for consumer self-control of UAU were context, theoretical base, delivery mode, content, and implementation procedure. However, sound evidence is yet to be generated about the role of each component for mHealth success. The health outcomes were similar regardless of types of UAU, deployment setting, with or without nonmobile cointervention, and with or without theory. Conclusions: Most studies reported mHealth interventions for self-control of UAU appeared to be improving behavior, especially the ones delivered by short message service and interactive voice response systems. Further studies are needed to gather sound evidence about the effects of mHealth interventions on improving physiological and cognitive outcomes as well as the optimal design of these interventions, their implementation, and effects in supporting self-control of UAU. %M 30694200 %R 10.2196/10899 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/1/e10899/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10899 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30694200 %0 Journal Article %@ 2368-7959 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e11334 %T Adoption of Mobile Apps for Depression and Anxiety: Cross-Sectional Survey Study on Patient Interest and Barriers to Engagement %A Lipschitz,Jessica %A Miller,Christopher J %A Hogan,Timothy P %A Burdick,Katherine E %A Lippin-Foster,Rachel %A Simon,Steven R %A Burgess,James %+ Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, United States, 1 617 732 6548, jlipschitz@bwh.harvard.edu %K mHealth %K depression %K anxiety %K mobile apps %K patient preference %D 2019 %7 25.01.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Ment Health %G English %X Background: Emerging research suggests that mobile apps can be used to effectively treat common mental illnesses like depression and anxiety. Despite promising efficacy results and ease of access to these interventions, adoption of mobile health (mHealth; mobile device–delivered) interventions for mental illness has been limited. More insight into patients’ perspectives on mHealth interventions is required to create effective implementation strategies and to adapt existing interventions to facilitate higher rates of adoption. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine, from the patient perspective, current use and factors that may impact the use of mHealth interventions for mental illness. Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey study of veterans who had attended an appointment at a single Veterans Health Administration facility in early 2016 that was associated with one of the following mental health concerns: unipolar depression, any anxiety disorder, or posttraumatic stress disorder. We used the Veteran Affairs Corporate Data Warehouse to create subsets of eligible participants demographically stratified by gender (male or female) and minority status (white or nonwhite). From each subset, 100 participants were selected at random and mailed a paper survey with items addressing the demographics, overall health, mental health, technology ownership or use, interest in mobile app interventions for mental illness, reasons for use or nonuse, and interest in specific features of mobile apps for mental illness. Results: Of the 400 potential participants, 149 (37.3%, 149/400) completed and returned a survey. Most participants (79.9%, 119/149) reported that they owned a smart device and that they use apps in general (71.1%, 106/149). Most participants (73.1%, 87/149) reported interest in using an app for mental illness, but only 10.7% (16/149) had done so. Paired samples t tests indicated that ratings of interest in using an app recommended by a clinician were significantly greater than general interest ratings and even greater when the recommending clinician was a specialty mental health provider. The most frequent concerns related to using an app for mental illness were lacking proof of efficacy (71.8%, 107/149), concerns about data privacy (59.1%, 88/149), and not knowing where to find such an app (51.0%, 76/149). Participants expressed interest in a number of app features with particularly high-interest ratings for context-sensitive apps (85.2%, 127/149), and apps focused on the following areas: increasing exercise (75.8%, 113/149), improving sleep (73.2%, 109/149), changing negative thinking (70.5%, 105/149), and increasing involvement in activities (67.1%, 100/149). Conclusions: Most respondents had access to devices to use mobile apps for mental illness, already used apps for other purposes, and were interested in mobile apps for mental illness. Key factors that may improve adoption include provider endorsement, greater publicity of efficacious apps, and clear messaging about efficacy and privacy of information. Finally, multifaceted apps that address a range of concerns, from sleep to negative thought patterns, may be best received. %M 30681968 %R 10.2196/11334 %U http://mental.jmir.org/2019/1/e11334/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11334 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30681968 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 1 %P e9836 %T Assessing the Quality of Mobile Phone Apps for Weight Management: User-Centered Study With Employees From a Lebanese University %A Bardus,Marco %A Ali,Ahmed %A Demachkieh,Farah %A Hamadeh,Ghassan %+ Department of Health Promotion and Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Van Dyck - Room 302, PO Box 11-0236 Riad El-Solh, Beirut, 1107 2020, Lebanon, 961 1 350 000 ext 4694, marco.bardus@gmail.com %K mobile apps %K weight loss %K physical activity %K healthy diet %K workplace %K mHealth %D 2019 %7 23.01.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Evaluating the quality of mobile health apps for weight loss and weight management is important to understand whether these can be used for obesity prevention and treatment. Recent reviews call for more research on multidimensional aspects of app quality, especially involving end users, as there are already many expert reviews on this domain. However, no quantitative study has investigated how laypersons see popular apps for weight management and perceive different dimensions of app quality. Objective: This study aimed to explore how laypersons evaluate the quality of 6 free weight management apps (My Diet Coach, SparkPeople, Lark, MyFitnessPal, MyPlate, and My Diet Diary), which achieved the highest quality ratings in a related and recent expert review. Methods: A user-centered study was conducted with 36 employees of a Lebanese university. Participants enrolled in the study on a rolling basis between October 2016 and March 2017. Participants were randomly assigned an app to use for 2 weeks. App quality was evaluated at the end of the trial period using the Mobile App Rating Scale user version (uMARS). uMARS assesses the dimensions of engagement, functionality, aesthetics, information, and subjective quality on 5-point scales. Internal consistency and interrater agreement were examined. The associations between uMARS scores and users’ demographic characteristics were also explored using nonparametric tests. Analyses were completed in November 2017. Results: Overall, the 6 apps were of moderately good quality (median uMARS score 3.6, interquartile range [IQR] 0.3). The highest total uMARS scores were achieved by Lark (mean 4.0 [SD 0.5]) and MyPlate (mean 3.8 [SD 0.4]), which also achieved the highest subjective quality scores (Lark: mean 3.3 [SD 1.4]; MyPlate: mean 3.3 [SD 0.8]). Functionality was the domain with the highest rating (median 3.9, IQR 0.3), followed by aesthetics (median 3.7, IQR 0.5), information (median 3.7, IQR 0.1), and engagement (median 3.3, IQR 0.2). Subjective quality was judged low (median 2.5, IQR 0.9). Overall, subjective quality was strongly and positively related (P<.001) with total uMARS score (ρ=.75), engagement (ρ=.68), information, and aesthetics (ρ=.60) but not functionality (ρ=.40; P=.02). Higher engagement scores were reported among healthy (P=.003) and obese individuals (P=.03), who also showed higher total uMARS (P=.04) and subjective quality (P=.05) scores. Conclusions: Although the apps were considered highly functional, they were relatively weak in engagement and subjective quality scores, indicating a low propensity of using the apps in the future. As engagement was the subdomain most strongly associated with subjective quality, app developers and researchers should focus on creating engaging apps, holding constant the functionality, aesthetics, and information quality. The tested apps (in particular Lark and MyPlate) were perceived as more engaging and of higher quality among healthy, obese individuals, making them a promising mode of delivery for self-directed interventions promoting weight control among the sampled population or in similar and comparable settings. %M 30672742 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9836 %U https://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/1/e9836/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9836 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30672742 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-326X %I JMIR Publications %V 3 %N 1 %P e11509 %T Feasibility of a Therapist-Supported, Mobile Phone–Delivered Online Intervention for Depression: Longitudinal Observational Study %A Goldin,Philippe R %A Lindholm,Riku %A Ranta,Kristian %A Hilgert,Outi %A Helteenvuori,Tiia %A Raevuori,Anu %+ Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, 4610 X Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, United States, 1 4156769793, philippegoldin@gmail.com %K cognitive therapy %K depression %K digital health %K digital therapeutics %K mindfulness %K online intervention %D 2019 %7 22.01.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Formativ Res %G English %X Background: Depression is a very common condition that impairs functioning and is often untreated. More than 60% of the treatments for depressive disorder are administered in primary care settings by care providers who lack the time and expertise to treat depression. To address this issue, we developed Ascend, a therapist-supported, mobile phone–delivered 8-week intervention administered at the Meru Health Online Clinic in Finland. Objective: We conducted two pilot studies to examine the feasibility of the Ascend intervention, specifically, dropout rates, daily practice, weekly group chat use, and changes in depression symptoms. We also explored whether daily practice and weekly group chat use were associated with changes in depression symptoms. Methods: A total of 117 Finnish adults with elevated depressive symptoms enrolled in Ascend, a program that included daily cognitive behavioral and mindfulness meditation exercises delivered through a mobile phone app, anonymous group chat with other users, and chat/phone access to a licensed therapist. Eight weekly themes were delivered in a fixed, sequential format. Depression symptoms were measured at baseline, every second week during the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and 4 weeks after completion of the intervention. Data were analyzed using intent-to-treat repeated-measures analysis of variance and linear regression models. Results: For studies 1 and 2, we observed dropout rates of 27% and 15%, respectively, decreasing daily practice and group chat use, and decreased depression symptoms from baseline to immediately and 4 weeks after the intervention (P<.001). We found that both more daily practice and chat group use predicted the occurrence of fewer depressive symptoms at 4 weeks postintervention (Study 1: ∆R2=.38, P=.004 and ∆R2=.38, P=.002, respectively; Study 2: ∆R2=.16, P<.001 and ∆R2=.08, P=.002, respectively). Conclusions: This therapist-supported, mobile phone–delivered treatment for depression is feasible and associated with reduced depression symptoms. Design features that enhance daily practice and group chat use are areas of future investigation. Validation of these results using a controlled study design is needed to establish the evidence base for the Ascend intervention. %R 10.2196/11509 %U http://formative.jmir.org/2019/1/e11509/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11509 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 1 %P e3 %T Valuing Mobile Health: An Open-Ended Contingent Valuation Survey of a National Digital Health Program %A Somers,Camilla %A Grieve,Eleanor %A Lennon,Marilyn %A Bouamrane,Matt-Mouley %A Mair,Frances S %A McIntosh,Emma %+ General Practice and Primary Care, University of Glasgow, 1 Horselethill Road, Glasgow, G12 9LX, United Kingdom, 44 1413308317, Frances.Mair@glasgow.ac.uk %K mHealth %K public health %K delivery of health care %K public health systems research %D 2019 %7 17.01.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Changing population demographics and technology developments have resulted in growing interest in the potential of consumer-facing digital health. In the United Kingdom, a £37 million (US $49 million) national digital health program delivering assisted living lifestyles at scale (dallas) aimed to deploy such technologies at scale. However, little is known about how consumers value such digital health opportunities. Objective: This study explored consumers’ perspectives on the potential value of digital health technologies, particularly mobile health (mHealth), to promote well-being by examining their willingness-to-pay (WTP) for such health solutions. Methods: A contingent valuation study involving a UK-wide survey that asked participants to report open-ended absolute and marginal WTP or willingness-to-accept for the gain or loss of a hypothetical mHealth app, Healthy Connections. Results: A UK-representative cohort (n=1697) and a dallas-like (representative of dallas intervention communities) cohort (n=305) were surveyed. Positive absolute and marginal WTP valuations of the app were identified across both cohorts (absolute WTP: UK-representative cohort £196 or US $258 and dallas-like cohort £162 or US $214; marginal WTP: UK-representative cohort £160 or US $211 and dallas-like cohort £151 or US $199). Among both cohorts, there was a high prevalence of zeros for both the absolute WTP (UK-representative cohort: 467/1697, 27.52% and dallas-like cohort: 95/305, 31.15%) and marginal WTP (UK-representative cohort: 487/1697, 28.70% and dallas-like cohort: 99/305, 32.5%). In both cohorts, better general health, previous amount spent on health apps (UK-representative cohort 0.64, 95% CI 0.27 to 1.01; dallas-like cohort: 1.27, 95% CI 0.32 to 2.23), and age had a significant (P>.00) association with WTP (UK-representative cohort: −0.1, 95% CI −0.02 to −0.01; dallas-like cohort: −0.02, 95% CI −0.03 to −0.01), with younger participants willing to pay more for the app. In the UK-representative cohort, as expected, higher WTP was positively associated with income up to £30,000 or US $39,642 (0.21, 95% CI 0.14 to 0.4) and increased spending on existing phone and internet services (0.52, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.74). The amount spent on existing health apps was shown to be a positive indicator of WTP across cohorts, although the effect was marginal (UK-representative cohort 0.01, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.01; dallas-like cohort 0.01, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.02). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that consumers value mHealth solutions that promote well-being, social connectivity, and health care control, but it is not universally embraced. For mHealth to achieve its potential, apps need to be tailored to user accessibility and health needs, and more understanding of what hinders frequent users of digital technologies and those with long-term conditions is required. This novel application of WTP in a digital health context demonstrates an economic argument for investing in upskilling the population to promote access and expedite uptake and utilization of such digital health and well-being apps. %M 30664488 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9990 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/1/e3/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9990 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30664488 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 1 %P e11118 %T Health Benefits and Cost-Effectiveness From Promoting Smartphone Apps for Weight Loss: Multistate Life Table Modeling %A Cleghorn,Christine %A Wilson,Nick %A Nair,Nisha %A Kvizhinadze,Giorgi %A Nghiem,Nhung %A McLeod,Melissa %A Blakely,Tony %+ BODE³ Programme, Department of Public Health, University of Otago, PO Box 7343, Wellington South, Wellington, 6242, New Zealand, 64 4 918 6182 ext 6182, cristina.cleghorn@otago.ac.nz %K weight loss diet %K telemedicine %K smartphone %K cost-utility analysis %K life tables %K quality-adjusted life years %D 2019 %7 15.01.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Obesity is an important risk factor for many chronic diseases. Mobile health interventions such as smartphone apps can potentially provide a convenient low-cost addition to other obesity reduction strategies. Objective: This study aimed to estimate the impacts on quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained and health system costs over the remainder of the life span of the New Zealand population (N=4.4 million) for a smartphone app promotion intervention in 1 calendar year (2011) using currently available apps for weight loss. Methods: The intervention was a national mass media promotion of selected smartphone apps for weight loss compared with no dedicated promotion. A multistate life table model including 14 body mass index–related diseases was used to estimate QALYs gained and health systems costs. A lifetime horizon, 3% discount rate, and health system perspective were used. The proportion of the target population receiving the intervention (1.36%) was calculated using the best evidence for the proportion who have access to smartphones, are likely to see the mass media campaign promoting the app, are likely to download a weight loss app, and are likely to continue using this app. Results: In the base-case model, the smartphone app promotion intervention generated 29 QALYs (95% uncertainty interval, UI: 14-52) and cost the health system US $1.6 million (95% UI: 1.1-2.0 million) with the standard download rate. Under plausible assumptions, QALYs increased to 59 (95% UI: 27-107) and costs decreased to US $1.2 million (95% UI: 0.5-1.8) when standard download rates were doubled. Costs per QALY gained were US $53,600 for the standard download rate and US $20,100 when download rates were doubled. On the basis of a threshold of US $30,000 per QALY, this intervention was cost-effective for Māori when the standard download rates were increased by 50% and also for the total population when download rates were doubled. Conclusions: In this modeling study, the mass media promotion of a smartphone app for weight loss produced relatively small health gains on a population level and was of borderline cost-effectiveness for the total population. Nevertheless, the scope for this type of intervention may expand with increasing smartphone use, more easy-to-use and effective apps becoming available, and with recommendations to use such apps being integrated into dietary counseling by health workers. %M 30664471 %R 10.2196/11118 %U https://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/1/e11118/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11118 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30664471 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 1 %P e12228 %T Mobile Phone Ownership, Health Apps, and Tablet Use in US Adults With a Self-Reported History of Hypertension: Cross-Sectional Study %A Langford,Aisha T %A Solid,Craig A %A Scott,Ebony %A Lad,Meeki %A Maayan,Eli %A Williams,Stephen K %A Seixas,Azizi A %+ Division of Comparative Effectiveness and Decision Science, Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, 227 E 30th Street #645, New York, NY, 10016, United States, 1 646 501 2914, aisha.langford@nyulangone.org %K smartphone %K text messaging %K health communication %K ownership %K goals %K cell phone %K telemedicine %K hypertension %K tablets %K chronic disease %D 2019 %7 14.01.2019 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mobile phone and tablet ownership have increased in the United States over the last decade, contributing to the growing use of mobile health (mHealth) interventions to help patients manage chronic health conditions like diabetes. However, few studies have characterized mobile device ownership and the presence of health-related apps on mobile devices in people with a self-reported history of hypertension. Objective: This study aimed to describe the prevalence of smartphone, tablet, and basic mobile phone ownership and the presence of health apps by sociodemographic factors and self-reported hypertension status (ie, history) in a nationally representative sample of US adults, and to describe whether mobile devices are associated with health goal achievement, medical decision making, and patient-provider communication. Methods: Data from 3285 respondents from the 2017 Health Information National Trends Survey were analyzed. Participants were asked if they owned a smartphone, tablet, or basic mobile phone and if they had health apps on a smartphone or tablet. Participants were also asked if their smartphones or tablets helped them achieve a health-related goal like losing weight, make a decision about how to treat an illness, or talk with their health care providers. Chi-square analyses were conducted to test for differences in mobile device ownership, health app presence, and app helpfulness by patient characteristics. Results: Approximately 1460 (37.6% weighted prevalence) participants reported a history of hypertension. Tablet and smartphone ownership were lower in participants with a history of hypertension than in those without a history of hypertension (55% vs 66%, P=.001, and 86% vs 68%, P<.001, respectively). Participants with a history of hypertension were more likely to own a basic mobile phone only as compared to those without a history of hypertension (16% vs 9%, P<.001). Among those with a history of hypertension exclusively, basic mobile phone, smartphone, and tablet ownership were associated with age and education, but not race or sex. Older adults were more likely to report having a basic mobile phone only, whereas those with higher education were more likely to report owning a tablet or smartphone. Compared to those without a history of hypertension, participants with a history of hypertension were less likely to have health-related apps on their smartphones or tablets (45% vs 30%, P<.001) and report that mobile devices helped them achieve a health-related goal (72% vs 63%, P=.01). Conclusions: Despite the increasing use of smartphones, tablets, and health-related apps, these tools are used less among people with a self-reported history of hypertension. To reach the widest cross-section of patients, a mix of novel mHealth interventions and traditional health communication strategies (eg, print, web based, and in person) are needed to support the diverse needs of people with a history of hypertension. %M 31344667 %R 10.2196/12228 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2019/1/e12228/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12228 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31344667 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 21 %N 1 %P e11939 %T Technical Support by Smart Glasses During a Mass Casualty Incident: A Randomized Controlled Simulation Trial on Technically Assisted Triage and Telemedical App Use in Disaster Medicine %A Follmann,Andreas %A Ohligs,Marian %A Hochhausen,Nadine %A Beckers,Stefan K %A Rossaint,Rolf %A Czaplik,Michael %+ Medical Technology Section, Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, Aachen, D-52074, Germany, 49 2418036219, afollmann@ukaachen.de %K augmented reality %K disaster medicine %K emergency medical service physician %K mass casualty incident %K Smart Glasses %K telemedicine %K triage %D 2019 %7 03.01.2019 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: To treat many patients despite lacking personnel resources, triage is important in disaster medicine. Various triage algorithms help but often are used incorrectly or not at all. One potential problem-solving approach is to support triage with Smart Glasses. Objective: In this study, augmented reality was used to display a triage algorithm and telemedicine assistance was enabled to compare the duration and quality of triage with a conventional one. Methods: A specific Android app was designed for use with Smart Glasses, which added information in terms of augmented reality with two different methods—through the display of a triage algorithm in data glasses and a telemedical connection to a senior emergency physician realized by the integrated camera. A scenario was created (ie, randomized simulation study) in which 31 paramedics carried out a triage of 12 patients in 3 groups as follows: without technical support (control group), with a triage algorithm display, and with telemedical contact. Results: A total of 362 assessments were performed. The accuracy in the control group was only 58%, but the assessments were quicker (on average 16.6 seconds). In contrast, an accuracy of 92% (P=.04) was achieved when using technical support by displaying the triage algorithm. This triaging took an average of 37.0 seconds. The triage group wearing data glasses and being telemedically connected achieved 90% accuracy (P=.01) in 35.0 seconds. Conclusions: Triage with data glasses required markedly more time. While only a tally was recorded in the control group, Smart Glasses led to digital capture of the triage results, which have many tactical advantages. We expect a high potential in the application of Smart Glasses in disaster scenarios when using telemedicine and augmented reality features to improve the quality of triage. %M 30609988 %R 10.2196/11939 %U https://www.jmir.org/2019/1/e11939/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11939 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30609988 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 12 %P e11447 %T An Analytics Platform to Evaluate Effective Engagement With Pediatric Mobile Health Apps: Design, Development, and Formative Evaluation %A Pham,Quynh %A Graham,Gary %A Lalloo,Chitra %A Morita,Plinio P %A Seto,Emily %A Stinson,Jennifer N %A Cafazzo,Joseph A %+ Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, Suite 425, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M6, Canada, 1 (416) 340 4800 ext 4765, q.pham@mail.utoronto.ca %K analytics %K engagement %K log data %K mobile health %K mobile apps %K chronic disease %D 2018 %7 21.12.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mobile health (mHealth) apps for pediatric chronic conditions are growing in availability and challenge investigators to conduct rigorous evaluations that keep pace with mHealth innovation. Traditional research methods are poorly suited to operationalize the agile, iterative trials required to evidence and optimize these digitally mediated interventions. Objective: We sought to contribute a resource to support the quantification, analysis, and visualization of analytic indicators of effective engagement with mHealth apps for chronic conditions. Methods: We applied user-centered design methods to design and develop an Analytics Platform to Evaluate Effective Engagement (APEEE) with consumer mHealth apps for chronic conditions and implemented the platform to analyze both retrospective and prospective data generated from a smartphone-based pain self-management app called iCanCope for young people with chronic pain. Results: Through APEEE, we were able to automate the process of defining, operationalizing, and evaluating effective engagement with iCanCope. Configuring the platform to integrate with the app was feasible and provided investigators with a resource to consolidate, analyze, and visualize engagement data generated by participants in real time. Preliminary efforts to evaluate APEEE showed that investigators perceived the platform to be an acceptable evaluative resource and were satisfied with its design, functionality, and performance. Investigators saw potential in APEEE to accelerate and augment evidence generation and expressed enthusiasm for adopting the platform to support their evaluative practice once fully implemented. Conclusions: Dynamic, real-time analytic platforms may provide investigators with a powerful means to characterize the breadth and depth of mHealth app engagement required to achieve intended health outcomes. Successful implementation of APEEE into evaluative practice may contribute to the realization of effective and evidence-based mHealth care. %M 30578179 %R 10.2196/11447 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/12/e11447/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11447 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30578179 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 12 %P e11439 %T Using a Mobile Social Networking App to Promote Physical Activity: A Qualitative Study of Users’ Perspectives %A Tong,Huong Ly %A Coiera,Enrico %A Laranjo,Liliana %+ Centre for Health Informatics, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Level 6, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, 2109, Australia, 61 029850 ext 2475, huong-ly.tong@students.mq.edu.au %K exercise %K fitness trackers %K mobile apps %K mobile phone %K social networking %D 2018 %7 21.12.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Despite many health benefits of physical activity, nearly a third of the world’s adult population is insufficiently active. Technological interventions, such as mobile apps, wearable trackers, and Web-based social networks, offer great promise in promoting physical activity, but little is known about users’ acceptability and long-term engagement with these interventions. Objective: The aim of this study was to understand users’ perspectives regarding a mobile social networking intervention to promote physical activity. Methods: Participants, mostly university students and staff, were recruited using purposive sampling techniques. Participants were enrolled in a 6-month feasibility study where they were provided with a wearable physical activity tracker (Fitbit Flex 2) and a wireless scale (Fitbit Aria) integrated with a social networking mobile app (named “fit.healthy.me”). We conducted semistructured, in-depth qualitative interviews and focus groups pre- and postintervention, which were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data were analyzed in Nvivo 11 using thematic analysis techniques. Results: In this study, 55 participants were enrolled; 51% (28/55) were females, and the mean age was 23.6 (SD 4.6) years. The following 3 types of factors emerged from the data as influencing engagement with the intervention and physical activity: individual (self-monitoring of behavior, goal setting, and feedback on behavior), social (social comparison, similarity and familiarity between users, and participation from other users in the network), and technological. In addition, automation and personalization were observed as enhancing the delivery of both individual and social aspects. Technological limitations were mentioned as potential barriers to long-term usage. Conclusions: Self-regulatory techniques and social factors are important to consider when designing a physical activity intervention, but a one-size-fits-all approach is unlikely to satisfy different users’ preferences. Future research should adopt innovative research designs to test interventions that can adapt and respond to users’ needs and preferences throughout time. %M 30578201 %R 10.2196/11439 %U https://www.jmir.org/2018/12/e11439/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11439 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30578201 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-6722 %I JMIR Publications %V 1 %N 2 %P e11988 %T “How Is My Child’s Asthma?” Digital Phenotype and Actionable Insights for Pediatric Asthma %A Jaimini,Utkarshani %A Thirunarayan,Krishnaprasad %A Kalra,Maninder %A Venkataraman,Revathy %A Kadariya,Dipesh %A Sheth,Amit %+ Ohio Center of Excellence in Knowledge-enabled Computing (Kno.e.sis), Department of Computer Sciene, Wright State University, 3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy, Dayton, OH, 45435, United States, 1 937 775 1000, amit@knoesis.org %K digital phenotype %K actionable insights %K asthma control level %K asthma control test %K digital phenotype score %K controller compliance score %K mobile health %D 2018 %7 30.11.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Pediatr Parent %G English %X Background: In the traditional asthma management protocol, a child meets with a clinician infrequently, once in 3 to 6 months, and is assessed using the Asthma Control Test questionnaire. This information is inadequate for timely determination of asthma control, compliance, precise diagnosis of the cause, and assessing the effectiveness of the treatment plan. The continuous monitoring and improved tracking of the child’s symptoms, activities, sleep, and treatment adherence can allow precise determination of asthma triggers and a reliable assessment of medication compliance and effectiveness. Digital phenotyping refers to moment-by-moment quantification of the individual-level human phenotype in situ using data from personal digital devices, in particular, mobile phones. The kHealth kit consists of a mobile app, provided on an Android tablet, that asks timely and contextually relevant questions related to asthma symptoms, medication intake, reduced activity because of symptoms, and nighttime awakenings; a Fitbit to monitor activity and sleep; a Microlife Peak Flow Meter to monitor the peak expiratory flow and forced exhaled volume in 1 second; and a Foobot to monitor indoor air quality. The kHealth cloud stores personal health data and environmental data collected using Web services. The kHealth Dashboard interactively visualizes the collected data. Objective: The objective of this study was to discuss the usability and feasibility of collecting clinically relevant data to help clinicians diagnose or intervene in a child’s care plan by using the kHealth system for continuous and comprehensive monitoring of child’s symptoms, activity, sleep pattern, environmental triggers, and compliance. The kHealth system helps in deriving actionable insights to help manage asthma at both the personal and cohort levels. The Digital Phenotype Score and Controller Compliance Score introduced in the study are the basis of ongoing work on addressing personalized asthma care and answer questions such as, “How can I help my child better adhere to care instructions and reduce future exacerbation?” Methods: The Digital Phenotype Score and Controller Compliance Score summarize the child’s condition from the data collected using the kHealth kit to provide actionable insights. The Digital Phenotype Score formalizes the asthma control level using data about symptoms, rescue medication usage, activity level, and sleep pattern. The Compliance Score captures how well the child is complying with the treatment protocol. We monitored and analyzed data for 95 children, each recruited for a 1- or 3-month-long study. The Asthma Control Test scores obtained from the medical records of 57 children were used to validate the asthma control levels calculated using the Digital Phenotype Scores. Results: At the cohort level, we found asthma was very poorly controlled in 37% (30/82) of the children, not well controlled in 26% (21/82), and well controlled in 38% (31/82). Among the very poorly controlled children (n=30), we found 30% (9/30) were highly compliant toward their controller medication intake—suggesting a re-evaluation for change in medication or dosage—whereas 50% (15/30) were poorly compliant and candidates for a more timely intervention to improve compliance to mitigate their situation. We observed a negative Kendall Tau correlation between Asthma Control Test scores and Digital Phenotype Score as −0.509 (P<.01). Conclusions: kHealth kit is suitable for the collection of clinically relevant information from pediatric patients. Furthermore, Digital Phenotype Score and Controller Compliance Score, computed based on the continuous digital monitoring, provide the clinician with timely and detailed evidence of a child’s asthma-related condition when compared with the Asthma Control Test scores taken infrequently during clinic visits. %R 10.2196/11988 %U http://pediatrics.jmir.org/2018/2/e11988/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11988 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 12 %P e10338 %T Accuracy of Wrist-Worn Activity Monitors During Common Daily Physical Activities and Types of Structured Exercise: Evaluation Study %A Reddy,Ravi Kondama %A Pooni,Rubin %A Zaharieva,Dessi P %A Senf,Brian %A El Youssef,Joseph %A Dassau,Eyal %A Doyle III,Francis J %A Clements,Mark A %A Rickels,Michael R %A Patton,Susana R %A Castle,Jessica R %A Riddell,Michael C %A Jacobs,Peter G %+ Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 SW Bond Avenue, Portland, OR, 97239, United States, 1 503 358 2291, jacobsp@ohsu.edu %K heart rate %K energy metabolism %K fitness trackers %K high-intensity interval training %K artificial pancreas %D 2018 %7 10.12.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Wrist-worn activity monitors are often used to monitor heart rate (HR) and energy expenditure (EE) in a variety of settings including more recently in medical applications. The use of real-time physiological signals to inform medical systems including drug delivery systems and decision support systems will depend on the accuracy of the signals being measured, including accuracy of HR and EE. Prior studies assessed accuracy of wearables only during steady-state aerobic exercise. Objective: The objective of this study was to validate the accuracy of both HR and EE for 2 common wrist-worn devices during a variety of dynamic activities that represent various physical activities associated with daily living including structured exercise. Methods: We assessed the accuracy of both HR and EE for two common wrist-worn devices (Fitbit Charge 2 and Garmin vívosmart HR+) during dynamic activities. Over a 2-day period, 20 healthy adults (age: mean 27.5 [SD 6.0] years; body mass index: mean 22.5 [SD 2.3] kg/m2; 11 females) performed a maximal oxygen uptake test, free-weight resistance circuit, interval training session, and activities of daily living. Validity was assessed using an HR chest strap (Polar) and portable indirect calorimetry (Cosmed). Accuracy of the commercial wearables versus research-grade standards was determined using Bland-Altman analysis, correlational analysis, and error bias. Results: Fitbit and Garmin were reasonably accurate at measuring HR but with an overall negative bias. There was more error observed during high-intensity activities when there was a lack of repetitive wrist motion and when the exercise mode indicator was not used. The Garmin estimated HR with a mean relative error (RE, %) of −3.3% (SD 16.7), whereas Fitbit estimated HR with an RE of −4.7% (SD 19.6) across all activities. The highest error was observed during high-intensity intervals on bike (Fitbit: −11.4% [SD 35.7]; Garmin: −14.3% [SD 20.5]) and lowest error during high-intensity intervals on treadmill (Fitbit: −1.7% [SD 11.5]; Garmin: −0.5% [SD 9.4]). Fitbit and Garmin EE estimates differed significantly, with Garmin having less negative bias (Fitbit: −19.3% [SD 28.9], Garmin: −1.6% [SD 30.6], P<.001) across all activities, and with both correlating poorly with indirect calorimetry measures. Conclusions: Two common wrist-worn devices (Fitbit Charge 2 and Garmin vívosmart HR+) show good HR accuracy, with a small negative bias, and reasonable EE estimates during low to moderate-intensity exercise and during a variety of common daily activities and exercise. Accuracy was compromised markedly when the activity indicator was not used on the watch or when activities involving less wrist motion such as cycle ergometry were done. %M 30530451 %R 10.2196/10338 %U https://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/12/e10338/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10338 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30530451 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-7605 %I JMIR Publications %V 1 %N 2 %P e12178 %T Evaluating the Use of Mobile Health Technology in Older Adults With Heart Failure: Mixed-Methods Study %A Lefler,Leanne L %A Rhoads,Sarah J %A Harris,Melodee %A Funderburg,Ashley E %A Lubin,Sandra A %A Martel,Isis D %A Faulkner,Jennifer L %A Rooker,Janet L %A Bell,Deborah K %A Marshall,Heather %A Beverly,Claudia J %+ College of Nursing, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham, #529, Little Rock, AR, 72205, United States, 1 5012961939, L.Lefler@uams.edu %K heart failure %K remote monitoring %K mHealth %K older adults %K feasibility %K self-management %D 2018 %7 04.12.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Aging %G English %X Background: Heart failure (HF) is associated with high rates of hospitalizations, morbidity, mortality, and costs. Remote patient monitoring (mobile health, mHealth) shows promise in improving self-care and HF management, thus increasing quality of care while reducing hospitalizations and costs; however, limited information exists regarding perceptions of older adults with HF about mHealth use. Objective: This study aimed to compare perspectives of older adults with HF who were randomized to either (1) mHealth equipment connected to a 24-hour call center, (2) digital home equipment, or (3) standard care, with regard to ease and satisfaction with equipment, provider communication and engagement, and ability to self-monitor and manage their disease. Methods: We performed a pilot study using a mixed-methods descriptive design with pre- and postsurveys, following participants for 12 weeks. We augmented these data with semistructured qualitative interviews to learn more about feasibility, satisfaction, communication, and self-management. Results: We enrolled 28 patients with HF aged 55 years and above, with 57% (16/28) male, 79% (22/28) non-Hispanic white, and with multiple comorbid conditions. At baseline, 50% (14/28) rated their health fair or poor and 36% (10/28) and 25% (7/28) were very often/always frustrated and discouraged by their health. At baseline, 46% (13/28) did not monitor their weight, 29% (8/28) did not monitor their blood pressure, and 68% (19/28) did not monitor for symptoms. Post intervention, 100% of the equipment groups home monitored daily. For technology anxiety, 36% (10/28) indicated technology made them nervous, and 32% (9/28) reported fear of technology, without significant changes post intervention. Technology usability post intervention scored high (91/100), reflecting ease of use. A majority indicated that a health care provider should be managing their health, and 71% reported that one should trust and not question the provider. Moreover, 57% (16/28) believed it was better to seek professional help than caring for oneself. Post intervention, mHealth users relied more on themselves, which was not mirrored in the home equipment or standard care groups. Participants were satisfied with communication and engagement with providers, yet many described access problems. Distressing symptoms were unpredictable and prevailed over the 12 weeks with 79 provider visits and 7 visits to emergency departments. The nurse call center received 872 readings, and we completed 289 telephone calls with participants. Narrative data revealed the following main themes: (1) traditional communication and engagement with providers prevailed, delaying access to care; (2) home monitoring with technology was described as useful, and mHealth users felt secure knowing that someone was observing them; (3) equipment groups felt more confident in self-monitoring and managing; and finally, (4) uncertainty and frustration with persistent health problems. Conclusions: mHealth equipment is feasible with potential to improve patient-centered outcomes and increase self-management in older adults with HF. %R 10.2196/12178 %U http://aging.jmir.org/2018/2/e12178/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12178 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 11 %P e10258 %T An Unsupervised Smart App–Optimized HIV Self-Testing Program in Montreal, Canada: Cross-Sectional Study %A Pant Pai,Nitika %A Smallwood,Megan %A Desjardins,Laurence %A Goyette,Alexandre %A Birkas,Krisztian G %A Vassal,Anne-Fanny %A Joseph,Lawrence %A Thomas,Réjean %+ Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, 5252 Boul de Maisonneuve O, Montreal, QC, H4A 3S5, Canada, 1 5149341934 ext 44729, nitika.pai@mcgill.ca %K feasibility %K HIV %K impact %K mobile phone %K MSM %K self-testing %D 2018 %7 27.11.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Although HIV self-testing strategies have been recommended by the World Health Organization, HIV self-tests are not yet approved in Canada. Currently approved HIV self-tests offer toll-free lines that are insufficient for initiating expedited linkages to counseling and care, accurate interpretation, and support during HIV self-testing. We developed an innovative, multilingual software app called HIVSmart! to plug these gaps. Objective: This study aimed to test our app-optimized oral HIV self-testing strategy for feasibility in men who have sex with men (MSM) who presented to test at a large sexual health clinic (Clinique Médicale L’Actuel) in Montreal. Methods: Between July 2016 and February 2017, we offered a strategy consisting of the OraQuick In-Home HIV Test (an investigational device) and a tablet installed with the HIVSmart! app to study participants, who presented at a private office in the clinic, mimicking an unsupervised home environment. We evaluated the strategy for its feasibility, acceptability, and preference. Using the HIVSmart! app, participants were guided through the self-testing process. We determined feasibility with a metric defined as the completion rate, which consisted of the following 3 steps: (1) self-test conduct; (2) self-test interpretation; and (3) linkages to care. Participants independently performed, interpreted, recorded their self-test and result, engaged in pre- and posttest counseling, and sought linkages to care. Laboratory tests (p24, Western Blot, and RNA), as per country algorithms, were expedited, and linkages based on the rapid test status were arranged. Results: Mean age of the 451 participants enrolled was 34 (range, 18-73) years. Of all participants, 97.1% (438/451) completed and submitted the survey through the HIVSmart! app. In total, 84.7% (371/438) of the participants were well educated (beyond high school) and 52.5% (230/438) had been tested within the past 6 months. Of the 451, 11.5% (52/451) were on pre-exposure prophylaxis. Feasibility (completion rate), an average proportion of the 3 steps, was computed to be 96.6% (419/451). The acceptability of the strategy was high at 98.5% (451/458). A majority of the participants (448/451, 99.3%) were found to be self-tested and lab-confirmed negative and were counseled after self- and rapid tests. In total, 0.7% (3/451) of the participants who self-tested positive and were lab-confirmed positive were linked to a physician within the same day. Furthermore, 98.8% (417/422) of the participants found the app to be useful and 94.0% (424/451) were willing to recommend it to a friend or partner. Conclusions: The HIVSmart! app-optimized strategy was feasible, accepted, and preferred by an educated, urban MSM population of Montreal. With the app, participants were able to perform, interpret, store results, and get rapidly linked to care. The HIVSmart!-optimized, self-testing strategy could be adapted and contextualized to many at-risk populations within Canada and worldwide, thereby maximizing its public health impact. %M 30465709 %R 10.2196/10258 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/11/e10258/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10258 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30465709 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-7605 %I JMIR Publications %V 1 %N 2 %P e11569 %T A Fall Risk mHealth App for Older Adults: Development and Usability Study %A Hsieh,Katherine L %A Fanning,Jason T %A Rogers,Wendy A %A Wood,Tyler A %A Sosnoff,Jacob J %+ Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, 906 South Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL, 61801, United States, 1 217 244 7006, jsosnoff@illinois.edu %K usability %K fall risk %K mHealth app %K mobile phone %D 2018 %7 20.11.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Aging %G English %X Background: Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death in older adults. Due to various constraints, objective fall risk screening is seldom performed in clinical settings. Smartphones offer a high potential to provide fall risk screening for older adults in home settings. However, there is limited understanding of whether smartphone technology for falls screening is usable by older adults who present age-related changes in perceptual, cognitive, and motor capabilities. Objective: The aims of this study were to develop a fall risk mobile health (mHealth) app and to determine the usability of the fall risk app in healthy, older adults. Methods: A fall risk app was developed that consists of a health history questionnaire and 5 progressively challenging mobility tasks to measure individual fall risk. An iterative design-evaluation process of semistructured interviews was performed to determine the usability of the app on a smartphone and tablet. Participants also completed a Systematic Usability Scale (SUS). In the first round of interviews, 6 older adults participated, and in the second round, 5 older adults participated. Interviews were videotaped and transcribed, and the data were coded to create themes. Average SUS scores were calculated for the smartphone and tablet. Results: There were 2 themes identified from the first round of interviews, related to perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. While instructions for the balance tasks were difficult to understand, participants found it beneficial to learn about their risk for falls, found the app easy to follow, and reported confidence in using the app on their own. Modifications were made to the app, and following the second round of interviews, participants reported high ease of use and usefulness in learning about their risk of falling. Few differences were reported between using a smartphone or tablet. Average SUS scores ranged from 79 to 84. Conclusions: Our fall risk app was found to be highly usable by older adults as reported from interviews and high scores on the SUS. When designing a mHealth app for older adults, developers should include clear and simple instructions and preventative strategies to improve health. Furthermore, if the design accommodates for age-related sensory changes, smartphones can be as effective as tablets. A mobile app to assess fall risk has the potential to be used in home settings by older adults. %R 10.2196/11569 %U http://aging.jmir.org/2018/2/e11569/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11569 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 11 %P e12001 %T Defining and Predicting Pain Volatility in Users of the Manage My Pain App: Analysis Using Data Mining and Machine Learning Methods %A Rahman,Quazi Abidur %A Janmohamed,Tahir %A Pirbaglou,Meysam %A Clarke,Hance %A Ritvo,Paul %A Heffernan,Jane M %A Katz,Joel %+ ManagingLife, Inc, Unit 4, 850 Richmond Street W, Toronto, ON, M6J1C9, Canada, 1 4169103760, tahir@managinglife.com %K chronic pain %K pain volatility %K data mining %K cluster analysis %K machine learning %K prediction model %K Manage My Pain %K pain app %D 2018 %7 15.11.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Measuring and predicting pain volatility (fluctuation or variability in pain scores over time) can help improve pain management. Perceptions of pain and its consequent disabling effects are often heightened under the conditions of greater uncertainty and unpredictability associated with pain volatility. Objective: This study aimed to use data mining and machine learning methods to (1) define a new measure of pain volatility and (2) predict future pain volatility levels from users of the pain management app, Manage My Pain, based on demographic, clinical, and app use features. Methods: Pain volatility was defined as the mean of absolute changes between 2 consecutive self-reported pain severity scores within the observation periods. The k-means clustering algorithm was applied to users’ pain volatility scores at the first and sixth month of app use to establish a threshold discriminating low from high volatility classes. Subsequently, we extracted 130 demographic, clinical, and app usage features from the first month of app use to predict these 2 volatility classes at the sixth month of app use. Prediction models were developed using 4 methods: (1) logistic regression with ridge estimators; (2) logistic regression with Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator; (3) Random Forests; and (4) Support Vector Machines. Overall prediction accuracy and accuracy for both classes were calculated to compare the performance of the prediction models. Training and testing were conducted using 5-fold cross validation. A class imbalance issue was addressed using a random subsampling of the training dataset. Users with at least five pain records in both the predictor and outcome periods (N=782 users) are included in the analysis. Results: k-means clustering algorithm was applied to pain volatility scores to establish a threshold of 1.6 to differentiate between low and high volatility classes. After validating the threshold using random subsamples, 2 classes were created: low volatility (n=611) and high volatility (n=171). In this class-imbalanced dataset, all 4 prediction models achieved 78.1% (611/782) to 79.0% (618/782) in overall accuracy. However, all models have a prediction accuracy of less than 18.7% (32/171) for the high volatility class. After addressing the class imbalance issue using random subsampling, results improved across all models for the high volatility class to greater than 59.6% (102/171). The prediction model based on Random Forests performs the best as it consistently achieves approximately 70% accuracy for both classes across 3 random subsamples. Conclusions: We propose a novel method for measuring pain volatility. Cluster analysis was applied to divide users into subsets of low and high volatility classes. These classes were then predicted at the sixth month of app use with an acceptable degree of accuracy using machine learning methods based on the features extracted from demographic, clinical, and app use information from the first month. %M 30442636 %R 10.2196/12001 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/11/e12001/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/12001 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30442636 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 11 %P e11066 %T Usability Study of Mainstream Wearable Fitness Devices: Feature Analysis and System Usability Scale Evaluation %A Liang,Jun %A Xian,Deqiang %A Liu,Xingyu %A Fu,Jing %A Zhang,Xingting %A Tang,Buzhou %A Lei,Jianbo %+ Center for Medical Informatics, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China, 86 8280 5901, jblei@hsc.pku.edu.cn %K wearable devices %K usability %K System Usability Scale %K function comparison %K fitness %D 2018 %7 08.11.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Wearable devices have the potential to promote a healthy lifestyle because of their real-time data monitoring capabilities. However, device usability is a critical factor that determines whether they will be adopted on a large scale. Usability studies on wearable devices are still scarce. Objective: This study aims to compare the functions and attributes of seven mainstream wearable devices and to evaluate their usability. Methods: The wearable devices selected were the Apple Watch, Samsung Gear S, Fitbit Surge, Jawbone Up3, Mi Band, Huawei Honor B2, and Misfit Shine. A mixed method of feature comparison and a System Usability Scale (SUS) evaluation based on 388 participants was applied; the higher the SUS score, the better the usability of the product. Results: For features, all devices had step counting, an activity timer, and distance recording functions. The Samsung Gear S had a unique sports track recording feature and the Huawei Honor B2 had a unique wireless earphone. The Apple Watch, Samsung Gear S, Jawbone Up3, and Fitbit Surge could measure heart rate. All the devices were able to monitor sleep, except the Apple Watch. For product characteristics, including attributes such as weight, battery life, price, and 22 functions such as step counting, activity time, activity type identification, sleep monitoring, and expandable new features, we found a very weak negative correlation between the SUS scores and price (r=−.10, P=.03) and devices that support expandable new features (r=−.11, P=.02), and a very weak positive correlation between the SUS scores and devices that support the activity type identification function (r=.11, P=.02). The Huawei Honor B2 received the highest score of mean 67.6 (SD 16.1); the lowest Apple Watch score was only 61.4 (SD 14.7). No significant difference was observed among brands. The SUS score had a moderate positive correlation with the user’s experience (length of time the device was used) (r=.32, P<.001); participants in the medical and health care industries gave a significantly higher score (mean 61.1, SD 17.9 vs mean 68.7, SD 14.5, P=.03). Conclusions: The functions of wearable devices tend to be homogeneous and usability is similar across various brands. Overall, Mi Band had the lowest price and the lightest weight. Misfit Shine had the longest battery life and most functions, and participants in the medical and health care industries had the best evaluation of wearable devices. The perceived usability of mainstream wearable devices is unsatisfactory and customer loyalty is not high. A consumer’s SUS rating for a wearable device is related to their personal situation instead of the device brand. Device manufacturers should put more effort into developing innovative functions and improving the usability of their products by integrating more cognitive behavior change techniques. %M 30409767 %R 10.2196/11066 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/11/e11066/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11066 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30409767 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-1999 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 2 %P e10296 %T Novel mHealth App to Deliver Geriatric Assessment-Driven Interventions for Older Adults With Cancer: Pilot Feasibility and Usability Study %A Loh,Kah Poh %A Ramsdale,Erika %A Culakova,Eva %A Mendler,Jason H %A Liesveld,Jane L %A O'Dwyer,Kristen M %A McHugh,Colin %A Gilles,Maxence %A Lloyd,Terri %A Goodman,Molly %A Klepin,Heidi D %A Mustian,Karen M %A Schnall,Rebecca %A Mohile,Supriya G %+ Division of Hematology/Oncology, James P Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 704, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States, 1 4133069767, kahpoh_loh@urmc.rochester.edu %K Mobile health application %K geriatric assessment %K older adults %K cancer %D 2018 %7 29.10.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Cancer %G English %X Background: Older patients with cancer are at an increased risk of adverse outcomes. A geriatric assessment (GA) is a compilation of reliable and validated tools to assess domains that are predictors of morbidity and mortality, and it can be used to guide interventions. However, the implementation of GA and GA-driven interventions is low due to resource and time limitations. GA-driven interventions delivered through a mobile app may support the complex needs of older patients with cancer and their caregivers. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the feasibility and usability of a novel app (TouchStream) and to identify barriers to its use. As an exploratory aim, we gathered preliminary data on symptom burden, health care utilization, and satisfaction. Methods: In a single-site pilot study, we included patients aged ≥65 years undergoing treatment for systemic cancer and their caregivers. TouchStream consists of a mobile app and a Web portal. Patients underwent a GA at baseline with the study team (on paper), and the results were used to guide interventions delivered through the app. A tablet preloaded with the app was provided for use at home for 4 weeks. Feasibility metrics included usability (system usability scale of >68 is considered above average), recruitment, retention (number of subjects consented who completed postintervention assessments), and percentage of days subjects used the app. For the last 8 patients, we assessed their symptom burden (severity and interference with 17-items scored from 0-10 where a higher score indicates worse symptoms) using a clinical symptom inventory, health care utilization from the electronic medical records, and satisfaction (6 items scored on a 5-point Likert Scale for both patients and caregivers where a higher score indicates higher satisfaction) using a modified satisfaction survey. Barriers to use were elicited through interviews. Results: A total of 18 patients (mean age 76.8, range 68-87) and 13 caregivers (mean age 69.8, range 38-81) completed the baseline assessment. Recruitment and retention rates were 67% and 80%, respectively. The mean SUS score was 74.0 for patients and 72.2 for caregivers. Mean percentage of days the TouchStream app was used was 78.7%. Mean symptom severity and interference scores were 1.6 and 2.8 at preintervention, and 0.9 and 1.5 at postintervention, respectively. There was a total of 27 clinic calls during the intervention period and 15 during the postintervention period (week 5-8). One patient was hospitalized during the intervention period (week 1-4) and two patients during the postintervention period (week 5-8). Mean satisfaction scores of patients and caregivers with the mobile app were 20.4 and 23.4, respectively. Barriers fell into 3 themes: general experience, design, and functionality. Conclusions: TouchStream is feasible and usable for older patients on cancer treatment and their caregivers. Future studies should evaluate the effects of the TouchStream on symptoms and health care utilization in a randomized fashion. %M 30373733 %R 10.2196/10296 %U http://cancer.jmir.org/2018/2/e10296/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10296 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30373733 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 10 %P e11231 %T Benefits of Mobile Apps in Pain Management: Systematic Review %A Thurnheer,Simon E %A Gravestock,Isaac %A Pichierri,Giuseppe %A Steurer,Johann %A Burgstaller,Jakob M %+ Horten Centre for Patient Oriented Research and Knowledge Transfer, University of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, Zurich, 8032, Switzerland, 41 442558709, simon.thurnheer@usz.ch %K mobile application %K pain %K pain management %K smartphone %K cell phone %K telemedicine %K review %D 2018 %7 22.10.2018 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Pain is a common condition with a significant physical, psychosocial, and economic impact. Due to enormous progress in mobile device technology as well as the increase in smartphone ownership in the general population, mobile apps can be used to monitor patients with pain and support them in pain management. Objective: The aim of this review was to assess the efficacy of smartphone or computer tablet apps in the management of patients with pain. Methods: In December 2017, a literature search was performed in the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane, and PsycINFO. In addition, a bibliography search was conducted. We included studies with at least 20 participants per arm that evaluated the effects of apps on smartphones or computer tablets on improvement in pain. Results: A total of 15 studies with 1962 patients met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 4 studies examined the effect of mobile apps on pain management in an in-clinic setting and 11 in an out-clinic setting. The majority of the original studies reported beneficial effects of the use of a pain app. Severity of pain decreased in most studies where patients were using an app compared with patients not using an app. Other outcomes, such as worst pain or quality of life showed improvements in patients using an app. Due to heterogeneity between the original studies—patient characteristics, app content, and study setting—a synthesis of the results by statistical methods was not performed. Conclusions: Apps for pain management may be beneficial for patients, particularly in an out-clinic setting. Studies have shown that pain apps are workable and well liked by patients and health care professionals. There is no doubt that in the near future, mobile technologies will develop further. Medicine could profit from this development as indicated by our results, but there is a need for more scientific inputs. It is desirable to know which elements of apps or additional devices and tools may improve usability and help patients in pain management. %M 30348633 %R 10.2196/11231 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/10/e11231/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11231 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30348633 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 10 %P e10771 %T Self-Management Education Through mHealth: Review of Strategies and Structures %A Bashi,Nazli %A Fatehi,Farhad %A Fallah,Mina %A Walters,Darren %A Karunanithi,Mohanraj %+ Australian eHealth Research Centre, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Level 5 - UQ Health Sciences, Building 901/16, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia, 61 7 3253 3611, nazli.bashi@csiro.au %K health education %K mHealth %K mobile apps %K mobile phone %K patient education %K self-management education %D 2018 %7 19.10.2018 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Despite the plethora of evidence on mHealth interventions for patient education, there is a lack of information regarding their structures and delivery strategies. Objective: This review aimed to investigate the structures and strategies of patient education programs delivered through smartphone apps for people with diverse conditions and illnesses. We also examined the aim of educational interventions in terms of health promotion, disease prevention, and illness management. Methods: We searched PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Embase, and PsycINFO for peer-reviewed papers that reported patient educational interventions using mobile apps and published from 2006 to 2016. We explored various determinants of educational interventions, including the content, mode of delivery, interactivity with health care providers, theoretical basis, duration, and follow-up. The reporting quality of studies was evaluated according to the mHealth evidence and reporting assessment criteria. Results: In this study, 15 papers met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed. The studies mainly focused on the use of mHealth educational interventions for chronic disease management, and the main format for delivering interventions was text. Of the 15 studies, 6 were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which have shown statistically significant effects on patients’ health outcomes, including patients’ engagement level, hemoglobin A1c, weight loss, and depression. Although the results of RCTs were mostly positive, we were unable to identify any specific effective structure and strategy for mHealth educational interventions owing to the poor reporting quality and heterogeneity of the interventions. Conclusions: Evidence on mHealth interventions for patient education published in peer-reviewed journals demonstrates that current reporting on essential mHealth criteria is insufficient for assessing, understanding, and replicating mHealth interventions. There is a lack of theory or conceptual framework for the development of mHealth interventions for patient education. Therefore, further research is required to determine the optimal structure, strategies, and delivery methods of mHealth educational interventions. %M 30341042 %R 10.2196/10771 %U https://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/10/e10771/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10771 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30341042 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 10 %P e10776 %T An mHealth Diabetes Intervention for Glucose Control: Health Care Utilization Analysis %A Quinn,Charlene C %A Swasey,Krystal K %A Torain,Jamila M %A Shardell,Michelle D %A Terrin,Michael L %A Barr,Erik A %A Gruber-Baldini,Ann L %+ Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 660 W Redwood Street, Howard Hall Suite 200, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States, 1 410 706 2406, cquinn@som.umaryland.edu %K cluster randomized clinical trial %K health care %K health service utilization %K mHealth %K type 2 diabetes %D 2018 %7 15.10.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major chronic condition requiring management through lifestyle changes and recommended health service visits. Mobile health (mHealth) is a promising tool to encourage self-management, but few studies have investigated the impact of mHealth on health care utilization. Objective: The objective of this analysis was to determine the change in 2-year health service utilization and whether utilization explained a 1.9% absolute decrease in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) over 1-year in the Mobile Diabetes Intervention Study (MDIS). Methods: We used commercial claims data from 2006 to 2010 linked to enrolled patients’ medical chart data in 26 primary care practices in Maryland, USA. Secondary claims data analyses were available for 56% (92/163) of participants. In the primary MDIS study, physician practices were recruited and randomized to usual care and 1 of 3 increasingly complex interventions. Patients followed physician randomization assignment. The main variables in the analysis included health service utilization by type of service and change in HbA1c. The claims data was aggregated into 12 categories of utilization to assess change in 2-year health service usage, comparing rates of usage pre- and posttrial. We also examined whether utilization explained the 1.9% decrease in HbA1c over 1 year in the MDIS cluster randomized clinical trial. Results: A significant group by time effect was observed in physician office visits, general practitioner visits, other outpatient services, prescription medications, and podiatrist visits. Physician office visits (P=.01) and general practitioner visits (P=.02) both decreased for all intervention groups during the study period, whereas prescription claims (P<.001) increased. The frequency of other outpatient services (P=.001) and podiatrist visits (P=.04) decreased for the control group and least complex intervention group but increased for the 2 most complex intervention groups. No significant effects of utilization were observed to explain the clinically significant change in HbA1c. Conclusions: Claims data analyses identified patterns of utilization relevant to mHealth interventions. Findings may encourage patients and health providers to discuss the utilization of treatment-recommended services, lab tests, and prescribed medications. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01107015; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01107015 (Archived by Webcite at http://www.webcitation.org/72XgTaxIj) %M 30322839 %R 10.2196/10776 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/10/e10776/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10776 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30322839 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 10 %P e11192 %T Assessing the Attitudes and Perceptions Regarding the Use of Mobile Health Technologies for Living Kidney Donor Follow-Up: Survey Study %A Eno,Ann K %A Thomas,Alvin G %A Ruck,Jessica M %A Van Pilsum Rasmussen,Sarah E %A Halpern,Samantha E %A Waldram,Madeleine M %A Muzaale,Abimereki D %A Purnell,Tanjala S %A Massie,Allan B %A Garonzik Wang,Jacqueline M %A Lentine,Krista L %A Segev,Dorry L %A Henderson,Macey L %+ Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 2000 East Monument Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, United States, 1 443 287 6649, macey@jhmi.edu %K follow-up %K kidney transplantation %K living kidney donor %K mobile phone, mHealth %D 2018 %7 09.10.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: In 2013, the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network began requiring transplant centers in the United States to collect and report postdonation living kidney donor follow-up data at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. Despite this requirement, <50% of transplant centers have been able to collect and report the required data. Previous work identified a number of barriers to living kidney donor follow-up, including logistical and administrative barriers for transplant centers and cost and functional barriers for donors. Novel smartphone-based mobile health (mHealth) technologies might reduce the burden of living kidney donor follow-up for centers and donors. However, the attitudes and perceptions toward the incorporation of mHealth into postdonation care among living kidney donors are unknown. Understanding donor attitudes and perceptions will be vital to the creation of a patient-oriented mHealth system to improve living donor follow-up in the United States. Objective: The goal of this study was to assess living kidney donor attitudes and perceptions associated with the use of mHealth for follow-up. Methods: We developed and administered a cross-sectional 14-question survey to 100 living kidney donors at our transplant center. All participants were part of an ongoing longitudinal study of long-term outcomes in living kidney donors. The survey included questions on smartphone use, current health maintenance behaviors, accessibility to health information, and attitudes toward using mHealth for living kidney donor follow-up. Results: Of the 100 participants surveyed, 94 owned a smartphone (35 Android, 58 iPhone, 1 Blackberry), 37 had accessed their electronic medical record on their smartphone, and 38 had tracked their exercise and physical activity on their smartphone. While 77% (72/93) of participants who owned a smartphone and had asked a medical question in the last year placed the most trust with their doctors, nurses, or other health care professionals regarding answering a health-related question, 52% (48/93) most often accessed health information elsewhere. Overall, 79% (74/94) of smartphone-owning participants perceived accessing living kidney donor information and resources on their smartphone as useful. Additionally, 80% (75/94) perceived completing some living kidney donor follow-up via mHealth as useful. There were no significant differences in median age (60 vs 59 years; P=.65), median years since donation (10 vs 12 years; P=.45), gender (36/75, 36%, vs 37/75, 37%, male; P=.57), or race (70/75, 93%, vs 18/19, 95%, white; P=.34) between those who perceived mHealth as useful for living kidney donor follow-up and those who did not, respectively. Conclusions: Overall, smartphone ownership was high (94/100, 94.0%), and 79% (74/94) of surveyed smartphone-owning donors felt that it would be useful to complete their required follow-up with an mHealth tool, with no significant differences by age, sex, or race. These results suggest that patients would benefit from an mHealth tool to perform living donor follow-up. %M 30305260 %R 10.2196/11192 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/10/e11192/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11192 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30305260 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 10 %P e167 %T Behavior Change Techniques in mHealth Apps for the Mental and Physical Health of Employees: Systematic Assessment %A de Korte,Elsbeth %A Wiezer,Noortje %A Bakhuys Roozeboom,Maartje %A Vink,Peter %A Kraaij,Wessel %+ Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research, Schipholweg 77-89, Leiden, 2316 ZL, Netherlands, 31 6 21134434, elsbeth.dekorte@tno.nl %K behavior change techniques %K mHealth %K mental health %K physical health %K lifestyle %K workplace %K app %K employee %K work %D 2018 %7 03.10.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Employees remain at risk of developing physical and mental health problems. To improve the lifestyle, health, and productivity many workplace interventions have been developed. However, not all of these interventions are effective. Mobile and wireless technology to support health behavior change (mobile health [mHealth] apps) is a promising, but relatively new domain for the occupational setting. Research on mHealth apps for the mental and physical health of employees is scarce. Interventions are more likely to be useful if they are rooted in health behavior change theory. Evaluating the presence of specific combinations of behavior change techniques (BCTs) in mHealth apps might be used as an indicator of potential quality and effectiveness. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess whether mHealth apps for the mental and physical health of employees incorporate BCTs and, if so, which BCTs can be identified and which combinations of BCTs are present. Methods: An assessment was made of apps aiming to reduce the risk of physical and psychosocial work demands and to promote a healthy lifestyle for employees. A systematic search was performed in iTunes and Google Play. Forty-five apps were screened and downloaded. BCTs were identified using a taxonomy applied in similar reviews. The mean and ranges were calculated. Results: On average, the apps included 7 of the 26 BCTs (range 2-18). Techniques such as “provide feedback on performance,” “provide information about behavior-health link,” and “provide instruction” were used most frequently. Techniques that were used least were “relapse prevention,” “prompt self-talk,” “use follow-up prompts,” and “provide information about others’ approval.” “Stress management,” “prompt identification as a role model,” and “agree on behavioral contract” were not used by any of the apps. The combination “provide information about behavior-health link” with “prompt intention formation” was found in 7/45 (16%) apps. The combination “provide information about behavior-health link” with “provide information on consequences,” and “use follow-up prompts” was found in 2 (4%) apps. These combinations indicated potential effectiveness. The least potentially effective combination “provide feedback on performance” without “provide instruction” was found in 13 (29%) apps. Conclusions: Apps for the occupational setting might be substantially improved to increase potential since results showed a limited presence of BCTs in general, limited use of potentially successful combinations of BCTs in apps, and use of potentially unsuccessful combinations of BCTs. Increasing knowledge on the effectiveness of BCTs in apps might be used to develop guidelines for app developers and selection criteria for companies and individuals. Also, this might contribute to decreasing the burden of work-related diseases. To achieve this, app developers, health behavior change professionals, experts on physical and mental health, and end-users should collaborate when developing apps for the working context. %R 10.2196/mhealth.6363 %U https://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/10/e167/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6363 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 9 %P e10035 %T Mobile App Use by Primary Care Patients to Manage Their Depressive Symptoms: Qualitative Study %A Pung,Alison %A Fletcher,Susan Louise %A Gunn,Jane Maree %+ Department of General Practice, The University of Melbourne, 200 Berkeley Street, Victoria, 3053, Australia, 61 3 9035 4872, susanlf@unimelb.edu.au %K mobile apps %K depression %K health care %K general practice %D 2018 %7 27.09.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Mobile apps are emerging as tools with the potential to revolutionize the treatment of mental health conditions such as depression. At the forefront of the community health sector, general practitioners are in a unique position to guide the integration of technology and depression management; however, little is currently known about how primary care patients with depressive symptoms are currently using apps. Objective: The objective of our study was to explore the natural patterns of mobile app use among patients with depressive symptoms to facilitate the understanding of the potential role for mobile apps in managing depressive symptoms in the community. Methods: Semistructured phone interviews were conducted with primary care patients in Victoria, Australia, who reported symptoms of depression and were enrolled in a larger randomized controlled trial of depression care. Interviews explored current depression management strategies and the use of mobile apps (if any). Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Inductive thematic analysis was iteratively conducted using QSR NVivo 11 Pro to identify emergent themes. Results: A total of 16 participants, aged between 20 to 58 years, took part in the interviews with 11 reporting the use of at least one mobile app to manage depressive symptoms and 5 reporting no app use. A variety of apps were described including relaxation, mindfulness, cognitive, exercise, gaming, social media, and well-being apps to aid with depressive symptoms. Among users, there were the following 4 main patterns of app use: skill acquisition, social connectedness, inquisitive trial, and safety netting. Factors that influenced app use included accessibility, perceptions of technology, and personal compatibility. Health care providers also had a role in initiating app use. Conclusions: Mobile apps are being utilized for self-management of depressive symptoms by primary care patients. This study provided insight into the natural patterns and perspectives of app use, which enhanced the understanding of how this technology may be integrated into the toolbox for the management of depression. Trial Registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000537459; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=367152 (Archived at WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/71Vf06X2T) %M 30262449 %R 10.2196/10035 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/9/e10035/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10035 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30262449 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 9 %P e266 %T Internet-Based and Mobile-Based General Practice: Cross-Sectional Survey %A Qiu,Yan %A Liu,Ying %A Ren,Wen %A Qiu,Yunqing %A Ren,Jingjing %+ The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, China, 86 057187235012, lisarjj@126.com %K general practice %K mHealth %K mobile phone %K satisfaction %K health service %K internet hospital %D 2018 %7 25.9.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Globally, mHealth is increasing as a promising technology for promoting the quality of health care. Thus, a growing number of internet hospitals have been established in China to avail all its advantages. However, no study has investigated the service scope and patient satisfaction of the internet hospital to date. Objective: The objective of our study was to explore the features of outpatients in general practice, the disease information, and the satisfaction through an internet rating site. Methods: We collected data from the internet hospital of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University between February 2016 and February 2017. Patients visited Web-based clinic via a computer or smartphone. The data included patients’ demographic characteristics, disease information, and patients’ comments. Results: We enrolled 715 patients with 365 health-related problems. All health conditions involved diseases ranging from internal medicine, surgery, gynecology and obstetrics, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, stomatology to emergency. Among them, 63.1% patients (451/715) visited traditional hospitals for further management, 25.3% (181/715) had prescriptions, laboratory, or imaging examination appointment, 1% (9/715) used emergency service, and 10% (74/715) needed routine follow-up. All patients received health education. Almost all patients gave positive feedback and 4-5-star rating. Conclusions: The internet hospital is suitable for all health conditions with high satisfaction only when patients have the access to internet via a computer or smartphone. %M 30257819 %R 10.2196/jmir.8378 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/9/e266/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8378 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30257819 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 9 %P e178 %T Evaluating the Carrot Rewards App, a Population-Level Incentive-Based Intervention Promoting Step Counts Across Two Canadian Provinces: Quasi-Experimental Study %A Mitchell,Marc %A White,Lauren %A Lau,Erica %A Leahey,Tricia %A Adams,Marc A %A Faulkner,Guy %+ Western University, Somerville House, Room 2360C, London, ON, N6A 5B9, Canada, 1 519 661 2111 ext 87936, marc.mitchell@uwo.ca %K behavioral economics %K financial health incentives %K mHealth %K mobile phone %K physical activity %K public health %D 2018 %7 20.9.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The Carrot Rewards app was developed as part of an innovative public-private partnership to reward Canadians with loyalty points, exchangeable for retail goods, travel rewards, and groceries for engaging in healthy behaviors such as walking. Objective: This study examined whether a multicomponent intervention including goal setting, graded tasks, biofeedback, and very small incentives tied to daily step goal achievement (assessed by built-in smartphone accelerometers) could increase physical activity in two Canadian provinces, British Columbia (BC) and Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). Methods: This 12-week, quasi-experimental (single group pre-post) study included 78,882 participants; 44.39% (35,014/78,882) enrolled in the Carrot Rewards “Steps” walking program during the recruitment period (June 13–July 10, 2016). During the 2-week baseline (or “run-in”) period, we calculated participants’ mean steps per day. Thereafter, participants earned incentives in the form of loyalty points (worth Can $0.04 ) every day they reached their personalized daily step goal (ie, baseline mean+1000 steps=first daily step goal level). Participants earned additional points (Can $0.40) for meeting their step goal 10+ nonconsecutive times in a 14-day period (called a “Step Up Challenge”). Participants could earn up to Can $5.00 during the 12-week evaluation period. Upon meeting the 10-day contingency, participants could increase their daily goal by 500 steps, aiming to gradually increase the daily step number by 3000. Only participants with ≥5 valid days (days with step counts: 1000-40,000) during the baseline period were included in the analysis (n=32,229).The primary study outcome was mean steps per day (by week), analyzed using linear mixed-effects models. Results: The mean age of 32,229 participants with valid baseline data was 33.7 (SD 11.6) years; 66.11% (21,306/32,229) were female. The mean daily step count at baseline was 6511.22. Over half of users (16,336/32,229, 50.69%) were categorized as “physically inactive,” accumulating <5000 daily steps at baseline. Results from mixed-effects models revealed statistically significant increases in mean daily step counts when comparing baseline with each study week (P<.001). Compared with baseline, participants walked 115.70 more steps (95% CI 74.59 to 156.81; P<.001) at study week 12. BC and NL users classified as “high engagers” (app engagement above sample median; 15,511/32,229, 48.13%) walked 738.70 (95% CI 673.81 to 803.54; P<.001) and 346.00 (95% CI 239.26 to 452.74; P<.001) more steps, respectively. Physically inactive, high engagers (7022/32,229, 21.08%) averaged an increase of 1224.66 steps per day (95% CI 1160.69 to 1288.63; P<.001). Effect sizes were modest. Conclusions: Providing very small but immediate rewards for personalized daily step goal achievement as part of a multicomponent intervention increased daily step counts on a population scale, especially for physically inactive individuals and individuals who engaged more with the walking program. Positive effects in both BC and NL provide evidence of replicability. %M 30148712 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9912 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/9/e178/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9912 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30148712 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-326X %I JMIR Publications %V 2 %N 2 %P e16 %T Improving Transitions of Care for Young Adults With Congenital Heart Disease: Mobile App Development Using Formative Research %A Lopez,Keila N %A O'Connor,Michael %A King,Jason %A Alexander,James %A Challman,Melissa %A Lovick,Donna K %A Goodly,Nicole %A Smith,Amelia %A Fawcett,Elliott %A Mulligan,Courtney %A Thompson,Debbe %A Fordis,Michael %+ Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children's Hospital, 6621 Fannin Street, MC 19-345, Houston, TX, 77030, United States, 1 832 826 5600, knlopez@bcm.edu %K adolescent health %K chronic disease %K transitions of care %K health disparities %K mobile health %K mHealth %K patient empowerment %K patient involvement %K self-efficacy %K user-centered design %D 2018 %7 11.09.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Formativ Res %G English %X Background: Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) are the most common type of birth defects. Improvements in CHD care have led to approximately 1.4 million survivors reaching adulthood. Successful transition and transfer from pediatric to adult care is crucial. Unfortunately, less than 30% of adolescents with CHD successfully transition to adult care; this number is lower for minority and lower socioeconomic status populations. Few CHD programs exist to facilitate successful transition. Objective: The goal of our study was to describe the formative research used to develop a prototype mobile app to facilitate transition to adult care for adolescents with CHD. Methods: A literature search about best practices in transition medicine for CHD was conducted to inform app development. Formative research with a diverse group of CHD adolescents and their parents was conducted to determine gaps and needs for CHD transition to adult care. As part of the interview, surveys assessing transition readiness and CHD knowledge were completed. Two adolescent CHD expert panels were convened to inform educational content and app design. Results: The literature review revealed 113 articles, of which 38 were studies on transition programs and attitudes and 3 identified best practices in transition specific to CHD. A total of 402 adolescents aged 15 to 22 years (median 16 years) participated in semistructured interviews. The group was racially and ethnically diverse (12.6% [51/402] African American and 37.8% [152/402] Latino) and 42.0% (169/402) female; 36.3% (146/402) received public insurance. Most adolescents (313/402, 76.7%) had moderate or severe CHD complexity and reported minimal CHD understanding (79.0% [275/348] of those aged 15 to 17 years and 61.1% [33/54] of those aged 18 to 22 years). Average initial transition readiness score was 50.9/100, meaning that transition readiness training was recommended. When participants with moderate to severe CHD (313/402, 77.9%) were asked about technology use, 94.2% (295/313) reported having access to a mobile phone. Interviews with parents revealed limited interactions with the pediatric cardiologist about transition-related topics: 79.4% (331/417) reported no discussions regarding future family planning, and 55.2% (230/417) reported the adolescent had not been screened for mental health concerns (depression, anxiety). Further, 66.4% (277/417) reported not understanding how health care changes as adolescents become adults. Adolescents in the expert panels (2 groups of 3 adolescents each) expressed interest in a CHD-specific tailored app consisting of quick access to specific educational questions (eg, “Can I exercise?”), a CHD story-blog forum, a mentorship platform, a question and answer space, and a checklist to facilitate transition. They expressed interest in using the app to schedule CHD clinic appointments and receive medication reminders. Based on this data, a prototype mobile app was created to assist in adolescent CHD transition. Conclusions: Formative research revealed that most adolescents with CHD had access to mobile phones, were not prepared for transition to adult care, and were interested in an app to facilitate transition to adult CHD care. Understanding adolescent and parent needs, interests, and concerns helped in the development of a mobile app with a broader, tailored approach for adolescents with CHD. %R 10.2196/formative.9963 %U http://formative.jmir.org/2018/2/e16/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/formative.9963 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 9 %P e10456 %T Smartphone-Based Contingency Management Intervention to Improve Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Adherence: Pilot Trial %A Mitchell,John T %A LeGrand,Sara %A Hightow-Weidman,Lisa B %A McKellar,Mehri S %A Kashuba,Angela DM %A Cottrell,Mackenzie %A McLaurin,Tony %A Satapathy,Goutam %A McClernon,F Joseph %+ Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, 2608 Erwin Road, Pavilion East, Suite 300, Durham, NC, 27705, United States, 1 919 681 0012, john.mitchell@duke.edu %K HIV %K preexposure prophylaxis %K mobile health %D 2018 %7 10.09.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) provides a strong preventative benefit to individuals at risk for HIV. While PrEP adherence is highly correlated with its efficacy, adherence rates are variable both across and within persons. Objective: The objective of this study was to develop and pilot-test a smartphone-based intervention, known as mSMART, that targets PrEP adherence. mSMART provides contingency management in the form of monetary incentives for daily PrEP adherence based on a real-time adherence assessment using a camera-based medication event-monitoring tool as well as medication reminders, PrEP education, individualized behavioral strategies to address PrEP adherence barriers, and medication adherence feedback. Methods: This was a 4-week open-label, phase I trial in a community sample of young men who have sex with men already on PrEP (N=10). Results: Although adherence composite scores corresponding to PrEP biomarkers indicated that 90% (9/10) of the sample already had an acceptable baseline adherence in the protective range, by the end of the 4-week period, the scores improved for 30% (3/10) of the sample—adherence did not worsen for any participants. Participants reported mean PrEP adherence rates of 91% via daily entries in mSMART. At the end of the 4-week period, participants indicated acceptable ratings of satisfaction, usability, and willingness to recommend mSMART to others. There were no technical difficulties associated with smartphone compatibility, user misunderstandings about mSMART features that interfered with daily use, or study attrition. Conclusions: This study is the first to apply contingency management to PrEP adherence. Findings indicated that mSMART is feasible and acceptable. Such an adherence intervention administered via a user-friendly smartphone app can allow for widespread dissemination. Future efficacy trials are needed. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02895893; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02895893 (Accessed by Webcite at http://www.webcitation.org/72JskjDJq) %M 30201601 %R 10.2196/10456 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/9/e10456/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10456 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30201601 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 9 %P e175 %T A Dietary Assessment App for Hospitalized Patients at Nutritional Risk: Development and Evaluation of the MyFood App %A Paulsen,Mari Mohn %A Hagen,Martina Lovise Lindhart %A Frøyen,Marte Hesvik %A Foss-Pedersen,Rikke Julie %A Bergsager,Dagfinn %A Tangvik,Randi Julie %A Andersen,Lene Frost %+ Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Department of Nutrition, University of Oslo, PO Box 1046, Blindern, Oslo, 0317, Norway, 47 22851103, m.m.paulsen@medisin.uio.no %K decision support system %K disease-related malnutrition %K eHealth %K mHealth %K dietary assessment %K validation study %D 2018 %7 07.09.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Disease-related malnutrition is a common challenge among hospitalized patients. There seems to be a lack of an effective system to follow-up nutritional monitoring and treatment of patients at nutritional risk after risk assessment. We identify a need for a more standardized system to prevent and treat disease-related malnutrition. Objective: We aimed to develop a dietary assessment app for tablets for use in a hospital setting and to evaluate the app’s ability to measure individual intake of energy, protein, liquid, and food and beverage items among hospitalized patients for two days. We also aimed to measure patients’ experiences using the app. Methods: We have developed the MyFood app, which consists of three modules: 1) collection of information about the patient, 2) dietary assessment function, and 3) evaluation of recorded intake compared to individual needs. We used observations from digital photography of the meals, combined with partial weighing of the meal components, as a reference method to evaluate the app’s dietary assessment system for two days. Differences in the intake estimations of energy, protein, liquid, and food and beverage items between MyFood and the photograph method were analyzed on both group and individual level. Results: Thirty-two patients hospitalized at Oslo University Hospital were included in the study. The data collection period ran from March to May 2017. About half of the patients had ≥90% agreement between MyFood and the photograph method for energy, protein, and liquid intake on both recording days. Dinner was the meal with the lowest percent agreement between methods. MyFood overestimated patients’ intake of bread and cereals and underestimated fruit consumption. Agreement between methods increased from day 1 to day 2 for bread and cereals, spreads, egg, yogurt, soup, hot dishes, and desserts. Ninety percent of participants reported that MyFood was easy to use, and 97% found the app easy to navigate. Conclusions: We developed the MyFood app as a tool to monitor dietary intake among hospitalized patients at nutritional risk. The recorded intake of energy, protein, and liquid using MyFood showed good agreement with the photograph method for the majority of participants. The app’s ability to estimate intake within food groups was good, except for bread and cereals which were overestimated and fruits which were underestimated. The app was well accepted among study participants and has the potential to be a dietary assessment tool for use among patients in clinical practice. %M 30194059 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9953 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/9/e175/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9953 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30194059 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 8 %P e256 %T A Church-Based Weight Loss Intervention in African American Adults using Text Messages (LEAN Study): Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial %A Newton Jr,Robert L %A Carter,Leah A %A Johnson,William %A Zhang,Dachuan %A Larrivee,Sandra %A Kennedy,Betty M %A Harris,Melissa %A Hsia,Daniel S %+ Pennington Biomedical Research Center, 6400 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, LA, 70808, United States, 1 225 763 3034, Robert.Newton@pbrc.edu %K African Americans %K behavioral strategies %K community health %K mHealth %K mobile phone %K obesity %K text messages %K weight loss %D 2018 %7 24.08.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: African American adults experience a high prevalence of obesity and its associated comorbidities, including diabetes. Church-based interventions have been shown to be effective in decreasing weight in this population. mHealth interventions can address two needs for obesity treatment in this community, including enhancing weight loss and providing wide dissemination. Objective: This study aimed to assess the feasibility and efficacy of a church-based weight loss intervention that incorporates mHealth technology. Methods: In this study, 8 churches (n=97) were randomly assigned to the intervention or delayed intervention condition (control group). We recruited participants through their respective church. Volunteer church members were trained by study staff to deliver the 10-session, 6-month intervention. Participants in the intervention group attended group sessions and received automated short message service (SMS) text messages designed to reinforce behavioral strategies. Conversely, participants in the delayed intervention condition received SMS text messages related to health conditions relevant for African American adults. We obtained measures of body composition, blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol. Results: We successfully recruited 97 African American adults, with a mean age of 56.0 (SE 10.3) years and a mean body mass index of 38.6 (SE 6.4) kg/m2 (89/97, 91.8% females), who attended the churches that were randomized to the intervention (n=68) or control (n=29) condition. Of these, 74.2% (72/97) of the participants (47/68, 69.1% intervention; 25/29, 86.2% delayed intervention) completed the 6-month assessment. The average intervention group attendance was 55%. There was a significant difference in weight loss (P=.04) between participants in the intervention (–1.5 (SE 0.5) kg) and control (0.11 (SE 0.6) kg) groups. Among participants in the intervention group, the correlation between the number of SMS text messages sent and the percent body fat loss was r=.3 with P=.04. The participants reported high satisfaction with the automated SMS text messages. Conclusions: Automated SMS text messages were well-received by participants, suggesting that more enhanced mHealth technologies are a viable option for interventions targeting African American adults. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02863887; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02863887 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/71JiYzizO) %M 30143478 %R 10.2196/jmir.9816 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/8/e256/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9816 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30143478 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 8 %P e10003 %T Effect and Process Evaluation of a Smartphone App to Promote an Active Lifestyle in Lower Educated Working Young Adults: Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial %A Simons,Dorien %A De Bourdeaudhuij,Ilse %A Clarys,Peter %A De Cocker,Katrien %A Vandelanotte,Corneel %A Deforche,Benedicte %+ Unit Health Promotion and Education, Department of Public Health, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Entrance 42 (K3), Ghent, 9000, Belgium, 32 498457442, dorien.simons@ugent.be %K mHealth %K mobile apps %K active transport %K Fitbit %K accelerometers %K mobile phone %K emerging adulthood %K physical activity intervention %K health promotion %D 2018 %7 24.08.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mobile technologies have great potential to promote an active lifestyle in lower educated working young adults, an underresearched target group at a high risk of low activity levels. Objective: The objective of our study was to examine the effect and process evaluation of the newly developed evidence- and theory-based smartphone app “Active Coach” on the objectively measured total daily physical activity; self-reported, context-specific physical activity; and self-reported psychosocial variables among lower educated working young adults. Methods: We recruited 130 lower educated working young adults in this 2-group cluster randomized controlled trial and assessed outcomes at baseline, posttest (baseline+9 weeks), and follow-up (posttest+3 months). Intervention participants (n=60) used the Active Coach app (for 9 weeks) combined with a Fitbit activity tracker. Personal goals, practical tips, and educational facts were provided to encourage physical activity. The control group received print-based generic physical activity information. Both groups wore accelerometers for objective measurement of physical activity, and individual interviews were conducted to assess the psychosocial variables and context-specific physical activity. Furthermore, intervention participants were asked process evaluation questions and generalized linear mixed models and descriptive statistics were applied. Results: No significant intervention effects were found for objectively measured physical activity, self-reported physical activity, and self-reported psychosocial variables (all P>.05). Intervention participants evaluated the Active Coach app and the combined use with the Fitbit wearable as self-explanatory (36/51, 70.6%), user friendly (40/51, 78.4%), and interesting (34/51, 66.7%). Throughout the intervention, we observed a decrease in the frequency of viewing graphical displays in the app (P<.001); reading the tips, facts, and goals (P<.05); and wearing the Fitbit wearable (P<.001). Few intervention participants found the tips and facts motivating (10/41, 24.4%), used them to be physically active (8/41, 19.6%), and thought they were tailored to their lifestyle (7/41, 17.1%). Conclusions: The lack of significant intervention effects might be due to low continuous user engagement. Advice or feedback that was not perceived as adequately tailored and the difficulty to compete with many popular commercial apps on young people’s smartphones may be responsible for a decrease in the engagement. A stand-alone app does not seem sufficient to promote an active lifestyle among lower educated working young adults; therefore, multicomponent interventions (using both technological and human support), as well as context-specific sensing to provide tailored advice, might be needed in this population. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02948803; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/results/NCT02948803 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/71OPFwaoA) %M 30143477 %R 10.2196/10003 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/8/e10003/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10003 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30143477 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 8 %P e163 %T A Mobile App (WhiteTeeth) to Promote Good Oral Health Behavior Among Dutch Adolescents with Fixed Orthodontic Appliances: Intervention Mapping Approach %A Scheerman,Janneke Francisca Maria %A van Empelen,Pepijn %A van Loveren,Cor %A van Meijel,Berno %+ Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam, University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Gustav Mahlerlaan 3004, Amsterdam, 1081LA, Netherlands, 31 +31614409741, jscheerman@hotmail.com %K health behavior %K mHealth %K oral health %K oral hygiene %K dental caries %K adolescent %K dental plaque %K prevention %K intervention mapping %D 2018 %7 17.08.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The insertion of fixed orthodontic appliances increases the risk of dental caries, particularly in adolescents. Caries can be prevented through good oral health behavior. To support adolescents with fixed orthodontic appliances and for promoting oral health behavior, we developed a theory- and evidence-based mHealth program, the WhiteTeeth app. Objective: The objective of our paper was to describe the systematic development and content of the WhiteTeeth app. Methods: For systematic development of the program, we used the intervention mapping (IM) approach. In this paper, we present the results of applying the first 5 steps of IM to the design of an mHealth program: (1) identifying target behaviors and determinants through problem analysis, including a literature search, a survey study, and semistructured interviews, to explore adolescent oral health behavior during orthodontic therapy; (2) defining program outcomes and objectives; (3) selecting theoretical methods and translating them into practical strategies for the program design; (4) producing the program, including a pilot test with 28 adolescents testing the acceptability and usability of the WhiteTeeth app; and (5) planning implementation and adoption. Results: On the basis of our literature search, we identified fluoride use and control of dental plaque levels (eg, tooth brushing and proxy brush usage) as target behaviors for preventing caries. Next, we identified important and changeable determinants of oral health behavior that fitted the theoretical concepts of the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) theory. The HAPA theory, the self-regulation theory, and the results of the semistructured interviews were used to define the program objectives, that is, the performance and change objectives. After defining the objectives, we identified multiple behavior change techniques that could be used to achieve these objectives, such as providing oral health information and feedback, prompting self-monitoring, coaching of set actions and coping plans, and sending reminders. We translated these methods into practical strategies, such as videos and a brushing timer. Next, we combined these strategies into a single program resulting in the WhiteTeeth app (which is available on both iTunes and Google Play stores as “Witgebit”). Adolescents with fixed orthodontic appliances and dental professionals were included in the development process to increase the success of implementation. The pilot test revealed that the app users appreciated and liked the app. The WhiteTeeth app can be integrated into current orthodontic care. Conclusions: IM allowed us to identify multiple techniques that have been shown to be the most effective in initiating behavior change, but have not yet been incorporated into existing orthodontic apps. The WhiteTeeth app contains all these techniques, which makes it a unique and promising home-based app for promoting oral health in adolescents with fixed orthodontic appliances. %M 30120085 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9626 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/8/e163/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9626 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30120085 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 8 %P e10976 %T A Face-Aging App for Smoking Cessation in a Waiting Room Setting: Pilot Study in an HIV Outpatient Clinic %A Brinker,Titus Josef %A Brieske,Christian Martin %A Esser,Stefan %A Klode,Joachim %A Mons,Ute %A Batra,Anil %A Rüther,Tobias %A Seeger,Werner %A Enk,Alexander H %A von Kalle,Christof %A Berking,Carola %A Heppt,Markus V %A Gatzka,Martina V %A Bernardes-Souza,Breno %A Schlenk,Richard F %A Schadendorf,Dirk %+ National Center for Tumor Diseases, Department of Translational Oncology, German Cancer Research Center, Im Neuenheimer Feld 460, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany, 49 15175084347, titus.brinker@nct-heidelberg.de %K face aging %K smoking cessation %K HIV %K mobile apps %K HIV patients %K HIV seropositivity %K smoking %K cessation %K tobacco smoking %K morphing %D 2018 %7 15.08.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: There is strong evidence for the effectiveness of addressing tobacco use in health care settings. However, few smokers receive cessation advice when visiting a hospital. Implementing smoking cessation technology in outpatient waiting rooms could be an effective strategy for change, with the potential to expose almost all patients visiting a health care provider without preluding physician action needed. Objective: The objective of this study was to develop an intervention for smoking cessation that would make use of the time patients spend in a waiting room by passively exposing them to a face-aging, public morphing, tablet-based app, to pilot the intervention in a waiting room of an HIV outpatient clinic, and to measure the perceptions of this intervention among smoking and nonsmoking HIV patients. Methods: We developed a kiosk version of our 3-dimensional face-aging app Smokerface, which shows the user how their face would look with or without cigarette smoking 1 to 15 years in the future. We placed a tablet with the app running on a table in the middle of the waiting room of our HIV outpatient clinic, connected to a large monitor attached to the opposite wall. A researcher noted all the patients who were using the waiting room. If a patient did not initiate app use within 30 seconds of waiting time, the researcher encouraged him or her to do so. Those using the app were asked to complete a questionnaire. Results: During a 19-day period, 464 patients visited the waiting room, of whom 187 (40.3%) tried the app and 179 (38.6%) completed the questionnaire. Of those who completed the questionnaire, 139 of 176 (79.0%) were men and 84 of 179 (46.9%) were smokers. Of the smokers, 55 of 81 (68%) said the intervention motivated them to quit (men: 45, 68%; women: 10, 67%); 41 (51%) said that it motivated them to discuss quitting with their doctor (men: 32, 49%; women: 9, 60%); and 72 (91%) perceived the intervention as fun (men: 57, 90%; women: 15, 94%). Of the nonsmokers, 92 (98%) said that it motivated them never to take up smoking (men: 72, 99%; women: 20, 95%). Among all patients, 102 (22.0%) watched another patient try the app without trying it themselves; thus, a total of 289 (62.3%) of the 464 patients were exposed to the intervention (average waiting time 21 minutes). Conclusions: A face-aging app implemented in a waiting room provides a novel opportunity to motivate patients visiting a health care provider to quit smoking, to address quitting at their subsequent appointment and thereby encourage physician-delivered smoking cessation, or not to take up smoking. %M 30111525 %R 10.2196/10976 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/8/e10976/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10976 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30111525 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 8 %P e165 %T Correlations Between Objective Behavioral Features Collected From Mobile and Wearable Devices and Depressive Mood Symptoms in Patients With Affective Disorders: Systematic Review %A Rohani,Darius A %A Faurholt-Jepsen,Maria %A Kessing,Lars Vedel %A Bardram,Jakob E %+ Embedded Systems Engineering, Department of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, Technical University of Denmark, Richard Petersens Plads, Bldg 324, 1st Floor, Room 160, Kongens Lyngby, 2800, Denmark, 45 61452393, daroh@dtu.dk %K mood disorder %K affective disorder %K depression %K depressive mood symptoms %K bipolar disorder %K objective features %K correlation %K behavior %K sensor data %K mobile phone %K wearable devices %K systematic review %D 2018 %7 13.08.2018 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Several studies have recently reported on the correlation between objective behavioral features collected via mobile and wearable devices and depressive mood symptoms in patients with affective disorders (unipolar and bipolar disorders). However, individual studies have reported on different and sometimes contradicting results, and no quantitative systematic review of the correlation between objective behavioral features and depressive mood symptoms has been published. Objective: The objectives of this systematic review were to (1) provide an overview of the correlations between objective behavioral features and depressive mood symptoms reported in the literature and (2) investigate the strength and statistical significance of these correlations across studies. The answers to these questions could potentially help identify which objective features have shown most promising results across studies. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of the scientific literature, reported according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, Web of Sciences, PsychINFO, PubMed, DBLP computer science bibliography, HTA, DARE, Scopus, and Science Direct were searched and supplemented by hand examination of reference lists. The search ended on April 27, 2017, and was limited to studies published between 2007 and 2017. Results: A total of 46 studies were eligible for the review. These studies identified and investigated 85 unique objective behavioral features, covering 17 various sensor data inputs. These features were divided into 7 categories. Several features were found to have statistically significant and consistent correlation directionality with mood assessment (eg, the amount of home stay, sleep duration, and vigorous activity), while others showed directionality discrepancies across the studies (eg, amount of text messages [short message service] sent, time spent between locations, and frequency of mobile phone screen activity). Conclusions: Several studies showed consistent and statistically significant correlations between objective behavioral features collected via mobile and wearable devices and depressive mood symptoms. Hence, continuous and everyday monitoring of behavioral aspects in affective disorders could be a promising supplementary objective measure for estimating depressive mood symptoms. However, the evidence is limited by methodological issues in individual studies and by a lack of standardization of (1) the collected objective features, (2) the mood assessment methodology, and (3) the statistical methods applied. Therefore, consistency in data collection and analysis in future studies is needed, making replication studies as well as meta-analyses possible. %M 30104184 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9691 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/8/e165/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9691 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30104184 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 8 %P e10130 %T Using Mobile Apps to Assess and Treat Depression in Hispanic and Latino Populations: Fully Remote Randomized Clinical Trial %A Pratap,Abhishek %A Renn,Brenna N %A Volponi,Joshua %A Mooney,Sean D %A Gazzaley,Adam %A Arean,Patricia A %A Anguera,Joaquin A %+ Department of Biomedical Informatics and Medical Education, School of Medicine, University of Washington, UW Medicine South Lake Union, Building C, Box 358047, 850 Republican Street, Seattle, WA, 98109, United States, 1 206 928 8263, apratap@uw.edu %K mobile apps %K smartphone %K depression %K Hispanics %K Latinos %K clinical trial %K cognition %K problem solving %K mHealth %K minority groups %D 2018 %7 09.08.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Most people with mental health disorders fail to receive timely access to adequate care. US Hispanic/Latino individuals are particularly underrepresented in mental health care and are historically a very difficult population to recruit into clinical trials; however, they have increasing access to mobile technology, with over 75% owning a smartphone. This technology has the potential to overcome known barriers to accessing and utilizing traditional assessment and treatment approaches. Objective: This study aimed to compare recruitment and engagement in a fully remote trial of individuals with depression who either self-identify as Hispanic/Latino or not. A secondary aim was to assess treatment outcomes in these individuals using three different self-guided mobile apps: iPST (based on evidence-based therapeutic principles from problem-solving therapy, PST), Project Evolution (EVO; a cognitive training app based on cognitive neuroscience principles), and health tips (a health information app that served as an information control). Methods: We recruited Spanish and English speaking participants through social media platforms, internet-based advertisements, and traditional fliers in select locations in each state across the United States. Assessment and self-guided treatment was conducted on each participant's smartphone or tablet. We enrolled 389 Hispanic/Latino and 637 non-Hispanic/Latino adults with mild to moderate depression as determined by Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) score≥5 or related functional impairment. Participants were first asked about their preferences among the three apps and then randomized to their top two choices. Outcomes were depressive symptom severity (measured using PHQ-9) and functional impairment (assessed with Sheehan Disability Scale), collected over 3 months. Engagement in the study was assessed based on the number of times participants completed active surveys. Results: We screened 4502 participants and enrolled 1040 participants from throughout the United States over 6 months, yielding a sample of 348 active users. Long-term engagement surfaced as a key issue among Hispanic/Latino participants, who dropped from the study 2 weeks earlier than their non-Hispanic/Latino counterparts (P<.02). No significant differences were observed for treatment outcomes between those identifying as Hispanic/Latino or not. Although depressive symptoms improved (beta=–2.66, P=.006) over the treatment course, outcomes did not vary by treatment app. Conclusions: Fully remote mobile-based studies can attract a diverse participant pool including people from traditionally underserved communities in mental health care and research (here, Hispanic/Latino individuals). However, keeping participants engaged in this type of “low-touch” research study remains challenging. Hispanic/Latino populations may be less willing to use mobile apps for assessing and managing depression. Future research endeavors should use a user-centered design to determine the role of mobile apps in the assessment and treatment of depression for this population, app features they would be interested in using, and strategies for long-term engagement. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01808976; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01808976 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/70xI3ILkz) %M 30093372 %R 10.2196/10130 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/8/e10130/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10130 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30093372 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-2960 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 3 %P e11203 %T Bringing Real-Time Geospatial Precision to HIV Surveillance Through Smartphones: Feasibility Study %A Nsabimana,Alain Placide %A Uzabakiriho,Bernard %A Kagabo,Daniel M %A Nduwayo,Jerome %A Fu,Qinyouen %A Eng,Allison %A Hughes,Joshua %A Sia,Samuel K %+ Junco Labs, 423 W 127th Street, Ground Floor, New York, NY,, United States, 1 518 880 9667, samuelsia@juncolabs.com %K HIV surveillance %K smartphones %K mobile phones %K geospatial data %D 2018 %7 07.08.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Public Health Surveill %G English %X Background: Precise measurements of HIV incidences at community level can help mount a more effective public health response, but the most reliable methods currently require labor-intensive population surveys. Novel mobile phone technologies are being tested for adherence to medical appointments and antiretroviral therapy, but using them to track HIV test results with automatically generated geospatial coordinates has not been widely tested. Objective: We customized a portable reader for interpreting the results of HIV lateral flow tests and developed a mobile phone app to track HIV test results in urban and rural locations in Rwanda. The objective was to assess the feasibility of this technology to collect front line HIV test results in real time and with geospatial context to help measure HIV incidences and improve epidemiological surveillance. Methods: Twenty health care workers used the technology to track the test results of 2190 patients across 3 hospital sites (2 urban sites in Kigali and a rural site in the Western Province of Rwanda). Mobile phones for less than US $70 each were used. The mobile phone app to record HIV test results could take place without internet connectivity with uploading of results to the cloud taking place later with internet. Results: A total of 91.51% (2004/2190) of HIV test results could be tracked in real time on an online dashboard with geographical resolution down to street level. Out of the 20 health care workers, 14 (70%) would recommend the lateral flow reader, and 100% would recommend the mobile phone app. Conclusions: Smartphones have the potential to simplify the input of HIV test results with geospatial context and in real time to improve public health surveillance of HIV. %M 30087088 %R 10.2196/11203 %U http://publichealth.jmir.org/2018/3/e11203/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/11203 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30087088 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 7 %P e10131 %T Using Mobile Phone Sensor Technology for Mental Health Research: Integrated Analysis to Identify Hidden Challenges and Potential Solutions %A Boonstra,Tjeerd W %A Nicholas,Jennifer %A Wong,Quincy JJ %A Shaw,Frances %A Townsend,Samuel %A Christensen,Helen %+ Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Hospital Road, Sydney,, Australia, 61 2 9382 9285, t.boonstra@unsw.edu.au %K passive sensing %K mental health %K ubiquitous computing %K ethics %K depression %K mobile health %K smartphone %K wearable sensors %D 2018 %7 30.07.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Mobile phone sensor technology has great potential in providing behavioral markers of mental health. However, this promise has not yet been brought to fruition. Objective: The objective of our study was to examine challenges involved in developing an app to extract behavioral markers of mental health from passive sensor data. Methods: Both technical challenges and acceptability of passive data collection for mental health research were assessed based on literature review and results obtained from a feasibility study. Socialise, a mobile phone app developed at the Black Dog Institute, was used to collect sensor data (Bluetooth, location, and battery status) and investigate views and experiences of a group of people with lived experience of mental health challenges (N=32). Results: On average, sensor data were obtained for 55% (Android) and 45% (iOS) of scheduled scans. Battery life was reduced from 21.3 hours to 18.8 hours when scanning every 5 minutes with a reduction of 2.5 hours or 12%. Despite this relatively small reduction, most participants reported that the app had a noticeable effect on their battery life. In addition to battery life, the purpose of data collection, trust in the organization that collects data, and perceived impact on privacy were identified as main factors for acceptability. Conclusions: Based on the findings of the feasibility study and literature review, we recommend a commitment to open science and transparent reporting and stronger partnerships and communication with users. Sensing technology has the potential to greatly enhance the delivery and impact of mental health care. Realizing this requires all aspects of mobile phone sensor technology to be rigorously assessed. %M 30061092 %R 10.2196/10131 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/7/e10131/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10131 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30061092 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 7 %P e162 %T Mobile Apps for Caregivers of Older Adults: Quantitative Content Analysis %A Grossman,Molli R %A Zak,Deanah Kim %A Zelinski,Elizabeth M %+ Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, 3715 McClintock Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, United States, 1 (213) 740 5156, molliegr@usc.edu %K mobile apps %K aged %K elderly %K caregivers %K family caregivers %K carers %K adult children %K quality of life %K dementia %D 2018 %7 30.07.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Informal caregivers of older adults provide critical support for their loved ones but are subject to negative health outcomes because of burden and stress. Interventions to provide information and resources as well as social and emotional support reduce burden. Mobile apps featuring access to information, assistance with scheduling, and other features can automate support functions inexpensively and conveniently and reach a greater proportion of caregivers than otherwise possible. Objective: The aim of this study was to identify mobile apps geared towards caregivers of older adults, catalog features, and suggest best practices for adoption based on empirical findings of beneficial interventions in the caregiving literature. Methods: Search for apps focused on ones catered for caregivers of older adults in Google Play and iTunes, compiling their features, and identifying features reflecting categories of support identified in successful intervention studies to negative caregiver outcomes. Intervention research indicates that provision of information and resources, assistance in practical problem solving, coordinating care among multiple caregivers, and emotional support reduce caregiver burden. Results: Despite approximately over 200,000 mobile health–related apps, the availability of mobile apps for caregivers is relatively sparse (n=44 apps) as of October 2017. Apps generally addressed specific categories of support, including information and resources, family communication, and caregiver-recipient interactions. Few apps were comprehensive. Only 8 out of 44 (18%) had features that addressed three or more categories. Few apps provided specific stress reduction exercises for caregivers, which is important for reducing burden. Conclusions: Mobile apps have the potential to provide resources, just­-in­-time information for problem-solving, and stress reduction strategies for caregivers. Many apps offer functions that have been shown to reduce burden and improve health outcomes in caregivers, but few provide emotional support. Using an evidence­-based practice approach, mobile apps for caregivers can provide multiple beneficial support functions. Apps can serve a much larger proportion of this highly underserved population in their mobile form than more traditional means, improving their health and quality of life. %M 30061093 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9345 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/7/e162/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9345 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30061093 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 7 %P e10723 %T Mobile Apps to Support the Self-Management of Hypertension: Systematic Review of Effectiveness, Usability, and User Satisfaction %A Alessa,Tourkiah %A Abdi,Sarah %A Hawley,Mark S %A de Witte,Luc %+ Centre for Assistive Technology and Connected Healthcare, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, United Kingdom, Sheffield, S1 4DA, United Kingdom, 44 1142224399, l.p.dewitte@sheffield.ac.uk %K mobile phone %K mobile application %K mobile app %K self-management %K hypertension %K blood pressure %D 2018 %7 23.07.2018 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Hypertension is a chronic disease that is considered to be a public health problem and requires efforts by patients to manage themselves. The global growth in the use of mobile phones and tablets has been accompanied by the increased use of health apps. Many of these apps support the self-management of hypertension and, therefore, they have the potential benefits of lowering blood pressure. Despite this, there is currently a lack of evidence for their effectiveness, usability, and patient satisfaction with their use. Objective: A systematic review was conducted to assess the effectiveness of apps in lowering blood pressure, as well as their usability and patients’ satisfaction with their use. Methods: We conducted searches in the following databases: MEDLINE (OVID), EMBASE (OVID), PsycINFO (OVID), CINAHL, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, The Cochrane Library), IEEE Xplore ASSIAN, Google Scholar and the main Arabic databases Al Manhal, AskZad, and Mandumah. We looked for studies that used apps in the self-management of hypertension from 2008-2016. We also checked the reference lists of the review papers and all the primary studies for additional references. Results: A total of 21 studies with a total of 3112 participants were included in the review. Of the 14 studies that assessed the effectiveness of the apps in lowering blood pressure, 10 (71.4%) studies (6 RCTs and 4 nonrandomized studies) reported that using the apps led to significant decreases in blood pressure and seemed to be effective in the self-management of hypertension. Of these 10, only 2 (20%) RCTs and 3 (30%) nonrandomized studies had a low–moderate risk of bias. The results of this review are inconclusive regarding which combinations of functionalities would be most effective in lowering blood pressure because of variation in the studies’ quality, but the data suggest that apps incorporating more comprehensive functionalities are likely to be more effective. In all the studies that assessed the usability of the apps and users’ acceptance of them, all the apps seemed to be accepted and easy to use. Conclusions: Most of the studies reported that apps might be effective in lowering blood pressure and are accepted by users. However, these findings should be interpreted with caution, as most of the studies had a high risk of bias. More well-designed, large-scale studies are required to evaluate the real effect of using apps in lowering blood pressure and to identify the most effective functionality combinations for lowering blood pressure. %M 30037787 %R 10.2196/10723 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/7/e10723/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10723 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30037787 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 7 %P e241 %T Predicting Mood Disturbance Severity with Mobile Phone Keystroke Metadata: A BiAffect Digital Phenotyping Study %A Zulueta,John %A Piscitello,Andrea %A Rasic,Mladen %A Easter,Rebecca %A Babu,Pallavi %A Langenecker,Scott A %A McInnis,Melvin %A Ajilore,Olusola %A Nelson,Peter C %A Ryan,Kelly %A Leow,Alex %+ University of Illinois at Chicago, 1601 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL, 60612, United States, 1 312 996 7383, aleow@psych.uic.edu %K digital phenotype %K mHealth %K ecological momentary assessment %K keystroke dynamics %K bipolar disorder %K depression %K mania %K mobile phone %D 2018 %7 20.07.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Mood disorders are common and associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Better tools are needed for their diagnosis and treatment. Deeper phenotypic understanding of these disorders is integral to the development of such tools. This study is the first effort to use passively collected mobile phone keyboard activity to build deep digital phenotypes of depression and mania. Objective: The objective of our study was to investigate the relationship between mobile phone keyboard activity and mood disturbance in subjects with bipolar disorders and to demonstrate the feasibility of using passively collected mobile phone keyboard metadata features to predict manic and depressive signs and symptoms as measured via clinician-administered rating scales. Methods: Using a within-subject design of 8 weeks, subjects were provided a mobile phone loaded with a customized keyboard that passively collected keystroke metadata. Subjects were administered the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) weekly. Linear mixed-effects models were created to predict HDRS and YMRS scores. The total number of keystrokes was 626,641, with a weekly average of 9791 (7861), and that of accelerometer readings was 6,660,890, with a weekly average 104,076 (68,912). Results: A statistically significant mixed-effects regression model for the prediction of HDRS-17 item scores was created: conditional R2=.63, P=.01. A mixed-effects regression model for YMRS scores showed the variance accounted for by random effect was zero, and so an ordinary least squares linear regression model was created: R2=.34, P=.001. Multiple significant variables were demonstrated for each measure. Conclusions: Mood states in bipolar disorder appear to correlate with specific changes in mobile phone usage. The creation of these models provides evidence for the feasibility of using passively collected keyboard metadata to detect and monitor mood disturbances. %M 30030209 %R 10.2196/jmir.9775 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/7/e241/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9775 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30030209 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 7 %P e10139 %T Exploring User Needs for a Mobile Behavioral-Sensing Technology for Depression Management: Qualitative Study %A Meng,Jingbo %A Hussain,Syed Ali %A Mohr,David C %A Czerwinski,Mary %A Zhang,Mi %+ Department of Communication, Michigan State University, , East Lansing, MI,, United States, 1 5173553480, jingbome@msu.edu %K mobile sensing %K mental health %K depression %K counseling %K user-centered design %D 2018 %7 17.07.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Today, college students are dealing with depression at some of the highest rates in decades. As the primary mental health service provider, university counseling centers are limited in their capacity and efficiency to provide mental health care due to time constraints and reliance on students’ self-reports. A mobile behavioral-sensing platform may serve as a solution to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of university counseling services. Objective: The main objectives of this study are to (1) understand the usefulness of a mobile sensing platform (ie, iSee) in improving counseling services and assisting students’ self-management of their depression conditions, and (2) explore what types of behavioral targets (ie, meaningful information extracted from raw sensor data) and feedback to deliver from both clinician and students’ perspectives. Methods: We conducted semistructured interviews with 9 clinicians and 12 students with depression recruited from a counseling center at a large Midwestern university. The interviews were 40-50 minutes long and were audio recorded and transcribed. The interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis with an inductive approach. Clinician and student interviews were analyzed separately for comparison. The process of extracting themes involved iterative coding, memo writing, theme revisits, and refinement. Results: From the clinician perspective, the mobile sensing platform helps to improve counseling service by providing objective evidence for clinicians and filling gaps in clinician-patient communication. Clinicians suggested providing students with their sensed behavioral targets organized around personalized goals. Clinicians also recommended delivering therapeutic feedback to students based on their sensed behavioral targets, including positive reinforcement, reflection reminders, and challenging negative thoughts. From the student perspective, the mobile sensing platform helps to ease continued self-tracking practices. Students expressed their need for integrated behavioral targets to understand correlations between behaviors and depression. They also pointed out that they would prefer to avoid seeing negative feedback. Conclusions: Although clinician and student participants shared views on the advantages of iSee in supporting university counseling, they had divergent opinions on the types of behavioral targets and feedback to be provided via iSee. This exploratory work gained initial insights into the design of a mobile sensing platform for depression management and informed a more conclusive research project for the future. %M 30021710 %R 10.2196/10139 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/7/e10139/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10139 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30021710 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-2960 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 3 %P e10234 %T Facial-Aging Mobile Apps for Smoking Prevention in Secondary Schools in Brazil: Appearance-Focused Interventional Study %A Bernardes-Souza,Breno %A Patruz Ananias De Assis Pires,Francisco %A Madeira,Gustavo Moreira %A Felício Da Cunha Rodrigues,Túlio %A Gatzka,Martina %A Heppt,Markus V %A Omlor,Albert J %A Enk,Alexander H %A Groneberg,David A %A Seeger,Werner %A von Kalle,Christof %A Berking,Carola %A Corrêa,Paulo César Rodrigues Pinto %A Suhre,Janina Leonie %A Alfitian,Jonas %A Assis,Aisllan %A Brinker,Titus Josef %+ National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Department of Translational Oncology, German Cancer Research Center, Im Neuenheimer Feld 440, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany, 49 +4915175084347, titus.brinker@nct-heidelberg.de %K dermatology %K smoking %K apps %K photoaging %K face %K skin %K tobacco %K tobacco cessation %K tobacco prevention %D 2018 %7 17.07.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Public Health Surveill %G English %X Background: Most smokers start smoking during their early adolescence, often with the idea that smoking is glamorous. Interventions that harness the broad availability of mobile phones as well as adolescents' interest in their appearance may be a novel way to improve school-based prevention. A recent study conducted in Germany showed promising results. However, the transfer to other cultural contexts, effects on different genders, and implementability remains unknown. Objective: In this observational study, we aimed to test the perception and implementability of facial-aging apps to prevent smoking in secondary schools in Brazil in accordance with the theory of planned behavior and with respect to different genders. Methods: We used a free facial-aging mobile phone app (“Smokerface”) in three Brazilian secondary schools via a novel method called mirroring. The students’ altered three-dimensional selfies on mobile phones or tablets and images were “mirrored” via a projector in front of their whole grade. Using an anonymous questionnaire, we then measured on a 5-point Likert scale the perceptions of the intervention among 306 Brazilian secondary school students of both genders in the seventh grade (average age 12.97 years). A second questionnaire captured perceptions of medical students who conducted the intervention and its conduction per protocol. Results: The majority of students perceived the intervention as fun (304/306, 99.3%), claimed the intervention motivated them not to smoke (289/306, 94.4%), and stated that they learned new benefits of not smoking (300/306, 98.0%). Only a minority of students disagreed or fully disagreed that they learned new benefits of nonsmoking (4/306, 1.3%) or that they themselves were motivated not to smoke (5/306, 1.6%). All of the protocol was delivered by volunteer medical students. Conclusions: Our data indicate the potential for facial-aging interventions to reduce smoking prevalence in Brazilian secondary schools in accordance with the theory of planned behavior. Volunteer medical students enjoyed the intervention and are capable of complete implementation per protocol. %M 30021713 %R 10.2196/10234 %U http://publichealth.jmir.org/2018/3/e10234/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10234 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30021713 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 7 %P e159 %T Clinical Feasibility of Monitoring Resting Heart Rate Using a Wearable Activity Tracker in Patients With Thyrotoxicosis: Prospective Longitudinal Observational Study %A Lee,Jie-Eun %A Lee,Dong Hwa %A Oh,Tae Jung %A Kim,Kyoung Min %A Choi,Sung Hee %A Lim,Soo %A Park,Young Joo %A Park,Do Joon %A Jang,Hak Chul %A Moon,Jae Hoon %+ Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 82, Gumi-ro, 173 Beon-gil, Sungnam-si, 13620, Republic Of Korea, 82 31 787 7068, jaemoon76@gmail.com %K activity tracker %K wearable device %K heart rate %K thyrotoxicosis %K hyperthyroidism %K Graves’ disease %D 2018 %7 13.07.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Symptoms and signs of thyrotoxicosis are nonspecific and assessing its clinical status is difficult with conventional physical examinations and history taking. Increased heart rate (HR) is one of the easiest signs to quantify this, and current wearable devices can monitor HR. Objective: We assessed the association between thyroid function and resting HR measured by a wearable activity tracker (WD-rHR) and evaluated the clinical feasibility of using this method in patients with thyrotoxicosis. Methods: Thirty patients with thyrotoxicosis and 10 controls were included in the study. Participants were instructed to use the wearable activity tracker during the study period so that activity and HR data could be collected. The primary study outcomes were verification of changes in WD-rHR during thyrotoxicosis treatment and associations between WD-rHR and thyroid function. Linear and logistic model generalized estimating equation analyses were performed and the results were compared to conventionally obtained resting HR during clinic visits (on-site resting HR) and the Hyperthyroidism Symptom Scale. Results: WD-rHR was higher in thyrotoxic patients than in the control groups and decreased in association with improvement of thyrotoxicosis. A one standard deviation–increase of WD-rHR of about 11 beats per minute (bpm) was associated with the increase of serum free T4 levels (beta=.492, 95% CI 0.367-0.616, P<.001) and thyrotoxicosis risk (odds ratio [OR] 3.840, 95% CI 2.113-6.978, P<.001). Although the Hyperthyroidism Symptom Scale showed similar results with WD-rHR, a 1 SD-increase of on-site rHR (about 16 beats per minute) showed a relatively lower beta and OR (beta=.396, 95% CI 0.204-0.588, P<.001; OR 2.114, 95% CI 1.365-3.273, P<.001) compared with WD-rHR. Conclusions: Heart rate data measured by a wearable device showed reasonable predictability of thyroid function. This simple, easy-to-measure parameter is clinically feasible and has the potential to manage thyroid dysfunction. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03009357; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03009357 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/70h55Llyg) %M 30006328 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9884 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/7/e159/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9884 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30006328 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 7 %P e137 %T Using Mobile Health to Enhance Outcomes of Noncommunicable Diseases Care in Rural Settings and Refugee Camps: Randomized Controlled Trial %A Saleh,Shadi %A Farah,Angie %A Dimassi,Hani %A El Arnaout,Nour %A Constantin,Joanne %A Osman,Mona %A El Morr,Christo %A Alameddine,Mohamad %+ Health Management and Policy, College of Medicine, Mohammed bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Healthcare City, Building 14, Dubai, 505055, United Arab Emirates, 971 +971521023423, ma164@aub.edu.lb %K noncommunicable diseases %K hypertension %K diabetes mellitus %K telemedicine %K mobile health %K rural health %K refugees %D 2018 %7 13.07.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Rural areas and refugee camps are characterized by poor access of patients to needed noncommunicable disease (NCD)–related health services, including diabetes and hypertension. Employing low-cost innovative eHealth interventions, such as mobile health (mHealth), may help improve NCDs prevention and control among disadvantaged populations. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of employing low-cost mHealth tools on the accessibility to health services and improvement of health indicators of individuals with NCDs in rural areas and refugee camps in Lebanon. Methods: This is a randomized controlled trial study in which centers were allocated randomly into control and intervention sites. The effect of an employed mHealth intervention is assessed through selected quality indicators examined in both control and intervention groups. Sixteen primary health care centers (eight controls, eight interventions) located in rural areas and Palestinian refugee camps across Lebanon were included in this study. Data on diabetic and hypertensive patients—1433 in the intervention group and 926 in the control group—was extracted from patient files in the pre and postintervention periods. The intervention entailed weekly short message service messages, including medical information, importance of compliance, and reminders of appointments or regular physician follow-up. Internationally established care indicators were utilized in this study. Descriptive analysis of baseline characteristics of participants, bivariate analysis, logistic and linear regression were conducted using SPSS (IBM Corp). Results: Bivariate analysis of quality indicators indicated that the intervention group had a significant increase in blood pressure control (P=.03), as well as a significant decrease in the mean systolic blood pressure (P=.02), mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c; P<.01), and in the proportion of HbA1c poor control (P=.02). Separate regression models controlling for age, gender, and setting showed a 28% increase in the odds of blood pressure control (P=.05) and a 38% decrease in the odds of HbA1c poor control (P=.04) among the intervention group in the posttest period. Females were at lower odds of HbA1c poor control (P=.01), and age was statistically associated with annual HbA1c testing (P<.01). Regression models for mean systolic blood pressure, mean diastolic blood pressure, and mean HbA1c showed that a mean decrease in HbA1c of 0.87% (P<.01) pretest to posttest period was observed among the intervention group. Patients in rural areas belonging to the intervention group had a lower HbA1c score as compared with those in refugee camps (P<.01). Conclusions: This study underlines the importance of employing integrative approaches of diseases prevention and control in which existing NCD programs in underserved communities (ie, rural and refugee camps settings) are coupled with innovative, low-cost approaches such as mHealth to provide an effective and amplified effect of traditional NCD-targeted care that can be reflected by improved NCD-related health indicators among the population. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03580330; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03580330 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/70mhVEUwQ) %M 30006326 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8146 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/7/e137/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8146 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30006326 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 7 %P e10480 %T Barriers to and Facilitators of Engagement With Remote Measurement Technology for Managing Health: Systematic Review and Content Analysis of Findings %A Simblett,Sara %A Greer,Ben %A Matcham,Faith %A Curtis,Hannah %A Polhemus,Ashley %A Ferrão,José %A Gamble,Peter %A Wykes,Til %+ Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychology, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AF, United Kingdom, 44 2078480762, sara.simblett@kcl.ac.uk %K mHealth %K technology %K engagement %K systematic review %K telemedicine %K remote sensing technology %K patient participation %K review %D 2018 %7 12.07.2018 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Remote measurement technology refers to the use of mobile health technology to track and measure change in health status in real time as part of a person’s everyday life. With accurate measurement, remote measurement technology offers the opportunity to augment health care by providing personalized, precise, and preemptive interventions that support insight into patterns of health-related behavior and self-management. However, for successful implementation, users need to be engaged in its use. Objective: Our objective was to systematically review the literature to update and extend the understanding of the key barriers to and facilitators of engagement with and use of remote measurement technology, to guide the development of future remote measurement technology resources. Methods: We conducted a systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines involving original studies dating back to the last systematic review published in 2014. We included studies if they met the following entry criteria: population (people using remote measurement technology approaches to aid management of health), intervention (remote measurement technology system), comparison group (no comparison group specified), outcomes (qualitative or quantitative evaluation of the barriers to and facilitators of engagement with this system), and study design (randomized controlled trials, feasibility studies, and observational studies). We searched 5 databases (MEDLINE, IEEE Xplore, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library) for articles published from January 2014 to May 2017. Articles were independently screened by 2 researchers. We extracted study characteristics and conducted a content analysis to define emerging themes to synthesize findings. Formal quality assessments were performed to address risk of bias. Results: A total of 33 studies met inclusion criteria, employing quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods designs. Studies were conducted in 10 countries, included male and female participants, with ages ranging from 8 to 95 years, and included both active and passive remote monitoring systems for a diverse range of physical and mental health conditions. However, they were relatively short and had small sample sizes, and reporting of usage statistics was inconsistent. Acceptability of remote measurement technology according to the average percentage of time used (64%-86.5%) and dropout rates (0%-44%) was variable. The barriers and facilitators from the content analysis related to health status, perceived utility and value, motivation, convenience and accessibility, and usability. Conclusions: The results of this review highlight gaps in the design of studies trialing remote measurement technology, including the use of quantitative assessment of usage and acceptability. Several processes that could facilitate engagement with this technology have been identified and may drive the development of more person-focused remote measurement technology. However, these factors need further testing through carefully designed experimental studies. Trial Registration: International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) CRD42017060644; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=60644 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/70K4mThTr) %M 30001997 %R 10.2196/10480 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/7/e10480/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10480 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30001997 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 7 %P e152 %T Health Care Provider Utilization and Cost of an mHealth Intervention in Vulnerable People Living With HIV in Vancouver, Canada: Prospective Study %A Campbell,Amber R %A Kinvig,Karen %A Côté,Hélène CF %A Lester,Richard T %A Qiu,Annie Q %A Maan,Evelyn J %A Alimenti,Ariane %A Pick,Neora %A Murray,Melanie CM %+ Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, E600B, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1, Canada, 1 604 875 2212, melanie.murray@cw.bc.ca %K HIV %K mHealth %K health care provider %K cost %K health care utilization %K adherence %D 2018 %7 09.07.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Improving adherence to combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) can be challenging, especially among vulnerable populations living with HIV. Even where cART is available free of charge, social determinants of health act as barriers to optimal adherence rates. Patient-centered approaches exploiting mobile phone communications (mHealth) have been shown to improve adherence to cART and promote achievement of suppressed HIV plasma viral loads. However, data are scarce on the health care provider (HCP) time commitments and health care costs associated with such interventions. This knowledge is needed to inform policy and programmatic implementation. Objective: The purpose of this study was to approximate the resources required and to provide an estimate of the costs associated with running an mHealth intervention program to improve medication adherence in people living with HIV (PLWH). Methods: This prospective study of HCP utilization and costs was embedded within a repeated measures effectiveness study of the WelTel short-message service (SMS) mHealth program. The study included 85 vulnerable, nonadherent PLWH in Vancouver, Canada, and resulted in improved medication adherence and HIV plasma viral load among participants. Study participants were provided mobile phones with unlimited texting (where required) and received weekly bidirectional text messages to inquire on their status for one year. A clinic nurse triaged and managed participants' responses, immediately logging all patient interactions by topic, HCP involvement, and time dedicated to addressing issues raised by participants. Interaction costs were determined in Canadian dollars based on HCP type, median salary within our health authority, and their time utilized as part of the intervention. Results: Participant-identified problems within text responses included health-related, social, and logistical issues. Taken together, management of problems required a median of 43 minutes (interquartile range, IQR 17-99) of HCP time per participant per year, for a median yearly cost of Can $36.72 (IQR 15.50-81.60) per participant who responded with at least one problem. The clinic nurse who monitored the texts solved or managed 65% of these issues, and the remaining were referred to a variety of other HCPs. The total intervention costs, including mobile phones, plans, and staffing were a median Can $347.74/highly vulnerable participant per year for all participants or Can $383.18/highly vulnerable participant per year for those who responded with at least one problem. Conclusions: Bidirectional mHealth programs improve HIV care and treatment outcomes for PLWH. Knowledge about the HCP cost associated, here less than Can $50/year, provides stakeholders and decision makers with information relevant to determining the feasibility and sustainability of mHealth programs in a real-world setting. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02603536; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02603536 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/70IYqKUjV). %M 29986845 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9493 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/7/e152/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9493 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29986845 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 7 %P e10108 %T Methodological Shortcomings of Wrist-Worn Heart Rate Monitors Validations %A Sartor,Francesco %A Papini,Gabriele %A Cox,Lieke Gertruda Elisabeth %A Cleland,John %+ Personal Health, Philips Research, High Tech Campus, Eindhoven,, Netherlands, 31 61 550 9627, francesco.sartor@philips.com %K sensor technology %K accuracy %K wearable %K telemonitoring %D 2018 %7 02.07.2018 %9 Viewpoint %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Wearable sensor technology could have an important role for clinical research and in delivering health care. Accordingly, such technology should undergo rigorous evaluation prior to market launch, and its performance should be supported by evidence-based marketing claims. Many studies have been published attempting to validate wrist-worn photoplethysmography (PPG)-based heart rate monitoring devices, but their contrasting results question the utility of this technology. The reason why many validations did not provide conclusive evidence of the validity of wrist-worn PPG-based heart rate monitoring devices is mostly methodological. The validation strategy should consider the nature of data provided by both the investigational and reference devices. There should be uniformity in the statistical approach to the analyses employed in these validation studies. The investigators should test the technology in the population of interest and in a setting appropriate for intended use. Device industries and the scientific community require robust standards for the validation of new wearable sensor technology. %M 29967000 %R 10.2196/10108 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/7/e10108/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10108 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29967000 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-6722 %I JMIR Publications %V 1 %N 1 %P e6 %T Maternal and Child Acceptability of a Proposed Guided Imagery Therapy Mobile App Designed to Treat Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders in Children: Mixed-Methods Predevelopment Formative Research %A Hollier,John M %A Vaughan,Adetola O %A Liu,Yan %A van Tilburg,Miranda AL %A Shulman,Robert J %A Thompson,Debbe I %+ Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, 6621 Fannin Street, Suite 1010, Houston, TX, 77030, United States, 1 8328243814, jmhollie@bcm.edu %K functional abdominal pain disorders %K guided imagery therapy %K mixed methods %K mobile applications %K pediatrics %K parents %K Technology Acceptance Model %K imagery (psychotherapy) %D 2018 %7 29.06.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Pediatr Parent %G English %X Background: Functional abdominal pain disorders are chronic abdominal pain conditions, which affect up to 20% of children worldwide. Of the various functional abdominal pain disorder treatment modalities, psychological therapies such as guided imagery therapy appear most effective. However, there are significant barriers to receiving psychological therapies, including access to trained therapists. Alternatively, remotely delivered psychological therapies for functional abdominal pain disorders have been efficacious. Objective: The objective of our study was to assess acceptability of a proposed guided imagery therapy app designed to treat functional abdominal pain disorders through remote delivery of prerecorded audio sessions and to evaluate user preferences for using such an app. Methods: Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted a predevelopment formative study among children aged 7 to 12 years with a functional abdominal pain disorder and their parents. The parents completed our modified Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) questionnaire, which quantified behavioral intention and related factors for using a guided imagery therapy app. Dyads participated in separate in-person semistructured interviews to assess their attitudes toward and preferences for a guided imagery therapy app. Questionnaire and interview findings were collected concurrently, analyzed separately, and then integrated through methods triangulation. Results: Among the 15 participating parent-child dyads, 5 (33%) children were Hispanic and 11 (73%) had irritable bowel syndrome. They had diverse socioeconomic status. All parent participants were mothers. The TAM questionnaire indicated that mothers scored favorably on behavioral intention to use a guided imagery therapy app (mean score 12.0, SD 2.6, possible range 3-15). Scores for the TAM factors perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, hedonic motivation, compatibility, and habit also were favorable. Maternal interviews confirmed positive attitudes toward the proposed app. They advocated a visual component to hold their child’s attention during the guided imagery therapy sessions; recommended incorporating background sounds into the sessions; favored session reminder notifications from the app; and thought the best time for their child to listen to the sessions would be in the evening or before bed. The child interviews also confirmed positive attitudes toward the proposed app. They suggested guided imagery therapy session topics such as sports and adventures; listening to sessions in their bedroom; and the need for parental supervision to install the app on their mobile device. Integration of the quantitative and qualitative methods findings complimented one another on acceptability. The favorable behavioral intention TAM score aligned well with expressed positive maternal and child attitudes toward the app and can be explained by the desire to avoid medications. The questionnaire and interviews also confirmed therapeutic benefit as an intrinsic motivator to promote routine use. Conclusions: A guided imagery therapy app designed to treat pediatric patients with functional abdominal pain disorders appears to be acceptable to both mothers and children. Incorporating parent and child preferences into a guided imagery therapy app could promote therapeutic compliance and increase access to optimal care. %R 10.2196/pediatrics.8535 %U http://pediatrics.jmir.org/2018/1/e6/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/pediatrics.8535 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-1011 %I JMIR Publications %V 2 %N 1 %P e13 %T Mobile Technology Utilization Among Patients From Diverse Cultural and Linguistic Backgrounds Attending Cardiac Rehabilitation in Australia: Descriptive, Case-Matched Comparative Study %A Zhang,Ling %A Ding,Ding %A Neubeck,Lis %A Gallagher,Patrick %A Paull,Glenn %A Gao,Yan %A Gallagher,Robyn %+ Sydney Nursing School, University of Sydney, 2W10, Level 2, Building D17, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, 2006, Australia, 61 2 86271398, lzha4590@uni.sydney.edu.au %K cultural and linguistic diverse %K cardiac rehabilitation %K technology %K mobile technology %K information technology %D 2018 %7 26.06.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Cardio %G English %X Background: Barriers to attending cardiac rehabilitation (CR), including cultural and linguistic differences, may be addressed by recent technological developments. However, the feasibility of using these approaches in culturally and linguistically diverse patients is yet to be determined. Objective: This study aims to assess the use of mobile technologies and features, as well as confidence in utilization across patients speaking different languages at home (ie, English, Mandarin Chinese, and a language other than English and Mandarin [other]) and are both eligible and physically suitable for CR. In addition, the study aims to determine the sociodemographic correlates of the mobile technology/feature use, including language spoken at home in the three groups mentioned above. Methods: This is a descriptive, case matched, comparative study. Age and gender-matched patients speaking English, Mandarin and other languages (n=30/group) eligible for CR were surveyed for their mobile technology and mobile feature use. Results: ‘Participants had a mean age of 66.7 years (SD 13, n=90, range 46-95), with 53.3% (48/90) male. The majority (82/90, 91.1%) used at least one technology device, with 87.8% (79/90) using mobile devices, the most common being smartphones (57/90, 63.3%), tablets (28/90, 31.1%), and text/voice-only phones (24/90, 26.7%). More English-speaking participants used computers than Mandarin or “other” language speaking participants (P=.003 and .02) and were more confident in doing so compared to Mandarin-speaking participants (P=.003). More Mandarin-speaking participants used smartphones compared with “other” language speaking participants (P=.03). Most commonly used mobile features were voice calls (77/82, 93.9%), text message (54/82, 65.9%), the internet (39/82, 47.6%), email (36/82, 43.9%), and videoconferencing (Skype or FaceTime [WeChat or QQ] 35/82, 42.7%). Less Mandarin-speaking participants used emails (P=.001) and social media (P=.007) than English-speaking participants. Speaking Mandarin was independently associated with using smartphone, emails, and accessing the web-based medication information (OR 7.238, 95% CI 1.262-41.522; P=.03, OR 0.089, 95% CI 0.016-0.490; P=.006 and OR 0.191, 95% CI 0.037-0.984; P=.05). Conclusions: This study reveals a high usage of mobile technology among CR patients and provides further insights into differences in the technology use across CALD patients in Australia. The findings of this study may inform the design and implementation of future technology-based CR. %R 10.2196/cardio.9424 %U http://cardio.jmir.org/2018/1/e13/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/cardio.9424 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 6 %P e10701 %T The Prescription of Mobile Apps by Primary Care Teams: A Pilot Project in Catalonia %A Lopez Segui,Francesc %A Pratdepadua Bufill,Carme %A Abdon Gimenez,Nuria %A Martinez Roldan,Jordi %A Garcia Cuyas,Francesc %+ TIC Salut Social, Generalitat de Catalunya, Parc TecnoCampus Mataró Maresme - Torre TCM3, Av Ernest Lluch, 32, 6a planta, Mataró, Barcelona, 08302, Spain, 34 34 93 553 26 42, fgarciacuyas@ticsalutsocial.cat %K mobile apps %K apps %K mHealth %K primary health care %K telemedicine %K telemonitoring %D 2018 %7 21.06.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: In Catalonia, the Fundació TIC Salut Social’s mHealth Office created the AppSalut Site to showcase to mobile apps in the field of health and social services. Its primary objective was to encourage the public to look after their health. The catalogue allows primary health care doctors to prescribe certified, connected apps, which guarantees a safe and reliable environment for their use. The generated data can be consulted by health care professionals and included in the patient's clinical history. This document presents the intervention and the major findings following a five-month pilot project conducted in the Barcelona area. Objective: The objective of the pilot study was to test, in a real, controlled environment, the implementation of AppSalut. Specifically, we tested whether (1) the procedures corresponding to the prescription, transmission, and evaluation of the data functions correctly, (2) users interact successfully and accept the tool, and (3) the data travels through existing pathways in accordance with international standards. The evaluation is not based on clinical criteria, but rather on the usability and technological reliability of the intervention and its implementation in the context of primary care. Methods: The project was presented to the Primary Care Team participants to encourage the involvement of doctors. The study involved at least 5 doctors and 5 patients per professional, chosen at their discretion and in accordance with their own clinical criteria. An initial consultation took place, during which the doctor discussed the pilot project with the patient and recommended the app. The patient was sent a text message (SMS, short message service) containing an access code. When the patient arrived home, they accessed their personal health record (PHR) to view the recommendation, download the app, and enter the access code. The patient was then able to start using the app. The data was collected in a standardized manner and automatically sent to the system. In a second visit, the patient looked at the data with their doctor on their clinical station screen. The latter was able to consult the information generated by the patient and select what to include in their electronic health record. In order to assess the performance of the system, three focus groups were performed and two ad-hoc case-specific questionnaires, one for doctors and one for patients, were sent by email. Response was voluntary. Results: A total of 32 doctors made 79 recommendations of apps to patients. On average, the patients uploaded data 13 times per prescribed app, accounting for a total of 16 different variables. Results show that data traveled through the established channels in an adequate manner and in accordance with international standards. This includes the prescription of an app by a doctor, the patient accessing the recommendation via the PHR, app download by the patient from the official app stores, linking of the patient to the public platform through the app, the generation and visualization of the data on the primary care workstation, and its subsequent validation by the clinician. Conclusions: First, the choice of apps to be used is fundamental; the user's perception of the utility of the proposed tool being paramount. Second, thorough face-to-face support is vital for a smooth transition towards a more intense model of telemedicine. Last, a powerful limiting factor is the lack of control over people’s ability to use the apps. %M 29929948 %R 10.2196/10701 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/6/e10701/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10701 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29929948 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 6 %P e10042 %T Applying Natural Language Processing to Understand Motivational Profiles for Maintaining Physical Activity After a Mobile App and Accelerometer-Based Intervention: The mPED Randomized Controlled Trial %A Fukuoka,Yoshimi %A Lindgren,Teri G %A Mintz,Yonatan Dov %A Hooper,Julie %A Aswani,Anil %+ Department of Physiological Nursing/Institute for Health & Aging, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, N631, San Francisco, CA, 94143, United States, 1 (415) 476 8419, Yoshimi.Fukuoka@ucsf.edu %K mobile apps %K physical activity %K fitness trackers %K women %K maintenance %K accelerometer %K randomized controlled trial %K motivation %K barriers %K behavioral change %D 2018 %7 20.06.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Regular physical activity is associated with reduced risk of chronic illnesses. Despite various types of successful physical activity interventions, maintenance of activity over the long term is extremely challenging. Objective: The aims of this original paper are to 1) describe physical activity engagement post intervention, 2) identify motivational profiles using natural language processing (NLP) and clustering techniques in a sample of women who completed the physical activity intervention, and 3) compare sociodemographic and clinical data among these identified cluster groups. Methods: In this cross-sectional analysis of 203 women completing a 12-month study exit (telephone) interview in the mobile phone-based physical activity education study were examined. The mobile phone-based physical activity education study was a randomized, controlled trial to test the efficacy of the app and accelerometer intervention and its sustainability over a 9-month period. All subjects returned the accelerometer and stopped accessing the app at the last 9-month research office visit. Physical engagement and motivational profiles were assessed by both closed and open-ended questions, such as “Since your 9-month study visit, has your physical activity been more, less, or about the same (compared to the first 9 months of the study)?” and, “What motivates you the most to be physically active?” NLP and cluster analysis were used to classify motivational profiles. Descriptive statistics were used to compare participants’ baseline characteristics among identified groups. Results: Approximately half of the 2 intervention groups (Regular and Plus) reported that they were still wearing an accelerometer and engaging in brisk walking as they were directed during the intervention phases. These numbers in the 2 intervention groups were much higher than the control group (overall P=.01 and P=.003, respectively). Three clusters were identified through NLP and named as the Weight Loss group (n=19), the Illness Prevention group (n=138), and the Health Promotion group (n=46). The Weight Loss group was significantly younger than the Illness Prevention and Health Promotion groups (overall P<.001). The Illness Prevention group had a larger number of Caucasians as compared to the Weight Loss group (P=.001), which was composed mostly of those who identified as African American, Hispanic, or mixed race. Additionally, the Health Promotion group tended to have lower BMI scores compared to the Illness Prevention group (overall P=.02). However, no difference was noted in the baseline moderate-to-vigorous intensity activity level among the 3 groups (overall P>.05). Conclusions: The findings could be relevant to tailoring a physical activity maintenance intervention. Furthermore, the findings from NLP and cluster analysis are useful methods to analyze short free text to differentiate motivational profiles. As more sophisticated NL tools are developed in the future, the potential of NLP application in behavioral research will broaden. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01280812; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01280812 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/70IkGagAJ) %M 29925491 %R 10.2196/10042 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/6/e10042/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10042 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29925491 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 6 %P e145 %T Using the Habit App for Weight Loss Problem Solving: Development and Feasibility Study %A Pagoto,Sherry %A Tulu,Bengisu %A Agu,Emmanuel %A Waring,Molly E %A Oleski,Jessica L %A Jake-Schoffman,Danielle E %+ Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy, Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, 2006 Hillside Road, Storrs, CT, 06269, United States, 1 860 486 2313, Sherry.Pagoto@uconn.edu %K mobile app %K mHealth %K weight loss %K obesity %K problem solving %D 2018 %7 20.06.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Reviews of weight loss mobile apps have revealed they include very few evidence-based features, relying mostly on self-monitoring. Unfortunately, adherence to self-monitoring is often low, especially among patients with motivational challenges. One behavioral strategy that is leveraged in virtually every visit of behavioral weight loss interventions and is specifically used to deal with adherence and motivational issues is problem solving. Problem solving has been successfully implemented in depression mobile apps, but not yet in weight loss apps. Objective: This study describes the development and feasibility testing of the Habit app, which was designed to automate problem-solving therapy for weight loss. Methods: Two iterative single-arm pilot studies were conducted to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the Habit app. In each pilot study, adults who were overweight or obese were enrolled in an 8-week intervention that included the Habit app plus support via a private Facebook group. Feasibility outcomes included retention, app usage, usability, and acceptability. Changes in problem-solving skills and weight over 8 weeks are described, as well as app usage and weight change at 16 weeks. Results: Results from both pilots show acceptable use of the Habit app over 8 weeks with on average two to three uses per week, the recommended rate of use. Acceptability ratings were mixed such that 54% (13/24) and 73% (11/15) of participants found the diet solutions helpful and 71% (17/24) and 80% (12/15) found setting reminders for habits helpful in pilots 1 and 2, respectively. In both pilots, participants lost significant weight (P=.005 and P=.03, respectively). In neither pilot was an effect on problem-solving skills observed (P=.62 and P=.27, respectively). Conclusions: Problem-solving therapy for weight loss is feasible to implement in a mobile app environment; however, automated delivery may not impact problem-solving skills as has been observed previously via human delivery. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02192905; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02192905 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6zPQmvOF2) %M 29925496 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9801 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/6/e145/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9801 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29925496 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 6 %P e10528 %T Multicomponent mHealth Intervention for Large, Sustained Change in Multiple Diet and Activity Risk Behaviors: The Make Better Choices 2 Randomized Controlled Trial %A Spring,Bonnie %A Pellegrini,Christine %A McFadden,H G %A Pfammatter,Angela Fidler %A Stump,Tammy K %A Siddique,Juned %A King,Abby C %A Hedeker,Donald %+ Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Department of Preventive Medicine, 680 N Lakeshore Drive, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, United States, 1 312 503 6579, bspring@northwestern.edu %K health behavior %K risk factors %K mobile health %K behavioral medicine %K randomized controlled trial %D 2018 %7 19.06.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Prevalent co-occurring poor diet and physical inactivity convey chronic disease risk to the population. Large magnitude behavior change can improve behaviors to recommended levels, but multiple behavior change interventions produce small, poorly maintained effects. Objective: The Make Better Choices 2 trial tested whether a multicomponent intervention integrating mHealth, modest incentives, and remote coaching could sustainably improve diet and activity. Methods: Between 2012 and 2014, the 9-month randomized controlled trial enrolled 212 Chicago area adults with low fruit and vegetable and high saturated fat intakes, low moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and high sedentary leisure screen time. Participants were recruited by advertisements to an open-access website, screened, and randomly assigned to either of two active interventions targeting MVPA simultaneously with, or sequentially after other diet and activity targets (N=84 per intervention) or a stress and sleep contact control intervention (N=44). They used a smartphone app and accelerometer to track targeted behaviors and received personalized remote coaching from trained paraprofessionals. Perfect behavioral adherence was rewarded with an incentive of US $5 per week for 12 weeks. Diet and activity behaviors were measured at baseline, 3, 6, and 9 months; primary outcome was 9-month diet and activity composite improvement. Results: Both simultaneous and sequential interventions produced large, sustained improvements exceeding control (P<.001), and brought all diet and activity behaviors to guideline levels. At 9 months, the interventions increased fruits and vegetables by 6.5 servings per day (95% CI 6.1-6.8), increased MVPA by 24.7 minutes per day (95% CI 20.0-29.5), decreased sedentary leisure by 170.5 minutes per day (95% CI –183.5 to –157.5), and decreased saturated fat intake by 3.6% (95% CI –4.1 to –3.1). Retention through 9-month follow-up was 82.1%. Self-monitoring decreased from 96.3% of days at baseline to 72.3% at 3 months, 63.5% at 6 months, and 54.6% at 9 months (P<.001). Neither attrition nor decline in self-monitoring differed across intervention groups. Conclusions: Multicomponent mHealth diet and activity intervention involving connected coaching and modest initial performance incentives holds potential to reduce chronic disease risk. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01249989; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01249989 (Archived by WebCite at https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01249989). %M 29921561 %R 10.2196/10528 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/6/e10528/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10528 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29921561 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 6 %P e10024 %T Effective Behavioral Changes through a Digital mHealth App: Exploring the Impact of Hedonic Well-Being, Psychological Empowerment and Inspiration %A Lin,Yuting %A Tudor-Sfetea,Carina %A Siddiqui,Sarim %A Sherwani,Yusuf %A Ahmed,Maroof %A Eisingerich,Andreas B %+ Imperial College Business School, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom, 44 207 594 7850, y.lin14@imperial.ac.uk %K mHealth %K gamification %K cognitive behavioral therapy %K empowerment %K well-being %K inspiration %K mobile app %K behavior change and prevention %K digital %D 2018 %7 15.06.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: New mobile health (mHealth) software apps are emerging and are providing the foundation to radically transform the practice and reach of medical research and care. For this study we collaborated with Quit Genius, a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) based mHealth app that helps users quit smoking, to explore the effective design of a digital mHealth app; one that delivers important benefits to its users and helps them change their behaviors for a healthier lifestyle. Objective: The specific aims of this study were to (1) explore the key role of CBT program progress, (2) examine the gamification design app elements that deliver significant benefits (ie, empowerment, well-being, inspiration) to users, (3) explore the effectiveness of these app elements to help users quit smoking or reduce the number of cigarettes smoked, and (4) identify and describe any potential drivers and hindrances arising from the app design elements. Methods: We developed an online survey and sent an email invitation to 4144 individuals, who had previously or were at the time using the Quit Genius mHealth app, to encourage participation in the study. We matched the online survey data with objective app usage data of the study participants. Results: A dataset of 190 completed responses was used. At the time of the survey, respondents had completed an average of 60% of the CBT program in the Quit Genius mHealth app. Of the respondents, 36.3% (69/190) noted to have quit smoking successfully after using the Quit Genius app. As for those who remained smokers after using the app (N=121), the number of cigarettes smoked per day was significantly reduced by 59.6%. The ability of the app to enhance users’ hedonic well-being and psychologically empower them in their daily lives was identified as being key in helping users quit smoking. Specifically, the results show that users whose well-being was enhanced through the app were 1.72 times more likely to quit smoking successfully. Moreover, a one-unit increase on a 7-point Likert scale in the app’s ability to empower smokers in their daily lives led to a reduction of cigarettes smoked per day of 53%. The app’s inspiration to users, however, was negatively associated with quitting success and the reduction in cigarette smoked per day. Conclusions: The findings offer important insights for the effective design of digital mHealth apps. Specifically, we find that perceived psychological empowerment and enhanced hedonic well-being from the mobile solution may be a more impactful way to support the effectiveness of mobile cognitive behavioral therapy for smoking cessation than eliciting strong inspiration. %M 29907557 %R 10.2196/10024 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/6/e10024/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10024 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29907557 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 6 %P e210 %T Identifying Objective Physiological Markers and Modifiable Behaviors for Self-Reported Stress and Mental Health Status Using Wearable Sensors and Mobile Phones: Observational Study %A Sano,Akane %A Taylor,Sara %A McHill,Andrew W %A Phillips,Andrew JK %A Barger,Laura K %A Klerman,Elizabeth %A Picard,Rosalind %+ Affective Computing Group, Media Lab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 75 Amherst Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139, United States, 1 6178999468, akanes@media.mit.edu %K mobile health %K mood %K machine learning %K wearable electronic devices %K smartphone %K mobile phone %K mental health %K psychological stress %D 2018 %7 08.06.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Wearable and mobile devices that capture multimodal data have the potential to identify risk factors for high stress and poor mental health and to provide information to improve health and well-being. Objective: We developed new tools that provide objective physiological and behavioral measures using wearable sensors and mobile phones, together with methods that improve their data integrity. The aim of this study was to examine, using machine learning, how accurately these measures could identify conditions of self-reported high stress and poor mental health and which of the underlying modalities and measures were most accurate in identifying those conditions. Methods: We designed and conducted the 1-month SNAPSHOT study that investigated how daily behaviors and social networks influence self-reported stress, mood, and other health or well-being-related factors. We collected over 145,000 hours of data from 201 college students (age: 18-25 years, male:female=1.8:1) at one university, all recruited within self-identified social groups. Each student filled out standardized pre- and postquestionnaires on stress and mental health; during the month, each student completed twice-daily electronic diaries (e-diaries), wore two wrist-based sensors that recorded continuous physical activity and autonomic physiology, and installed an app on their mobile phone that recorded phone usage and geolocation patterns. We developed tools to make data collection more efficient, including data-check systems for sensor and mobile phone data and an e-diary administrative module for study investigators to locate possible errors in the e-diaries and communicate with participants to correct their entries promptly, which reduced the time taken to clean e-diary data by 69%. We constructed features and applied machine learning to the multimodal data to identify factors associated with self-reported poststudy stress and mental health, including behaviors that can be possibly modified by the individual to improve these measures. Results: We identified the physiological sensor, phone, mobility, and modifiable behavior features that were best predictors for stress and mental health classification. In general, wearable sensor features showed better classification performance than mobile phone or modifiable behavior features. Wearable sensor features, including skin conductance and temperature, reached 78.3% (148/189) accuracy for classifying students into high or low stress groups and 87% (41/47) accuracy for classifying high or low mental health groups. Modifiable behavior features, including number of naps, studying duration, calls, mobility patterns, and phone-screen-on time, reached 73.5% (139/189) accuracy for stress classification and 79% (37/47) accuracy for mental health classification. Conclusions: New semiautomated tools improved the efficiency of long-term ambulatory data collection from wearable and mobile devices. Applying machine learning to the resulting data revealed a set of both objective features and modifiable behavioral features that could classify self-reported high or low stress and mental health groups in a college student population better than previous studies and showed new insights into digital phenotyping. %M 29884610 %R 10.2196/jmir.9410 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/6/e210/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9410 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29884610 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 5 %P e10034 %T Attention and Cognitive Bias Modification Apps: Review of the Literature and of Commercially Available Apps %A Zhang,Melvyn %A Ying,JiangBo %A Song,Guo %A Fung,Daniel SS %A Smith,Helen %+ National Addictions Management Service, Institute of Mental Health, 10 Buangkok Green Medical Park, Singapore, 539747, Singapore, 65 63892504, melvynzhangweibin@gmail.com %K attention bias %K cognitive bias %K smartphone %K mHealth %K psychiatry %K telemedicine %K mobile applications %D 2018 %7 24.05.2018 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Automatic processes, such as attentional biases or interpretative biases, have been purported to be responsible for several psychiatric disorders. Recent reviews have highlighted that cognitive biases may be modifiable. Advances in eHealth and mHealth have been harnessed for the delivery of cognitive bias modification. While several studies have evaluated mHealth-based bias modification intervention, no review, to our knowledge, has synthesized the evidence for it. In addition, no review has looked at commercial apps and their functionalities and methods of bias modification. A review is essential in determining whether scientifically validated apps are available commercially and the proportion of commercial apps that have been evaluated scientifically. Objective: The objective of this review was primarily to determine the proportion of attention or cognitive bias modification apps that have been evaluated scientifically and secondarily to determine whether the scientifically evaluated apps were commercially available. We also sought to identify commercially available bias modification apps and determine the functionalities of these apps, the methods used for attention or cognitive bias modification, and whether these apps had been evaluated scientifically. Methods: To identify apps in the published literature, we searched PubMed, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Scopus for studies published from 2000 to April 17, 2018. The search terms used were “attention bias” OR “cognitive bias” AND “smartphone” OR “smartphone application” OR “smartphone app” OR “mobile phones” OR “mobile application” OR mobile app” OR “personal digital assistant.” To identify commercial apps, we conducted a manual cross-sectional search between September 15 and 25, 2017 in the Apple iTunes and Google Play app stores. The search terms used to identify the apps were “attention bias” and “cognitive bias.” We also conducted a manual search on the apps with published evaluations. Results: The effectiveness of bias modification was reported in 7 of 8 trials that we identified in the published literature. Only 1 of the 8 previously evaluated apps was commercially available. The 17 commercial apps we identified tended to use either an attention visual search or gamified task. Only 1 commercial app had been evaluated in the published literature. Conclusions: This is perhaps the first review to synthesize the evidence for published mHealth attention bias apps. Our review demonstrated that evidence for mHealth attention bias apps is inconclusive, and quite a few commercial apps have not been validated scientifically. %M 29793899 %R 10.2196/10034 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/5/e10034/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10034 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29793899 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 5 %P e162 %T The Effectiveness of Smartphone Apps for Lifestyle Improvement in Noncommunicable Diseases: Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses %A Lunde,Pernille %A Nilsson,Birgitta Blakstad %A Bergland,Astrid %A Kværner,Kari Jorunn %A Bye,Asta %+ Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, OsloMet—Oslo Metropolitan University, 1st Floor, Pilestredet 50, Oslo, 0130, Norway, 47 48063537, plunde@oslomet.no %K smartphone %K telemedicine %K noncommunicable diseases %K lifestyle %K diet %K exercise %D 2018 %7 04.05.2018 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) account for 70% of all deaths in a year globally. The four main NCDs are cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic pulmonary diseases, and diabetes mellitus. Fifty percent of persons with NCD do not adhere to prescribed treatment; in fact, adherence to lifestyle interventions is especially considered as a major challenge. Smartphone apps permit structured monitoring of health parameters, as well as the opportunity to receive feedback. Objective: The aim of this study was to review and assess the effectiveness of app-based interventions, lasting at least 3 months, to promote lifestyle changes in patients with NCDs. Methods: In February 2017, a literature search in five databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Academic Research Premier, and Cochrane Reviews and Trials) was conducted. Inclusion criteria was quantitative study designs including randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials that included patients aged 18 years and older diagnosed with any of the four main NCDs. Lifestyle outcomes were physical activity, physical fitness, modification of dietary habits, and quality of life. All included studies were assessed for risk of bias using the Cochrane Collaboration`s risk of bias tool. Meta-analyses were conducted for one of the outcomes (glycated hemoglobin, HbA1c) by using the estimate of effect of mean post treatment with SD or CI. Heterogeneity was tested using the I2 test. All studies included in the meta-analyses were graded. Results: Of the 1588 records examined, 9 met the predefined criteria. Seven studies included diabetes patients only, one study included heart patients only, and another study included both diabetes and heart patients. Statistical significant effect was shown in HbA1c in 5 of 8 studies, as well in body weight in one of 5 studies and in waist circumference in one of 3 studies evaluating these outcomes. Seven of the included studies were included in the meta-analyses and demonstrated significantly overall effect on HbA1c on a short term (3-6 months; P=.02) with low heterogeneity (I2=41%). In the long term (10-12 months), the overall effect on HbA1c was statistical significant (P=.009) and without heterogeneity (I2=0%). The quality of evidence according to Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation was low for short term and moderate for long term. Conclusions: Our review demonstrated limited research of the use of smartphone apps for NCDs other than diabetes with a follow-up of at least 3 months. For diabetes, the use of apps seems to improve lifestyle factors, especially to decrease HbA1c. More research with long-term follow-up should be performed to assess the effect of smartphone apps for NCDs other than diabetes. %M 29728346 %R 10.2196/jmir.9751 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/5/e162/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9751 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29728346 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 4 %P e107 %T Long-Term Effectiveness of a Smartphone App for Improving Healthy Lifestyles in General Population in Primary Care: Randomized Controlled Trial (Evident II Study) %A Garcia-Ortiz,Luis %A Recio-Rodriguez,Jose Ignacio %A Agudo-Conde,Cristina %A Patino-Alonso,María Carmen %A Maderuelo-Fernandez,Jose-Angel %A Repiso Gento,Irene %A Puigdomenech Puig,Elisa %A Gonzalez-Viejo,Natividad %A Arietaleanizbeaskoa,Maria Soledad %A Schmolling-Guinovart,Yolanda %A Gomez-Marcos,Manuel Angel %A Rodriguez-Sanchez,Emiliano %A , %+ Primary Health Care Research Unit, Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca, La Alamedilla Health Center, Health Service of Castilla y León, Av. Comuneros 27-31, Salamanca,, Spain, 34 923231859 ext 53552, lgarciao@usal.es %K exercise %K Mediterranean diet %K smartphone %K vascular stiffness %D 2018 %7 27.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Information and communication technologies are currently among the supporting elements that may contribute to improving health and changing lifestyles. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of adding an app to standardized counseling in order to increase physical activity (PA) and adherence to the Mediterranean diet and to analyze the effects of app adherence in lifestyle changes. Methods: A randomized, multicenter clinical trial with a 12 month-follow up was conducted, involving 833 participants recruited by random sampling in 6 primary Spanish care centers (415 vs 418). Counseling on PA and the Mediterranean diet was given to both groups by a research nurse; however, the counseling + app group (intervention group) received additional training in the use of an app that was designed to promote the Mediterranean diet and PA over a 3-month period. Main outcomes and measures included PA by accelerometer and the 7-day Physical Activity Recall (PAR) questionnaire and adherence to the Mediterranean diet by an adherence screener questionnaire. We considered adherence to the app to be high when it was used for more than 60 days. Results: The mean age was 51 years (SD 12) in the intervention group and 52.3 years (SD 12.0) in the counseling-only group; females predominated in both groups (60.0%, 249/415 and 64.1%, 268/418, respectively). PA by accelerometer declined in both groups at 12 months (P value for tendency in moderate to vigorous PA, [MVPA]=.15). The intervention subgroup with high app adherence had better behavior than the low adherence subgroup (P value for tendency in MVPA=.001). PA analyzed by 7-day PAR did not show changes at 12 months in any of the groups (P value for tendency=.25). In the Mediterranean diet, an increase in adherence was observed in both groups at 12 months with no differences between them (P value for tendency=.46). In these two cases, the group with high app adherence also had better behavior, although without reaching significance for the tendency (P>.05). Conclusions: The participants with strongest app adherence showed better outcomes in terms of maintenance of healthy lifestyles at 12 months than those with weaker adherence. Overall, however, we found no differences between intervention group and counseling-only group in PA increase and adherence to the Mediterranean diet in the long term. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02016014; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02016014 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6ymEXH6W4) %M 29702473 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9218 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/4/e107/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9218 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29702473 %0 Journal Article %@ 2368-7959 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 2 %P e30 %T Worker Preferences for a Mental Health App Within Male-Dominated Industries: Participatory Study %A Peters,Dorian %A Deady,Mark %A Glozier,Nick %A Harvey,Samuel %A Calvo,Rafael A %+ Wellbeing Technology Lab, Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Sydney, Bldg J03, Electrical Engineering, Sydney, 2006, Australia, 61 0289015604, dorian.peters@sydney.edu.au %K mental health %K mhealth %K mobile apps %K workplace %K men %K participatory design %D 2018 %7 25.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Ment Health %G English %X Background: Men are less likely to seek help for mental health problems, possibly because of stigma imposed by cultural masculine norms. These tendencies may be amplified within male-dominated workplaces such as the emergency services or transport industries. Mobile apps present a promising way to provide access to mental health support. However, little is known about the kinds of mental health technologies men would be willing to engage with, and no app can be effective if the intended users do not engage with it. Objective: The goal of this participatory user research study was to explore the perceptions, preferences, and ideas of workers in male-dominated workplaces to define requirements for a mental health app that would be engaging and effective at improving psychological well-being. Methods: Workers from male-dominated workplaces in rural, suburban, and urban locations took part in an exploratory qualitative study involving participatory workshops designed to elicit their perspectives and preferences for mental health support and the design of an app for mental health. Participants generated a number of artifacts (including draft screen designs and promotional material) designed to reify their perceptions, tacit knowledge, and ideas. Results: A total of 60 workers aged between 26 and 65 years, 92% (55/60) male, from male-dominated workplaces in rural (16/60, 27%), suburban (14/60, 23%), and urban (30/60, 50%) locations participated in one of the 6 workshops, resulting in 49 unique feature ideas and 81 participant-generated artifacts. Thematic analysis resulted in a set of feature, language, and style preferences, as well as characteristics considered important by participants for a mental health app. The term “mental health” was highly stigmatized and disliked by participants. Tools including a mood tracker, self-assessment, and mood-fix tool were highly valued, and app characteristics such as brevity of interactions, minimal on-screen text, and a solutions-oriented approach were considered essential by participants. Some implementation strategies based on these findings are included in the discussion. Conclusions: Future mental health mobile phone apps targeting workers in male-dominated workplaces need to consider language use and preferred features, as well as balance the preferences of users with the demands of evidence-based intervention. In addition to informing the development of mental health apps for workers in male-dominated industries, these findings may also provide insights for mental health technologies, for men in general, and for others in high-stigma environments. %M 29695371 %R 10.2196/mental.8999 %U http://mental.jmir.org/2018/2/e30/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mental.8999 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29695371 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 4 %P e10394 %T Relevance of Trust Marks and CE Labels in German-Language Store Descriptions of Health Apps: Analysis %A Albrecht,Urs-Vito %A Hillebrand,Uta %A von Jan,Ute %+ Peter L Reichertz Institute for Medical Informatics, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str.1, Hannover, 30625, Germany, 49 511532 ext 3508, albrecht.urs-vito@mh-hannover.de %K mobile phone %K mobile health app %K quality assessment %K quality seals %K medical device regulation %D 2018 %7 25.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: In addition to mandatory CE marking (“CE” representing Conformité Européenne, with the CE marking being a symbol of free marketability in the European Economic Area) for medical devices, there are various seals, initiatives, action groups, etc, in the health app context. However, whether manufacturers use them to distinguish their apps and attach relevance to them is unclear. Objective: The objective was to take a snapshot of quality seals, regulatory marks, and other orientation aids available on the German app market and to determine whether manufacturers deem such labels relevant enough to apply them to their apps, namely as reflected by mentions in app description texts in a typical app store (ie, Apple’s App Store). Methods: A full survey of the metadata of 103,046 apps from Apple’s German App Store in the Medicine and Health & Fitness categories was carried out. For apps with German-language store descriptions (N=8767), these were automatically searched for the occurrence of relevant keywords and validated manually (N=41). In addition, the websites of various app seal providers were checked for assigned seals. Results: Few manufacturers referenced seals in the descriptions (5/41), although this would have been expected more often based on the seals we were able to identify from the seal providers’ Web pages, and there were 34 of 41 that mentioned CE status in the descriptions. Two apps referenced an app directory curated by experts; however, this is not an alternative to CE marks and seals of approval. Conclusions: Currently, quality seals seem to be irrelevant for manufacturers. In line with regulatory requirements, mentions of medical device status are more frequent; however, neither characteristic is effective for identifying high-quality apps. To improve this situation, a possibly legally obligatory, standardized reporting system should be implemented. %M 29695374 %R 10.2196/10394 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/4/e10394/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/10394 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29695374 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 4 %P e109 %T The Usability and Effectiveness of Mobile Health Technology–Based Lifestyle and Medical Intervention Apps Supporting Health Care During Pregnancy: Systematic Review %A Overdijkink,Sanne B %A Velu,Adeline V %A Rosman,Ageeth N %A van Beukering,Monique DM %A Kok,Marjolein %A Steegers-Theunissen,Regine PM %+ Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, Rotterdam, 3000CA, Netherlands, 31 107043598, r.steegers@erasmusmc.nl %K mHealth %K pregnancy %K lifestyle %K health care %K maternal health %D 2018 %7 24.04.2018 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: A growing number of mobile health (mHealth) technology–based apps are being developed for personal lifestyle and medical health care support, of which several apps are related to pregnancy. Evidence on usability and effectiveness is limited but crucial for successful implementation. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the usability, that is, feasibility and acceptability, as well as effectiveness of mHealth lifestyle and medical apps to support health care during pregnancy in high-income countries. Feasibility was defined as the actual use, interest, intention, and continued use; perceived suitability; and ability of users to carry out the activities of the app. Acceptability was assessed by user satisfaction, appreciation, and the recommendation of the app to others. Methods: We performed a systematic review searching the following electronic databases for studies on mHealth technology–based apps in maternal health care in developed countries: EMBASE, MEDLINE Epub (Ovid), Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. All included studies were scored on quality, using the ErasmusAGE Quality Score or the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research. Main outcome measures were usability and effectiveness of mHealth lifestyle and medical health care support apps related to pregnancy. All studies were screened by 2 reviewers individually, and the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement were followed. Results: Our search identified 4204 titles and abstracts, of which 2487 original studies remained after removing duplicates. We performed full-text screening of 217 studies, of which 29 were included in our study. In total, 19 out of 29 studies reported on mHealth apps to adopt healthy lifestyles and 10 out of 29 studies to support medical care. The lifestyle apps evaluated in 19 studies reported on usability and effectiveness: 10 studies reported positive on acceptability, and 14 studies reported on feasibility with positive results except one study. In total, 4 out of 19 studies evaluating effectiveness showed significant results on weight gain restriction during pregnancy, intake of vegetables and fruits, and smoking cessation. The 10 studies on medical mHealth apps involved asthma care, diabetic treatment, and encouraging vaccination. Only one study on diabetic treatment reported on acceptability with a positive user satisfaction. In total, 9 out of 10 studies reported on effectiveness. Moreover, the power of most studies was inadequate to show significant effects. Conclusions: Most studies on mHealth apps to support lifestyle and medical care for high-income countries reveal the usability of these apps to reduce gestational weight gain, increase intakes of vegetables and fruit, to quit smoking cessation, and to support health care for prevention of asthma and infections during pregnancy. In general, the evidence on effectiveness of these apps is limited and needs further investigation before implementation in medical health care. %M 29691216 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8834 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/4/e109/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8834 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29691216 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-2960 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 2 %P e45 %T Developing Sustainable and Impactful Mobile Phone HIV Testing Interventions for Spanish-Speaking Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States: Lessons Learned From Informative Interviews %A Mitchell,Jason %A Torres,Maria Beatriz %A Asmar,Lucy %A Danh,Thu %A Horvath,Keith J %+ Office of Public Health Studies, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, 1960 East-West Road, Biomed T110, Honolulu, HI, 96822, United States, 1 808 956 3342, jasonmit@hawaii.edu %K smartphone %K HIV testing %K HIV prevention %K men who have sex with men %K Spanish %D 2018 %7 24.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Public Health Surveill %G English %X Background: Although many men who have sex with men (MSM) test for HIV at least once in their lifetime, opportunities to improve regular HIV testing, particularly among Hispanic or Latino MSM, is needed. Many mHealth interventions in development, including the ones on HIV testing, have primarily focused on English-speaking white, black, and MSM of other races. To date, no studies have assessed app use, attitudes, and motivations for downloading and sustaining use of mobile apps and preferences with respect to HIV prevention among Spanish-speaking, Hispanic MSM in the United States. Objective: The primary aims of this study were to determine what features and functions of smartphone apps do Hispanic, Spanish-speaking MSM believe are associated with downloading apps to their smartphones, (2) what features and functions of smartphone apps are most likely to influence men’s sustained use of apps over time, and (3) what features and functions do men prefer in a smartphone app aimed to promote regular testing for HIV. Methods: Interviews (N=15) were conducted with a racially diverse group of sexually active, HIV-negative, Spanish-speaking, Hispanic MSM in Miami, Florida. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, translated back to English, and de-identified for analysis. A constant-comparison method (ie, grounded theory coding) was employed to examine themes that emerged from the interviews. Results: Personal interest was the primary reason associated with whether men downloaded an app. Keeping personal information secure, cost, influence by peers and posted reviews, ease of use, and functionality affected whether they downloaded and used the app over time. Men also reported that entertainment value and frequency of updates influenced whether they kept and continued to use an app over time. There were 4 reasons why participants chose to delete an app—dislike, lack of use, cost, and lack of memory or space. Participants also shared their preferences for an app to encourage regular HIV testing by providing feedback on test reminders, tailored testing interval recommendations, HIV test locator, and monitoring of personal sexual behaviors. Conclusions: The features and functions of mobile apps that Spanish-speaking MSM in this study believed were associated with downloading and/or sustained engagement of an app generally reflected the priorities mentioned in an earlier study with English-speaking MSM. Unlike the earlier study, Spanish-speaking MSM prioritized personal interest in a mobile app and de-emphasized the efficiency of an app to make their lives easier in their decision to download an app to their mobile device. Tailoring mobile apps to the language and needs of Spanish-speaking MSM is critical to help increase their willingness to download a mobile app. Despite the growing number of HIV-prevention apps in development, few are tailored to Spanish-speaking MSM, representing an important gap that should be addressed in future research. %M 29691205 %R 10.2196/publichealth.8992 %U http://publichealth.jmir.org/2018/2/e45/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/publichealth.8992 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29691205 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 4 %P e106 %T Mobile Health Initiatives in Vietnam: Scoping Study %A Lam,Jeffrey A %A Dang,Linh Thuy %A Phan,Ngoc Tran %A Trinh,Hue Thi %A Vu,Nguyen Cong %A Nguyen,Cuong Kieu %+ Institute of Population, Health and Development, 14th Floor, ICON 4 Building, 243A De La Thanh, Lang Thuong, Dong Da, Hanoi,, Viet Nam, 84 2473000988 ext 341, cuong.kieu.nguyen@phad.org %K mHealth %K eHealth %K mobile health %K telemedicine %K Vietnam %K scoping review %D 2018 %7 24.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mobile health (mHealth) offers a promising solution to the multitude of challenges the Vietnamese health system faces, but there is a scarcity of published information on mHealth in Vietnam. Objective: The objectives of this scoping study were (1) to summarize the extent, range, and nature of mHealth initiatives in Vietnam and (2) to examine the opportunities and threats of mHealth utilization in the Vietnamese context. Methods: This scoping study systematically identified and extracted relevant information from 20 past and current mHealth initiatives in Vietnam. The study includes multimodal information sources, including published literature, gray literature (ie, government reports and unpublished literature), conference presentations, Web-based documents, and key informant interviews. Results: We extracted information from 27 records from the electronic search and conducted 14 key informant interviews, allowing us to identify 20 mHealth initiatives in Vietnam. Most of the initiatives were primarily funded by external donors (n=15), while other initiatives were government funded (n=1) or self-funded (n=4). A majority of the initiatives targeted vulnerable and hard-to-reach populations (n=11), aimed to prevent the occurrence of disease (n=12), and used text messaging (short message service, SMS) as part of their intervention (n=14). The study revealed that Vietnamese mHealth implementation has been challenged by factors including features unique to the Vietnamese language (n=4) and sociocultural factors (n=3). Conclusions: The largest threats to the popularity of mHealth initiatives are the absence of government policy, lack of government interest, heavy dependence on foreign funding, and lack of technological infrastructure. Finally, while current mHealth initiatives have already demonstrated promising opportunities for alternative models of funding, such as social entrepreneurship or private business models, sustainable mHealth initiatives outside of those funded by external donors have not yet been undertaken. %M 29691214 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8639 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/4/e106/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8639 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29691214 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 4 %P e99 %T Lessons From the Dot Contraceptive Efficacy Study: Analysis of the Use of Agile Development to Improve Recruitment and Enrollment for mHealth Research %A Shattuck,Dominick %A Haile,Liya T %A Simmons,Rebecca G %+ Institute for Reproductive Health at Georgetown University, 1825 Connecticut Avenue NW Suite 699, Washington, DC, 20009, United States, 1 202 687 9574, dominickshattuck@gmail.com %K mobile apps %K mHealth %K higher mobile research %K fertility tracker %K contraceptive %K family planning %K fertility awareness method %K Dot %K contraceptive efficacy %D 2018 %7 20.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Smartphone apps that provide women with information about their daily fertility status during their menstrual cycles can contribute to the contraceptive method mix. However, if these apps claim to help a user prevent pregnancy, they must undergo similar rigorous research required for other contraceptive methods. Georgetown University’s Institute for Reproductive Health is conducting a prospective longitudinal efficacy trial on Dot (Dynamic Optimal Timing), an algorithm-based fertility app designed to help women prevent pregnancy. Objective: The aim of this paper was to highlight decision points during the recruitment-enrollment process and the effect of modifications on enrollment numbers and demographics. Recruiting eligible research participants for a contraceptive efficacy study and enrolling an adequate number to statistically assess the effectiveness of Dot is critical. Recruiting and enrolling participants for the Dot study involved making decisions based on research and analytic data, constant process modification, and close monitoring and evaluation of the effect of these modifications. Methods: Originally, the only option for women to enroll in the study was to do so over the phone with a study representative. On noticing low enrollment numbers, we examined the 7 steps from the time a woman received the recruitment message until she completed enrollment and made modifications accordingly. In modification 1, we added call-back and voicemail procedures to increase the number of completed calls. Modification 2 involved using a chat and instant message (IM) features to facilitate study enrollment. In modification 3, the process was fully automated to allow participants to enroll in the study without the aid of study representatives. Results: After these modifications were implemented, 719 women were enrolled in the study over a 6-month period. The majority of participants (494/719, 68.7%) were enrolled during modification 3, in which they had the option to enroll via phone, chat, or the fully automated process. Overall, 29.2% (210/719) of the participants were enrolled via a phone call, 19.9% (143/719) via chat/IM, and 50.9% (366/719) directly through the fully automated process. With respect to the demographic profile of our study sample, we found a significant statistical difference in education level across all modifications (P<.05) but not in age or race or ethnicity (P>.05). Conclusions: Our findings show that agile and consistent modifications to the recruitment and enrollment process were necessary to yield an appropriate sample size. An automated process resulted in significantly higher enrollment rates than one that required phone interaction with study representatives. Although there were some differences in demographic characteristics of enrollees as the process was modified, in general, our study population is diverse and reflects the overall United States population in terms of race/ethnicity, age, and education. Additional research is proposed to identify how differences in mode of enrollment and demographic characteristics may affect participants’ performance in the study. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02833922; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02833922 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6yj5FHrBh) %M 29678802 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9661 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/4/e99/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9661 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29678802 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 4 %P e119 %T A Mobile Health App–Based Postnatal Educational Program (Home-but not Alone): Descriptive Qualitative Study %A Shorey,Shefaly %A Yang,Yen Yen %A Dennis,Cindy-Lee %+ Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, National University of Singapore, Level 2, Clinical Research Centre, Block MD 11, 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117597, Singapore, 65 66011294 ext 1294, nurssh@nus.edu.sg %K parents %K postnatal care %K mobile applications %K midwifery %K nurse midwives %K nursing %D 2018 %7 19.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The postnatal period poses numerous challenges for new parents. Various educational programs are available to support new parents during this stressful period. However, the usefulness of educational programs must be evaluated to ascertain their credibility. Objective: The aim of this descriptive, qualitative study was to explore the views of parents of newborns with regard to the content and delivery of a mobile health (mHealth) app–based postnatal educational program. Methods: A qualitative semistructured interview guide was used to collect data from 17 participants who belonged to the intervention group of a randomized controlled trial. The intervention, a 4-week-long access to a mHealth app–based educational program, was evaluated. The interviews were conducted in English and at the participants’ homes. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist was used to report the findings. Results: The interviews revealed 4 main themes: (1) positive features of the mHealth app, (2) advice from midwives, (3) experiences gained from using the mHealth app, and (4) recommendations for the future. The participants evaluated the educational program to be a good source of information that was tailored to the local context. The different modes of delivery, including audio and video, accentuated the accessibility of information. The parents evaluated that the facilitator of the featured communication platform, a midwife, provided trustworthy advice. Belongingness to a virtual community beyond the hospital endowed the parents the confidence that they were not alone and were supported by other parents and health care professionals. Conclusions: According to the parents, the mHealth app–based educational program was helpful in supporting a multi-ethnic sample of parents during the postnatal period. This insight indicates that the program could be implemented in a wide community of parents in the postnatal period. The helpfulness of the educational program is a testament of the potential benefits of using telemedicine among new parents postnatally. Resources can also be dedicated toward extending the duration of access to the app beyond 1 month and developing relevant content for parents across the perinatal period. %M 29674314 %R 10.2196/jmir.9188 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/4/e119/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9188 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29674314 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 4 %P e90 %T Assessing Therapeutic Alliance in the Context of mHealth Interventions for Mental Health Problems: Development of the Mobile Agnew Relationship Measure (mARM) Questionnaire %A Berry,Katherine %A Salter,Amy %A Morris,Rohan %A James,Susannah %A Bucci,Sandra %+ Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M139PL, United Kingdom, 44 1613060422, katherine.berry@manchester.ac.uk %K mobile health %K health care provider %K digital interventions %K therapeutic alliance %K mental health %K measure development %D 2018 %7 19.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Digital health interventions in the form of smartphone apps aim to improve mental health and enable people access to support as and when needed without having to face the stigma they may experience in accessing services. If we are to evaluate mobile health (mHealth) apps and advance scientific understanding, we also need tools to help us understand in what ways mHealth interventions are effective or not. The concept of therapeutic alliance, a measure of the quality of the relationship between a health care provider and a service user, is a key factor in explaining the effects of mental health interventions. The Agnew Relationship Measure (ARM) is a well-validated measure of therapeutic alliance in face-to-face therapy. Objective: This study presented the first attempt to (1) explore service users’ views of the concept of relationship within mHealth mental health interventions and (2) adapt a well-validated face-to-face measure of therapeutic alliance, the Agnew Relationship Measure (ARM), for use with mHealth interventions. Methods: In stage 1, we interviewed 9 mental health service users about the concept of therapeutic alliance in the context of a digital health intervention and derived key themes from interview transcripts using thematic analysis. In stage 2, we used rating scales and open-ended questions to elicit views from 14 service users and 10 mental health staff about the content and face validity of the scale, which replaced the word “therapist” with the word “app.” In stage 3, we used the findings from stages 1 and 2 to adapt the measure with the support of a decision-making algorithm about which items to drop, retain, or adapt. Results: Findings suggested that service users do identify relationship concepts when thinking about mHealth interventions, including forming a bond with an app and the ability to be open with an app. However, there were key differences between relationships with health professionals and relationships with apps. For example, apps were not as tailored and responsive to each person’s unique needs. Furthermore, apps were not capable of portraying uniquely human-like qualities such as friendliness, collaboration, and agreement. We made a number of changes to the ARM that included revising 16 items; removing 4 items due to lack of suitable alternatives; and adding 1 item to capture a key theme derived from stage 1 of the study (“The app is like having a member of my care team in my pocket”). Conclusions: This study introduces the mHealth version of the ARM, the mARM, that has good face and content validity. We encourage researchers to include this easy-to-use tool in digital health intervention studies to gather further data about its psychometric properties and advance our understanding of how therapeutic alliance influences the efficacy of mHealth interventions. Trial Registration: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) 34966555; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN34966555 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6ymBVwKif) %M 29674307 %R 10.2196/jmir.8252 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/4/e90/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8252 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29674307 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 4 %P e146 %T Uptake of Tailored Text Message Smoking Cessation Support in Pregnancy When Advertised on the Internet (MiQuit): Observational Study %A Emery,Joanne L %A Coleman,Tim %A Sutton,Stephen %A Cooper,Sue %A Leonardi-Bee,Jo %A Jones,Matthew %A Naughton,Felix %+ Behavioral Science Group, Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, CB2 0SR, United Kingdom, 44 0 1223 330355, jle40@medschl.cam.ac.uk %K smoking cessation %K pregnancy %K internet %K telemedicine %K public health %K social media %D 2018 %7 19.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Smoking in pregnancy is a major public health concern. Pregnant smokers are particularly difficult to reach, with low uptake of support options and few effective interventions. Text message–based self-help is a promising, low-cost intervention for this population, but its real-world uptake is largely unknown. Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the uptake and cost-effectiveness of a tailored, theory-guided, text message intervention for pregnant smokers (“MiQuit”) when advertised on the internet. Methods: Links to a website providing MiQuit initiation information (texting a short code) were advertised on a cost-per-click basis on 2 websites (Google Search and Facebook; £1000 budget each) and free of charge within smoking-in-pregnancy webpages on 2 noncommercial websites (National Childbirth Trust and NHS Choices). Daily budgets were capped to allow the Google and Facebook adverts to run for 1 and 3 months, respectively. We recorded the number of times adverts were shown and clicked on, the number of MiQuit initiations, the characteristics of those initiating MiQuit, and whether support was discontinued prematurely. For the commercial adverts, we calculated the cost per initiation and, using quit rates obtained from an earlier clinical trial, estimated the cost per additional quitter. Results: With equal capped budgets, there were 812 and 1889 advert clicks to the MiQuit website from Google (search-based) and Facebook (banner) adverts, respectively. MiQuit was initiated by 5.2% (42/812) of those clicking via Google (95% CI 3.9%-6.9%) and 2.22% (42/1889) of those clicking via Facebook (95% CI 1.65%-2.99%). Adverts on noncommercial webpages generated 53 clicks over 6 months, with 9 initiations (9/53, 17%; 95% CI 9%-30%). For the commercial websites combined, mean cost per initiation was £24.73; estimated cost per additional quitter, including text delivery costs, was £735.86 (95% CI £227.66-£5223.93). Those initiating MiQuit via Google were typically very early in pregnancy (median gestation 5 weeks, interquartile range 10 weeks); those initiating via Facebook were distributed more evenly across pregnancy (median gestation 16 weeks, interquartile range 14 weeks). Conclusions: Commercial online adverts are a feasible, likely cost-effective method for engaging pregnant smokers in digital cessation support and may generate uptake at a faster rate than noncommercial websites. As a strategy for implementing MiQuit, online advertising has large reach potential and can offer support to a hard-to-reach population of smokers. %M 29674308 %R 10.2196/jmir.8525 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/4/e146/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8525 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29674308 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 4 %P e135 %T Use of Smartphones for Early Detection of Melanoma: Systematic Review %A Rat,Cédric %A Hild,Sandrine %A Rault Sérandour,Julie %A Gaultier,Aurélie %A Quereux,Gaelle %A Dreno,Brigitte %A Nguyen,Jean-Michel %+ Department of General Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nantes, 1 rue Gaston Veil, Nantes, 44000 Nantes, France, 33 6 61 86 79 53, cedric.rat@univ-nantes.fr %K smartphone %K melanoma %K screening %K teledermatology %K telemedicine %K mobile app %D 2018 %7 13.04.2018 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The early diagnosis of melanoma is associated with decreased mortality. The smartphone, with its apps and the possibility of sending photographs to a dermatologist, could improve the early diagnosis of melanoma. Objective: The aim of our review was to report the evidence on (1) the diagnostic performance of automated smartphone apps and store-and-forward teledermatology via a smartphone in the early detection of melanoma, (2) the impact on the patient’s medical-care course, and (3) the feasibility criteria (focusing on the modalities of picture taking, transfer of data, and time to get a reply). Methods: We conducted a systematic search of PubMed for the period from January 1, 2007 (launch of the first smartphone) to November 1, 2017. Results: The results of the 25 studies included 13 concentrated on store-and-forward teledermatology, and 12 analyzed automated smartphone apps. Store-and-forward teledermatology opens several new perspectives, such as it accelerates the care course (less than 10 days vs 80 days), and the related procedures were assessed in primary care populations. However, the concordance between the conclusion of a teledermatologist and the conclusion of a dermatologist who conducts a face-to-face examination depended on the study (the kappa coefficient range was .20 to .84, median κ=.60). The use of a dermoscope may improve the concordance (the kappa coefficient range was .29 to .87, median κ=.74). Regarding automated smartphone apps, the major concerns are the lack of assessment in clinical practice conditions, the lack of assessment in primary care populations, and their low sensitivity, ranging from 7% to 87% (median 69%). In this literature review, up to 20% of the photographs transmitted were of insufficient quality. The modalities of picture taking and encryption of the data were only partially reported. Conclusions: The use of store-and-forward teledermatology could improve access to a dermatology consultation by optimizing the care course. Our review confirmed the absence of evidence of the safety and efficacy of automated smartphone medical apps. Further research is required to determine quality criteria, as there was major variability among the studies. %M 29653918 %R 10.2196/jmir.9392 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/4/e135/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9392 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29653918 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 4 %P e85 %T Mobile Breast Cancer e-Support Program for Chinese Women With Breast Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy (Part 1): Qualitative Study of Women’s Perceptions %A Zhu,Jiemin %A Ebert,Lyn %A Guo,Dongmei %A Yang,Sumei %A Han,Qiuying %A Chan,Sally Wai-Chi %+ Nursing Department, Medical School, Xiamen University, Room 208, Alice Building,, Xiangan Nan Road, Xiangan District, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian Province, China, 86 15960212649, jiemin.zhu@uon.edu.au %K mobile app %K breast cancer %K chemotherapy %D 2018 %7 11.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy experience difficulty in accessing adequate cancer care in China. Mobile apps have the potential to provide easily accessible support for these women. However, there remains a paucity of randomized controlled trials to evaluate the effectiveness of app-based programs targeting specifically women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Moreover, women’s perceptions and experiences related to using and interacting within the app-based program have rarely been reported. Therefore, an app-based Breast Cancer e-Support program was developed and evaluated using a randomized controlled trial. Based on the incorporation of Bandura’s self-efficacy and social exchange theory, Breast Cancer e-Support program lasted for 12 weeks covering 4 cycles of chemotherapy and had 4 components: (1) a Learning forum, (2) a Discussion forum, (3) an Ask-the-Expert forum, and (4) a Personal Stories forum. Objective: As a part of the randomized controlled trial, the aim of this study was to explore the participants’ perception of Breast Cancer e-Support program, its strengths and weaknesses, and suggestions to improve the program. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was employed. Thirteen women with breast cancer from 2 university-affiliated hospitals in China, who were randomly allocated to the Breast Cancer e-Support program in the randomized controlled trial, were interviewed from November 2016 to February 2017. Purposive sampling was used based on women’s scores of self-efficacy after the completion of the intervention. Inductive content analysis was used to analyze the transcripts, allowing the categories and subcategories to flow from the data. Results: The qualitative interviews revealed that participants perceived the Breast Cancer e-Support program to be helpful in enhancing knowledge, improving confidence level, and promoting emotional well-being. Women also identified access to tailored advice from experts and convenience as the benefits of this program. Physical or psychological health status, stigma related with breast cancer, and app instability were mentioned as the challenges to engagement. Suggestions for improvement included adding message reminders to prompt instant communication and search engine to locate information quickly, supplementing more interesting and practical knowledge, updating the information more often, and quickening the responses to women’s questions. The participants recommended the Breast Cancer e-Support program to be incorporated as routine care to support women during chemotherapy. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the potential of the Breast Cancer e-Support program to support women during chemotherapy. Future app-based programs should apply a family-centered approach and provide more support on stigma associated with the disease to encourage engagement with the app. Suggestions of improvement regarding the design, content, and operation of the app-based intervention should be addressed in future studies. It is promising to incorporate the Breast Cancer e-Support program into routine care to generalize the benefits. Trial Registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000639426; http://www.ANZCTR.org.au/ ACTRN12616000639426.aspx (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6v1n9hGZq) %M 29643056 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9311 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/4/e85/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9311 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29643056 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 4 %P e118 %T Identification of Users for a Smoking Cessation Mobile App: Quantitative Study %A Chevalking,SK Leon %A Ben Allouch,Somaya %A Brusse-Keizer,Marjolein %A Postel,Marloes G %A Pieterse,Marcel E %+ Research Group Technology, Health & Care, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, MH Tromplaan 28, 7513 AB, Enschede, 70.000 PO Box, Netherlands, 31 612292901, s.benallouch@saxion.nl %K mobile applications %K telemedicine %K mHealth %K eHealth %K tobacco %K smoking cessation %K health informatics %D 2018 %7 09.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The number of mobile apps that support smoking cessation is growing, indicating the potential of the mobile phone as a means to support cessation. Knowledge about the potential end users for cessation apps results in suggestions to target potential user groups in a dissemination strategy, leading to a possible increase in the satisfaction and adherence of cessation apps. Objective: This study aimed to characterize potential end users for a specific mobile health (mHealth) smoking cessation app. Methods: A quantitative study was conducted among 955 Dutch smokers and ex-smokers. The respondents were primarily recruited from addiction care facilities and hospitals through Web-based media via websites and forums. The respondents were surveyed on their demographics, smoking behavior, and personal innovativeness. The intention to use and the attitude toward a cessation app were determined on a 5-point Likert scale. To study the association between the characteristics and intention to use and attitude, univariate and multivariate ordinal logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: The multivariate ordinal logistic regression showed that the number of previous quit attempts (odds ratio [OR] 4.1, 95% CI 2.4-7.0, and OR 3.5, 95% CI 2.0-5.9) and the score on the Fagerstrom Test of Nicotine Dependence (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.8-0.9, and OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.8-0.9) positively correlates with the intention to use a cessation app and the attitude toward cessation apps, respectively. Personal innovativeness also positively correlates with the intention to use (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.2-0.4) and the attitude towards (OR 0.2, 95% CI 0.1-0.4) a cessation app. No associations between demographics and the intention to use or the attitude toward using a cessation app were observed. Conclusions: This study is among the first to show that demographic characteristics such as age and level of education are not associated with the intention to use and the attitude toward using a cessation app when characteristics related specifically to the app, such as nicotine dependency and the number of quit attempts, are present in a multivariate regression model. This study shows that the use of mHealth apps depends on characteristics related to the content of the app rather than general user characteristics. %M 29631988 %R 10.2196/jmir.7606 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/4/e118/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7606 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29631988 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-9694 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 2 %P e18 %T Patient-Physician Communication in the Era of Mobile Phones and Social Media Apps: Cross-Sectional Observational Study on Lebanese Physicians’ Perceptions and Attitudes %A Daniel,Fady %A Jabak,Suha %A Sasso,Roula %A Chamoun,Yara %A Tamim,Hani %+ Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, American University of Beirut, Hamra, Cairo Street, Beirut,, Lebanon, 961 3614660, fd21@aub.edu.lb %K social media %K communication %K patient-physician communication %K technology use %D 2018 %7 06.04.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Med Inform %G English %X Background: The increased prevalence of virtual communication technology, particularly social media, has shifted the physician-patient relationship away from the well-established face-to-face interaction. The views and habits of physicians in Lebanon toward the use of online apps and social media as forms of patient communication have not been previously described. Objective: The aim of this study is to describe the views of Lebanese physicians toward the use of social media and other online apps as means of patient communication. Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study using an online survey that addressed physicians’ perceptions on the use of virtual communication in their clinical practice. The study took place between April and June 2016, and was directed toward physicians at the American University of Beirut Medical Center. Results: A total of 834 doctors received the online survey, with 238 physicians completing the survey. Most of the participants were from medical specialties. Most responders were attending physicians. Less than half of the respondents believed that Web-based apps and social media could be a useful tool for communicating with patients. Email was the most common form of professional online app, followed by WhatsApp (an instant messaging service). The majority of participants felt that this mode of communication can result in medicolegal issues and that it was a breach of privacy. Participants strictly against the use of virtual forms of communication made up 47.5% (113/238) of the study sample. Conclusions: The majority of physicians at the American University of Beirut Medical Center are reluctant to use virtual communication technology as a form of patient communication. Appropriate policy making and strategies can allow both physicians and patients to communicate virtually in a more secure setting without fear of breaching privacy and confidentiality. %M 29625955 %R 10.2196/medinform.8895 %U http://medinform.jmir.org/2018/2/e18/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/medinform.8895 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29625955 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 3 %P e72 %T Evaluating an mHealth App for Health and Well-Being at Work: Mixed-Method Qualitative Study %A de Korte,Elsbeth Marieke %A Wiezer,Noortje %A Janssen,Joris H %A Vink,Peter %A Kraaij,Wessel %+ Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research, Schipholweg 77-89, Leiden, 2316 ZL, Netherlands, 31 6 211 34434, elsbeth.dekorte@tno.nl %K mHealth %K work %K qualitative research methods %K interview %K focus group %K technology acceptance %K user satisfaction %K usability %K well-being %K prevention %D 2018 %7 28.03.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: To improve workers’ health and well-being, workplace interventions have been developed, but utilization and reach are unsatisfactory, and effects are small. In recent years, new approaches such as mobile health (mHealth) apps are being developed, but the evidence base is poor. Research is needed to examine its potential and to assess when, where, and for whom mHealth is efficacious in the occupational setting. To develop interventions for workers that actually will be adopted, insight into user satisfaction and technology acceptance is necessary. For this purpose, various qualitative evaluation methods are available. Objective: The objectives of this study were to gain insight into (1) the opinions and experiences of employees and experts on drivers and barriers using an mHealth app in the working context and (2) the added value of three different qualitative methods that are available to evaluate mHealth apps in a working context: interviews with employees, focus groups with employees, and a focus group with experts. Methods: Employees of a high-tech company and experts were asked to use an mHealth app for at least 3 weeks before participating in a qualitative evaluation. Twenty-two employees participated in interviews, 15 employees participated in three focus groups, and 6 experts participated in one focus group. Two researchers independently coded, categorized, and analyzed all quotes yielded from these evaluation methods with a codebook using constructs from user satisfaction and technology acceptance theories. Results: Interviewing employees yielded 785 quotes, focus groups with employees yielded 266 quotes, and the focus group with experts yielded 132 quotes. Overall, participants muted enthusiasm about the app. Combined results from the three evaluation methods showed drivers and barriers for technology, user characteristics, context, privacy, and autonomy. A comparison between the three qualitative methods showed that issues revealed by experts only slightly overlapped with those expressed by employees. In addition, it was seen that the type of evaluation yielded different results. Conclusions: Findings from this study provide the following recommendations for organizations that are planning to provide mHealth apps to their workers and for developers of mHealth apps: (1) system performance influences adoption and adherence, (2) relevancy and benefits of the mHealth app should be clear to the user and should address users’ characteristics, (3) app should take into account the work context, and (4) employees should be alerted to their right to privacy and use of personal data. Furthermore, a qualitative evaluation of mHealth apps in a work setting might benefit from combining more than one method. Factors to consider when selecting a qualitative research method are the design, development stage, and implementation of the app; the working context in which it is being used; employees’ mental models; practicability; resources; and skills required of experts and users. %M 29592846 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6335 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/3/e72/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6335 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29592846 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 3 %P e100 %T Integration of a Technology-Based Mental Health Screening Program Into Routine Practices of Primary Health Care Services in Peru (The Allillanchu Project): Development and Implementation %A Diez-Canseco,Francisco %A Toyama,Mauricio %A Ipince,Alessandra %A Perez-Leon,Silvana %A Cavero,Victoria %A Araya,Ricardo %A Miranda,J Jaime %+ CRONICAS Center of Excellence in Chronic Diseases, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Av. Armendariz 497, Miraflores, Lima, Peru, 51 12416978, fdiezcanseco@gmail.com %K mental health %K mHealth %K SMS %K textmessaging %K screening %K mobile health %K health services research %D 2018 %7 15.3.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Despite their high prevalence and significant burden, mental disorders such as depression remain largely underdiagnosed and undertreated. Objective: The aim of the Allillanchu Project was to design, develop, and test an intervention to promote early detection, opportune referral, and access to treatment of patients with mental disorders attending public primary health care (PHC) services in Lima, Peru. Methods: The project had a multiphase design: formative study, development of intervention components, and implementation. The intervention combined three strategies: training of PHC providers (PHCPs), task shifting the detection and referral of mental disorders, and a mobile health (mHealth) component comprising a screening app followed by motivational and reminder short message service (SMS) to identify at-risk patients. The intervention was implemented by 22 PHCPs from five health centers, working in antenatal care, tuberculosis, chronic diseases, and HIV or AIDS services. Results: Over a period of 9 weeks, from September 2015 to November 2015, 733 patients were screened by the 22 PHCPs during routine consultations, and 762 screening were completed in total. The chronic diseases (49.9%, 380/762) and antenatal care services (36.7%, 380/762) had the higher number of screenings. Time constraints and workload were the main barriers to implementing the screening, whereas the use of technology, training, and supervision of the PHCPs by the research team were identified as facilitators. Of the 733 patients, 21.7% (159/733) screened positively and were advised to seek specialized care. Out of the 159 patients with a positive screening result, 127 had a follow-up interview, 72.4% (92/127) reported seeking specialized care, and 55.1% (70/127) stated seeing a specialist. Both patients and PHCPs recognized the utility of the screening and identified some key challenges to its wider implementation. Conclusions: The use of a screening app supported by training and supervision is feasible and uncovers a high prevalence of unidentified psychological symptoms in primary care. To increase its sustainability and utility, this procedure can be incorporated into the routine practices of existing health care services, following tailoring to the resources and features of each service. The early detection of psychological symptoms by a PHCP within a regular consultation, followed by adequate advice and support, can lead to a significant percentage of patients accessing specialized care and reducing the treatment gap of mental disorders. %M 29588272 %R 10.2196/jmir.9208 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/3/e100/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9208 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29588272 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 3 %P e110 %T Using Fitness Trackers and Smartwatches to Measure Physical Activity in Research: Analysis of Consumer Wrist-Worn Wearables %A Henriksen,André %A Haugen Mikalsen,Martin %A Woldaregay,Ashenafi Zebene %A Muzny,Miroslav %A Hartvigsen,Gunnar %A Hopstock,Laila Arnesdatter %A Grimsgaard,Sameline %+ Department of Community Medicine, University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway, Postboks 6050 Langnes, Tromsø, 9037, Norway, 47 77644000, andre.henriksen@uit.no %K motor activity %K physical activity %K fitness trackers %K heart rate %K photoplethysmography %D 2018 %7 22.03.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: New fitness trackers and smartwatches are released to the consumer market every year. These devices are equipped with different sensors, algorithms, and accompanying mobile apps. With recent advances in mobile sensor technology, privately collected physical activity data can be used as an addition to existing methods for health data collection in research. Furthermore, data collected from these devices have possible applications in patient diagnostics and treatment. With an increasing number of diverse brands, there is a need for an overview of device sensor support, as well as device applicability in research projects. Objective: The objective of this study was to examine the availability of wrist-worn fitness wearables and analyze availability of relevant fitness sensors from 2011 to 2017. Furthermore, the study was designed to assess brand usage in research projects, compare common brands in terms of developer access to collected health data, and features to consider when deciding which brand to use in future research. Methods: We searched for devices and brand names in six wearable device databases. For each brand, we identified additional devices on official brand websites. The search was limited to wrist-worn fitness wearables with accelerometers, for which we mapped brand, release year, and supported sensors relevant for fitness tracking. In addition, we conducted a Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE) and ClinicalTrials search to determine brand usage in research projects. Finally, we investigated developer accessibility to the health data collected by identified brands. Results: We identified 423 unique devices from 132 different brands. Forty-seven percent of brands released only one device. Introduction of new brands peaked in 2014, and the highest number of new devices was introduced in 2015. Sensor support increased every year, and in addition to the accelerometer, a photoplethysmograph, for estimating heart rate, was the most common sensor. Out of the brands currently available, the five most often used in research projects are Fitbit, Garmin, Misfit, Apple, and Polar. Fitbit is used in twice as many validation studies as any other brands and is registered in ClinicalTrials studies 10 times as often as other brands. Conclusions: The wearable landscape is in constant change. New devices and brands are released every year, promising improved measurements and user experience. At the same time, other brands disappear from the consumer market for various reasons. Advances in device quality offer new opportunities for research. However, only a few well-established brands are frequently used in research projects, and even less are thoroughly validated. %M 29567635 %R 10.2196/jmir.9157 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/3/e110/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9157 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29567635 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 3 %P e93 %T Transition of a Text-Based Insulin Titration Program From a Randomized Controlled Trial Into Real-World Settings: Implementation Study %A Levy,Natalie Koch %A Orzeck-Byrnes,Natasha A %A Aidasani,Sneha R %A Moloney,Dana N %A Nguyen,Lisa H %A Park,Agnes %A Hu,Lu %A Langford,Aisha T %A Wang,Binhuan %A Sevick,Mary Ann %A Rogers,Erin S %+ Division of General Internal Medicine and Clinical Innovation, Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, OBVA 616, 462 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, United States, 1 212 263 8924, natalie.levy@nyumc.org %K insulin/long-acting/administration & dosage %K diabetes mellitus, type 2/drug therapy %K medically underserved area %K telemedicine %K healthcare disparities %D 2018 %7 19.03.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The Mobile Insulin Titration Intervention (MITI) program helps patients with type 2 diabetes find their correct basal insulin dose without in-person care. Requiring only basic cell phone technology (text messages and phone calls), MITI is highly accessible to patients receiving care in safety-net settings. MITI was shown in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to be efficacious at a New York City (NYC) safety-net clinic where patients often have challenges coming for in-person care. In 2016, MITI was implemented as usual care at Bellevue Hospital (the site of the original RCT) and at Gouverneur Health (a second NYC safety-net clinic) under 2 different staffing models. Objective: This implementation study examined MITI’s transition into real-world settings. To understand MITI’s flexibility, generalizability, and acceptability among patients and providers, we evaluated whether MITI continued to produce positive outcomes in expanded underserved populations, outside of an RCT setting. Methods: Patients enrolled in MITI received weekday text messages asking for their fasting blood glucose (FBG) values and a weekly titration call. The goal was for patients to reach their optimal insulin dose (OID), defined either as the dose of once-daily basal insulin required to achieve either an FBG of 80-130 mg/dL (4.4-7.2 mmol/L) or as the reaching of the maximum dose of 50 units. After 12 weeks, if OID was not reached, the patients were asked to return to the clinic for in-person care and titration. MITI program outcomes, clinical outcomes, process outcomes, and patient satisfaction were assessed. Results: MITI was successful at both sites, each with a different staffing model. Providers referred 170 patients to the program—129 of whom (75.9%, 129/170) were eligible. Of these, 113 (87.6%, 113/129) enrolled. Moreover, 84.1% (95/113) of patients reached their OID, and they did so in an average of 24 days. Clinical outcomes show that mean FBG levels fell from 209 mg/dL (11.6 mmol/L) to 141 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L), P<.001. HbA1c levels fell from 11.4% (101 mmol/mol) to 10.0% (86 mmol/mol), P<.001. Process outcomes show that 90.1% of MITI’s text message prompts received a response, nurses connected with patients 81.9% of weeks to provide titration instructions, and 85% of attending physicians made at least one referral to the MITI program. Satisfaction surveys showed that most patients felt comfortable sharing information over text and felt the texts reminded them to take their insulin, check their sugar, and make healthy food choices. Conclusions: This implementation study showed MITI to have continued success after transitioning from an RCT program into real-world settings. MITI showed itself to be flexible and generalizable as it easily fits into a second site staffed by general medical clinic–registered nurses and remained acceptable to patients and staff who had high levels of engagement with the program. %M 29555621 %R 10.2196/jmir.9515 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/3/e93/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9515 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29555621 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 3 %P e55 %T Describing the Process of Adopting Nutrition and Fitness Apps: Behavior Stage Model Approach %A König,Laura M %A Sproesser,Gudrun %A Schupp,Harald T %A Renner,Britta %+ University of Konstanz, P.O. Box 47, Konstanz, 78457, Germany, 49 7531 88 5319, laura.koenig@uni-konstanz.de %K mHealth %K eating %K physical activity %K exercise %K smartphone %K mobile applications %K health promotion %D 2018 %7 13.03.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Although mobile technologies such as smartphone apps are promising means for motivating people to adopt a healthier lifestyle (mHealth apps), previous studies have shown low adoption and continued use rates. Developing the means to address this issue requires further understanding of mHealth app nonusers and adoption processes. This study utilized a stage model approach based on the Precaution Adoption Process Model (PAPM), which proposes that people pass through qualitatively different motivational stages when adopting a behavior. Objective: To establish a better understanding of between-stage transitions during app adoption, this study aimed to investigate the adoption process of nutrition and fitness app usage, and the sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics and decision-making style preferences of people at different adoption stages. Methods: Participants (N=1236) were recruited onsite within the cohort study Konstanz Life Study. Use of mobile devices and nutrition and fitness apps, 5 behavior adoption stages of using nutrition and fitness apps, preference for intuition and deliberation in eating decision-making (E-PID), healthy eating style, sociodemographic variables, and body mass index (BMI) were assessed. Results: Analysis of the 5 behavior adoption stages showed that stage 1 (“unengaged”) was the most prevalent motivational stage for both nutrition and fitness app use, with half of the participants stating that they had never thought about using a nutrition app (52.41%, 533/1017), whereas less than one-third stated they had never thought about using a fitness app (29.25%, 301/1029). “Unengaged” nonusers (stage 1) showed a higher preference for an intuitive decision-making style when making eating decisions, whereas those who were already “acting” (stage 4) showed a greater preference for a deliberative decision-making style (F4,1012=21.83, P<.001). Furthermore, participants differed widely in their readiness to adopt nutrition and fitness apps, ranging from having “decided to” but not yet begun to act (stage 2; nutrition: 6.88%, 70/1017; fitness: 9.23%, 95/1029) to being “disengaged” following previous adoption (stage 5; nutrition: 13.77%, 140/1017; fitness: 15.06%, 155/1029). Conclusions: Using a behavior stage model approach to describe the process of adopting nutrition and fitness apps revealed motivational stage differences between nonusers (being “unengaged,” having “decided not to act,” having “decided to act,” and being “disengaged”), which might contribute to a better understanding of the process of adopting mHealth apps and thus inform the future development of digital interventions. This study highlights that new user groups might be better reached by apps designed to address a more intuitive decision-making style. %M 29535078 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8261 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/3/e55/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8261 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29535078 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 3 %P e52 %T Crush the Crave: Development and Formative Evaluation of a Smartphone App for Smoking Cessation %A Baskerville,Neill B %A Struik,Laura L %A Dash,Darly %+ Propel Centre for Population Health Impact, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave West, Waterloo, ON, N2M 3G1, Canada, 1 519 888 4567 ext 35236, nbbaskerville@uwaterloo.ca %K mobile app %K smoking cessation %K young adult %K software design %K formative feedback %D 2018 %7 02.03.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Emerging evidence supports the use of smartphone apps for smoking cessation, especially in young adults given their high smoking rates and high smartphone ownership rates. Although evaluative evidence is encouraging for supporting smoking cessation, there remains a paucity of research describing the design and development processes of mobile health (mHealth) interventions. Objective: The aim of this paper was to describe the process of developing Crush the Crave (CTC), an evidence-informed app to support smoking cessation in young adults, and the results of a formative evaluation of app usage behavior, as part of a broader program of research that seeks to establish the effectiveness of the CTC app. Methods: The Spiral Technology Action Research (STAR) 5-cycle model (listen, plan, do, act, and study) was employed to guide the development, implementation, and dissemination of CTC. The approach to development and formative evaluation included focus groups with young adult smokers (n=78) across 2 phases, analysis of the content of existing apps, 2 sessions with content experts, and Google Analytics to assess user behavior during a 12-month pilot. Results: LISTEN—focus groups revealed young adult smoker preferences of (1) positive reinforcement, (2) personalization, (3) social support, (4) quit support, (5) tracking the behavior, and (6) tracking quit benefits. PLAN—informed by evidence for smoking cessation, young adult preferences and an assessment of popular cessation apps, content experts produced a mind map and a storyboard describing app content and structure. DO—focus groups with young adult smokers provided feedback on the first version of the app with opinions on content and suggestions for improvement such as providing alerts and distractions from craving. ACT—refinements were made, and app content was organized using the 4 key design components informed by principles of persuasive technology for behavior change: credibility, task support, dialogue support, and social support. CTC was launched in April 2013 and piloted from the period July 2013 to June 2014 where 1987 Android users had 18,567 sessions, resulting in 59,384 page views and 89.58% (1780/1987) of users returning within the same day to use CTC. STUDY—a pragmatic randomized controlled trial of CTC was launched in August 2014 to demonstrate that including mHealth technology as a population-based intervention can help young adult smokers to quit. The results of this phase will be presented in a subsequent publication. Conclusions: CTC is one of the first smoking cessation apps designed to meet the needs of young adult smokers. The development was informed by the inclusion of young adults in the design and the systematic application of multiple stakeholder input, scientific evidence, and theory. The STAR model approach was followed from the beginning of intervention development, which should facilitate optimization of mHealth interventions in the future. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01983150; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01983150 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6VGyc0W0i) %M 29500157 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9011 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/3/e52/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9011 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29500157 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-1011 %I JMIR Publications %V 2 %N 1 %P e6 %T Measuring Moderate-Intensity Exercise with the Apple Watch: Validation Study %A Abt,Grant %A Bray,James %A Benson,Amanda Clare %+ School of Life Sciences, The University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Kingston upon Hull, HU6 7RX, United Kingdom, 44 01482463397, g.abt@hull.ac.uk %K smartwatch %K wearables %K technology %K physical activity %K cardiovascular health, Apple Watch %D 2018 %7 28.02.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Cardio %G English %X Background: Moderate fitness levels and habitual exercise have a protective effect for cardiovascular disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and all-cause mortality. The Apple Watch displays exercise completed at an intensity of a brisk walk or above using a green “exercise” ring. However, it is unknown if the exercise ring accurately represents an exercise intensity comparable to that defined as moderate-intensity. In order for health professionals to prescribe exercise intensity with confidence, consumer wearable devices need to be accurate and precise if they are to be used as part of a personalized medicine approach to disease management. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the validity and reliability of the Apple Watch for measuring moderate-intensity exercise, as defined as 40-59% oxygen consumption reserve (VO2R). Methods: Twenty recreationally active participants completed resting oxygen consumption (VO2rest) and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) tests prior to a series of 5-minute bouts of treadmill walking at increasing speed while wearing an Apple Watch on both wrists, and with oxygen consumption measured continuously. Five-minute exercise bouts were added until the Apple Watch advanced the green “exercise” ring by 5 minutes (defined as the treadmill inflection speed). Validity was examined using a one-sample t-test, with interdevice and intradevice reliability reported as the standardized typical error and intraclass correlation. Results: The mean %VO2R at the treadmill inflection speed was 30% (SD 7) for both Apple Watches. There was a large underestimation of moderate-intensity exercise (left hand: mean difference = -10% [95% CI -14 to -7], d=-1.4; right hand: mean difference = -10% [95% CI -13 to -7], d=-1.5) when compared to the criterion of 40% VO2R. Standardized typical errors for %VO2R at the treadmill inflection speed were small to moderate, with intraclass correlations higher within trials compared to between trials. Conclusions: The Apple Watch threshold for moderate-intensity exercise was lower than the criterion, which would lead to an overestimation of moderate-intensity exercise minutes completed throughout the day. %R 10.2196/cardio.8574 %U http://cardio.jmir.org/2018/1/e6/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/cardio.8574 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 2 %P e72 %T A Novel Approach for Fully Automated, Personalized Health Coaching for Adults with Prediabetes: Pilot Clinical Trial %A Everett,Estelle %A Kane,Brian %A Yoo,Ashley %A Dobs,Adrian %A Mathioudakis,Nestoras %+ Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, 1830 E. Monument Street, Suite 333, Baltimore, MD, 21287, United States, 1 410 502 8089, nmathio1@jhmi.edu %K mobile health %K prediabetes %K HbA 1c %K weight loss %K blood glucose %D 2018 %7 27.02.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Prediabetes is a high-risk state for the future development of type 2 diabetes, which may be prevented through physical activity (PA), adherence to a healthy diet, and weight loss. Mobile health (mHealth) technology is a practical and cost-effective method of delivering diabetes prevention programs in a real-world setting. Sweetch (Sweetch Health, Ltd) is a fully automated, personalized mHealth platform designed to promote adherence to PA and weight reduction in people with prediabetes.  Objective: The objective of this pilot study was to calibrate the Sweetch app and determine the feasibility, acceptability, safety, and effectiveness of the Sweetch app in combination with a digital body weight scale (DBWS) in adults with prediabetes. Methods: This was a 3-month prospective, single-arm, observational study of adults with a diagnosis of prediabetes and body mass index (BMI) between 24 kg/m2 and 40 kg/m2. Feasibility was assessed by study retention. Acceptability of the mobile platform and DBWS were evaluated using validated questionnaires. Effectiveness measures included change in PA, weight, BMI, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and fasting blood glucose from baseline to 3-month visit. The significance of changes in outcome measures was evaluated using paired t test or Wilcoxon matched pairs test. Results: The study retention rate was 47 out of 55 (86%) participants. There was a high degree of acceptability of the Sweetch app, with a median (interquartile range [IQR]) score of 78% (73%-80%) out of 100% on the validated System Usability Scale. Satisfaction regarding the DBWS was also high, with median (IQR) score of 93% (83%-100%). PA increased by 2.8 metabolic equivalent of task (MET)–hours per week (SD 6.8; P=.02), with mean weight loss of 1.6 kg (SD 2.5; P<.001) from baseline. The median change in A1c was −0.1% (IQR −0.2% to 0.1%; P=.04), with no significant change in fasting blood glucose (−1 mg/dL; P=.59). There were no adverse events reported. Conclusions: The Sweetch mobile intervention program is a safe and effective method of increasing PA and reducing weight and HbA1c in adults with prediabetes. If sustained over a longer period, this intervention would be expected to reduce diabetes risk in this population. Trial Registration: ClincialTrials.gov NCT02896010; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02896010 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6xJYxrgse) %M 29487046 %R 10.2196/jmir.9723 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/2/e72/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9723 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29487046 %0 Journal Article %@ 2562-0959 %I JMIR Publications %V 1 %N 1 %P e1 %T Acceptability and Feasibility of a Trial Testing Allocation to Sunscreen and a Smartphone App for Sun Protection: Discontinued Randomized Controlled Trial %A Rodrigues,Angela M %A Sniehotta,Falko F %A Birch-Machin,Mark A %A Olivier,Patrick %A Araújo-Soares,Vera %+ Newcastle University, Baddiley-Clark Building, Richardson Road, Newcastle, NE2 4AX, United Kingdom, 44 191 208 8974, angela.rodrigues@newcastle.ac.uk %K sunscreening agents %K sun protection factor %K smartphone %K mobile applications %K feasibility studies %K randomized controlled trial %K skin neoplasms %K melanoma %K skin aging %K holidays %K health promotion %K health behavior %D 2018 %7 27.02.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Dermatol %G English %X Background: Recreational sun exposure has been associated with melanoma prevalence, and tourism settings are of particular interest for skin cancer prevention. Effective, affordable, and geographically flexible interventions to promote sun protection are needed. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the protocol for a definitive randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating a smartphone mobile intervention (mISkin app) promoting sun protection in holidaymakers and to assess the acceptability and feasibility of the mISkin app and associated trial procedures in an internal pilot study. Methods: Participants were recruited from the general community. Holidaymakers traveling abroad and owning a smartphone were enrolled in the internal pilot of a 2 (mISkin vs control) x 2 (sun protection factor [SPF] 15 vs SPF 30) RCT with a postholiday follow-up. The smartphone app is fully automated and entails a behavioral intervention to promote sun protection. It consisted of five components: skin assessment, educational videos, ultraviolet (UV) photos, gamification, and prompts for sun protection. Participants were also randomly allocated to receive sunscreen SPF 15 or SPF 30. Primary outcomes for the internal pilot study were acceptability and feasibility of trial procedures and intervention features. Secondary outcomes were collected at baseline and after holidays through face-to-face-assessments and included skin sun damage, sunscreen use (residual weight and application events), and sun protection practices (Web-based questionnaire). Results: From 142 registers of interest, 42 participants were randomized (76% [32/42] female; mean age 35.5 years). Outcome assessments were completed by all participants. Random allocation to SPF 15 versus SPF 30 was found not to be feasible in a definitive trial protocol. Of the 21 people allocated to the mISkin intervention, 19 (91%) installed the mISkin on their phones, and 18 (86%) used it at least once. Participants were satisfied with the mISkin app and made suggestions for further improvements. Due to difficulties with the random allocation to SPF and slow uptake, the trial was discontinued. Conclusions: The internal pilot study concluded that randomization to SPF was not feasible and that recruitment rate was slower than expected because of difficulties with gatekeeper engagement. Possible solutions to the problems identified are discussed. Further refinements to the mISkin app are needed before a definitive trial. Trial Registration: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number ISRCTN63943558; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN63943558 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6xOLvbab8) %R 10.2196/derma.8608 %U https://derma.jmir.org/2018/1/e1/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/derma.8608 %0 Journal Article %@ 2368-7959 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 1 %P e16 %T Acceptability, Use, and Safety of a Mobile Phone App (BlueIce) for Young People Who Self-Harm: Qualitative Study of Service Users’ Experience %A Grist,Rebecca %A Porter,Joanna %A Stallard,Paul %+ Child and Adolescent Mental Health Group, Department for Health, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom, 44 2253850 ext 86, rg626@bath.ac.uk %K self-injurious behavior %K mobile apps %K adolescents %K telemedicine %K qualitative research %K cognitive therapy %K behavior therapy %D 2018 %7 23.02.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Ment Health %G English %X Background: Self-harm is common among adolescents and is associated with a number of negative psychosocial outcomes including a higher risk of suicide. Recent reviews highlight the lack of research into specific interventions for children and young people who self-harm. Developing innovative interventions that are coproduced with individuals with lived experience and that reduce self-harm are key challenges for self-harm prevention. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the acceptability, use, and safety of BlueIce, a mobile phone app for young people who self-harm and who are attending child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). Methods: This study is part of a mixed methods phase 1 trial of BlueIce. Young people aged 12-17 years attending specialist CAMHS were recruited. Clinicians were invited to refer young people who were self-harming or who had a history of self-harm. On consent being obtained and baseline measures taken, participants used BlueIce as an adjunct to usual care for an initial familiarization period of 2 weeks. If after this time they wanted to continue, they used BlueIce for a further 10 weeks. Semistructured interviews were conducted at postfamiliarization (2 weeks after using BlueIce) and postuse (12 weeks after using BlueIce) to assess the acceptability, use, and safety of BlueIce. We undertook a qualitative analysis using a deductive approach, and then an inductive approach, to investigate common themes. Results: Postfamiliarization interviews were conducted with 40 participants. Of these, 37 participants elected to use BlueIce, with postuse interviews being conducted with 33 participants. Following 6 key themes emerged from the data: (1) appraisal of BlueIce, (2) usability of BlueIce, (3) safety, (4) benefits of BlueIce, (5) agency and control, and (6) BlueIce less helpful. The participants reported that BlueIce was accessible, easy to use, and convenient. Many highlighted the mood diary and mood lifter sections as particularly helpful in offering a way to track their moods and offering new strategies to manage their thoughts to self-harm. No adverse effects were reported. For those who did not find BlueIce helpful, issues around motivation to stop self-harming impeded their ability to use the app. Conclusions: BlueIce was judged to be a helpful and safe way of supporting adolescents to manage thoughts of self-harming. Adolescents reported numerous benefits of using BlueIce, and all would recommend the app to other young people who were struggling with self-harm. These preliminary findings are encouraging and provide initial support for the acceptability of BlueIce as a self-help intervention used in conjunction with the traditional face-to-face therapy. %M 29475823 %R 10.2196/mental.8779 %U http://mental.jmir.org/2018/1/e16/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mental.8779 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29475823 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 2 %P e44 %T A Smartphone App to Promote an Active Lifestyle in Lower-Educated Working Young Adults: Development, Usability, Acceptability, and Feasibility Study %A Simons,Dorien %A De Bourdeaudhuij,Ilse %A Clarys,Peter %A De Cocker,Katrien %A Vandelanotte,Corneel %A Deforche,Benedicte %+ Health Promotion and Education Unit, Department of Public Health, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent, 9000, Belgium, 32 498457442, dorien.simons@ugent.be %K mHealth %K young adult %K mobile applications %K physical activity %K active transport %K health promotion %D 2018 %7 20.02.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Physical activity (PA) levels are problematic in lower-educated working young adults (18-26 years). To promote PA, smartphone apps have great potential, but there is no evidence for their effectiveness in this population. To increase the likelihood that a newly developed app will be effective, formative research and user testing are required. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the development, usability, acceptability, and feasibility of a new theory- and evidence-based smartphone app to promote an active lifestyle in lower-educated working young adults. Methods: The new app was developed by applying 4 steps. First, determinants important to promote an active lifestyle in this population were selected. Second, evidence-based behavior change techniques were selected to convert the determinants into practical applications. Third, a new smartphone app was developed. Fourth, volunteers (n=11, both lower and higher educated) tested the app on usability, and lower-educated working young adults (n=16) tested its acceptability and feasibility via (think aloud) interviews, a questionnaire, and Google Analytics. The app was accordingly adapted for the final version. Results: A new Android app, Active Coach, was developed that focused on knowledge, attitude, social support, and self-efficacy (based on outcomes from step 1), and that applied self-regulation techniques (based on outcomes from step 2). The app consists of a 9-week program with personal goals, practical tips, and scientific facts to encourage an active lifestyle. To ensure all-day and automatic self-monitoring of the activity behavior, the Active Coach app works in combination with a wearable activity tracker, the Fitbit Charge. Issues detected by the usability test (eg, text errors, wrong messages) were all fixed. The acceptability and feasibility test showed that participants found the app clear, understandable, and motivating, although some aspects needed to be more personal. Conclusions: By applying a stepwise, user-centered approach that regularly consulted the target group, the new app is adapted to their specific needs and preferences. The Active Coach app was overall positively evaluated by the lower-educated working young adults at the end of the development process. %M 29463491 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8287 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/2/e44/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8287 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29463491 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 2 %P e42 %T Peer Coaching Through mHealth Targeting Physical Activity in People With Parkinson Disease: Feasibility Study %A Colón-Semenza,Cristina %A Latham,Nancy K %A Quintiliani,Lisa M %A Ellis,Terry D %+ Center for Neurorehabilitation, Department of Physical Therapy & Athletic Training, College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College, Boston University, 635 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, United States, 1 6173537571, tellis@bu.edu %K Parkinson disease %K exercise %K telemedicine %K social support %K fitness tracker %D 2018 %7 15.02.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Long-term engagement in exercise and physical activity mitigates the progression of disability and increases quality of life in people with Parkinson disease (PD). Despite this, the vast majority of individuals with PD are sedentary. There is a critical need for a feasible, safe, acceptable, and effective method to assist those with PD to engage in active lifestyles. Peer coaching through mobile health (mHealth) may be a viable approach. Objective: The purpose of this study was to develop a PD-specific peer coach training program and a remote peer-mentored walking program using mHealth technology with the goal of increasing physical activity in persons with PD. We set out to examine the feasibility, safety, and acceptability of the programs along with preliminary evidence of individual-level changes in walking activity, self-efficacy, and disability in the peer mentees. Methods: A peer coach training program and a remote peer-mentored walking program using mHealth was developed and tested in 10 individuals with PD. We matched physically active persons with PD (peer coaches) with sedentary persons with PD (peer mentees), resulting in 5 dyads. Using both Web-based and in-person delivery methods, we trained the peer coaches in basic knowledge of PD, exercise, active listening, and motivational interviewing. Peer coaches and mentees wore FitBit Zip activity trackers and participated in daily walking over 8 weeks. Peer dyads interacted daily via the FitBit friends mobile app and weekly via telephone calls. Feasibility was determined by examining recruitment, participation, and retention rates. Safety was assessed by monitoring adverse events during the study period. Acceptability was assessed via satisfaction surveys. Individual-level changes in physical activity were examined relative to clinically important differences. Results: Four out of the 5 peer pairs used the FitBit activity tracker and friends function without difficulty. A total of 4 of the 5 pairs completed the 8 weekly phone conversations. There were no adverse events over the course of the study. All peer coaches were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the training program, and all participants were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the peer-mentored walking program. All participants would recommend this program to others with PD. Increases in average steps per day exceeding the clinically important difference occurred in 4 out of the 5 mentees. Conclusions: Remote peer coaching using mHealth is feasible, safe, and acceptable for persons with PD. Peer coaching using mHealth technology may be a viable method to increase physical activity in individuals with PD. Larger controlled trials are necessary to examine the effectiveness of this approach. %M 29449201 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8074 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/2/e42/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8074 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29449201 %0 Journal Article %@ 2371-4379 %I JMIR Publications %V 3 %N 1 %P e4 %T Change in Glycemic Control With Use of a Digital Therapeutic in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes: Cohort Study %A Berman,Mark A %A Guthrie,Nicole L %A Edwards,Katherine L %A Appelbaum,Kevin J %A Njike,Valentine Y %A Eisenberg,David M %A Katz,David L %+ Better Therapeutics LLC, 445 Bush Street, Suite 300, San Francisco, CA,, United States, 1 617 877 0327, mark@bettertherapeutics.io %K type 2 diabetes %K mobile health %K mHealth %K lifestyle medicine %K mobile apps %K digital therapeutics %D 2018 %7 14.02.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Diabetes %G English %X Background: Intensive lifestyle change can treat and even reverse type 2 diabetes. Digital therapeutics have the potential to deliver lifestyle as medicine for diabetes at scale. Objective: This 12-week study investigates the effects of a novel digital therapeutic, FareWell, on hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and diabetes medication use. Methods: Adults with type 2 diabetes and a mobile phone were recruited throughout the United States using Facebook advertisements. The intervention aim was to effect a sustainable shift to a plant-based dietary pattern and regular exercise by advancing culinary literacy and lifestyle skill acquisition. The intervention was delivered by an app paired with specialized human support, also delivered digitally. Health coaching was provided every 2 weeks by telephone, and a clinical team was available for participants requiring additional support. Participants self-reported current medications and HbA1c at the beginning and end of the 12-week program. Self-efficacy related to managing diabetes and maintaining dietary changes was assessed via survey. Engagement was recorded automatically through the app. Results: We enrolled 118 participants with a baseline HbA1c >6.5%. Participants were 81.4% female (96/118) and resided in 38 US states with a mean age of 50.7 (SD 9.4) years, baseline body mass index of 38.1 (SD 8.8) kg/m2, and baseline HbA1c of 8.1% (SD 1.6). At 12 weeks, 86.2% (94/109) of participants were still using the app. Mean change in HbA1c was –0.8% (97/101, SD 1.3, P<.001) for those reporting end-study data. For participants with a baseline HbA1c >7.0% who did not change medications midstudy, HbA1c change was –1.1% (67/69, SD 1.4, P<.001). The proportion of participants with an end-study HbA1c <6.5% was 28% (22/97). After completion of the intervention, 17% (16/97) of participants reported a decrease in diabetic medication while 8% (8/97) reported an increase. A total of 57% (55/97) of participants achieved a composite outcome of reducing HbA1c, reducing diabetic medication use, or both; 92% (90/98) reported greater confidence in their ability to manage their diabetes compared to before the program, and 91% (89/98) reported greater confidence in their ability to maintain a healthy dietary pattern. Participants engaged with the app an average of 4.3 times per day. We observed a significantly greater decrease in HbA1c among participants in the highest tertile of app engagement compared to those in the lowest tertile of app engagement (P=.03). Conclusions: Clinically meaningful reductions in HbA1c were observed with use of the FareWell digital therapeutic. Greater glycemic control was observed with increasing app engagement. Engagement and retention were both high in this widely distributed sample. %M 30291074 %R 10.2196/diabetes.9591 %U http://diabetes.jmir.org/2018/1/e4/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/diabetes.9591 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30291074 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 2 %P e56 %T Cognitive Style and Mobile E-Learning in Emergent Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Disorders for Millennial Undergraduate Medical Students: Randomized Controlled Trial %A Lee,Li-Ang %A Chao,Yi-Ping %A Huang,Chung-Guei %A Fang,Ji-Tseng %A Wang,Shu-Ling %A Chuang,Cheng-Keng %A Kang,Chung-Jan %A Hsin,Li-Jen %A Lin,Wan-Ni %A Fang,Tuan-Jen %A Li,Hsueh-Yu %+ Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, No. 5, Fu-Hsing Street, Guishan District, Taoyuan, 33305, Taiwan, 886 33281200 ext 3972, 5738@cgmh.org.tw %K cognitive style %K e-learning %K mobile technology %K randomized controlled trial %D 2018 %7 13.02.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Electronic learning (e-learning) through mobile technology represents a novel way to teach emergent otorhinolaryngology-head and neck surgery (ORL-HNS) disorders to undergraduate medical students. Whether a cognitive style of education combined with learning modules can impact learning outcomes and satisfaction in millennial medical students is unknown. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of cognitive styles and learning modules using mobile e-learning on knowledge gain, competence gain, and satisfaction for emergent ORL-HNS disorders. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 60 undergraduate medical students who were novices in ORL-HNS at an academic teaching hospital. The cognitive style of the participants was assessed using the group embedded figures test. The students were randomly assigned (1:1) to a novel interactive multimedia (IM) group and conventional Microsoft PowerPoint show (PPS) group matched by age, sex, and cognitive style. The content for the gamified IM module was derived from and corresponded to the textbook-based learning material of the PPS module (video lectures). The participants were unblinded and used fully automated courseware containing the IM or PPS module on a 7-inch tablet for 100 min. Knowledge and competence were assessed using multiple-choice questions and multimedia situation tests, respectively. Each participant also rated their global satisfaction. Results: All of the participants (median age 23 years, range 22-26 years; 36 males and 24 females) received the intended intervention after randomization. Overall, the participants had significant gains in knowledge (median 50%, interquartile range [IQR]=17%-80%, P<.001) and competence (median 13%, IQR=0%-33%, P=.006). There were no significant differences in knowledge gain (40%, IQR=13%-76% vs 60%, IQR=20%-100%, P=.42) and competence gain (0%, IQR= −21% to 38% vs 25%, IQR=0%-33%, P=.16) between the IM and PPS groups. However, the IM group had a higher satisfaction score (8, IQR=6-9 vs 6, IQR=4-7, P=.01) compared with the PPS group. Using Friedman’s two-way nonparametric analysis of variance, cognitive styles (field-independent, field-intermediate, or field-dependent classification) and learning modules (IM or PPS) had significant effects on both knowledge gain (both adjusted P<.001) and satisfaction (both adjusted P<.001). Conclusions: Mobile e-learning is an effective modality to improve knowledge of emergent ORL-HNS in millennial undergraduate medical students. Our findings suggest the necessity of developing various modules for undergraduate medical students with different cognitive styles. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02971735; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02971735 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6waoOpCEV) %M 29439943 %R 10.2196/jmir.8987 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/2/e56/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8987 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29439943 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e33 %T A Wearable Sensor-Based Exercise Biofeedback System: Mixed Methods Evaluation of Formulift %A O'Reilly,Martin Aidan %A Slevin,Patrick %A Ward,Tomas %A Caulfield,Brian %+ Insight Centre for Data Analytics, University College Dublin, O'Brien Centre for Science, 3rd Fl, Belfield, Dublin, D4, Ireland, 353 871245972, martin.oreilly@insight-centre.org %K mHealth %K feedback %K posture %K exercise therapy %K biomedical technology %K lower extremity %K physical therapy specialty %D 2018 %7 31.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Formulift is a newly developed mobile health (mHealth) app that connects to a single inertial measurement unit (IMU) worn on the left thigh. The IMU captures users’ movements as they exercise, and the app analyzes the data to count repetitions in real time and classify users’ exercise technique. The app also offers feedback and guidance to users on exercising safely and effectively. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the Formulift system with three different and realistic types of potential users (beginner gym-goers, experienced gym-goers, and qualified strength and conditioning [S&C] coaches) under a number of categories: (1) usability, (2) functionality, (3) the perceived impact of the system, and (4) the subjective quality of the system. It was also desired to discover suggestions for future improvements to the system. Methods: A total of 15 healthy volunteers participated (12 males; 3 females; age: 23.8 years [SD 1.80]; height: 1.79 m [SD 0.07], body mass: 78.4 kg [SD 9.6]). Five participants were beginner gym-goers, 5 were experienced gym-goers, and 5 were qualified and practicing S&C coaches. IMU data were first collected from each participant to create individualized exercise classifiers for them. They then completed a number of nonexercise-related tasks with the app. Following this, a workout was completed using the system, involving squats, deadlifts, lunges, and single-leg squats. Participants were then interviewed about their user experience and completed the System Usability Scale (SUS) and the user version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale (uMARS). Thematic analysis was completed on all interview transcripts, and survey results were analyzed. Results: Qualitative and quantitative analysis found the system has “good” to “excellent” usability. The system achieved a mean (SD) SUS usability score of 79.2 (8.8). Functionality was also deemed to be good, with many users reporting positively on the systems repetition counting, technique classification, and feedback. A number of bugs were found, and other suggested changes to the system were also made. The overall subjective quality of the app was good, with a median star rating of 4 out of 5 (interquartile range, IQR: 3-5). Participants also reported that the system would aid their technique, provide motivation, reassure them, and help them avoid injury. Conclusions: This study demonstrated an overall positive evaluation of Formulift in the categories of usability, functionality, perceived impact, and subjective quality. Users also suggested a number of changes for future iterations of the system. These findings are the first of their kind and show great promise for wearable sensor-based exercise biofeedback systems. %M 29386171 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8115 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e33/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8115 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29386171 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e36 %T Smartphone App–Based Assessment of Gait During Normal and Dual-Task Walking: Demonstration of Validity and Reliability %A Manor,Brad %A Yu,Wanting %A Zhu,Hao %A Harrison,Rachel %A Lo,On-Yee %A Lipsitz,Lewis %A Travison,Thomas %A Pascual-Leone,Alvaro %A Zhou,Junhong %+ Hebrew SeniorLife Institute for Aging Research, Harvard Medical School, 1200 Centre St, Roslindale, MA,, United States, 1 617 971 5332, bradmanor@hsl.harvard.edu %K smartphone %K gait assessment %K pocket %K dual task %K validity %K reliability %K mobile applications %D 2018 %7 30.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Walking is a complex cognitive motor task that is commonly completed while performing another task such as talking or making decisions. Gait assessments performed under normal and “dual-task” walking conditions thus provide important insights into health. Such assessments, however, are limited primarily to laboratory-based settings. Objective: The objective of our study was to create and test a smartphone-based assessment of normal and dual-task walking for use in nonlaboratory settings. Methods: We created an iPhone app that used the phone’s motion sensors to record movements during walking under normal conditions and while performing a serial-subtraction dual task, with the phone placed in the user’s pants pocket. The app provided the user with multimedia instructions before and during the assessment. Acquired data were automatically uploaded to a cloud-based server for offline analyses. A total of 14 healthy adults completed 2 laboratory visits separated by 1 week. On each visit, they used the app to complete three 45-second trials each of normal and dual-task walking. Kinematic data were collected with the app and a gold-standard–instrumented GAITRite mat. Participants also used the app to complete normal and dual-task walking trials within their homes on 3 separate days. Within laboratory-based trials, GAITRite-derived heel strikes and toe-offs of the phone-side leg aligned with smartphone acceleration extrema, following filtering and rotation to the earth coordinate system. We derived stride times—a clinically meaningful metric of locomotor control—from GAITRite and app data, for all strides occurring over the GAITRite mat. We calculated stride times and the dual-task cost to the average stride time (ie, percentage change from normal to dual-task conditions) from both measurement devices. We calculated similar metrics from home-based app data. For these trials, periods of potential turning were identified via custom-developed algorithms and omitted from stride-time analyses. Results: Across all detected strides in the laboratory, stride times derived from the app and GAITRite mat were highly correlated (P<.001, r2=.98). These correlations were independent of walking condition and pocket tightness. App- and GAITRite-derived stride-time dual-task costs were also highly correlated (P<.001, r2=.95). The error of app-derived stride times (mean 16.9, SD 9.0 ms) was unaffected by the magnitude of stride time, walking condition, or pocket tightness. For both normal and dual-task trials, average stride times derived from app walking trials demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability within and between both laboratory and home-based assessments (intraclass correlation coefficient range .82-.94). Conclusions: The iPhone app we created enabled valid and reliable assessment of stride timing—with the smartphone in the pocket—during both normal and dual-task walking and within both laboratory and nonlaboratory environments. Additional work is warranted to expand the functionality of this tool to older adults and other patient populations. %M 29382625 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8815 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e36/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8815 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29382625 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 1 %P e37 %T Implementing a Mobile Health System to Integrate the Treatment of Addiction Into Primary Care: A Hybrid Implementation-Effectiveness Study %A Quanbeck,Andrew %A Gustafson,David H %A Marsch,Lisa A %A Chih,Ming-Yuan %A Kornfield,Rachel %A McTavish,Fiona %A Johnson,Roberta %A Brown,Randall T %A Mares,Marie-Louise %A Shah,Dhavan V %+ Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Wisconsin - Madison, 1100 Delaplaine Ct, Madison, WI, 53715, United States, 1 608 263 4550, arquanbe@wisc.edu %K mobile health %K mHealth %K evidence-based practice %K behavioral medicine %D 2018 %7 30.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Despite the near ubiquity of mobile phones, little research has been conducted on the implementation of mobile health (mHealth) apps to treat patients in primary care. Although primary care clinicians routinely treat chronic conditions such as asthma and diabetes, they rarely treat addiction, a common chronic condition. Instead, addiction is most often treated in the US health care system, if it is treated at all, in a separate behavioral health system. mHealth could help integrate addiction treatment in primary care. Objective: The objective of this paper was to report the effects of implementing an mHealth system for addiction in primary care on both patients and clinicians. Methods: In this implementation research trial, an evidence-based mHealth system named Seva was introduced sequentially over 36 months to a maximum of 100 patients with substance use disorders (SUDs) in each of three federally qualified health centers (FQHCs; primary care clinics that serve patients regardless of their ability to pay). This paper reports on patient and clinician outcomes organized according to the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework. Results: The outcomes according to the RE-AIM framework are as follows: Reach—Seva reached 8.31% (268/3226) of appropriate patients. Reach was limited by our ability to pay for phones and data plans for a maximum of 100 patients per clinic. Effectiveness—Patients who were given Seva had significant improvements in their risky drinking days (44% reduction, (0.7-1.25)/1.25, P=.04), illicit drug-use days (34% reduction, (2.14-3.22)/3.22, P=.01), quality of life, human immunodeficiency virus screening rates, and number of hospitalizations. Through Seva, patients also provided peer support to one another in ways that are novel in primary care settings. Adoption—Patients sustained high levels of Seva use—between 53% and 60% of the patients at the 3 sites accessed Seva during the last week of the 12-month implementation period. Among clinicians, use of the technology was less robust than use by patients, with only a handful of clinicians using Seva in each clinic and behavioral health providers making most referrals to Seva in 2 of the 3 clinics. Implementation—At 2 sites, implementation plans were realized successfully; they were delayed in the third. Maintenance—Use of Seva dropped when grant funding stopped paying for the mobile phones and data plans. Two of the 3 clinics wanted to maintain the use of Seva, but they struggled to find funding to support this. Conclusions: Implementing an mHealth system can improve care among primary care patients with SUDs, and patients using the system can support one another in their recovery. Among clinicians, however, implementation requires figuring out how information from the mHealth system will be used and making mHealth data available in the electronic health (eHealth) record. In addition, paying for an mHealth system remains a challenge. %M 29382624 %R 10.2196/jmir.8928 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/1/e37/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8928 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29382624 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e27 %T A Breastfeed-Promoting Mobile App Intervention: Usability and Usefulness Study %A Wang,Chih-Jau %A Chaovalit,Pimwadee %A Pongnumkul,Suporn %+ National Electronics and Computer Technology Center, 112 Phahonyothin Road, Khlong Nueng, Khlong Luang District, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand, 66 2 564 6900 ext 72293, wang.chihjau@gmail.com %K mobile health %K breast feeding %K mobile applications %K health promotion %K usability %K usefulness %D 2018 %7 26.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Breastfeeding is proven to have lasting health benefits for both mothers and infants; however, 6-month exclusive breastfeeding rate remains below 20% in Thailand. Although the number of research literature and commercial apps for breastfeeding women is significantly growing, they are country-specific and restricted to English-speaking users. There exists a major knowledge gap on how mobile health apps could support breastfeeding in Thailand. To address these gaps, MoomMae has been developed with the intention to support Thai women in breastfeeding outside of their homes and in keeping their feeding records. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the usability and usefulness of MoomMae, a mobile phone app designed to support breastfeeding women. Methods: Our study was reviewed and approved by Thailand’s National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) ethics committee. A total of 21 breastfeeding women with at least one Android phone or tablet were recruited via convenience and snowball sampling. The study process for each participant was as follows: the participant was requested to attend a preuse interview and given the app to use for 4 weeks. Following this period, a postuse interview was conducted to examine the usability and usefulness of the app. Both sessions were held individually and audiorecorded for qualitative analysis. Results: The mean scores of usability and usefulness from the postuse survey were 4.33 (SD 0.87; range 1-5) and 4.60 (SD 0.74; range 2-5). Our qualitative analysis revealed a total of 137 feedbacks: 71 related to usability and 66 associated with usefulness. A further sentimental analysis showed that comments on usability were generally negative (59 negative, 11 positive, and 1 neutral), and comments on usefulness were relatively positive (56 positive, 9 negative, and 1 neutral). We discovered 26 unique design issues and proposed recommendations for future improvement. Conclusions: Our usability and usefulness assessment of MoomMae demonstrated that MoomMae has a great potential to be a useful self-management tool for breastfeeding mothers in Thailand. The qualitative analysis suggested that the app is supportive of breastfeeding on demand, but the flow and inputs of the app should be redesigned to be more intuitive. For future implementations, the most desirable feature is a pump-reminding notification system. %M 29374000 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8337 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e27/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8337 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29374000 %0 Journal Article %@ 2368-7959 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 1 %P e2 %T Evaluation of an mHealth App (DeStressify) on University Students’ Mental Health: Pilot Trial %A Lee,Rebecca Anne %A Jung,Mary Elizabeth %+ Faculty of Health and Social Development, University of British Columbia, 1147 Research Road, FHSD-ART360, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada, 1 2508079670, mary.jung@ubc.ca %K mHealth %K mindfulness %K mental health %K students %D 2018 %7 23.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Ment Health %G English %X Background: One in five Canadians experience mental health issues with those in the age range of 15 to 24 years being most at risk of a mood disorder. University students have shown significantly higher rates of mental health problems than the general public. Current university support services are limited by factors such as available staff and finances, and social stigma has frequently been identified as an additional barrier that prevents students from accessing these resources. Mobile health (mHealth) apps are one form of alternative health support that is discrete and accessible to students, and although they are recognized as a promising alternative, there is limited research demonstrating their efficacy. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate a mindfulness-based app’s (“DeStressify”) efficacy on stress, anxiety, depressive symptomology, sleep behavior, work or class absenteeism, work or school productivity, and quality of life (QoL) among university students. Methods: Full-time undergraduate students at a Canadian university with smartphones and Internet access were recruited through in-class announcements and on-campus posters. Participants randomized into an experimental condition were given and instructed to use the DeStressify app 5 days a week for 4 weeks. Control condition participants were wait-listed. All participants completed pre- and postintervention Web-based surveys to self-assess stress, anxiety, depressive symptomatology, sleep quality, and health-related QoL. Results: A total of 206 responses were collected at baseline, with 163 participants completing the study (86 control, 77 experimental). Using DeStressify was shown to reduce trait anxiety (P=.01) and improve general health (P=.001), energy (P=.01), and emotional well-being (P=.01) in university students, and more participants in the experimental condition believed their productivity improved between baseline and postintervention measurements than the number of participants expected to believe so randomly by chance (P=.01). The app did not significantly improve stress, state anxiety, physical and social functioning, and role limitations because of physical or emotional health problems or pain (P>.05). Conclusions: Mindfulness-based apps may provide an effective alternative support for university students’ mental health. Universities and other institutions may benefit from promoting the use of DeStressify or other mindfulness-based mHealth apps among students who are interested in methods of anxiety management or mindfulness-based self-driven health support. Future steps include examining DeStressify and similar mHealth apps over a longer period and in university staff and faculty. %M 29362209 %R 10.2196/mental.8324 %U http://mental.jmir.org/2018/1/e2/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mental.8324 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29362209 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e23 %T The Impact of mHealth Interventions: Systematic Review of Systematic Reviews %A Marcolino,Milena Soriano %A Oliveira,João Antonio Queiroz %A D'Agostino,Marcelo %A Ribeiro,Antonio Luiz %A Alkmim,Maria Beatriz Moreira %A Novillo-Ortiz,David %+ Pan American Health Organization, 525 23rd St NW, Washington, DC, 20037, United States, 1 2028124726, novillod@paho.org %K telemedicine %K medical informatics %K mobile phones %D 2018 %7 17.01.2018 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mobile phone usage has been rapidly increasing worldwide. mHealth could efficiently deliver high-quality health care, but the evidence supporting its current effectiveness is still mixed. Objective: We performed a systematic review of systematic reviews to assess the impact or effectiveness of mobile health (mHealth) interventions in different health conditions and in the processes of health care service delivery. Methods: We used a common search strategy of five major scientific databases, restricting the search by publication date, language, and parameters in methodology and content. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) checklist. Results: The searches resulted in a total of 10,689 articles. Of these, 23 systematic reviews (371 studies; more than 79,665 patients) were included. Seventeen reviews included studies performed in low- and middle-income countries. The studies used diverse mHealth interventions, most frequently text messaging (short message service, SMS) applied to different purposes (reminder, alert, education, motivation, prevention). Ten reviews were rated as low quality (AMSTAR score 0-4), seven were rated as moderate quality (AMSTAR score 5-8), and six were categorized as high quality (AMSTAR score 9-11). A beneficial impact of mHealth was observed in chronic disease management, showing improvement in symptoms and peak flow variability in asthma patients, reducing hospitalizations and improving forced expiratory volume in 1 second; improving chronic pulmonary diseases symptoms; improving heart failure symptoms, reducing deaths and hospitalization; improving glycemic control in diabetes patients; improving blood pressure in hypertensive patients; and reducing weight in overweight and obese patients. Studies also showed a positive impact of SMS reminders in improving attendance rates, with a similar impact to phone call reminders at reduced cost, and improved adherence to tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus therapy in some scenarios, with evidence of decrease of viral load. Conclusions: Although mHealth is growing in popularity, the evidence for efficacy is still limited. In general, the methodological quality of the studies included in the systematic reviews is low. For some fields, its impact is not evident, the results are mixed, or no long-term studies exist. Exceptions include the moderate quality evidence of improvement in asthma patients, attendance rates, and increased smoking abstinence rates. Most studies were performed in high-income countries, implying that mHealth is still at an early stage of development in low-income countries. %M 29343463 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8873 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e23/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8873 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29343463 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e22 %T Hospital-Owned Apps in Taiwan: Nationwide Survey %A Liu,Hao-Yen %A Lee,Wui-Chiang %A Sun,Ying-Chou %A Fen,Jun-Jeng %A Chen,Tzeng-Ji %A Chou,Li-Fang %A Hwang,Shinn-Jang %+ Department of Medical Affairs and Planning, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No 201, Section 2, Shipai Road, Beitou District, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan, 886 2 28216999, wclee@vghtpe.gov.tw %K hospitals %K telemedicine %K mobile apps %K Taiwan %K mHealth %D 2018 %7 16.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Over the last decade, the use of mobile phone apps in the health care industry has grown rapidly. Owing to the high penetration rate of Internet use in Taiwan, hospitals are eager to provide their own apps to improve the accessibility of medical care for patients. Objective: The aims of this study were to provide an overview of the currently available hospital-owned apps in Taiwan and to conduct a cross-hospital comparison of app features. Methods: In May 2017, the availability of apps from all 414 hospitals in Taiwan was surveyed from the hospital home pages and the Google Play app store. The features of the downloaded apps were then examined in detail and, for each app, the release date of the last update, download frequency, and rating score were obtained from Google Play. Results: Among all the 414 hospitals in Taiwan, 150 (36.2%) owned Android apps that had been made available for public use, including 95% (18/19) of the academic medical centers, 77% (63/82) of the regional hospitals, and 22.0% (69/313) of the local community hospitals. Among the 13 different functionalities made available by the various hospital-owned apps, the most common were the doctor search (100%, 150/150), real-time queue monitoring (100%, 150/150), and online appointment scheduling (94.7%, 142/150) functionalities. The majority of apps (57.3%, 86/150) had a rating greater than 4 out of 5, 49.3% (74/150) had been updated at some point in 2017, and 36.0% (54/150) had been downloaded 10,000 to 50,000 times. Conclusions: More than one-third of the hospitals owned apps intended to increase patient access to health care. The most common app features might reflect the health care situation in Taiwan, where the overcrowded outpatient departments of hospitals operate in an open-access mode without any strict referral system. Further research should focus on the effectiveness and safety of these apps. %M 29339347 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8636 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e22/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8636 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29339347 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 20 %N 1 %P e18 %T A Patient-Held Smartcard With a Unique Identifier and an mHealth Platform to Improve the Availability of Prenatal Test Results in Rural Nigeria: Demonstration Study %A Gbadamosi,Semiu Olatunde %A Eze,Chuka %A Olawepo,John Olajide %A Iwelunmor,Juliet %A Sarpong,Daniel F %A Ogidi,Amaka Grace %A Patel,Dina %A Oko,John Okpanachi %A Onoka,Chima %A Ezeanolue,Echezona Edozie %+ Global Health Initiative, School of Community Health Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV, 89154-1026, United States, 1 702 895 4950, semiu.gbadamosi@unlv.edu %K mHealth %K prenatal screening %K HIV %K hepatitis B %K sickle cell disease %K Nigeria %K telemedicine %K prenatal diagnosis %K infectious disease transmission, vertical %D 2018 %7 15.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Community-based strategies to test for HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), and sickle cell disease (SCD) have expanded opportunities to increase the proportion of pregnant women who are aware of their diagnosis. In order to use this information to implement evidence-based interventions, these results have to be available to skilled health providers at the point of delivery. Most electronic health platforms are dependent on the availability of reliable Internet connectivity and, thus, have limited use in many rural and resource-limited settings. Objective: Here we describe our work on the development and deployment of an integrated mHealth platform that is able to capture medical information, including test results, and encrypt it into a patient-held smartcard that can be read at the point of delivery without the need for an Internet connection. Methods: We engaged a team of implementation scientists, public health experts, and information technology specialists in a requirement-gathering process to inform the design of a prototype for a platform that uses smartcard technology, database deployment, and mobile phone app development. Key design decisions focused on usability, scalability, and security. Results: We successfully designed an integrated mHealth platform and deployed it in 4 health facilities across Benue State, Nigeria. We developed the Vitira Health platform to store test results of HIV, HBV, and SCD in a database, and securely encrypt the results on a Quick Response code embedded on a smartcard. We used a mobile app to read the contents on the smartcard without the need for Internet connectivity. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that it is possible to develop a patient-held smartcard and an mHealth platform that contains vital health information that can be read at the point of delivery using a mobile phone-based app without an Internet connection. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03027258; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03027258 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6owR2D0kE) %M 29335234 %R 10.2196/jmir.8716 %U http://www.jmir.org/2018/1/e18/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8716 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29335234 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e17 %T Comparing Diet and Exercise Monitoring Using Smartphone App and Paper Diary: A Two-Phase Intervention Study %A Jimoh,Florence %A Lund,Elizabeth K %A Harvey,Linda J %A Frost,Catherine %A Lay,W James %A Roe,Mark A %A Berry,Rachel %A Finglas,Paul M %+ Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UA, United Kingdom, 44 1603255318, paul.finglas@quadram.ac.uk %K adolescent %K smartphone app %K diet %K exercise %K food intake %K mobile applications %D 2018 %7 15.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: There is increasing recognition that personalized approaches may be more effective in helping people establish healthier eating patterns and exercise more, and that this approach may be particularly effective in adolescents. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the use of a smartphone app (FoodWiz2) in supporting healthy lifestyle choices in adolescence. Methods: Participants (N=34: 11 male, 23 female) aged 16-19 years in full- or part-time education were recruited from sixth form colleges, schools, and other further education establishments in Norfolk and Suffolk, United Kingdom, between February and May 2015. Participants recorded food intake and exercise using a paper diary for 4-5 weeks and then used the app for the same duration. Initial nutrition education and general support were provided during the paper diary use, but the app included personalized messages sent in response to app activity. At the end of each study phase, participants completed an online questionnaire to describe their experience of using the paper diary and app. Results: Record completion declined throughout the study, possibly affected by examination pressure. Food intake data showed increased fruit consumption and significantly reduced consumption of chocolate snacks (P=.01) and fizzy drinks (P=.002) among participants using the app. Questionnaire responses indicated that the app was generally preferred to the paper diary, in particular, the app was seen as less boring to use (P=.03) and more acceptable in social settings (P<.001). Conclusions: This app-based approach has shown the potential for a more effective approach to improving adolescent diet and exercise levels. %M 29335239 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7702 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e17/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7702 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29335239 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e16 %T Tanzania Health Information Technology (T-HIT) System: Pilot Test of a Tablet-Based System to Improve Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV %A Bull,Sheana %A Thomas,Deborah SK %A Nyanza,Elias C %A Ngallaba,Sospatro E %+ Department of Geography & Environmental Sciences, University of Colorado Denver, PO Box 173364, CB 172, Denver, CO, 80217-3364, United States, 1 303 315 7557, deborah.thomas@ucdenver.edu %K mHealth %K decision aids %K HIV %K healthcare workers %D 2018 %7 15.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV requires innovative solutions. Although routine monitoring is effective in some areas, standardized and easy-to-scale solutions to identify and monitor pregnant women, test them for HIV, and treat them and their children is still lacking. Mobile health (mHealth) offers opportunities for surveillance and reporting in rural areas of low- and middle-income countries. Objective: The aim of this study was to document the preliminary impacts of the Tanzania Health Information Technology (T-HIT) system mHealth intervention aimed at health workers for PMTCT care delivery and capacity building in a rural area of Tanzania. Methods: We developed T-HIT as a tablet-based system for an electronic data collection system designed to capture and report PMTCT data during antenatal, delivery, and postnatal visits in Misungwi, Tanzania. T-HIT was tested by health workers in a pilot randomized trial comparing seven sites using T-HIT assigned at random to seven control sites; all sites maintained standard paper record-keeping during the pilot intervention period. We compared numbers of antenatal visits, number of HIV tests administered, and women testing positive across all sites. Results: Health workers recorded data from antenatal visits for 1530 women; of these, 695 (45.42%) were tested for HIV and 3.59% (55/1530) tested positive. Health workers were unable to conduct an HIV test for 103 women (6.73%, 103/1530) because of lack of reagent, which is not captured on paper logs. There was no difference in the activity level for testing when comparing sites T-HIT to non-T-HIT sites. We observed a significant postintervention increase in the numbers of women testing positive for HIV compared with the preintervention period (P=.04), but this was likely not attributable to the T-HIT system. Conclusions: T-HIT had a high degree of acceptability and feasibility and is perceived as useful by health workers, who documented more antenatal visits during the pilot intervention compared with a traditional system of paper logs, suggesting potential for improvements in antenatal care for women at risk for HIV. %M 29335236 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8513 %U https://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e16/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8513 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29335236 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 7 %N 1 %P e6 %T Development of a Maternal, Newborn and Child mHealth Intervention in Thai Nguyen Province, Vietnam: Protocol for the mMom Project %A McBride,Bronwyn %A Nguyen,Liem Thanh %A Wiljer,David %A Vu,Nguyen C %A Nguyen,Cuong K %A O'Neil,John %+ Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A1S6, Canada, 1 778 782 5361, joneil@sfu.ca %K mobile health %K Vietnam %K maternal health %K reproductive health %K health equity %D 2018 %7 11.01.2018 %9 Protocol %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Ethnic minority women (EMW) living in mountainous areas of northern Vietnam have disproportionately high infant and maternal mortality rates as a result of low maternal health knowledge, poverty, and remoteness from low-capacity health centers. Objective: The objective of this study was to describe the protocol for the development and evaluation of the mMom intervention, which is an integrated mobile health (mHealth) system designed to improve maternal and infant health knowledge, and behavior among women in remote areas of Thai Nguyen, Vietnam. Methods: This project featured the following four phases: (1) development of an mHealth platform integrated into the existing health management information system in partnership with the provincial health department; (2) ethnographic fieldwork and intervention content development; (3) intervention piloting and implementation; and (4) evaluation of the intervention’s impact on participants’ maternal health knowledge, behavior, and interactions with the health system. Results: The mMom project development process resulted in the following: (1) the successful development of the mMom system, including the mHealth platform hardware and integration, the intervention plan and content, and the monitoring and evaluation framework; (2) the piloting and implementation of the intervention as planned; and (3) the implementation of the monitoring and evaluation framework components. Conclusions: This protocol outlines the development of the mMom intervention and describes critical next steps in understanding the impact of the intervention on participants and the wider health system in Thai Nguyen province, Vietnam. %M 29326095 %R 10.2196/resprot.7912 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2018/1/e6/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.7912 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29326095 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e10 %T Hearing Tests Based on Biologically Calibrated Mobile Devices: Comparison With Pure-Tone Audiometry %A Masalski,Marcin %A Grysiński,Tomasz %A Kręcicki,Tomasz %+ Department and Clinic of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Postgraduate Medical Training, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 213, Wrocław, 50-556, Poland, 48 515086252, marcin.masalski@pwr.edu.pl %K hearing test %K mobile health %K mobile apps %K pure-tone audiometry %D 2018 %7 10.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Hearing screening tests based on pure-tone audiometry may be conducted on mobile devices, provided that the devices are specially calibrated for the purpose. Calibration consists of determining the reference sound level and can be performed in relation to the hearing threshold of normal-hearing persons. In the case of devices provided by the manufacturer, together with bundled headphones, the reference sound level can be calculated once for all devices of the same model. Objective: This study aimed to compare the hearing threshold measured by a mobile device that was calibrated using a model-specific, biologically determined reference sound level with the hearing threshold obtained in pure-tone audiometry. Methods: Trial participants were recruited offline using face-to-face prompting from among Otolaryngology Clinic patients, who own Android-based mobile devices with bundled headphones. The hearing threshold was obtained on a mobile device by means of an open access app, Hearing Test, with incorporated model-specific reference sound levels. These reference sound levels were previously determined in uncontrolled conditions in relation to the hearing threshold of normal-hearing persons. An audiologist-assisted self-measurement was conducted by the participants in a sound booth, and it involved determining the lowest audible sound generated by the device within the frequency range of 250 Hz to 8 kHz. The results were compared with pure-tone audiometry. Results: A total of 70 subjects, 34 men and 36 women, aged 18-71 years (mean 36, standard deviation [SD] 11) participated in the trial. The hearing threshold obtained on mobile devices was significantly different from the one determined by pure-tone audiometry with a mean difference of 2.6 dB (95% CI 2.0-3.1) and SD of 8.3 dB (95% CI 7.9-8.7). The number of differences not greater than 10 dB reached 89% (95% CI 88-91), whereas the mean absolute difference was obtained at 6.5 dB (95% CI 6.2-6.9). Sensitivity and specificity for a mobile-based screening method were calculated at 98% (95% CI 93-100.0) and 79% (95% CI 71-87), respectively. Conclusions: The method of hearing self-test carried out on mobile devices with bundled headphones demonstrates high compatibility with pure-tone audiometry, which confirms its potential application in hearing monitoring, screening tests, or epidemiological examinations on a large scale. %M 29321124 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7800 %U https://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e10/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7800 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29321124 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e7 %T Effectiveness and Appropriateness of mHealth Interventions for Maternal and Child Health: Systematic Review %A Chen,Huan %A Chai,Yanling %A Dong,Le %A Niu,Wenyi %A Zhang,Puhong %+ The George Institute for Global Health, Peking University Health Science Center, Level 18, Horizon Tower B, No. 6 Zhichun Rd, Beijing,, China, 86 1082800577 ext 512, zpuhong@georgeinstitute.org.cn %K telemedicine %K maternal health %K child health %D 2018 %7 09.01.2018 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The application of mobile health (mHealth) technology in reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health (RMNCH) is increasing worldwide. However, best practice and the most effective mHealth interventions have not been reviewed systematically. Objective: A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies of mHealth interventions for RMNCH around the world were conducted to investigate their characteristics as well as the features and effectiveness of mHealth interventions. Methods: Studies of mHealth interventions for RMNCH between January 2011 and December 2016 were retrieved from 6 databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Global Health, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals, and Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Medium). Comparable studies were included in a random-effects meta-analysis for both exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and antenatal checks (ANC). Descriptive analyses were conducted for mHealth studies with a range of study designs. Results: Analyses of 245 studies were included, including 51 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Results showed that there are increasing numbers of studies on mHealth interventions for RMNCH. Although 2 meta-analysis, one with 2 RCTs on EBF (odds ratio [OR] 2.03, 95% CI 1.34-3.08, I2=25%) and the other with 3 RCTs on ANC (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.13-1.79, I2=78%), showed that mHealth interventions are more effective than usual care, almost half (43%) of RCTs showed negative or unclear results on mHealth interventions. Functions described in mHealth interventions were diverse, and the health stages covered were broad. However, single function or single stage appeared to be dominant among mHealth interventions compared with multiple functions or stages. Conclusions: More rigorous evaluations are needed to draw consistent conclusions and to analyze mHealth products with multiple functions, especially those popular in the app markets. %M 29317380 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8998 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e7/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8998 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29317380 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e5 %T A Mobile App to Screen for Neurocognitive Impairment: Preliminary Validation of NeuroScreen Among HIV-Infected South African Adults %A Robbins,Reuben N %A Gouse,Hetta %A Brown,Henry G %A Ehlers,Andries %A Scott,Travis M %A Leu,Cheng-Shiun %A Remien,Robert H %A Mellins,Claude A %A Joska,John A %+ HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute & Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Drive, Unit 15, New York, NY, 10032, United States, 1 6467746968, rnr2110@cumc.columbia.edu %K HIV %K neurocognitive %K impairment %K lay health workers %K resource-limited settings %K South Africa %K tablet %K app %K neuropsychology %D 2018 %7 05.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Neurocognitive impairment (NCI) is one of the most common complications of HIV infection, and has serious medical and functional consequences. South Africa has 7 million people living with HIV (PLHIV) with up to three-quarters of antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naïve individuals having NCI. South Africa’s health system struggles to meet the care needs of its millions of PLHIV; screening for NCI is typically neglected due to limited clinical staff trained to administer, score, and interpret neuropsychological tests, as well as long test batteries and limited screening tools for South African populations. Without accurate, clinically useful, and relatively brief NCI screening tests that can be administered by all levels of clinical staff, critical opportunities to provide psychoeducation, behavioral planning, additional ART adherence support, and adjuvant therapies for NCI (when they become available) are missed. To address these challenges and gap in care, we developed an mHealth app screening tool, NeuroScreen, to detect NCI that can be administered by all levels of clinical staff, including lay health workers. Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine sensitivity and specificity of an adapted version of NeuroScreen to detect NCI (as determined by a gold standard neuropsychological test battery administered by a trained research psychometrist) among HIV-infected South Africans when administered by a lay health worker. Methods: A total of 102 HIV-infected black South African adults who had initiated ART at least 12 months prior were administered NeuroScreen and a gold standard neuropsychological test battery in the participants’ choice of language (ie, English or isiXhosa). Three composite z scores were calculated for NeuroScreen: (1) sum of all individual test scores, (2) sum of all individual test scores and error scores from four tests, and (3) sum of four tests (abbreviated version). Global deficit scores were calculated for the gold standard battery where a score of 0.5 or greater indicated the presence of NCI. Results: The mean age of participants was 33.31 (SD 7.46) years, most (59.8%, 61/102) had at least 12 years of education, and 81.4% (83/102) of the sample was female. Gold standard test battery results indicated that 26.5% (27/102) of the sample had NCI. Sensitivity and specificity of age-, education-, and sex-adjusted NeuroScreen scores were 81.48% and 74.67% for composite score 1, 81.48% and 81.33% for composite score 2, and 92.59% and 70.67% for composite score 3, respectively. Conclusions: NeuroScreen, a highly automated, easy-to-use, tablet-based screening test to detect NCI among English- and isiXhosa-speaking South African HIV patients demonstrated robust sensitivity and specificity to detect NCI when administered by lay health workers. NeuroScreen could help make screening for NCI more feasible. However, additional research is needed with larger samples and normative test performance data are needed. %M 29305338 %R 10.2196/mhealth.9148 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e5/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9148 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29305338 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e3 %T Privacy Policies for Apps Targeted Toward Youth: Descriptive Analysis of Readability %A Das,Gitanjali %A Cheung,Cynthia %A Nebeker,Camille %A Bietz,Matthew %A Bloss,Cinnamon %+ Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Atkinson Hall, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0811, United States, 1 858 534 9595, cbloss@ucsd.edu %K privacy %K comprehension %K mobile applications %K adolescent %D 2018 %7 04.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Due to the growing availability of consumer information, the protection of personal data is of increasing concern. Objective: We assessed readability metrics of privacy policies for apps that are either available to or targeted toward youth to inform strategies to educate and protect youth from unintentional sharing of personal data. Methods: We reviewed the 1200 highest ranked apps from the Apple and Google Play Stores and systematically selected apps geared toward youth. After applying exclusion criteria, 99 highly ranked apps geared toward minors remained, 64 of which had a privacy policy. We obtained and analyzed these privacy policies using reading grade level (RGL) as a metric. Policies were further compared as a function of app category (free vs paid; entertainment vs social networking vs utility). Results: Analysis of privacy policies for these 64 apps revealed an average RGL of 12.78, which is well above the average reading level (8.0) of adults in the United States. There was also a small but statistically significant difference in word count as a function of app category (entertainment: 2546 words, social networking: 3493 words, and utility: 1038 words; P=.02). Conclusions: Although users must agree to privacy policies to access digital tools and products, readability analyses suggest that these agreements are not comprehensible to most adults, let alone youth. We propose that stakeholders, including pediatricians and other health care professionals, play a role in educating youth and their guardians about the use of Web-based services and potential privacy risks, including the unintentional sharing of personal data. %M 29301737 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7626 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e3/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7626 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29301737 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e2 %T Importance of Active Participation in Obesity Management Through Mobile Health Care Programs: Substudy of a Randomized Controlled Trial %A Oh,Bumjo %A Yi,Ga-Hye %A Han,Min Kyu %A Kim,Jong Seung %A Lee,Chang Hee %A Cho,Belong %A Kang,Hee Cheol %+ Department of Family Medicine, Seoul Metropolitan Government - Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 20 Boramae-ro 5 gil, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 07061, Republic Of Korea, 82 2 870 2681, atenae68@nate.com %K physical activity %K mobile health %K metabolic syndrome %K self-report %K adherence %K concordance %D 2018 %7 03.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Due to the prevalence of the westernized dietary pattern and lack of physical activity, the numbers of overweight or obese individuals are increasing, resulting in a growing health burden because of various related diseases. A lifestyle modification approach has additional advantages compared with pharmacological therapies or bariatric surgery. In our randomized controlled trial conducted in 2015, we successfully used a ubiquitous health care (SmartCare) service for patients with metabolic syndrome to achieve a significant weight loss effect. Various useful apps have been developed for the SmartCare Service, which involves using a mobile phone to manage chronic diseases, minimizing time and space restrictions. Many studies have demonstrated weight loss effects using a SmartCare service, but limited data are available regarding the effect of active participation in relation to weight loss. Objective: We aimed to assess the weight loss effect achieved after using the SmartCare service in terms of adherence and participation. We divided the intervention group of the previous study according to participation level, and analyzed whether there was a significant difference in the outcome. Methods: We classified participants into 3 groups according to their adherence. Within the intervention group using the SmartCare service, the active group comprised those transmitting anthropometric measurement data using a mobile phone 3 or more times per week or who had a health consultation 5 or more times during a 24-week period. The passive group comprised those who did not adhere to these levels of engagement. The control group comprised those who did not use the SmartCare service. We compared changes in body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, waist circumference, and lipid profile among the 3 groups. Results: We identified 422 participants and analyzed 405, excluding 17 who were missing necessary data for analysis. The active group consisted of 116 participants, compared with 80 in the passive group and 209 in the control group (without SmartCare service). There was a statistically significant difference in improvements to body weight, BMI, body fat percentage, and waist circumference among active participants compared with less active participants and the control group (P<.05). However, the lipid profile changes did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusions: The level of participation may be related to improved weight-related outcomes, which may improve health outcomes. To maximize the effectiveness of the SmartCare service, encouraging active participation is important. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01344811; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01344811 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6alT2MmIB) %M 29298749 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8719 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e2/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8719 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29298749 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e1 %T Physical Activity Assessment Using an Activity Tracker in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Axial Spondyloarthritis: Prospective Observational Study %A Jacquemin,Charlotte %A Servy,Hervé %A Molto,Anna %A Sellam,Jérémie %A Foltz,Violaine %A Gandjbakhch,Frédérique %A Hudry,Christophe %A Mitrovic,Stéphane %A Fautrel,Bruno %A Gossec,Laure %+ Rheumatology Department, Pitié Salpêtrière Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 47-83 bd de l’hôpital, Paris, 75013, France, 33 688624123, jacquemin.charlotte@gmail.com %K fitness tracker %K exercise %K rheumatoid arthritis %K axial spondylarthritis %D 2018 %7 02.01.2018 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Physical activity can be tracked using mobile devices and is recommended in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) management. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least 150 min per week of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Objective: The objectives of this study were to assess and compare physical activity and its patterns in patients with RA and axSpA using an activity tracker and to assess the feasibility of mobile devices in this population. Methods: This multicentric prospective observational study (ActConnect) included patients who had definite RA or axSpA, and a smartphone. Physical activity was assessed over 3 months using a mobile activity tracker, recording the number of steps per minute. The number of patients reaching the WHO recommendations was calculated. RA and axSpA were compared, using linear mixed models, for number of steps, proportion of morning steps, duration of total activity, and MVPA. Physical activity trajectories were identified using the K-means method, and factors related to the low activity trajectory were explored by logistic regression. Acceptability was assessed by the mean number of days the tracker was worn over the 3 months (ie, adherence), the percentage of wearing time, and by an acceptability questionnaire. Results: A total of 157 patients (83 RA and 74 axSpA) were analyzed; 36.3% (57/157) patients were males, and their mean age was 46 (standard deviation [SD] 12) years and mean disease duration was 11 (SD 9) years. RA and axSpA patients had similar physical activity levels of 16 (SD 11) and 15 (SD 12) min per day of MVPA (P=.80), respectively. Only 27.4% (43/157) patients reached the recommendations with a mean MVPA of 106 (SD 77) min per week. The following three trajectories were identified with constant activity: low (54.1% [85/157] of patients), moderate (42.7% [67/157] of patients), and high (3.2% [5/157] of patients) levels of MVPA. A higher body mass index was significantly related to less physical activity (odds ratio 1.12, 95% CI 1.11-1.14). The activity trackers were worn during a mean of 79 (SD 17) days over the 90 days follow-up. Overall, patients considered the use of the tracker very acceptable, with a mean score of 8 out 10. Conclusions: Patients with RA and axSpA performed insufficient physical activity with similar levels in both groups, despite the differences between the 2 diseases. Activity trackers allow longitudinal assessment of physical activity in these patients. The good adherence to this study and the good acceptability of wearing activity trackers confirmed the feasibility of the use of a mobile activity tracker in patients with rheumatic diseases. %M 29295810 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7948 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2018/1/e1/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7948 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29295810 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 12 %P e202 %T Medication Adherence and Technology-Based Interventions for Adolescents With Chronic Health Conditions: A Few Key Considerations %A Badawy,Sherif M %A Thompson,Alexis A %A Kuhns,Lisa M %+ Division of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant, Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, 225 E Chicago Ave., Box 30, Chicago, IL, 60611, United States, 1 3122274090, sbadawy@luriechildrens.org %K adolescents %K adherence %K compliance %K technology interventions %K mobile apps %K text messaging %D 2017 %7 22.12.2017 %9 Viewpoint %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X The number of children and adolescents with chronic health conditions (CHCs) has doubled over the past two decades. Medication adherence is a key component of disease management within these groups. Low adherence to prescribed medications is a known problem in adolescents with CHCs and is related to health outcomes, including quality of life, disease complications, and mortality. Adolescence is a critical time to create routines and health behaviors that optimize disease self-management and transition to adult care. The mounting interest in the development and use of mobile health tools provides novel opportunities to connect patients, particularly adolescents, with their providers outside of the clinic and to improve health outcomes. There is growing evidence to support the efficacy of technology-based approaches, in particular text-messaging and mobile apps, to improve adherence behavior in adolescents, although cost-effectiveness and long-term health benefits remain unclear. In this short viewpoint article, we review some important considerations for promoting medication adherence in adolescents with CHCs using technology-based approaches. %M 29273573 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8310 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/12/e202/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8310 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29273573 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 12 %P e420 %T Estimation of Symptom Severity During Chemotherapy From Passively Sensed Data: Exploratory Study %A Low,Carissa A %A Dey,Anind K %A Ferreira,Denzil %A Kamarck,Thomas %A Sun,Weijing %A Bae,Sangwon %A Doryab,Afsaneh %+ Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 5200 Centre Avenue, Suite 614, Pittsburgh, PA, 15232, United States, 1 4126235973, lowca@upmc.edu %K patient reported outcome measures %K cancer %K mobile health %D 2017 %7 19.12.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Physical and psychological symptoms are common during chemotherapy in cancer patients, and real-time monitoring of these symptoms can improve patient outcomes. Sensors embedded in mobile phones and wearable activity trackers could be potentially useful in monitoring symptoms passively, with minimal patient burden. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore whether passively sensed mobile phone and Fitbit data could be used to estimate daily symptom burden during chemotherapy. Methods: A total of 14 patients undergoing chemotherapy for gastrointestinal cancer participated in the 4-week study. Participants carried an Android phone and wore a Fitbit device for the duration of the study and also completed daily severity ratings of 12 common symptoms. Symptom severity ratings were summed to create a total symptom burden score for each day, and ratings were centered on individual patient means and categorized into low, average, and high symptom burden days. Day-level features were extracted from raw mobile phone sensor and Fitbit data and included features reflecting mobility and activity, sleep, phone usage (eg, duration of interaction with phone and apps), and communication (eg, number of incoming and outgoing calls and messages). We used a rotation random forests classifier with cross-validation and resampling with replacement to evaluate population and individual model performance and correlation-based feature subset selection to select nonredundant features with the best predictive ability. Results: Across 295 days of data with both symptom and sensor data, a number of mobile phone and Fitbit features were correlated with patient-reported symptom burden scores. We achieved an accuracy of 88.1% for our population model. The subset of features with the best accuracy included sedentary behavior as the most frequent activity, fewer minutes in light physical activity, less variable and average acceleration of the phone, and longer screen-on time and interactions with apps on the phone. Mobile phone features had better predictive ability than Fitbit features. Accuracy of individual models ranged from 78.1% to 100% (mean 88.4%), and subsets of relevant features varied across participants. Conclusions: Passive sensor data, including mobile phone accelerometer and usage and Fitbit-assessed activity and sleep, were related to daily symptom burden during chemotherapy. These findings highlight opportunities for long-term monitoring of cancer patients during chemotherapy with minimal patient burden as well as real-time adaptive interventions aimed at early management of worsening or severe symptoms. %M 29258977 %R 10.2196/jmir.9046 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/12/e420/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.9046 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29258977 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 12 %P e197 %T Health App Use Among US Mobile Phone Users: Analysis of Trends by Chronic Disease Status %A Robbins,Rebecca %A Krebs,Paul %A Jagannathan,Ram %A Jean-Louis,Girardin %A Duncan,Dustin T %+ Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, 227 East 30th Street, New York, NY, 10016, United States, 1 6465012634, rebecca.robbins@nyumc.org %K smartphone %K telemedicine %K chronic disease %D 2017 %7 19.12.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mobile apps hold promise for serving as a lifestyle intervention in public health to promote wellness and attenuate chronic conditions, yet little is known about how individuals with chronic illness use or perceive mobile apps. Objective: The objective of this study was to explore behaviors and perceptions about mobile phone–based apps for health among individuals with chronic conditions. Methods: Data were collected from a national cross-sectional survey of 1604 mobile phone users in the United States that assessed mHealth use, beliefs, and preferences. This study examined health app use, reason for download, and perceived efficacy by chronic condition. Results: Among participants, having between 1 and 5 apps was reported by 38.9% (314/807) of respondents without a condition and by 6.6% (24/364) of respondents with hypertension. Use of health apps was reported 2 times or more per day by 21.3% (172/807) of respondents without a condition, 2.7% (10/364) with hypertension, 13.1% (26/198) with obesity, 12.3% (20/163) with diabetes, 12.0% (32/267) with depression, and 16.6% (53/319) with high cholesterol. Results of the logistic regression did not indicate a significant difference in health app download between individuals with and without chronic conditions (P>.05). Compared with individuals with poor health, health app download was more likely among those with self-reported very good health (odds ratio [OR] 3.80, 95% CI 2.38-6.09, P<.001) and excellent health (OR 4.77, 95% CI 2.70-8.42, P<.001). Similarly, compared with individuals who report never or rarely engaging in physical activity, health app download was more likely among those who report exercise 1 day per week (OR 2.47, 95% CI 1.6-3.83, P<.001), 2 days per week (OR 4.77, 95% CI 3.27-6.94, P<.001), 3 to 4 days per week (OR 5.00, 95% CI 3.52-7.10, P<.001), and 5 to 7 days per week (OR 4.64, 95% CI 3.11-6.92, P<.001). All logistic regression results controlled for age, sex, and race or ethnicity. Conclusions: Results from this study suggest that individuals with poor self-reported health and low rates of physical activity, arguably those who stand to benefit most from health apps, were least likely to report download and use these health tools. %M 29258981 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7832 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/12/e197/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7832 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29258981 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 12 %P e404 %T Individual Differences in the Relationship Between Attachment and Nomophobia Among College Students: The Mediating Role of Mindfulness %A Arpaci,Ibrahim %A Baloğlu,Mustafa %A Özteke Kozan,Hatice İrem %A Kesici,Şahin %+ Department of Special Education, Faculty of Education, Hacettepe University, Beytepe Campus, Ankara, 06110, Turkey, 90 3127806315, baloglu@hotmail.com %K reactive attachment disorder %K mindfulness %K anxiety %K phobic disorders %K phobia %K smartphone %D 2017 %7 14.12.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: There is a growing interest in nomophobia, which is defined as the fear of being out of cellular phone contact, or "feelings of discomfort or anxiety experienced by individuals when they are unable to use their mobile phones or utilize the affordances these devices provide”. However, only limited research can be found in terms of its determinants at present. Contemporary literature suggests that the relationships among attachment styles, mindfulness, and nomophobia have not been investigated. Objective: This study aims to investigate the mediating effect of mindfulness on the relationship between attachment and nomophobia. In addition, the study also focuses on gender differences in attachment, mindfulness, and nomophobia. A theory-based structural model was tested to understand the essentials of the associations between the constructs. Methods: The Experiences in Close Relationships Scale, Nomophobia Questionnaire, and Mindful Attention Awareness Scale were used to collect data from undergraduate students (N=450; 70.9% women [319/450]; mean age=21.94 years [SD 3.61]). Two measurement models (ie, attachment and mindfulness) and a structural model were specified, estimated, and evaluated. Results: The structural equation model shows that the positive direct effects of avoidant (.13, P=.03) and anxious attachment (.48, P<.001) on nomophobia were significant. The negative direct effects of avoidant (−.18, P=.01) and anxious attachment (−.33, P<.001) on mindfulness were also significant. Moreover, mindfulness has a significant negative effect on nomophobia for women only (−.13, P=.03). Finally, the Sobel test showed that the indirect effects of avoidant and anxious attachment on nomophobia via mindfulness were significant (P<.001). The direct and indirect effects of anxious attachment, avoidant attachment, and mindfulness altogether accounted for 33% of the total variance in nomophobia. Gender comparison results show that there is a significant difference in attachment based on gender (F2,447=6.97, P=.01, Wilk λ=.97, partial η2=.03). Women (mean 68.46 [SD 16.96]) scored significantly higher than men (mean 63.59 [SD 15.97]) in anxious attachment (F1=7.93, P=.01, partial η2=.02). Gender differences in mindfulness were not significant (F4,448=3.45, P=.69). On the other hand, results do show significant gender differences in nomophobia (F4,445=2.71, P=.03, Wilk λ=.98, partial η2=.02) where women scored significantly higher than men. Conclusions: In general, individuals who are emotionally more dependent and crave more closeness and attention in the relationship tend to display higher levels of fear or discomfort when they have no access to their mobile phones. However, gender has a differential impact on the relationship between avoidant attachment and nomophobia. This study establishes the impact of mindfulness on nomophobia for women; therefore, future studies should test the effectiveness of mindfulness-based therapy approaches and confirm whether they are effective and efficient. On the basis of significant gender difference in nomophobia and attachment, we conclude that gender should be taken into account in mindfulness-based treatments dealing with nomophobia. %M 29242179 %R 10.2196/jmir.8847 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/12/e404/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8847 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29242179 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 12 %P e195 %T Chinese Cardiovascular Disease Mobile Apps’ Information Types, Information Quality, and Interactive Functions for Self-Management: Systematic Review %A Xie,Bo %A Su,Zhaohui %A Zhang,Wenhui %A Cai,Run %+ Chongqing Cancer Institute, 181 Hanyu Road, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400030, China, 86 23 6507 5628, cairun0519@163.com %K mobile health %K mHealth %K cardiovascular disease %K CVD %K patient preferences %K information quality %K self-management %K mobile applications %K mobile apps %K China %D 2017 %7 14.12.2017 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: China has a large population with cardiovascular disease (CVD) that requires extensive self-management. Mobile health (mHealth) apps may be a useful tool for CVD self-management. Little is currently known about the types and quality of health information provided in Chinese CVD mobile apps and whether app functions are conducive to promoting CVD self-management. Objective: We undertook a systematic review to evaluate the types and quality of health information provided in Chinese CVD mobile apps and interactive app functions for promoting CVD self-management. Methods: Mobile apps targeting end users in China with CVD conditions were selected in February 2017 through a multi-stage process. Three frameworks were used to evaluate the selected apps: (1) types of health information offered were assessed using our Health Information Wants framework, which encompasses 7 types of information; (2) quality of information provided in the apps was assessed using the 11 guidelines recommended by the National Library of Medicine of the National Institutes of Health; and (3) types of interactive app functions for CVD self-management were assessed using a 15-item framework adapted from the literature, including our own prior work. Results: Of 578 apps identified, 82 were eligible for final review. Among these, information about self-care (67/82, 82%) and information specifically regarding CVD (63/82, 77%) were the most common types of information provided, while information about health care providers (22/82, 27%) and laboratory tests (5/82, 6%) were least common. The most common indicators of information quality were the revealing of apps’ providers (82/82, 100%) and purpose (82/82, 100%), while the least common quality indicators were the revealing of how apps’ information was selected (1/82, 1%) and app sponsorship (0/82, 0%). The most common interactive functions for CVD self-management were those that enabled user interaction with the app provider (57/82, 70%) and with health care providers (36/82, 44%), while the least common interactive functions were those that enabled lifestyle management (13/82, 16%) and psychological health management (6/82, 7%). None of the apps covered all 7 types of health information, all 11 indicators of information quality, or all 15 interactive functions for CVD self-management. Conclusions: Chinese CVD apps are insufficient in providing comprehensive health information, high-quality information, and interactive functions to facilitate CVD self-management. End users should exercise caution when using existing apps. Health care professionals and app developers should collaborate to better understand end users’ preferences and follow evidence-based guidelines to develop mHealth apps conducive to CVD self-management. %M 29242176 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8549 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/12/e195/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8549 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29242176 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 12 %P e406 %T End User and Implementer Experiences of mHealth Technologies for Noncommunicable Chronic Disease Management in Young Adults: Systematic Review %A Slater,Helen %A Campbell,Jared M %A Stinson,Jennifer N %A Burley,Megan M %A Briggs,Andrew M %+ School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, 6845, Australia, 61 8 9266 3099, h.slater@curtin.edu.au %K musculoskeletal pain %K health services research %K telemedicine %K noncommunicable disease %K chronic disease %K health policy %D 2017 %7 12.12.2017 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as asthma, diabetes, cancer, and persistent musculoskeletal pain impose an escalating and unsustainable burden on young people, their families, and society. Exploring how mobile health (mHealth) technologies can support management for young people with NCDs is imperative. Objective: The aim of this study was to identify, appraise, and synthesize available qualitative evidence on users’ experiences of mHealth technologies for NCD management in young people. We explored the perspectives of both end users (young people) and implementers (health policy makers, clinicians, and researchers). Methods: A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Eligibility criteria included full reports published in peer-reviewed journals from January 2007 to December 2016, searched across databases including EMBASE, MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and PsycINFO. All qualitative studies that evaluated the use of mHealth technologies to support young people (in the age range of 15-24 years) in managing their chronic NCDs were considered. Two independent reviewers identified eligible reports and conducted critical appraisal (based on the Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument: JBI-QARI). Three reviewers independently, then collaboratively, synthesized and interpreted data through an inductive and iterative process to derive emergent themes across the included data. External validity checking was undertaken by an expert clinical researcher and for relevant content, a health policy expert. Themes were subsequently subjected to a meta-synthesis, with findings compared and contrasted between user groups and policy and practice recommendations derived. Results: Twelve studies met our inclusion criteria. Among studies of end users (N=7), mHealth technologies supported the management of young people with diabetes, cancer, and asthma. Implementer studies (N=5) covered the management of cognitive and communicative disabilities, asthma, chronic self-harm, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Quality ratings were higher for implementer compared with end user studies. Both complementary and unique user themes emerged. Themes derived for end users of mHealth included (1) Experiences of functionality that supported self-management, (2) Acceptance (technical usability and feasibility), (3) Importance of codesign, and (4) Perceptions of benefit (self-efficacy and empowerment). For implementers, derived themes included (1) Characteristics that supported self-management (functional, technical, and behavior change); (2) Implementation challenges (systems level, service delivery level, and clinical level); (3) Adoption considerations for specific populations (training end users; specific design requirements); and (4) Codesign and tailoring to facilitate uptake and person-centered care. Conclusions: Synthesizing available data revealed both complementary and unique user perspectives on enablers and barriers to designing, developing, and implementing mHealth technologies to support young people’s management of their chronic NCDs. Trial Registration: PROSPERO CRD42017056317; http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.asp?ID=CRD 42017056317 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6vZ5UkKLp) %M 29233804 %R 10.2196/jmir.8888 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/12/e406/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8888 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29233804 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 12 %P e186 %T How Do Infant Feeding Apps in China Measure Up? A Content Quality Assessment %A Zhao,Jing %A Freeman,Becky %A Li,Mu %+ School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building, A27, Camperdown, New South Wales, 2006, Australia, 61 406502156, jzha5010@uni.sydney.edu.au %K apps %K mobile phone %K Chinese %D 2017 %7 06.12.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Globally, with the popularization of mobile phones, the number of health-related mobile phone apps has skyrocketed to 259,000 in 2016. In the digital era, people are accessing health information through their fingertips. In China, there are several apps that claim to provide infant feeding and nutrition guidance. However, the quality of information in those apps has not been extensively assessed. Objective: We aimed to assess the quality of Chinese infant feeding apps using comprehensive quality assessment criteria and to explore Chinese mothers’ perceptions on apps’ quality and usability. Methods: We searched for free-to-download Chinese infant feeding apps in the iTunes and Android App Stores. We conducted a comprehensive assessment of the accountability, scientific basis, accuracy of information relevant to infant feeding, advertising policy, and functionality and carried out a preliminary screening of infant formula advertisements in the apps. In addition, we also conducted exploratory qualitative research through semistructured interviews with Chinese mothers in Shanghai to elicit their views about the quality of apps. Results: A total of 4925 apps were screened, and 26 apps that met the selection criteria were evaluated. All 26 apps were developed by commercial entities, and the majority of them were rated poorly. The highest total score was 62.2 (out of approximately 100) and the lowest was 16.7. In the four quality domains assessed, none of them fulfilled all the accountability criteria. Three out of 26 apps provided information covering the three practices from the World Health Organization’s infant feeding recommendations. Only one app described its advertising policy in its terms of usage. The most common app functionality was a built-in social forum (19/26). Provision of a website link was the least common functionality (2/26). A total of 20 out of 26 apps promoted infant formula banner advertisements on their homepages. In addition, 12 apps included both e-commerce stores and featured infant formula advertisements. In total, 21 mothers were interviewed face-to-face. Mothers highly valued immediate access to parenting information and multifunctionality provided by apps. However, concerns regarding incredible information and commercial activities in apps, as well as the desire for information and support offered by health care professionals were expressed. Conclusions: The findings provide valuable information on Chinese infant feeding apps. The results are concerning, particularly with the relative absence of scientific basis and credibility and the large number of commercial advertisements that are displayed. Apps do seem to be able to provide an opportunity for mothers to access health information and support; it is time for tighter controls on content and advertisements. Ongoing app research and development should focus on implementation of a standard framework, which would drive the development of high-quality apps to support healthy infant feeding through cooperation among academics, health professionals, app users, app developers, and government bodies. %M 29212627 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8764 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/12/e186/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8764 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29212627 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 12 %P e184 %T Mobile Health Intervention to Increase Oral Cancer Therapy Adherence in Patients With Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (The REMIND System): Clinical Feasibility and Acceptability Assessment %A Pereira-Salgado,Amanda %A Westwood,Jennifer A %A Russell,Lahiru %A Ugalde,Anna %A Ortlepp,Bronwen %A Seymour,John F %A Butow,Phyllis %A Cavedon,Lawrence %A Ong,Kevin %A Aranda,Sanchia %A Breen,Sibilah %A Kirsa,Suzanne %A Dunlevie,Andrew %A Schofield,Penelope %+ Department of Psychology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, Swinburne University of Technology, PO Box 218, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122, Australia, 61 392144886, pschofield@swin.edu.au %K mobile phone %K neoplasms %K Internet %K medication adherence %D 2017 %7 06.12.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Optimal dosing of oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy is critical to treatment success and survival of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Drug intolerance secondary to toxicities and nonadherence are significant factors in treatment failure. Objective: The objective of this study was to develop and pilot-test the clinical feasibility and acceptability of a mobile health system (REMIND) to increase oral drug adherence and patient symptom self-management among people with CML (chronic phase). Methods: A multifaceted intervention was iteratively developed using the intervention development framework by Schofield and Chambers, consisting of defining the patient problem and iteratively refining the intervention. The clinical feasibility and acceptability were examined via patient and intervention nurse interviews, which were audiotaped, transcribed, and deductively content analyzed. Results: The intervention comprised 2 synergistically operating elements: (1) daily medication reminders and routine assessment of side effects with evidence-based self-care advice delivered in real time and (2) question prompt list (QPL) questions and routinely collected individual patient adherence and side effect profile data used to shape nurses’ consultations, which employed motivational interviewing to support adoption of self-management behaviors. A total of 4 consultations and daily alerts and advice were delivered over 10 weeks. In total, 58% (10/17) of patients and 2 nurses participated in the pilot study. Patients reported several benefits of the intervention: help in establishing medication routines, resolution of symptom uncertainty, increased awareness of self-care, and informed decision making. Nurses also endorsed the intervention: it assisted in establishing pill-taking routines and patients developing effective solutions to adherence challenges. Conclusions: The REMIND system with nurse support was usable and acceptable to both patients and nurses. It has the potential to improve adherence and side-effect management and should be further evaluated. %M 29212628 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8349 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/12/e184/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8349 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29212628 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 12 %P e177 %T Patients’ Acceptance of Smartphone Health Technology for Chronic Disease Management: A Theoretical Model and Empirical Test %A Dou,Kaili %A Yu,Ping %A Deng,Ning %A Liu,Fang %A Guan,YingPing %A Li,Zhenye %A Ji,Yumeng %A Du,Ningkai %A Lu,Xudong %A Duan,Huilong %+ The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering and Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Rd, Zhouyiqing Bldg 512, Zhejiang University, Yuquan Campus, Hangzhou, 310027, China, 86 571 2295 2693, zju.dengning@gmail.com %K smartphone %K mobile health %K patients %K hypertension %K chronic disease %K disease management %D 2017 %7 06.12.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Chronic disease patients often face multiple challenges from difficult comorbidities. Smartphone health technology can be used to help them manage their conditions only if they accept and use the technology. Objective: The aim of this study was to develop and test a theoretical model to predict and explain the factors influencing patients’ acceptance of smartphone health technology for chronic disease management. Methods: Multiple theories and factors that may influence patients’ acceptance of smartphone health technology have been reviewed. A hybrid theoretical model was built based on the technology acceptance model, dual-factor model, health belief model, and the factors identified from interviews that might influence patients’ acceptance of smartphone health technology for chronic disease management. Data were collected from patient questionnaire surveys and computer log records about 157 hypertensive patients’ actual use of a smartphone health app. The partial least square method was used to test the theoretical model. Results: The model accounted for .412 of the variance in patients’ intention to adopt the smartphone health technology. Intention to use accounted for .111 of the variance in actual use and had a significant weak relationship with the latter. Perceived ease of use was affected by patients’ smartphone usage experience, relationship with doctor, and self-efficacy. Although without a significant effect on intention to use, perceived ease of use had a significant positive influence on perceived usefulness. Relationship with doctor and perceived health threat had significant positive effects on perceived usefulness, countering the negative influence of resistance to change. Perceived usefulness, perceived health threat, and resistance to change significantly predicted patients’ intentions to use the technology. Age and gender had no significant influence on patients’ acceptance of smartphone technology. The study also confirmed the positive relationship between intention to use and actual use of smartphone health apps for chronic disease management. Conclusions: This study developed a theoretical model to predict patients’ acceptance of smartphone health technology for chronic disease management. Although resistance to change is a significant barrier to technology acceptance, careful management of doctor-patient relationship, and raising patients’ awareness of the negative effect of chronic disease can negate the effect of resistance and encourage acceptance and use of smartphone health technology to support chronic disease management for patients in the community. %M 29212629 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7886 %U https://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/12/e177/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7886 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29212629 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-2529 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 2 %P e11 %T Treatment of Low Back Pain with a Digital Multidisciplinary Pain Treatment App: Short-Term Results %A Huber,Stephan %A Priebe,Janosch A %A Baumann,Kaja-Maria %A Plidschun,Anne %A Schiessl,Christine %A Tölle,Thomas R %+ Department of Neurology, Center for Interdisciplinary Pain Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, Munich, 81675, Germany, 49 89 4140 0, stephan.huber@mri.tum.de %K lower back pain %K app %K mHealth %K retrospective study %K self-management %D 2017 %7 04.12.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Rehabil Assist Technol %G English %X Background: Even though modern concepts of disease management of unspecific low back pain (LBP) postulate active participation of patients, this strategy is difficult to adapt unless multidisciplinary pain therapy is applied. Recently, mobile health solutions have proven to be effective aides to foster self-management of many diseases. Objective: The objective of this paper was to report on the retrospective short-term results of a digital multidisciplinary pain app for the treatment of LBP. Methods: Kaia is a mobile app that digitalizes multidisciplinary pain treatment and is in the market as a medical product class I. For the current study, the data of anonymized Kaia users was retrospectively analyzed. User data were evaluated for 12 weeks regarding duration of use and effect on in-app user reported pain levels, using the numerical rating scale (NRS), depending on whether LBP was classified as acute, subacute, or chronic back pain according to current guidelines. Results: Data of 180 users were available. The mean age of the users was 33.9 years (SD 10.9). Pain levels decreased from baseline NRS 4.8 to 3.75 for all users at the end of the observation period. Users who completed 4, 8, or 12 weeks showed an even more pronounced decrease in pain level NRS (baseline 4.9 [SD 1.7] versus 3.6 [SD 1.5] at 4 weeks; baseline 4.7 [SD 1.8] versus 3.2 [SD [2.0] at 8 weeks; baseline 4.6 [SD 2.2] versus 2.6 [SD 2.0] at 12 weeks). In addition, subgroup analysis of acute, subacute, or chronic classification revealed no significant main effect of group (P>.30) on the reduction of pain. Conclusions: This retrospective study showed that in a pre-selected population of app users, an app digitalizing multidisciplinary rehabilitation for the self-management of LBP reduced user-reported pain levels significantly. The observed effect size was clinically relevant. Ongoing prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs) will adjust for potential bias and selection effects. Conclusions: This retrospective study showed that in a pre-selected population of app users, an app digitalizing multidisciplinary rehabilitation for the self-management of LBP reduced user-reported pain levels significantly. The observed effect size was clinically relevant. Ongoing prospective RCTs will adjust for potential bias and selection effects. %M 29203460 %R 10.2196/rehab.9032 %U http://rehab.jmir.org/2017/2/e11/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/rehab.9032 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29203460 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 11 %P e397 %T Implementation Intention and Reminder Effects on Behavior Change in a Mobile Health System: A Predictive Cognitive Model %A Pirolli,Peter %A Mohan,Shiwali %A Venkatakrishnan,Anusha %A Nelson,Les %A Silva,Michael %A Springer,Aaron %+ Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, 40 S. Alcanaz St, Pensacola, FL, 32502, United States, 1 850 202 4462, ppirolli@ihmc.us %K mobile applications %K models, theoretical %K habits %D 2017 %7 30.11.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Implementation intentions are mental representations of simple plans to translate goal intentions into behavior under specific conditions. Studies show implementation intentions can produce moderate to large improvements in behavioral goal achievement. Human associative memory mechanisms have been implicated in the processes by which implementation intentions produce effects. On the basis of the adaptive control of thought-rational (ACT-R) theory of cognition, we hypothesized that the strength of implementation intention effect could be manipulated in predictable ways using reminders delivered by a mobile health (mHealth) app. Objective: The aim of this experiment was to manipulate the effects of implementation intentions on daily behavioral goal success in ways predicted by the ACT-R theory concerning mHealth reminder scheduling. Methods: An incomplete factorial design was used in this mHealth study. All participants were asked to choose a healthy behavior goal associated with eat slowly, walking, or eating more vegetables and were asked to set implementation intentions. N=64 adult participants were in the study for 28 days. Participants were stratified by self-efficacy and assigned to one of two reminder conditions: reminders-presented versus reminders-absent. Self-efficacy and reminder conditions were crossed. Nested within the reminders-presented condition was a crossing of frequency of reminders sent (high, low) by distribution of reminders sent (distributed, massed). Participants in the low frequency condition got 7 reminders over 28 days; those in the high frequency condition were sent 14. Participants in the distributed conditions were sent reminders at uniform intervals. Participants in the massed distribution conditions were sent reminders in clusters. Results: There was a significant overall effect of reminders on achieving a daily behavioral goal (coefficient=2.018, standard error [SE]=0.572, odds ratio [OR]=7.52, 95% CI 0.9037-3.2594, P<.001). As predicted by ACT-R, using default theoretical parameters, there was an interaction of reminder frequency by distribution on daily goal success (coefficient=0.7994, SE=0.2215, OR=2.2242, 95% CI 0.3656-1.2341, P<.001). The total number of times a reminder was acknowledged as received by a participant had a marginal effect on daily goal success (coefficient=0.0694, SE=0.0410, OR=1.0717, 95% CI −0.01116 to 0.1505, P=.09), and the time since acknowledging receipt of a reminder was highly significant (coefficient=−0.0490, SE=0.0104, OR=0.9522, 95% CI −0.0700 to −0.2852], P<.001). A dual system ACT-R mathematical model was fit to individuals’ daily goal successes and reminder acknowledgments: a goal-striving system dependent on declarative memory plus a habit-forming system that acquires automatic procedures for performance of behavioral goals. Conclusions: Computational cognitive theory such as ACT-R can be used to make precise quantitative predictions concerning daily health behavior goal success in response to implementation intentions and the dosing schedules of reminders. %M 29191800 %R 10.2196/jmir.8217 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/11/e397/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8217 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29191800 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 11 %P e171 %T Using Android and Open Data Kit Technology in Data Management for Research in Resource-Limited Settings in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria: Cross-Sectional Household Survey %A Maduka,Omosivie %A Akpan,Godwin %A Maleghemi,Sylvester %+ Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Alakahia, Choba, Port Harcourt, 50001, Nigeria, 234 8033298096, omosivie.maduka@uniport.edu.ng %K mobile phones %K technology %K Africa %D 2017 %7 30.11.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Data collection in Sub-Saharan Africa has traditionally been paper-based. However, the popularization of Android mobile devices and data capture software has brought paperless data management within reach. We used Open Data Kit (ODK) technology on Android mobile devices during a household survey in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the pros and cons of deploying ODK for data management. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional household survey was carried out by 6 data collectors between April and May 2016. Data were obtained from 1706 persons in 601 households across 6 communities in 3 states in the Niger Delta. The use of Android mobile devices and ODK technology involved form building, testing, collection, aggregation, and download for data analysis. The median duration for data collection per household and per individual was 25.7 and 9.3 min, respectively. Results: Data entries per device ranged from 33 (33/1706, 1.93%) to 482 (482/1706, 28.25%) individuals between 9 (9/601, 1.5%) and 122 (122/601, 20.3%) households. The most entries (470) were made by data collector 5. Only 2 respondents had data entry errors (2/1706, 0.12%). However, 73 (73/601, 12.1%) households had inaccurate date and time entries for when data collection started and ended. The cost of deploying ODK was estimated at US $206.7 in comparison with the estimated cost of US $466.7 for paper-based data management. Conclusions: We found the use of mobile data capture technology to be efficient and cost-effective. As Internet services improve in Africa, we advocate their use as effective tools for health information management. %M 29191798 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7827 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/11/e171/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7827 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29191798 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 11 %P e399 %T Assessing the Efficacy of Mobile Health Apps Using the Basic Principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Systematic Review %A Rathbone,Amy Leigh %A Clarry,Laura %A Prescott,Julie %+ Department of Education and Psychology, University of Bolton, Deane Road, Bolton, BL3 5AB, United Kingdom, 44 1204903676, j.prescott@bolton.ac.uk %K cognitive therapy %K behavior %K mHealth %K mobile %K phone %K health %K treatment efficacy %K intervention study %K randomized controlled trial %K review %K systematic %D 2017 %7 28.11.2017 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in its basic principle has developed itself as a stand-alone, substantial method of therapy. With effective application in therapy for a range of mental health issues, the spread of CBT methods to Web-based therapy sources is evident. The development of mobile phone apps using CBT principles is increasing within the research area. Despite the move to Web-based methods of therapy, it is argued that these methods lack the same efficacy of face-to-face therapy sessions. Objective: The aim of this review was to assess extent research findings with regard to the effectiveness of CBT-related mobile health (mHealth) apps. By assessing only studies employing a randomized controlled trial design, the review aimed to determine app efficacy within the highly regarded method of investigation. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across several databases. Search results were filtered, and results were subject to strict inclusion and exclusion criteria because of the nature of the review. Where possible, analysis of effect size was calculated and results reported. Results: A total of 8 studies investigating the effectiveness of mHealth CBT-related apps across a range of mental health issues were reviewed. Three studies used the app against a control group, and 5 studies used the app intervention against another form of treatment or intervention. A range of effect sizes were seen across all included studies (d=−0.13 to 1.83; 0.03-1.44), with the largest effects often being seen when comparing the data from pre- to posttest for the app engaged group. Conclusions: The studies reviewed support the use of mHealth apps containing CBT principles for a range of mental health issues. However, the effectiveness over longer time periods should be assessed. Researchers and professionals should seek to collaborate effectively when creating new apps to enhance their effectiveness as a treatment for the general public. %M 29187342 %R 10.2196/jmir.8598 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/11/e399/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8598 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29187342 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 11 %P e391 %T Relationship Between the Menstrual Cycle and Timing of Ovulation Revealed by New Protocols: Analysis of Data from a Self-Tracking Health App %A Sohda,Satoshi %A Suzuki,Kenta %A Igari,Ichiro %+ Biodiversity Conservation Planning Section, Center for Environmental Biology and Ecosystem Studies, National Institute for Environmental Studies, EEF, 3rd Floor, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, 305-8506, Japan, 81 029 850 2747, kenta11514201@gmail.com %K self-tracking %K person generated health data %K calendar calculation %K fertility %K menstrual cycle %D 2017 %7 27.11.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: There are many mobile phone apps aimed at helping women map their ovulation and menstrual cycles and facilitating successful conception (or avoiding pregnancy). These apps usually ask users to input various biological features and have accumulated the menstrual cycle data of a vast number of women. Objective: The purpose of our study was to clarify how the data obtained from a self-tracking health app for female mobile phone users can be used to improve the accuracy of prediction of the date of next ovulation. Methods: Using the data of 7043 women who had reliable menstrual and ovulation records out of 8,000,000 users of a mobile phone app of a health care service, we analyzed the relationship between the menstrual cycle length, follicular phase length, and luteal phase length. Then we fitted a linear function to the relationship between the length of the menstrual cycle and timing of ovulation and compared it with the existing calendar-based methods. Results: The correlation between the length of the menstrual cycle and the length of the follicular phase was stronger than the correlation between the length of the menstrual cycle and the length of the luteal phase, and there was a positive correlation between the lengths of past and future menstrual cycles. A strong positive correlation was also found between the mean length of past cycles and the length of the follicular phase. The correlation between the mean cycle length and the luteal phase length was also statistically significant. In most of the subjects, our method (ie, the calendar-based method based on the optimized function) outperformed the Ogino method of predicting the next ovulation date. Our method also outperformed the ovulation date prediction method that assumes the middle day of a mean menstrual cycle as the date of the next ovulation. Conclusions: The large number of subjects allowed us to capture the relationships between the lengths of the menstrual cycle, follicular phase, and luteal phase in more detail than previous studies. We then demonstrated how the present calendar methods could be improved by the better grouping of women. This study suggested that even without integrating various biological metrics, the dataset collected by a self-tracking app can be used to develop formulas that predict the ovulation day when the data are aggregated. Because the method that we developed requires data only on the first day of menstruation, it would be the best option for couples during the early stages of their attempt to have a baby or for those who want to avoid the cost associated with other methods. Moreover, the result will be the baseline for more advanced methods that integrate other biological metrics. %M 29180346 %R 10.2196/jmir.7468 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/11/e391/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7468 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29180346 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 11 %P e398 %T Two Novel Cognitive Behavioral Therapy–Based Mobile Apps for Agoraphobia: Randomized Controlled Trial %A Christoforou,Marina %A Sáez Fonseca,José Andrés %A Tsakanikos,Elias %+ Department of Psychology, University of Roehampton, Holybourne Avenue, London, SW15 4JD, United Kingdom, 44 020 8392 3080, elias.tsakanikos@roehampton.ac.uk %K agoraphobia %K anxiety %K eHealth %K computerized interventions %K mobile applications %K randomized controlled trial %K RCT %D 2017 %7 24.11.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Despite the large body of literature demonstrating the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral treatments for agoraphobia, many patients remain untreated because of various barriers to treatment. Web-based and mobile-based interventions targeting agoraphobia may provide a solution to this problem, but there is a lack of research investigating the efficacy of such interventions. Objective: The objective of our study was to evaluate for the first time the effectiveness of a self-guided mobile-based intervention primarily targeting agoraphobic symptoms, with respect to a generic mobile app targeting anxiety. Methods: A Web-based randomized controlled trial (RCT) compared a novel mobile app designed to target agoraphobia (called Agoraphobia Free) with a mobile app designed to help with symptoms of anxiety in general (called Stress Free). Both interventions were based on established cognitive behavioral principles. We recruited participants (N=170) who self-identified as having agoraphobia and assessed them online at baseline, midpoint, and end point (posttreatment) over a period of 12 weeks. The primary outcome was symptom severity measured by the Panic and Agoraphobia Scale. Results: Both groups had statistically significant improvements in symptom severity over time (difference –5.97, 95% CI –8.49 to –3.44, P<.001 for Agoraphobia Free and –6.35, 95% CI –8.82 to –3.87, P<.001 for Stress Free), but there were no significant between-group differences on the primary outcome (difference 0.38, 95% CI –1.96 to 3.20, P=.64). Conclusions: This is, to our knowledge, the first RCT to provide evidence that people who identify as having agoraphobia may equally benefit from a diagnosis-specific and a transdiagnostic mobile-based intervention. We also discuss clinical and research implications for the development and dissemination of mobile mental health apps. Trial Registration: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 98453199; http://www.isrctn.com /ISRCTN98453199 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6uR5vsdZw) %M 29175809 %R 10.2196/jmir.7747 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/11/e398/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7747 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29175809 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 11 %P e170 %T Diabetes Data Management System to Improve Glycemic Control in People With Type 1 Diabetes: Prospective Cohort Study %A Irace,Concetta %A Schweitzer,Matthias Axel %A Tripolino,Cesare %A Scavelli,Faustina Barbara %A Gnasso,Agostino %+ Metabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catanzaro, University Campus, Catanzaro, 88100, Italy, 39 09613697039, gnasso@unicz.it %K diabetes mellitus %K blood glucose self-monitoring %K smartphone %K internet %D 2017 %7 21.11.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Smartphone and Web technology can improve the health care process, especially in chronic diseases. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate whether the use of blood glucose (BG) data management system, which enables connection to smartphones, the Web, the cloud, and downloading, can improve glycemic control in subjects with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Methods: This study was a prospective, single-arm, cohort feasibility study with 6 months of duration. T1DM subjects enrolled had experience in self-monitoring blood glucose, but were download data naïve. Fasting BG and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were collected at the enrollment and at follow-up. Subjects were divided into Downloader (DL) and No-downloader (NDL). Results: A total of 63 subjects were analyzed, of which 30 were classified as DL and 33 as NDL. At the end of the study, DL had significantly lower HbA1c, mean daily glucose, standard deviation, percentage of BG values above target, and pre- and postprandial (lunch and dinner) values compared with NDL (all P<.05). The percentage of BG values within treatment target was significantly higher in DL compared with NDL (47% [SD 9] vs 37% [SD 13]; P=.001). Conclusions: The findings suggest that, in T1DM, downloading of BG from data management system, which enables connection to smartphones, the Web, and the cloud, might be a valuable contributor to improved glycemic control. %M 29162560 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8532 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/11/e170/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8532 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29162560 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 11 %P e386 %T Is Connected Health Contributing to a Healthier Population? %A Loiselle,Carmen G %A Ahmed,Saima %+ Ingram School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, 680 Sherbrooke West #1840, Montreal, QC, H3A 2M7, Canada, 1 514 398 4163, carmen.loiselle1@mcgill.ca %K connected health %K mHealth %K eHealth %K uHealth %K ubiquitous health %D 2017 %7 10.11.2017 %9 Viewpoint %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Connected health tools, including mobile phones, incorporate various functions that capture events, direct actions, and make informed decisions based on complex sources of data. Connected health, a term recently proposed by some academics and industry, refers to the development, testing, and integration of smart technology tools into health care. Through these means, connected health creates interconnectivity across various environments, profoundly changing the way we learn, self-regulate, and communicate with one another. In health care, mobile phones enable more precise diagnostics, personalized health recommendations that enhance patient experiences and outcomes while containing health care costs. However, for connected health to achieve its full potential, issues must be addressed pertaining to active engagement in use, privacy, security, and quality, as well as the development of evidence-based guidelines. This commentary discusses these key challenges and explores the promise of connected health, specifically eHealth and mHealth. Anchored within the context of cancer, the authors’ area of expertise, the ideas put forward can readily be applied to other health-related disciplines. %M 29127077 %R 10.2196/jmir.8309 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/11/e386/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8309 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29127077 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 11 %P e368 %T Performance of a Mobile Phone App-Based Participatory Syndromic Surveillance System for Acute Febrile Illness and Acute Gastroenteritis in Rural Guatemala %A Olson,Daniel %A Lamb,Molly %A Lopez,Maria Renee %A Colborn,Kathryn %A Paniagua-Avila,Alejandra %A Zacarias,Alma %A Zambrano-Perilla,Ricardo %A Rodríguez-Castro,Sergio Ricardo %A Cordon-Rosales,Celia %A Asturias,Edwin Jose %+ University of Colorado School of Medicine, Section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, 13123 East 16th Avenue, Box 055, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States, 1 7207772838, daniel.olson@ucdenver.edu %K mobile phone %K app %K participatory %K syndromic surveillance %K norovirus %K dengue %K acute febrile illness %K diarrhea %K Guatemala %D 2017 %7 09.11.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: With their increasing availability in resource-limited settings, mobile phones may provide an important tool for participatory syndromic surveillance, in which users provide symptom data directly into a centralized database. Objective: We studied the performance of a mobile phone app-based participatory syndromic surveillance system for collecting syndromic data (acute febrile illness and acute gastroenteritis) to detect dengue virus and norovirus on a cohort of children living in a low-resource and rural area of Guatemala. Methods: Randomized households were provided with a mobile phone and asked to submit weekly reports using a symptom diary app (Vigilant-e). Participants reporting acute febrile illness or acute gastroenteritis answered additional questions using a decision-tree algorithm and were subsequently visited at home by a study nurse who performed a second interview and collected samples for dengue virus if confirmed acute febrile illness and norovirus if acute gastroenteritis. We analyzed risk factors associated with decreased self-reporting of syndromic data using the Vigilant-e app and evaluated strategies to improve self-reporting. We also assessed agreement between self-report and nurse-collected data obtained during home visits. Results: From April 2015 to June 2016, 469 children in 207 households provided 471 person-years of observation. Mean weekly symptom reporting rate was 78% (range 58%-89%). Households with a poor (<70%) weekly reporting rate using the Vigilant-e app during the first 25 weeks of observation (n=57) had a greater number of children (mean 2.8, SD 1.5 vs mean 2.5, SD 1.3; risk ratio [RR] 1.2, 95% CI 1.1-1.4), were less likely to have used mobile phones for text messaging at study enrollment (61%, 35/57 vs 76.7%, 115/150; RR 0.6, 95% CI 0.4-0.9), and were less likely to access care at the local public clinic (35%, 20/57 vs 67.3%, 101/150; RR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2-0.6). Parents of female enrolled participants were more likely to have low response rate (57.1%, 84/147 vs 43.8%, 141/322; RR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1-1.9). Several external factors (cellular tower collapse, contentious elections) were associated with periods of decreased reporting. Poor response rate (<70%) was associated with lower case reporting of acute gastroenteritis, norovirus-associated acute gastroenteritis, acute febrile illness, and dengue virus-associated acute febrile illness (P<.001). Parent-reported syndromic data on the Vigilant-e app demonstrated agreement with nurse-collected data for fever (kappa=.57, P<.001), vomiting (kappa=.63, P<.001), and diarrhea (kappa=.61, P<.001), with decreased agreement as the time interval between parental report and nurse home visit increased (<1 day: kappa=.65-.70; ≥2 days: kappa=.08-.29). Conclusions: In a resource-limited area of rural Guatemala, a mobile phone app-based participatory syndromic surveillance system demonstrated a high reporting rate and good agreement between parental reported data and nurse-reported data during home visits. Several household-level and external factors were associated with decreased syndromic reporting. Poor reporting rate was associated with decreased syndromic and pathogen-specific case ascertainment. %M 29122738 %R 10.2196/jmir.8041 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/11/e368/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8041 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29122738 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 11 %P e373 %T Smartphone Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as an Adjunct to Pharmacotherapy for Refractory Depression: Randomized Controlled Trial %A Mantani,Akio %A Kato,Tadashi %A Furukawa,Toshi A %A Horikoshi,Masaru %A Imai,Hissei %A Hiroe,Takahiro %A Chino,Bun %A Funayama,Tadashi %A Yonemoto,Naohiro %A Zhou,Qi %A Kawanishi,Nao %+ Department of Health Promotion and Human Behavior, School of Public Health, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 6068501, Japan, 81 757538941, furukawa@kuhp.kyoto-u.ac.jp %K major depressive disorder %K pharmacotherapy-resistant depression %K mobile phone app %K cognitive behavioral therapy %K eHealth %D 2017 %7 03.11.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: In the treatment of major depression, antidepressants are effective but not curative. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is also effective, alone or in combination with pharmacotherapy, but accessibility is a problem. Objective: The aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of a smartphone CBT app as adjunctive therapy among patients with antidepressant-resistant major depression. Methods: A multisite, assessor-masked, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted in 20 psychiatric clinics and hospitals in Japan. Participants were eligible if they had a primary diagnosis of major depression and were antidepressant-refractory after taking one or more antidepressants at an adequate dosage for four or more weeks. After a 1-week run-in in which participants started the medication switch and had access to the welcome session of the app, patients were randomized to medication switch alone or to medication switch plus smartphone CBT app via the centralized Web system. The smartphone app, called Kokoro-app (“kokoro” means “mind” in Japanese), included sessions on self-monitoring, behavioral activation, and cognitive restructuring presented by cartoon characters. The primary outcome was depression severity as assessed by masked telephone assessors with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) at week 9. The secondary outcomes included the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Frequency, Intensity, and Burden of Side Effects Ratings (FIBSER). Results: In the total sample (N=164), 81 participants were allocated to the smartphone CBT in addition to medication change and 83 to medication change alone. In the former group, all but one participant (80/81, 99%) completed at least half, and 71 (88%) completed at least six of eight sessions. In the intention-to-treat analysis, patients allocated the CBT app scored 2.48 points (95% CI 1.23-3.72, P<.001; standardized mean difference 0.40) lower on PHQ-9 than the control at week 9. The former group also scored 4.1 points (95% CI 1.5-6.6, P=.002) lower on BDI-II and 0.76 points (95% CI –0.05 to 1.58, P=.07) lower on FIBSER. In the per-protocol sample (comfortable with the smartphone app, still symptomatic, and adherent to medication with mild or less side effects after run-in), the intervention group (n=60) scored 1.72 points (95% CI 0.25-3.18, P=.02) lower on PHQ-9, 3.2 points (95% CI –0.01 to 6.3, P=.05) lower on BDI-II, and 0.75 points (95% CI 0.03-1.47, P=.04) lower on FIBSER than the control (n=57). The treatment benefits were maintained up to week 17. Conclusions: This is the first study to demonstrate the effectiveness of a smartphone CBT in the treatment of clinically diagnosed depression. Given the merits of the mobile mental health intervention, including accessibility, affordability, quality control, and effectiveness, it is clinically worthwhile to consider adjunctive use of a smartphone CBT app when treating patients with antidepressant-resistant depression. Research into its effectiveness in wider clinical contexts is warranted. Trial Registration: Japanese Clinical Trials Registry UMIN CTR 000013693; https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000015984 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6u6pxVwik) %M 29101095 %R 10.2196/jmir.8602 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/11/e373/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8602 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29101095 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 11 %P e160 %T Mobile Phone Use in Psychiatry Residents in the United States: Multisite Cross-Sectional Survey Study %A Gipson,Shih %A Torous,John %A Boland,Robert %A Conrad,Erich %+ Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, 300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, United States, 1 6173556680, mariegipsonmd@gmail.com %K technology %K graduate medical education %K mobile phone %K psychiatry %D 2017 %7 01.11.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mobile technology ownership in the general US population and medical professionals is increasing, leading to increased use in clinical settings. However, data on use of mobile technology by psychiatry residents remain unclear. Objective: In this study, our aim was to provide data on how psychiatric residents use mobile phones in their clinical education as well as barriers relating to technology use. Methods: An anonymous, multisite survey was given to psychiatry residents in 2 regions in the United States, including New Orleans and Boston, to understand their technology use. Results: All participants owned mobile phones, and 79% (54/68) used them to access patient information. The majority do not use mobile phones to implement pharmacotherapy (62%, 42/68) or psychotherapy plans (90%, 61/68). The top 3 barriers to using mobile technology in clinical care were privacy concerns (56%, 38/68), lack of clinical guidance (40%, 27/68), and lack of evidence (29%, 20/68). Conclusions: We conclude that developing a technology curriculum and engaging in research could address these barriers to using mobile phones in clinical practice. %M 29092807 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7146 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/11/e160/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7146 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29092807 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 10 %P e363 %T An International Study on the Determinants of Poor Sleep Amongst 15,000 Users of Connected Devices %A Fagherazzi,Guy %A El Fatouhi,Douae %A Bellicha,Alice %A El Gareh,Amin %A Affret,Aurélie %A Dow,Courtney %A Delrieu,Lidia %A Vegreville,Matthieu %A Normand,Alexis %A Oppert,Jean-Michel %A Severi,Gianluca %+ Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Epidémiologie et Santé des Populations U1018, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif,, France, 33 1 42 11 61 40, guy.fagherazzi@gustaveroussy.fr %K connected devices %K sleep %K Withings %K Nokia %K determinants %K Internet of Things %K epidemiology %K wearables %K lifestyle %K blood pressure %K steps %K heart rate %K weight %D 2017 %7 23.10.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Sleep is a modifiable lifestyle factor that can be a target for efficient intervention studies to improve the quality of life and decrease the risk or burden of some chronic conditions. Knowing the profiles of individuals with poor sleep patterns is therefore a prerequisite. Wearable devices have recently opened new areas in medical research as potential efficient tools to measure lifestyle factors such as sleep quantity and quality. Objectives: The goal of our research is to identify the determinants of poor sleep based on data from a large population of users of connected devices. Methods: We analyzed data from 15,839 individuals (13,658 males and 2181 females) considered highly connected customers having purchased and used at least 3 connected devices from the consumer electronics company Withings (now Nokia). Total and deep sleep durations as well as the ratio of deep/total sleep as a proxy of sleep quality were analyzed in association with available data on age, sex, weight, heart rate, steps, and diastolic and systolic blood pressures. Results: With respect to the deep/total sleep duration ratio used as a proxy of sleep quality, we have observed that those at risk of having a poor ratio (≤0.40) were more frequently males (odds ratio [OR]female vs male=0.45, 95% CI 0.38-0.54), younger individuals (OR>60 years vs 18-30 years=0.47, 95% CI 0.35-0.63), and those with elevated heart rate (OR>78 bpm vs ≤61 bpm=1.18, 95% CI 1.04-1.34) and high systolic blood pressure (OR>133 mm Hg vs ≤116 mm Hg=1.22, 95% CI 1.04-1.43). A direct association with weight was observed for total sleep duration exclusively. Conclusions: Wearables can provide useful information to target individuals at risk of poor sleep. Future alert or mobile phone notification systems based on poor sleep determinants measured with wearables could be tested in intervention studies to evaluate the benefits. %M 29061551 %R 10.2196/jmir.7930 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/10/e363/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7930 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29061551 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-9694 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 4 %P e40 %T Pain Self-Management for Veterans: Development and Pilot Test of a Stage-Based Mobile-Optimized Intervention %A Johnson,Sara S %A Levesque,Deborah A %A Broderick,Lynne E %A Bailey,Dustin G %A Kerns,Robert D %+ Pro-Change Behavior Systems, Inc, 1174 Kingstown Road, Suite 101, South Kingstown, RI, 02879, United States, 1 2032080481, sjohnson@prochange.com %K pain management %K self-management %K mobile health %K mhealth %D 2017 %7 17.10.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Med Inform %G English %X Background: Chronic pain is a significant public health burden affecting more Americans than cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer combined. Veterans are disproportionately affected by chronic pain. Among previously deployed soldiers and veterans, the prevalence of chronic pain is estimated between 44% and 60%. Objective: The objective of this research was to develop and pilot-test Health eRide: Your Journey to Managing Pain, a mobile pain self-management program for chronic musculoskeletal pain for veterans. Based on the transtheoretical model of behavior change, the intervention is tailored to veterans’ stage of change for adopting healthy strategies for pain self-management and their preferred strategies. It also addresses stress management and healthy sleep, two components of promising integrated treatments for veterans with pain and co-occurring conditions, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury. In addition, Health eRide leverages gaming principles, text messaging (short message service, SMS), and social networking to increase engagement and retention. Methods: Pilot test participants were 69 veterans recruited in-person and by mail at a Veterans Health Administration facility, by community outreach, and by a Web-based survey company. Participants completed a mobile-delivered baseline assessment and Health eRide intervention session. During the next 30 days, they had access to a Personal Activity Center with additional stage-matched activities and information and had the option of receiving tailored text messages. Pre-post assessments, administered at baseline and the 30-day follow-up, included measures of pain, pain impact, use of pain self-management strategies, PTSD, and percentage in the Action or Maintenance stage for adopting pain self-management, managing stress, and practicing healthy sleep habits. Global impressions of change and program acceptability and usability were also assessed at follow-up. Results: Among the 44 veterans who completed the 30-day post assessment, there were statistically significant pre-post reductions in pain (P<.001) and pain impact (P<.001); there was some reduction in symptoms of PTSD (P=.05). There were significant pre-post increases in the percentage of participants in the Action or Maintenance stage for adopting pain self-management (P=.01) and for managing stress (P<.001) but not for practicing healthy sleep habits (P=.11). The global impressions of change measure showed that a majority had experienced some level of improvement. User ratings of acceptability were quite high; ratings of usability fell slightly below the mean for digital programs. Conclusions: Preliminary data demonstrate the potential impact of the Health eRide program for chronic musculoskeletal pain for veterans. The results underscore that simultaneously addressing other behaviors may be a promising approach to managing pain and comorbid conditions. Additional formative research is required to complete development of the Health eRide program and to address areas of usability requiring improvement. A randomized trial with longer follow-up is needed to demonstrate the program’s long-term effects on pain and pain self-management. %M 29042341 %R 10.2196/medinform.7117 %U http://medinform.jmir.org/2017/4/e40/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/medinform.7117 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29042341 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 10 %P e333 %T Assessing the National Cancer Institute’s SmokefreeMOM Text-Messaging Program for Pregnant Smokers: Pilot Randomized Trial %A Abroms,Lorien C %A Chiang,Shawn %A Macherelli,Laura %A Leavitt,Leah %A Montgomery,Margaret %+ Milken Insitute School of Public Health, George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC,, United States, 1 202 994 3518, lorien@gwu.edu %K mHealth %K text messaging %K SMS %K mobile phone %K pregnant %K smoking %K quit %D 2017 %7 03.10.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Automated text messages on mobile phones have been found to be effective for smoking cessation in adult smokers. Objective: This study aims to test the acceptability and feasibility of SmokefreeMOM, a national smoking cessation text-messaging program for pregnant smokers. Methods: Participants were recruited from prenatal care and randomized to receive SmokefreeMOM (n=55), an automated smoking cessation text-messaging program, or a control text message quitline referral (n=44). Participants were surveyed by phone at baseline and at 1 month and 3 months after enrollment. Results: Results indicate that the SmokefreeMOM program was highly rated overall and rated more favorably than the control condition in its helpfulness at 3-month follow-up (P<.01) and in its frequency of messaging at both 1-month and 3-month follow-ups (P<.001, P<.01, respectively). Despite the presence of technical problems, the vast majority of intervention participants read all program messages, and few participants unsubscribed from the program. There were no significant differences between groups on the use of extra treatment resources or on smoking-related outcomes. However, at the 3-month follow-up, some outcomes favored the intervention group. Conclusions: SmokefreeMOM is acceptable for pregnant smokers. It is recommended that SmokefreeMOM be further refined and evaluated. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02412956; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02412956 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6tcmeRnbC) %M 28974483 %R 10.2196/jmir.8411 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/10/e333/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8411 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28974483 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-2960 %I JMIR Publications %V 3 %N 4 %P e65 %T Lessons From the Implementation of Mo-Buzz, a Mobile Pandemic Surveillance System for Dengue %A Lwin,May Oo %A Jayasundar,Karthikayen %A Sheldenkar,Anita %A Wijayamuni,Ruwan %A Wimalaratne,Prasad %A Ernst,Kacey C %A Foo,Schubert %+ Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, Nanyang Technological University, 31 Nanyang Link, Singapore, 637718, Singapore, 65 67906669, tmaylwin@ntu.edu.sg %K pandemics %K dengue %K health communication %K telemedicine %K epidemiology %K participatory surveillance %K participatory epidemiology %D 2017 %7 02.10.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Public Health Surveill %G English %X Background: Approximately 128 countries and 3.9 billion people are at risk of dengue infection. Incidence of dengue has increased over the past decades, becoming a growing public health concern for countries with populations that are increasingly susceptible to this vector-borne disease, such as Sri Lanka. Almost 55,150 dengue cases were reported in Sri Lanka in 2016, with more than 30.40% of cases (n=16,767) originating from Colombo, which struggles with an outdated manual paper-based dengue outbreak management system. Community education and outreach about dengue are also executed using paper-based media channels such as pamphlets and brochures. Yet, Sri Lanka is one of the countries with the most affordable rates of mobile services in the world, with penetration rates higher than most developing countries. Objectives: To combat the issues of an exhausted dengue management system and to make use of new technology, in 2015, a mobile participatory system for dengue surveillance called Mo-Buzz was developed and launched in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This paper describes the system’s components and uptake, along with other similar disease surveillance systems. Methods: We developed Mo-Buzz and tested its feasibility for dengue. Two versions of the app were developed. The first was for use by public health inspectors (PHIs) to digitize form filling and recording of site visit information, and track dengue outbreaks on a real-time dengue hotspot map using the global positioning system technology. The system also provides updated dengue infographics and educational materials for the PHIs to educate the general public. The second version of Mo-Buzz was created for use by the general public. This system uses dynamic mapping to help educate and inform the general public about potential outbreak regions and allow them to report dengue symptoms and post pictures of potential dengue mosquito–breeding sites, which are automatically sent to the health authorities. Targeted alerts can be sent to users depending on their geographical location. Results: We assessed the usage and the usability of the app and its impact on overall dengue transmission in Colombo. Initial uptake of Mo-Buzz for PHIs was low; however, after more training and incentivizing of usage, the uptake of the app in PHIs increased from less than 10% (n=3) to 76% (n=38). The general public user evaluation feedback was fruitful in providing improvements to the app, and at present, a number of solutions are being reviewed as viable options to boost user uptake. Conclusions: From our Mo-Buzz study, we have learned that initial acceptance of such systems can be slow but eventually positive. Mobile and social media interventions, such as Mo-Buzz, are poised to play a greater role in shaping risk perceptions and managing seasonal and sporadic outbreaks of infectious diseases in Asia and around the world. %M 28970191 %R 10.2196/publichealth.7376 %U https://publichealth.jmir.org/2017/4/e65/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/publichealth.7376 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28970191 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 9 %P e328 %T Prescribing of Electronic Activity Monitors in Cardiometabolic Diseases: Qualitative Interview-Based Study %A Bellicha,Alice %A Macé,Sandrine %A Oppert,Jean-Michel %+ Laboratory of Bioengineering, Tissues and Neuroplasticity, University Paris-Est, 8 rue Jean Sarrail, Créteil, 94010, France, 33 42175782, alice.bellicha@u-pec.fr %K cardiometabolic diseases %K physical activity %K physicians’ perspectives %K prescriptions %K mobile health %K telemedicine %K mHealth %K electronic activity monitors %K fitness tracker %K accelerometer %K smart pedometer %D 2017 %7 23.9.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The prevalence of noncommunicable diseases, including those such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, so-called cardiometabolic diseases, is high and is increasing worldwide. Strong evidence supports the role of physical activity in management of these diseases. There is general consensus that mHealth technology, including electronic activity monitors, can potentially increase physical activity in patients, but their use in clinical settings remains limited. Practitioners’ requirements when prescribing electronic activity monitors have been poorly described. Objective: The aims of this qualitative study were (1) to explore how specialist physicians prescribe electronic activity monitors to patients presenting with cardiometabolic conditions, and (2) to better understand their motivation for and barriers to prescribing such monitors. Methods: We conducted qualitative semistructured interviews in March to May 2016 with 11 senior physicians from a public university hospital in France with expertise in management of cardiometabolic diseases (type 1 and type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia). Interviews lasted 45 to 60 minutes and were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using directed content analysis. We report our findings following the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist. Results: Most physicians we interviewed had never prescribed electronic activity monitors, whereas they frequently prescribed blood glucose or blood pressure self-monitoring devices. Reasons for nonprescription included lack of interest in the data collected, lack of evidence for data accuracy, concern about work overload possibly resulting from automatic data transfer, and risk of patients becoming addicted to data. Physicians expected future marketing of easy-to-use monitors that will accurately measure physical activity duration and intensity and provide understandable motivating feedback. Conclusions: Features of electronic activity monitors, although popular among the general public, do not meet the needs of physicians. In-depth understanding of physicians’ expectations is a first step toward designing technologies that can be widely used in clinical settings and facilitate physical activity prescription. Physicians should have a role, along with key health care stakeholders—patients, researchers, information technology firms, the public, and private payers—in developing the most effective methods for integrating activity monitors into patient care. %M 28947415 %R 10.2196/jmir.8107 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/9/e328/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8107 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28947415 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 9 %P e132 %T Development of a Whole Slide Imaging System on Smartphones and Evaluation With Frozen Section Samples %A Yu,Hong %A Gao,Feng %A Jiang,Liren %A Ma,Shuoxin %+ TerryDr Info Technology Co., Ltd, Room A3-701, #180 Ruanjiandadao, Yuhuatai District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210000, China, 86 13813998278, sxma@terrydr.com %K mobile health %K image processing %K cloud computing for health care %K whole slide imaging %D 2017 %7 15.09.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The aim was to develop scalable Whole Slide Imaging (sWSI), a WSI system based on mainstream smartphones coupled with regular optical microscopes. This ultra-low-cost solution should offer diagnostic-ready imaging quality on par with standalone scanners, supporting both oil and dry objective lenses of different magnifications, and reasonably high throughput. These performance metrics should be evaluated by expert pathologists and match those of high-end scanners. Objective: The aim was to develop scalable Whole Slide Imaging (sWSI), a whole slide imaging system based on smartphones coupled with optical microscopes. This ultra-low-cost solution should offer diagnostic-ready imaging quality on par with standalone scanners, supporting both oil and dry object lens of different magnification. All performance metrics should be evaluated by expert pathologists and match those of high-end scanners. Methods: In the sWSI design, the digitization process is split asynchronously between light-weight clients on smartphones and powerful cloud servers. The client apps automatically capture FoVs at up to 12-megapixel resolution and process them in real-time to track the operation of users, then give instant feedback of guidance. The servers first restitch each pair of FoVs, then automatically correct the unknown nonlinear distortion introduced by the lens of the smartphone on the fly, based on pair-wise stitching, before finally combining all FoVs into one gigapixel VS for each scan. These VSs can be viewed using Internet browsers anywhere. In the evaluation experiment, 100 frozen section slides from patients randomly selected among in-patients of the participating hospital were scanned by both a high-end Leica scanner and sWSI. All VSs were examined by senior pathologists whose diagnoses were compared against those made using optical microscopy as ground truth to evaluate the image quality. Results: The sWSI system is developed for both Android and iPhone smartphones and is currently being offered to the public. The image quality is reliable and throughput is approximately 1 FoV per second, yielding a 15-by-15 mm slide under 20X object lens in approximately 30-35 minutes, with little training required for the operator. The expected cost for setup is approximately US $100 and scanning each slide costs between US $1 and $10, making sWSI highly cost-effective for infrequent or low-throughput usage. In the clinical evaluation of sample-wise diagnostic reliability, average accuracy scores achieved by sWSI-scan-based diagnoses were as follows: 0.78 for breast, 0.88 for uterine corpus, 0.68 for thyroid, and 0.50 for lung samples. The respective low-sensitivity rates were 0.05, 0.05, 0.13, and 0.25 while the respective low-specificity rates were 0.18, 0.08, 0.20, and 0.25. The participating pathologists agreed that the overall quality of sWSI was generally on par with that produced by high-end scanners, and did not affect diagnosis in most cases. Pathologists confirmed that sWSI is reliable enough for standard diagnoses of most tissue categories, while it can be used for quick screening of difficult cases. Conclusions: As an ultra-low-cost alternative to whole slide scanners, diagnosis-ready VS quality and robustness for commercial usage is achieved in the sWSI solution. Operated on main-stream smartphones installed on normal optical microscopes, sWSI readily offers affordable and reliable WSI to resource-limited or infrequent clinical users. %M 28916508 %R 10.2196/mhealth.8242 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/9/e132/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.8242 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28916508 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 9 %P e319 %T Photoaging Mobile Apps in School-Based Melanoma Prevention: Pilot Study %A Brinker,Titus Josef %A Brieske,Christian Martin %A Schaefer,Christoph Matthias %A Buslaff,Fabian %A Gatzka,Martina %A Petri,Maximilian Philip %A Sondermann,Wiebke %A Schadendorf,Dirk %A Stoffels,Ingo %A Klode,Joachim %+ Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University-Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, Essen, 45147, Germany, 49 +4915175984347, titus.brinker@gmail.com %K melanoma %K skin cancer %K prevention %K mobile apps %K smartphones %K photoaging %K schools %K secondary schools %K adolescents %D 2017 %7 08.09.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Around 90% of melanomas are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and are therefore eminently preventable. Tanning behavior is mostly initiated in early adolescence, often with the belief that it increases attractiveness; the problems related to malignant melanoma and other skin cancers are too far in the future to fathom. Given the substantial amount of time children and adolescents spend in schools, as well as with their mobile phones, addressing melanoma prevention via both of these ways is crucial. However, no school-based intervention using mobile apps has been evaluated to date. We recently released a photoaging mobile app, in which a selfie is altered to predict future appearance dependent on UV protection behavior and skin type. Objective: In this pilot study, we aimed to use mobile phone technology to improve school-based melanoma prevention and measure its preliminary success in different subgroups of students with regard to their UV protection behavior, Fitzpatrick skin type and age. Methods: We implemented a free photoaging mobile phone app (Sunface) in 2 German secondary schools via a method called mirroring. We “mirrored” the students’ altered 3-dimensional (3D) selfies reacting to touch on mobile phones or tablets via a projector in front of their whole grade. Using an anonymous questionnaire capturing sociodemographic data as well as risk factors for melanoma we then measured their perceptions of the intervention on a 5-point Likert scale among 205 students of both sexes aged 13-19 years (median 15 years). Results: We measured more than 60% agreement in both items that measured motivation to reduce UV exposure and only 12.5% disagreement: 126 (63.0%) agreed or strongly agreed that their 3D selfie motivated them to avoid using a tanning bed, and 124 (61.7%) to increase use of sun protection. However, only 25 (12.5%) disagreed with both items. The perceived effect on motivation was increased in participants with Fitzpatrick skin types 1-2 in both tanning bed avoidance (n=74, 71.8% agreement in skin types 1-2 vs n=50, 53.8% agreement in skin types 3-6) and increased use of sun protection (n=70, 68.0% agreement in skin types 1-2 vs n=52, 55.3% agreement in skin types 3-6), and also positively correlated with higher age. Conclusions: We present a novel way of integrating photoaging in school-based melanoma prevention that affects the students’ peer group, considers the predictors of UV exposure in accordance with the theory of planned behavior, and is particularly effective in changing behavioral predictors in fair-skinned adolescents (Fitzpatrick skin types 1-2). Further research is required to evaluate the intervention’s prospective effects on adolescents of various cultural backgrounds. %M 28887295 %R 10.2196/jmir.8661 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/9/e319/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.8661 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28887295 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 9 %P e131 %T Mobile Phone Interventions for Sleep Disorders and Sleep Quality: Systematic Review %A Shin,Jong Cheol %A Kim,Julia %A Grigsby-Toussaint,Diana %+ Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign, 1206 S Fourth Street, Champaign, IL, 61820, United States, 1 2173339207, dgrigs1@illinois.edu %K mHealth %K apps %K mobile health %K sleep %D 2017 %7 07.09.2017 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Although mobile health technologies have been developed for interventions to improve sleep disorders and sleep quality, evidence of their effectiveness remains limited. Objective: A systematic literature review was performed to determine the effectiveness of mobile technology interventions for improving sleep disorders and sleep quality. Methods: Four electronic databases (EBSCOhost, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for articles on mobile technology and sleep interventions published between January 1983 and December 2016. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they met the following criteria: (1) written in English, (2) adequate details on study design, (3) focus on sleep intervention research, (4) sleep index measurement outcome provided, and (5) publication in peer-reviewed journals. Results: An initial sample of 2679 English-language papers were retrieved from five electronic databases. After screening and review, 16 eligible studies were evaluated to examine the impact of mobile phone interventions on sleep disorders and sleep quality. These included one case study, three pre-post studies, and 12 randomized controlled trials. The studies were categorized as (1) conventional mobile phone support and (2) utilizing mobile phone apps. Based on the results of sleep outcome measurements, 88% (14/16) studies showed that mobile phone interventions have the capability to attenuate sleep disorders and to enhance sleep quality, regardless of intervention type. In addition, mobile phone intervention methods (either alternatively or as an auxiliary) provide better sleep solutions in comparison with other recognized treatments (eg, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia). Conclusions: We found evidence to support the use of mobile phone interventions to address sleep disorders and to improve sleep quality. Our findings suggest that mobile phone technologies can be effective for future sleep intervention research. %M 28882808 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7244 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/9/e131/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7244 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28882808 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-3762 %I JMIR Publications %V 3 %N 2 %P e15 %T Mobile Apps for Teaching Intubation: Scoping Review and Critical Analysis in eLearning %A Matava,Clyde %A Leo,Anne-Marie %A Alam,Fahad %+ Hospital for Sick Children, Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON,, Canada, 1 416 813 7445, clyde.matava@sickkids.ca %K anesthesia %K apps %K eLearning %K mLearning %K intubation %K difficult airway %K residents %K anesthesiology %D 2017 %7 05.09.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Med Educ %G English %X Background: Airway management is a core skill in anesthesia ensuring adequate oxygenation and delivery of inhalational agents for the patient. Objective: The goals of this study were to critically evaluate the quality of airway management apps and target revised Bloom's Taxonomy cognitive levels. Methods: An electronic search using the keywords “airway” and “airway management” was conducted in May 2015 across the App Store, Google Play, BlackBerry World, and Windows Store. Apps were included in the study if their content was related to airway management. App content and characteristics were extracted into a standard form and evaluated. Results: A total of 65 apps met the inclusion criteria, and 73% (47/65) of apps were developed by companies or industry. Anesthesiology trainees were the target audience in only 20% (13/65) of apps. Bag mask ventilation and laryngeal mask airways were covered in only 20% (13/65) of apps. Only 2 apps were supported in the scientific literature. For Bloom’s Taxonomy, 37% (24/65) of apps targeted knowledge, 5% (3/65) comprehension, 22% (14/65) application, 28% (18/65) analysis, 9% (6/65) evaluation, and 0% synthesis. Multivariate analysis identified cost of apps, size of apps (MB), and apps targeting trainees and paramedics to be associated with higher levels of cognitive processing of revised Bloom’s Taxonomy. Conclusions: Apps developed for teaching intubation target lower levels of cognitive processing and are largely not validated by research. Cost, app size, and targeted user are associated with higher cognitive levels. Trainees and all users should be aware of the paucity of the published evidence behind the efficacy of some of these apps. %M 28874335 %R 10.2196/mededu.7919 %U http://mededu.jmir.org/2017/2/e15/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mededu.7919 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28874335 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 8 %P e126 %T Consent Processes for Mobile App Mediated Research: Systematic Review %A Moore,Sarah %A Tassé,Anne-Marie %A Thorogood,Adrian %A Winship,Ingrid %A Zawati,Ma'n %A Doerr,Megan %+ Sage Bionetworks, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109-4433, United States, 1 2066677841, sarah.moore@sagebase.org %K mHealth, informed consent, smartphone, cell phone, mobile applications, privacy, research ethics %D 2017 %7 30.08.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Since the launch of ResearchKit on the iOS platform in March 2015 and ResearchStack on the Android platform in June 2016, many academic and commercial institutions around the world have adapted these frameworks to develop mobile app-based research studies. These studies cover a wide variety of subject areas including melanoma, cardiomyopathy, and autism. Additionally, these app-based studies target a variety of participant populations, including children and pregnant women. Objective: The aim of this review was to document the variety of self-administered remote informed consent processes used in app-based research studies available between May and September 2016. Remote consent is defined as any consenting process with zero in-person steps, when a participant is able to join a study without ever seeing a member of the research team. This type of review has not been previously conducted. The research community would benefit from a rigorous interrogation of the types of consent taken as part of the seismic shift to entirely mobile meditated research studies. Methods: This review examines both the process of information giving and specific content shared, with special attention to data privacy, aggregation, and sharing. Results: Consistency across some elements of the app-based consent processes was found; for example, informing participants about how data will be curated from the phone. Variations in other elements were identified; for example, where specific information is shared and the level of detail disclosed. Additionally, several novel elements present in eConsent not typically seen in traditional consent for research were highlighted. Conclusions: This review advocates the importance of participant informedness in a novel and largely unregulated research setting. %M 28855147 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7014 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/8/e126/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7014 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28855147 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 8 %P e301 %T Categorizing Health Outcomes and Efficacy of mHealth Apps for Persons With Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review %A Bateman,Daniel R %A Srinivas,Bhavana %A Emmett,Thomas W %A Schleyer,Titus K %A Holden,Richard J %A Hendrie,Hugh C %A Callahan,Christopher M %+ Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Regenstrief Institute, Inc, 1101 West 10th Street, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States, 1 317 274 9334, darbate@iupui.edu %K mHealth %K mobile health %K applications %K Alzheimer disease %K dementia %K systematic review %D 2017 %7 30.08.2017 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Use of mobile health (mHealth) apps is growing at an exponential rate in the United States and around the world. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer disease, and related dementias are a global health problem. Numerous mHealth interventions exist for this population, yet the effect of these interventions on health has not been systematically described. Objective: The aim of this study is to catalog the types of health outcomes used to measure effectiveness of mHealth interventions and assess which mHealth interventions have been shown to improve the health of persons with MCI, Alzheimer disease, and dementia. Methods: We searched 13 databases, including Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, the full Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Ei Compendex, IEEE Xplore, Applied Science & Technology Source, Scopus, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Google Scholar from inception through May 2017 for mHealth studies involving persons with cognitive impairment that were evaluated using at least one quantitative health outcome. Proceedings of the Annual ACM Conferences on Human Factors in Computing Systems, the ACM User Interface Software and Technology Symposium, and the IEEE International Symposium on Wearable Computers were searched in the ACM Digital Library from 2012 to 2016. A hand search of JMIR Publications journals was also completed in July 2017. Results: After removal of duplicates, our initial search returned 3955 records. Of these articles, 24 met final inclusion criteria as studies involving mHealth interventions that measured at least one quantitative health outcome for persons with MCI, Alzheimer disease, and dementia. Common quantitative health outcomes included cognition, function, mood, and quality of life. We found that 21.2% (101/476) of the fully reviewed articles were excluded because of a lack of health outcomes. The health outcomes selected were observed to be inconsistent between studies. For those studies with quantitative health outcomes, more than half (58%) reported postintervention improvements in outcomes. Conclusions: Results showed that many mHealth app interventions targeting those with cognitive impairment lack quantitative health outcomes as a part of their evaluation process and that there is a lack of consensus as to which outcomes to use. The majority of mHealth app interventions that incorporated health outcomes into their evaluation noted improvements in the health of persons with MCI, Alzheimer disease, and dementia. However, these studies were of low quality, leading to a grade C level of evidence. Clarification of the benefits of mHealth interventions for people with cognitive impairment requires more randomized controlled trials, larger numbers of participants, and trial designs that minimize bias. Trial Registration: PROSPERO Registration: PROSPERO 2016:CRD42016033846; http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/ display_record.asp?ID=CRD42016033846 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6sjjwnv1M) %M 28855146 %R 10.2196/jmir.7814 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/8/e301/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7814 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28855146 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 8 %P e129 %T Clinical Validation of Heart Rate Apps: Mixed-Methods Evaluation Study %A Vandenberk,Thijs %A Stans,Jelle %A Mortelmans,Christophe %A Van Haelst,Ruth %A Van Schelvergem,Gertjan %A Pelckmans,Caroline %A Smeets,Christophe JP %A Lanssens,Dorien %A De Cannière,Hélène %A Storms,Valerie %A Thijs,Inge M %A Vaes,Bert %A Vandervoort,Pieter M %+ Mobile Health Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Martelarenlaan 42, Hasselt, 3600, Belgium, 32 11268111, thijs.vandenberk@uhasselt.be %K heart rate %K software validation %K remote sensing technology %D 2017 %7 25.8.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Photoplethysmography (PPG) is a proven way to measure heart rate (HR). This technology is already available in smartphones, which allows measuring HR only by using the smartphone. Given the widespread availability of smartphones, this creates a scalable way to enable mobile HR monitoring. An essential precondition is that these technologies are as reliable and accurate as the current clinical (gold) standards. At this moment, there is no consensus on a gold standard method for the validation of HR apps. This results in different validation processes that do not always reflect the veracious outcome of comparison. Objective: The aim of this paper was to investigate and describe the necessary elements in validating and comparing HR apps versus standard technology. Methods: The FibriCheck (Qompium) app was used in two separate prospective nonrandomized studies. In the first study, the HR of the FibriCheck app was consecutively compared with 2 different Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared HR devices: the Nonin oximeter and the AliveCor Mobile ECG. In the second study, a next step in validation was performed by comparing the beat-to-beat intervals of the FibriCheck app to a synchronized ECG recording. Results: In the first study, the HR (BPM, beats per minute) of 88 random subjects consecutively measured with the 3 devices showed a correlation coefficient of .834 between FibriCheck and Nonin, .88 between FibriCheck and AliveCor, and .897 between Nonin and AliveCor. A single way analysis of variance (ANOVA; P=.61 was executed to test the hypothesis that there were no significant differences between the HRs as measured by the 3 devices. In the second study, 20,298 (ms) R-R intervals (RRI)–peak-to-peak intervals (PPI) from 229 subjects were analyzed. This resulted in a positive correlation (rs=.993, root mean square deviation [RMSE]=23.04 ms, and normalized root mean square error [NRMSE]=0.012) between the PPI from FibriCheck and the RRI from the wearable ECG. There was no significant difference (P=.92) between these intervals. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the most suitable method for the validation of an HR app is a simultaneous measurement of the HR by the smartphone app and an ECG system, compared on the basis of beat-to-beat analysis. This approach could lead to more correct assessments of the accuracy of HR apps. %R 10.2196/mhealth.7254 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/8/e129/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7254 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 8 %P e295 %T The Use of Mobile Apps and SMS Messaging as Physical and Mental Health Interventions: Systematic Review %A Rathbone,Amy Leigh %A Prescott,Julie %+ School of Education and Psychology, University of Bolton, Deane Road, Bolton, BL3 5AB, United Kingdom, 44 01204903676, alr3wss@bolton.ac.uk %K mHealth %K smartphone %K health %K review %K systematic %K short message service %K treatment efficacy %K portable electronic applications %K intervention study %D 2017 %7 24.08.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The initial introduction of the World Wide Web in 1990 brought around the biggest change in information acquisition. Due to the abundance of devices and ease of access they subsequently allow, the utility of mobile health (mHealth) has never been more endemic. A substantial amount of interactive and psychoeducational apps are readily available to download concerning a wide range of health issues. mHealth has the potential to reduce waiting times for appointments; eradicate the need to meet in person with a clinician, successively diminishing the workload of mental health professionals; be more cost effective to practices; and encourage self-care tactics. Previous research has given valid evidence with empirical studies proving the effectiveness of physical and mental health interventions using mobile apps. Alongside apps, there is evidence to show that receiving short message service (SMS) messages, which entail psychoeducation, medication reminders, and links to useful informative Web pages can also be advantageous to a patient’s mental and physical well-being. Available mHealth apps and SMS services and their ever improving quality necessitates a systematic review in the area in reference to reduction of symptomology, adherence to intervention, and usability. Objective: The aim of this review was to study the efficacy, usability, and feasibility of mobile apps and SMS messages as mHealth interventions for self-guided care. Methods: A systematic literature search was carried out in JMIR, PubMed, PsychINFO, PsychARTICLES, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and SAGE. The search spanned from January 2008 to January 2017. The primary outcome measures consisted of weight management, (pregnancy) smoking cessation, medication adherence, depression, anxiety and stress. Where possible, adherence, feasibility, and usability outcomes of the apps or SMS services were evaluated. Between-group and within-group effect sizes (Cohen d) for the mHealth intervention method group were determined. Results: A total of 27 studies, inclusive of 4658 participants were reviewed. The papers included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (n=19), within-group studies (n=7), and 1 within-group study with qualitative aspect. Studies show improvement in physical health and significant reductions of anxiety, stress, and depression. Within-group and between-group effect sizes ranged from 0.05-3.37 (immediately posttest), 0.05-3.25 (1-month follow-up), 0.08-3.08 (2-month follow-up), 0.00-3.10 (3-month follow-up), and 0.02-0.27 (6-month follow-up). Usability and feasibility of mHealth interventions, where reported, also gave promising, significant results. Conclusions: The review shows the promising and emerging efficacy of using mobile apps and SMS text messaging as mHealth interventions. %M 28838887 %R 10.2196/jmir.7740 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/8/e295/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7740 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28838887 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 8 %P e296 %T Text Messaging Interventions on Cancer Screening Rates: A Systematic Review %A Uy,Catherine %A Lopez,Jennifer %A Trinh-Shevrin,Chau %A Kwon,Simona C %A Sherman,Scott E %A Liang,Peter S %+ Department of Medicine, VA New York Harbor Manhattan Medical Center, 11N, Gastroenterology, 423 E 23rd St, New York, NY, 10010, United States, 1 212 686 7500 ext 5745, Peter.Liang@nyumc.org %K text messaging %K early detection of cancer %K breast neoplasms %K colorectal neoplasms %K lung neoplasms %K mHealth %K uterine cervical neoplasms %D 2017 %7 24.08.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Despite high-quality evidence demonstrating that screening reduces mortality from breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancers, a substantial portion of the population remains inadequately screened. There is a critical need to identify interventions that increase the uptake and adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines for preventable cancers at the community practice level. Text messaging (short message service, SMS) has been effective in promoting behavioral change in various clinical settings, but the overall impact and reach of text messaging interventions on cancer screening are unknown. Objective: The objective of this systematic review was to assess the effect of text messaging interventions on screening for breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancers. Methods: We searched multiple databases for studies published between the years 2000 and 2017, including PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library, to identify controlled trials that measured the effect of text messaging on screening for breast, cervical, colorectal, or lung cancers. Study quality was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Results: Our search yielded 2238 citations, of which 31 underwent full review and 9 met inclusion criteria. Five studies examined screening for breast cancer, one for cervical cancer, and three for colorectal cancer. No studies were found for lung cancer screening. Absolute screening rates for individuals who received text message interventions were 0.6% to 15.0% higher than for controls. Unadjusted relative screening rates for text message recipients were 4% to 63% higher compared with controls. Conclusions: Text messaging interventions appear to moderately increase screening rates for breast and cervical cancer and may have a small effect on colorectal cancer screening. Benefit was observed in various countries, including resource-poor and non-English-speaking populations. Given the paucity of data, additional research is needed to better quantify the effectiveness of this promising intervention. %M 28838885 %R 10.2196/jmir.7893 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/8/e296/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7893 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28838885 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 8 %P e142 %T mHealth Technologies for Palliative Care Patients at the Interface of In-Patient to Outpatient Care: Protocol of Feasibility Study Aiming to Early Predict Deterioration of Patient’s Health Status %A Theile,Gudrun %A Klaas,Vanessa %A Tröster,Gerhard %A Guckenberger,Matthias %+ Clinic of Radiation-Oncology, Competence Center Palliative Care, University Hospital Zurich, 100 Raemistrasse, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland, 41 44 2555495, gudrun.theile@usz.ch %K mobile apps %K palliative care %K pain %K symptom assessment %K hospitalization %K aged %D 2017 %7 16.08.2017 %9 Protocol %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Palliative care patients are a particularly vulnerable population and one of the critical phases in patients’ trajectories is discharge from specialized in-patient palliative care into outpatient care, where availability of a palliative care infrastructure is highly variable. A relevant number of potentially avoidable readmissions and emergency visits of palliative patients is observed due to rapid exacerbation of symptoms indicating the need for a closer patient monitoring. In the last years, different mHealth technology applications have been evaluated in many different patient groups. Objective: The aim of our study is to test feasibility of a remote physical and social tracking system in palliative care patients. Methods: A feasibility study with explorative, descriptive study design, comprised of 3 work packages. From the wards of the Clinic of Radiation-Oncology at the University Hospital Zurich, including the specialized palliative care ward, 30 patients will be recruited and will receive a mobile phone and a tracking bracelet before discharge. The aim of work package A is to evaluate if severely ill patients accept to be equipped with a tracking bracelet and a mobile phone (by semiquantitative questionnaires and guideline interviews). Work package B evaluates the technical feasibility and quality of the acquired electronic health data. Work package C will demonstrate whether physical activity parameters, such as step count, sleep duration, social activity patterns like making calls, and vital signs (eg, heart rate) do correlate with subjective health data and can serve as indicator to early detect and predict changes in patients’ health status. Activity parameters will be extracted from the mobile phone’s and wristband’s sensor data using signal processing methods. Subjective health data is captured via electronic version of visual analog scale and Distress Thermometer as well as the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer – Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 in paper version. Results: Enrollment began in February 2017. First study results will be reported in the middle of 2018. Conclusions: Our project will deliver relevant data on patients’ acceptance of activity and social tracking and test the correlation between subjective symptom assessment and objective activity in the vulnerable population of palliative care patients. The proposed study is meant to be preparatory work for an intervention study to test the effect of wireless monitoring of palliative care patients on symptom control and quality of life. %M 28814378 %R 10.2196/resprot.7676 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/8/e142/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.7676 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28814378 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-1011 %I JMIR Publications %V 1 %N 2 %P e3 %T A Mobile Health Intervention to Improve Self-Care in Patients With Heart Failure: Pilot Randomized Control Trial %A Athilingam,Ponrathi %A Jenkins,Bradlee %A Johansson,Marcia %A Labrador,Miguel %+ College of Nursing, University of South Florida, 4202 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL, 33620, United States, 1 1 813 974 7526, pathilin@health.usf.edu %K heart failure %K mobile applications %K self-care %K quality of life %D 2017 %7 11.08.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Cardio %G English %X Background: Heart failure (HF) is a progressive chronic disease affecting 6.5 million Americans and over 15 million individuals globally. Patients with HF are required to engage in complex self-care behaviors. Although the advancements in medicine have enabled people with HF to live longer, they often have poor health-related quality of life and experience severe and frequent symptoms that limit several aspects of their lives. Mobile phone apps have not only created new and interactive ways of communication between patients and health care providers but also provide a platform to enhance adherence to self-care management. Objective: The aim of this pilot study was to test the feasibility of a newly developed mobile app (HeartMapp) in improving self-care behaviors and quality of life of patients with HF and to calculate effect sizes for sample size calculation for a larger study. Methods: This was a pilot feasibility randomized controlled trial. Participants were enrolled in the hospital before discharge and followed at home for 30 days. The intervention group used HeartMapp (n=9), whereas the control group (n=9) received HF education. These apps were downloaded onto their mobile phones for daily use. Results: A total of 72% (13/18) participants completed the study; the mean age of the participants was 53 (SD 4.02) years, 56% (10/18) were females, 61% (11/18) lived alone, 33% (6/18) were African Americans, and 61% (11/18) used mobile phone to get health information. The mean engagement with HeartMapp was 78%. Results were promising with a trend that participants in the HeartMapp group had a significant mean score change on self-care management (8.7 vs 2.3; t3.38=11, P=.01), self-care confidence (6.7 vs 1.8; t2.53=11, P=.28), and HF knowledge (3 vs −0.66; t2.37=11, P=.04. Depression improved among both groups, more so in the control group (−1.14 vs −5.17; t1.97=11, P=.07). Quality of life declined among both groups, more so in the control group (2.14 vs 9.0; t−1.43=11, P=.18). Conclusions: The trends demonstrated in this pilot feasibility study warrant further exploration on the use of HeartMapp to improve HF outcomes. Trial Registration: Pilot study, no funding from National agencies, hence not registered. %R 10.2196/cardio.7848 %U http://cardio.jmir.org/2017/2/e3/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/cardio.7848 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 8 %P e119 %T Validation of a Smartphone App for the Assessment of Sedentary and Active Behaviors %A Toledo,Meynard John %A Hekler,Eric %A Hollingshead,Kevin %A Epstein,Dana %A Buman,Matthew %+ Arizona State University, School of Nutrition and Health Promotion, Arizona Biomedical Collaborative, 550 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, United States, 1 6028272289, mbuman@asu.edu %K Sedentary and physical activity measurement %K smartphone daily-log app %K self-monitoring app %K BeWell24 %D 2017 %7 09.08.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Although current technological advancements have allowed for objective measurements of sedentary behavior via accelerometers, these devices do not provide the contextual information needed to identify targets for behavioral interventions and generate public health guidelines to reduce sedentary behavior. Thus, self-reports still remain an important method of measurement for physical activity and sedentary behaviors. Objective: This study evaluated the reliability, validity, and sensitivity to change of a smartphone app in assessing sitting, light-intensity physical activity (LPA), and moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Methods: Adults (N=28; 49.0 years old, standard deviation [SD] 8.9; 85% men; 73% Caucasian; body mass index=35.0, SD 8.3 kg/m2) reported their sitting, LPA, and MVPA over an 11-week behavioral intervention. During three separate 7-day periods, participants wore the activPAL3c accelerometer/inclinometer as a criterion measure. Intraclass correlation (ICC; 95% CI) and bias estimates (mean difference [δ] and root of mean square error [RMSE]) were used to compare app-based reported behaviors to measured sitting time (lying/seated position), LPA (standing or stepping at <100 steps/minute), and MVPA (stepping at >100 steps/minute). Results: Test-retest results suggested moderate agreement with the criterion for sedentary time, LPA, and MVPA (ICC=0.65 [0.43-0.82], 0.67 [0.44-0.83] and 0.69 [0.48-0.84], respectively). The agreement between the two measures was poor (ICC=0.05-0.40). The app underestimated sedentary time (δ=-45.9 [-67.6, -24.2] minutes/day, RMSE=201.6) and overestimated LPA and MVPA (δ=18.8 [-1.30 to 38.9] minutes/day, RMSE=183; and δ=29.3 [25.3 to 33.2] minutes/day, RMSE=71.6, respectively). The app underestimated change in time spent during LPA and MVPA but overestimated change in sedentary time. Both measures showed similar directions in changed scores on sedentary time and LPA. Conclusions: Despite its inaccuracy, the app may be useful as a self-monitoring tool in the context of a behavioral intervention. Future research may help to clarify reasons for under- or over-reporting of behaviors. %M 28793982 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6974 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/8/e119/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6974 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28793982 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-9694 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 3 %P e22 %T Hierarchical Medical System Based on Big Data and Mobile Internet: A New Strategic Choice in Health Care %A Wang,Yaogang %A Sun,Li %A Hou,Jie %+ Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qixiangtai Road, Tianjin,, China, 86 02283336636, wyg@tmu.edu.cn %K medical services %K continuity of patient care %K mobile health %D 2017 %7 08.08.2017 %9 Viewpoint %J JMIR Med Inform %G English %X China is setting up a hierarchical medical system to solve the problems of biased resource allocation and high patient flows to large hospitals. The development of big data and mobile Internet technology provides a new perspective for the establishment of hierarchical medical system. This viewpoint discusses the challenges with the hierarchical medical system in China and how big data and mobile Internet can be used to mitigate these challenges. %M 28790024 %R 10.2196/medinform.6799 %U http://medinform.jmir.org/2017/3/e22/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/medinform.6799 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28790024 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 8 %P e116 %T Feasibility and Acceptability of a Text Message-Based Smoking Cessation Program for Young Adults in Lima, Peru: Pilot Study %A Blitchtein-Winicki,Dora %A Zevallos,Karine %A Samolski,M Reuven %A Requena,David %A Velarde,Chaska %A Briceño,Patricia %A Piazza,Marina %A Ybarra,Michele L %+ Executive Office of Research, Peruvian National Institute of Health, Cápac Yupanqui 1400, Jesus María, Lima, CP 11, Peru, 51 999 090917, dblit2007@gmail.com %K Pilot Projects, Text Messaging, Smoking Cessation, Young Adult, Cognitive Therapy, Feasibility Studies, Latinos %D 2017 %7 04.08.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: In Peru’s urban communities, tobacco smoking generally starts during adolescence and smoking prevalence is highest among young adults. Each year, many attempt to quit, but access to smoking cessation programs is limited. Evidence-based text messaging smoking cessation programs are an alternative that has been successfully implemented in high-income countries, but not yet in middle- and low-income countries with limited tobacco control policies. Objective: The objective was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of an short message service (SMS) text message-based cognitive behavioral smoking cessation program for young adults in Lima, Peru. Methods: Recruitment included using flyers and social media ads to direct young adults interested in quitting smoking to a website where interested participants completed a Google Drive survey. Inclusion criteria were being between ages 18 and 25 years, smoking at least four cigarettes per day at least 6 days per week, willing to quit in the next 30 days, owning a mobile phone, using SMS text messaging at least once in past year, and residing in Lima. Participants joined one of three phases: (1) focus groups and in-depth interviews whose feedback was used to develop the SMS text messages, (2) validating the SMS text messages, and (3) a pilot of the SMS text message-based smoking cessation program to test its feasibility and acceptability among young adults in Lima. The outcome measures included adherence to the SMS text message-based program, acceptability of content, and smoking abstinence self-report on days 2, 7, and 30 after quitting. Results: Of 639 participants who completed initial online surveys, 42 met the inclusion criteria and 35 agreed to participate (focus groups and interviews: n=12; validate SMS text messages: n=8; program pilot: n=15). Common quit practices and beliefs emerged from participants in the focus groups and interviews informed the content, tone, and delivery schedule of the messages used in the SMS text message smoking cessation program. A small randomized controlled pilot trial was performed to test the program’s feasibility and acceptability; nine smokers were assigned to the SMS text message smoking cessation program and six to a SMS text message nutrition program. Participant retention was high: 93% (14/15) remained until day 30 after quit day. In all, 56% of participants (5/9) in the SMS text message smoking cessation program reported remaining smoke-free until day 30 after quit day and 17% of participants (1/6) in the SMS text message nutrition program reported remaining smoke-free during the entire program. The 14 participants who completed the pilot reported that they received valuable health information and approved the delivery schedule of the SMS text messages. Conclusions: This study provides initial evidence that a SMS text message smoking cessation program is feasible and acceptable for young adults residing in Lima. %M 28778850 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7532 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/8/e116/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7532 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28778850 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 8 %P e114 %T How Do Apps Work? An Analysis of Physical Activity App Users’ Perceptions of Behavior Change Mechanisms %A Hoj,Taylor H %A Covey,Emarie L %A Jones,Allyn C %A Haines,Amanda C %A Hall,P Cougar %A Crookston,Benjamin T %A West,Joshua H %+ Computational Health Science Research Group, Department of Health Science, Brigham Young University, 2139 Life Sciences Building, Provo, UT, 84602, United States, 1 801 422 3444, josh.west@byu.edu %K mHealth %K mobile apps %K health behavior %K smartphone %D 2017 %7 03.08.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Physical activity apps are commonly used to increase levels of activity and health status. To date, the focus of research has been to determine the potential of apps to influence behavior, to ascertain the efficacy of a limited number of apps to change behavior, and to identify the characteristics of apps that users prefer. Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify the mechanisms by which the use of physical activity apps may influence the users’ physical activity behavior. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional survey of users of health-related physical activity apps during the past 6 months. An electronic survey was created in Qualtrics’ Web-based survey software and deployed on Amazon Mechanical Turk. Individuals who had used at least one physical activity app in the past 6 months were eligible to respond. The final sample comprised 207 adults living in the United States. 86.0% (178/207) of respondents were between the ages of 26 and 54 years, with 51.2% (106/207) of respondents being female. Behavior change theory informed the creation of 20 survey items relating to the mechanisms of behavior change. Respondents also reported about engagement with the apps, app likeability, and physical activity behavior. Results: Respondents reported that using a physical activity app in the past 6 months resulted in a change in their attitudes, beliefs, perceptions, and motivation. Engagement with the app (P<.001), frequency of app use (P=.03), and app price (P=.01) were related to the reported impact of the behavior change theory or mechanisms of change. The mechanisms of change were associated with self-reported physical activity behaviors (P<.001). Conclusions: The findings from this study provide an overview of the mechanisms by which apps may impact behavior. App developers may wish to incorporate these mechanisms in an effort to increase impact. Practitioners should consider the extent to which behavior change theory is integrated into a particular app when they consider making recommendations to others wishing to increase levels of physical activity. %M 28778846 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7206 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/8/e114/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7206 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28778846 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 8 %P e113 %T The Potential of Mobile Apps for Improving Asthma Self-Management: A Review of Publicly Available and Well-Adopted Asthma Apps %A Tinschert,Peter %A Jakob,Robert %A Barata,Filipe %A Kramer,Jan-Niklas %A Kowatsch,Tobias %+ Center for Digital Health Interventions, Institute of Technology Management (ITEM-HSG), University of St. Gallen, Central Institute Buidling, 1st Fl., Dufourstrasse 40a, St. Gallen, 9000, Switzerland, 41 71 224 ext 7244, tobias.kowatsch@unisg.ch %K asthma %K self care %K disease management %K mobile applications %K smartphone %K mHealth %K eHealth %K mobile health %K behavior and behavior mechanisms %K review %D 2017 %7 02.08.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Effective disease self-management lowers asthma’s burden of disease for both individual patients and health care systems. In principle, mobile health (mHealth) apps could enable effective asthma self-management interventions that improve a patient’s quality of life while simultaneously reducing the overall treatment costs for health care systems. However, prior reviews in this field have found that mHealth apps for asthma lack clinical evaluation and are often not based on medical guidelines. Yet, beyond the missing evidence for clinical efficacy, little is known about the potential apps might have for improving asthma self-management. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the potential of publicly available and well-adopted mHealth apps for improving asthma self-management. Methods: The Apple App store and Google Play store were systematically searched for asthma apps. In total, 523 apps were identified, of which 38 apps matched the selection criteria to be included in the review. Four requirements of app potential were investigated: app functions, potential to change behavior (by means of a behavior change technique taxonomy), potential to promote app use (by means of a gamification components taxonomy), and app quality (by means of the Mobile Application Rating Scale [MARS]). Results: The most commonly implemented functions in the 38 reviewed asthma apps were tracking (30/38, 79%) and information (26/38, 68%) functions, followed by assessment (20/38, 53%) and notification (18/38, 47%) functions. On average, the reviewed apps applied 7.12 of 26 available behavior change techniques (standard deviation [SD]=4.46) and 4.89 of 31 available gamification components (SD=4.21). Average app quality was acceptable (mean=3.17/5, SD=0.58), whereas subjective app quality lied between poor and acceptable (mean=2.65/5, SD=0.87). Additionally, the sum scores of all review frameworks were significantly correlated (lowest correlation: r36=.33, P=.04 between number of functions and gamification components; highest correlation: r36=.80, P<.001 between number of behavior change techniques and gamification components), which suggests that an app’s potential tends to be consistent across review frameworks. Conclusions: Several apps were identified that performed consistently well across all applied review frameworks, thus indicating the potential mHealth apps offer for improving asthma self-management. However, many apps suffer from low quality. Therefore, app reviews should be considered as a decision support tool before deciding which app to integrate into a patient’s asthma self-management. Furthermore, several research-practice gaps were identified that app developers should consider addressing in future asthma apps. %M 28768606 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7177 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/8/e113/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7177 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28768606 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 7 %P e100 %T The Relationship Between Individual Characteristics and Interest in Using a Mobile Phone App for HIV Self-Management: Observational Cohort Study of People Living With HIV %A Lucero,Robert James %A Frimpong,Jemima A %A Fehlberg,Elizabeth A %A Bjarnadottir,Ragnhildur I %A Weaver,Michael T %A Cook,Christa %A Modave,Francois %A Rathore,Mobeen H %A Morano,Jamie P %A Ibanez,Gladys %A Cook,Robert L %+ Department of Family, Community, and Health Systems Science, College of Nursing, University of Florida, Health Professions, Nursing, and Pharmacy Complex, 1225 Center Drive, Gainesville, FL,, United States, 1 352 273 6370, rlucero@ufl.edu %K telemedicine %K self-care %K HIV %D 2017 %7 27.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) continues to be a major health issue in the United States, and an estimated 1.2 million people in the United States are living with HIV. As part of Healthy People 2020, the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion has targeted the persistent demographic and geographic disparities in HIV prevalence and management. Preliminary evidence suggests that mobile health technology (smartphone apps) may be a promising way to support HIV self-management among vulnerable populations of people living with HIV (PLWH) who lack access to appropriate health care services. Objective: This study examines the association between individual characteristics of PLWH and level of interest in using a free mobile phone app for HIV self-management. Methods: This study was conducted using cross-sectional survey data collected in the Florida Cohort Study between 2014 and 2016 (N=766). Associations between individual characteristics of PLWH and level of interest in using a free mobile phone app for HIV self-management were examined using bivariate analysis and logistic regression. Results: Overall, 85.5% (655/766) of respondents were interested in using a free mobile phone app that supports HIV self-management. Participants expressed the highest interest in app functions that facilitate communication with health care providers (568/740, 76.8%) or help to identify relevant health care services (556/745 74.6%). Age (OR 0.959, 95% CI 0.936-0.982), education (OR 1.281, 95% CI 1.027-1.598) and disability or inability to work (OR 0.296, 95% CI 0.145-0.606) were all significantly associated with being interested in using a free mobile phone app for HIV self-management. Conclusions: This study indicates that a majority of PLWH are interested in using a free mobile phone app to self-manage their condition. The findings can inform the development of mobile phone apps that support effective HIV self-management. %M 28751298 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7853 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/7/e100/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7853 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28751298 %0 Journal Article %@ 2371-4379 %I JMIR Publications %V 2 %N 2 %P e15 %T Improving Glycemic Control With a Standardized Text-Message and Phone-Based Intervention: A Community Implementation %A Peters,Robert Mattson %A Lui,Matt %A Patel,Kunjan %A Tian,Lewis %A Javaherian,Kavon %A Sink,Eric %A Xu,Ran %A Xu,Zhuchen %A Aung,Wint %A Zhou,Li %A Huynh,Justin %A Polites,Gregory %A Blanchard,Melvin %A Som,Avik %A Ross,Will %A Bernal-Mizrachi,Carlos %+ Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipid Research, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, Campus Box 8127, 660 South Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63110, United States, 1 314 362 0947, cbernal@wustl.edu %K diabetes mellitus %K glycemic control %K telemedicine %K electronic health (eHealth) %K mobile health (mHealth) %K telehealth %K SMS %K diabetes management %D 2017 %7 25.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Diabetes %G English %X Background: Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) presents a major disease burden in the United States. Outpatient glycemic control among patients with T2DM remains difficult. Telemedicine shows great potential as an adjunct therapy to aid in glycemic control in real-world settings. Objective: We aimed to explore the effectiveness of EpxDiabetes, a novel digital health intervention, in improving hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) among patients with uncontrolled diabetes. Methods: We recruited 396 patients from a community clinic in St. Louis, Missouri, from a database of patients diagnosed with T2DM and with a most recent HbA1c >7% as part of a quality improvement project. An automated call or text-messaging system was used to monitor patient-reported FBG. If determined to be elevated, care managers were notified by email, text, or electronic medical record alert. Participants self-reported their FBG data by replying to EpxDiabetes automated phone calls or text messages. Data were subsequently analyzed, triaged, and shared with providers to enable appropriate follow-up and care plan adjustments. Absolute HbA1c reduction, patient engagement, and absolute patient-reported FBG reduction were examined at approximately 6 months post implementation. Results: EpxDiabetes had an average 95.6% patient response rate to messages at least once per month and an average 71.1% response rate to messages at least once per week. Subsequent HbA1c drop with EpxDiabetes use over 4 months was -1.15% (95% CI -1.58 to -0.71) for patients with HbA1c >8% at baseline compared to the change in HbA1c over 4 months prior to the implementation of EpxDiabetes of only -0.005 points (95% CI -0.28 to 0.27), P=.0018. Conclusions: EpxDiabetes may help reduce HbA1c in patients with high HbA1c baselines (>8%). The intervention demonstrates high patient engagement sustainable for at least 6 months. %M 30291063 %R 10.2196/diabetes.7910 %U http://diabetes.jmir.org/2017/2/e15/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/diabetes.7910 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30291063 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 7 %P e105 %T Exploring the Association Between Self-Reported Asthma Impact and Fitbit-Derived Sleep Quality and Physical Activity Measures in Adolescents %A Bian,Jiang %A Guo,Yi %A Xie,Mengjun %A Parish,Alice E %A Wardlaw,Isaac %A Brown,Rita %A Modave,François %A Zheng,Dong %A Perry,Tamara T %+ Department of Health Outcomes and Policy, University of Florida, 2004 Mowry Road, Suite 3228, PO Box 100219, Gainesville, FL, 32610, United States, 1 (352) 273 8878, bianjiang@ufl.edu %K mobile health %K mHealth %K asthma %K Fitbit %K physical activity %K sleep %K sleep quality %D 2017 %7 25.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Smart wearables such as the Fitbit wristband provide the opportunity to monitor patients more comprehensively, to track patients in a fashion that more closely follows the contours of their lives, and to derive a more complete dataset that enables precision medicine. However, the utility and efficacy of using wearable devices to monitor adolescent patients’ asthma outcomes have not been established. Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the association between self‑reported sleep data, Fitbit sleep and physical activity data, and pediatric asthma impact (PAI). Methods: We conducted an 8‑week pilot study with 22 adolescent asthma patients to collect: (1) weekly or biweekly patient‑reported data using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) measures of PAI, sleep disturbance (SD), and sleep‑related impairment (SRI) and (2) real-time Fitbit (ie, Fitbit Charge HR) data on physical activity (F-AM) and sleep quality (F‑SQ). To explore the relationship among the self-reported and Fitbit measures, we computed weekly Pearson correlations among these variables of interest. Results: We have shown that the Fitbit-derived sleep quality F-SQ measure has a moderate correlation with the PROMIS SD score (average r=−.31, P=.01) and a weak but significant correlation with the PROMIS PAI score (average r=−.18, P=.02). The Fitbit physical activity measure has a negligible correlation with PAI (average r=.04, P=.62). Conclusions: Our findings support the potential of using wrist-worn devices to continuously monitor two important factors—physical activity and sleep—associated with patients’ asthma outcomes and to develop a personalized asthma management platform. %M 28743679 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7346 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/7/e105/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7346 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28743679 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 7 %P e262 %T Smartphone-Based Monitoring of Objective and Subjective Data in Affective Disorders: Where Are We and Where Are We Going? Systematic Review %A Dogan,Ezgi %A Sander,Christian %A Wagner,Xenija %A Hegerl,Ulrich %A Kohls,Elisabeth %+ Medical Faculty, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Leipzig, Semmelweisstrasse 10, Haus 13, Leipzig, 04103, Germany, 49 341 9724558, Christian.Sander@medizin.uni-leipzig.de %K review %K mood disorders %K smartphone %K ecological momentary assessment %D 2017 %7 24.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Electronic mental health interventions for mood disorders have increased rapidly over the past decade, most recently in the form of various systems and apps that are delivered via smartphones. Objective: We aim to provide an overview of studies on smartphone-based systems that combine subjective ratings with objectively measured data for longitudinal monitoring of patients with affective disorders. Specifically, we aim to examine current knowledge on: (1) the feasibility of, and adherence to, such systems; (2) the association of monitored data with mood status; and (3) the effects of monitoring on clinical outcomes. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for relevant articles published in the last ten years (2007-2017) by applying Boolean search operators with an iterative combination of search terms, which was conducted in February 2017. Additional articles were identified via pearling, author correspondence, selected reference lists, and trial protocols. Results: A total of 3463 unique records were identified. Twenty-nine studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The majority of articles represented feasibility studies (n=27); two articles reported results from one randomized controlled trial (RCT). In total, six different self-monitoring systems for affective disorders that used subjective mood ratings and objective measurements were included. These objective parameters included physiological data (heart rate variability), behavioral data (phone usage, physical activity, voice features), and context/environmental information (light exposure and location). The included articles contained results regarding feasibility of such systems in affective disorders, showed reasonable accuracy in predicting mood status and mood fluctuations based on the objectively monitored data, and reported observations about the impact of monitoring on clinical state and adherence of patients to the system usage. Conclusions: The included observational studies and RCT substantiate the value of smartphone-based approaches for gathering long-term objective data (aside from self-ratings to monitor clinical symptoms) to predict changes in clinical states, and to investigate causal inferences about state changes in patients with affective disorders. Although promising, a much larger evidence-base is necessary to fully assess the potential and the risks of these approaches. Methodological limitations of the available studies (eg, small sample sizes, variations in the number of observations or monitoring duration, lack of RCT, and heterogeneity of methods) restrict the interpretability of the results. However, a number of study protocols stated ambitions to expand and intensify research in this emerging and promising field. %M 28739561 %R 10.2196/jmir.7006 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/7/e262/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7006 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28739561 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-2529 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 2 %P e6 %T Mobile Phone–Supported Physiotherapy for Frozen Shoulder: Feasibility Assessment Based on a Usability Study %A Stütz,Thomas %A Emsenhuber,Gerlinde %A Huber,Daniela %A Domhardt,Michael %A Tiefengrabner,Martin %A Oostingh,Gertie Janneke %A Fötschl,Ulrike %A Matis,Nicholas %A Ginzinger,Simon %+ SmartHealthCheck Project, Department of Multimedia Technology, University of Applied Sciences Salzburg, R320, Urstein Süd 1, Puch / Salzburg, 5400, Austria, 43 502211 ext 1261, thomas.stuetz@fh-salzburg.ac.at %K telemedicine %K mobile health %K mHealth %K frozen shoulder %K adhesive capsulitis %K physiotherapy (techniques) %K home health aides %K mobile phone %D 2017 %7 20.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Rehabil Assist Technol %G English %X Background: Patients with frozen shoulder show limited shoulder mobility often accompanied by pain. Common treatment methods include physiotherapy, pain medication, administration of corticosteroids, and surgical capsulotomy. Frozen shoulder often lasts from months to years and mostly affects persons in the age group of 40 to 70 years. It severely reduces the quality of life and the ability to work. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a mobile health (mHealth) intervention that supports patients affected by “stage two” frozen shoulder. Patients were supported with app-based exercise instructions and tools to monitor their training compliance and progress. These training compliance and progress data supplement the patients’ oral reports to the physiotherapists and physicians and can assist them in therapy adjustment. Methods: In order to assess the feasibility of the mHealth intervention, a pilot study of a newly developed app for frozen shoulder patients was conducted with 5 patients for 3 weeks. The main function of the app was the instruction for exercising at home. Standardized questionnaires on usability such as System Usability Scale (SUS) and USE (Usefulness, Satisfaction, and Ease of use), and Technology Acceptance Model-2 (TAM-2) were completed by the study participants at the end of the study. Additionally, a nonstandardized questionnaire was completed by all patients. The correctness of the exercises as conducted by the patients was assessed by a physiotherapist at the end of the study. The mobility of the shoulder and pain in shoulder movement was assessed by a physiotherapist at the start and the end of the study. Results: The pilot study was successfully conducted, and the app was evaluated by the patients after 3 weeks. The results of the standardized questionnaires showed high acceptance (TAM-2) and high usability (SUS) of the developed app. The overall usability of the system as assessed by the SUS questionnaire was very good (an average score of 88 out of 100). The average score of the TAM-2 questionnaire on the intention to further use the app was 4.2 out of 5, which indicated that most patients would use the app if further available. The results of the USE questionnaires highlighted that the patients learned how to use the app easily (an average score of 4.2 out of 5) and were satisfied with the app (an average score of 4.7 out of 5). The frequency of app usage and training was very high based on patient reports and verified by analysis of the usage data. The patients conducted the exercises almost flawlessly. Conclusions: Our results indicate the feasibility of the mHealth intervention, as the app was easy to use and frequently used by the patients. The app supported the patients’ physiotherapy by providing clear exercising instructions. %M 28729234 %R 10.2196/rehab.7085 %U http://rehab.jmir.org/2017/2/e6/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/rehab.7085 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28729234 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 7 %P e250 %T Youth Oriented Activity Trackers: Comprehensive Laboratory- and Field-Based Validation %A Sirard,John R %A Masteller,Brittany %A Freedson,Patty S %A Mendoza,Albert %A Hickey,Amanda %+ Department of Kinesiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 30 Eastman Lane, Totman 110, Amherst, MA, 01003, United States, 1 4135457898, jsirard@kin.umass.edu %K child %K movement %K fitness trackers %D 2017 %7 19.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Commercial activity trackers are growing in popularity among adults and some are beginning to be marketed to children. There is, however, a paucity of independent research examining the validity of these devices to detect physical activity of different intensity levels. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the validity of the output from 3 commercial youth-oriented activity trackers in 3 phases: (1) orbital shaker, (2) structured indoor activities, and (3) 4 days of free-living activity. Methods: Four units of each activity tracker (Movband [MB], Sqord [SQ], and Zamzee [ZZ]) were tested in an orbital shaker for 5-minutes at three frequencies (1.3, 1.9, and 2.5 Hz). Participants for Phase 2 (N=14) and Phase 3 (N=16) were 6-12 year old children (50% male). For Phase 2, participants completed 9 structured activities while wearing each tracker, the ActiGraph GT3X+ (AG) research accelerometer, and a portable indirect calorimetry system to assess energy expenditure (EE). For Phase 3, participants wore all 4 devices for 4 consecutive days. Correlation coefficients, linear models, and non-parametric statistics evaluated the criterion and construct validity of the activity tracker output. Results: Output from all devices was significantly associated with oscillation frequency (r=.92-.99). During Phase 2, MB and ZZ only differentiated sedentary from light intensity (P<.01), whereas the SQ significantly differentiated among all intensity categories (all comparisons P<.01), similar to AG and EE. During Phase 3, AG counts were significantly associated with activity tracker output (r=.76, .86, and .59 for the MB, SQ, and ZZ, respectively). Conclusions: Across study phases, the SQ demonstrated stronger validity than the MB and ZZ. The validity of youth-oriented activity trackers may directly impact their effectiveness as behavior modification tools, demonstrating a need for more research on such devices. %M 28724509 %R 10.2196/jmir.6360 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/7/e250/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6360 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28724509 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 7 %P e245 %T Short Text Messages to Encourage Adherence to Medication and Follow-up for People With Psychosis (Mobile.Net): Randomized Controlled Trial in Finland %A Välimäki,Maritta %A Kannisto,Kati Anneli %A Vahlberg,Tero %A Hätönen,Heli %A Adams,Clive E %+ Department of Nursing Science, Joukahaisenkatu 3-5, University of Turku, 20014, Turku,, Finland, 358 40 5599235, mava@utu.fi %K text messaging %K psychotic disorders %K randomized controlled trial %K medication adherence %D 2017 %7 12.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: A text messaging service (short message service [SMS]) has the potential to target large groups of people with long-term illnesses such as serious mental disorders, who may have difficulty with treatment adherence. Robust research on the impact of mobile technology interventions for these patients remains scarce. Objective: The main objective of our study was to investigate the impact of individually tailored short text messages on the rate of psychiatric hospital readmissions, health care service use, and clinical outcomes. In addition, we analyzed treatment costs. Methods: Between September 2011 and November 2012, we randomly assigned 1139 people to a tailored text message intervention (n=569) or usual care (n=570). Participants received semiautomated text messages for up to 12 months or usual care. The primary outcome, based on routinely collected health register data, was patient readmission into a psychiatric hospital during a 12-month follow-up period. Secondary outcomes were related to other service use, coercion, medication, adverse events, satisfaction, social functioning, quality of life, and economic factors (cost analysis). Results: There was 98.24% (1119/1139) follow-up at 12 months. Tailored mobile telephone text messages did not reduce the rate of hospital admissions (242/563, 43.0% of the SMS group vs 216/556, 38.8% of the control group; relative risk 1.11; 95% CI 0.92-1.33; P=.28), time between hospitalizations (mean difference 7.0 days 95% CI –8.0 to 24.0; P=.37), time spent in a psychiatric hospital during the year (mean difference 2.0 days 95% CI –2.0 to 7.0; P=.35), or other service outcomes. People who received text messages were less disabled, based on Global Assessment Scale scores at the time of their readmission, than those who did not receive text messages (odds ratio 0.68; 95% CI 0.47-0.97; P=.04). The costs of treatment were higher for people in the SMS group than in the control group (mean €10,103 vs €9210, respectively, P<.001). Conclusions: High-grade routinely collected data can provide clear outcomes for pragmatic randomized trials. SMS messaging tailored with the input of each individual patient did not decrease the rate of psychiatric hospital visits after the 12 months of follow-up. Although there may have been other, more subtle effects, the results of these were not evident in outcomes of agreed importance to clinicians, policymakers, and patients and their families. Trial Registration: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 27704027; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN27704027 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6rVzZrbuz). %M 28701292 %R 10.2196/jmir.7028 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/7/e245/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7028 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28701292 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 7 %P e96 %T Patterns of User Engagement With the Mobile App, Manage My Pain: Results of a Data Mining Investigation %A Rahman,Quazi Abidur %A Janmohamed,Tahir %A Pirbaglou,Meysam %A Ritvo,Paul %A Heffernan,Jane M %A Clarke,Hance %A Katz,Joel %+ ManagingLife, Inc., Unit 4, 850 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON, M6J 1C9, Canada, 1 416 910 3760, tahir@managinglife.com %K chronic pain %K mhealth %K opioid use %K data mining %K cluster analysis %K Manage My Pain %K pain management %K pain app %D 2017 %7 12.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Pain is one of the most prevalent health-related concerns and is among the top 3 most common reasons for seeking medical help. Scientific publications of data collected from pain tracking and monitoring apps are important to help consumers and healthcare professionals select the right app for their use. Objective: The main objectives of this paper were to (1) discover user engagement patterns of the pain management app, Manage My Pain, using data mining methods; and (2) identify the association between several attributes characterizing individual users and their levels of engagement. Methods: User engagement was defined by 2 key features of the app: longevity (number of days between the first and last pain record) and number of records. Users were divided into 5 user engagement clusters employing the k-means clustering algorithm. Each cluster was characterized by 6 attributes: gender, age, number of pain conditions, number of medications, pain severity, and opioid use. Z tests and chi-square tests were used for analyzing categorical attributes. Effects of gender and cluster on numerical attributes were analyzed using 2-way analysis of variances (ANOVAs) followed up by pairwise comparisons using Tukey honest significant difference (HSD). Results: The clustering process produced 5 clusters representing different levels of user engagement. The proportion of males and females was significantly different in 4 of the 5 clusters (all P ≤.03). The proportion of males was higher than females in users with relatively high longevity. Mean ages of users in 2 clusters with high longevity were higher than users from other 3 clusters (all P <.001). Overall, males were significantly older than females (P <.001). Across clusters, females reported more pain conditions than males (all P <.001). Users from highly engaged clusters reported taking more medication than less engaged users (all P <.001). Females reported taking a greater number of medications than males (P =.04). In 4 of 5 clusters, the percentage of males taking an opioid was significantly greater (all P ≤.05) than that of females. The proportion of males with mild pain was significantly higher than that of females in 3 clusters (all P ≤.008). Conclusions: Although most users of the app reported being female, male users were more likely to be highly engaged in the app. Users in the most engaged clusters self-reported a higher number of pain conditions, a higher number of current medications, and a higher incidence of opioid usage. The high engagement by males in these clusters does not appear to be driven by pain severity which may, in part, be the case for females. Use of a mobile pain app may be relatively more attractive to highly-engaged males than highly-engaged females, and to those with relatively more complex chronic pain problems. %M 28701291 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7871 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/7/e96/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7871 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28701291 %0 Journal Article %@ 2371-4379 %I JMIR Publications %V 2 %N 2 %P e12 %T iOS Appstore-Based Phone Apps for Diabetes Management: Potential for Use in Medication Adherence %A Martinez,Mark %A Park,Su Bin %A Maison,Isaac %A Mody,Vicky %A Soh,Lewis Sungkon %A Parihar,Harish Singh %+ Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine - GA campus, School of Pharmacy, 625 Old Peachtree Rd NW, School of Pharmacy, Suwanee, GA, 30024, United States, 1 6784077350, harishpa@pcom.edu %K diabetes %K telemedicine %K blood glucose self-monitoring glucose monitoring %K mobile applications %K self-care %K mobile health %D 2017 %7 11.07.2017 %9 Case Report %J JMIR Diabetes %G English %X Background: Currently, various phone apps have been developed to assist patients. Many of these apps are developed to assist patients in the self-management of chronic diseases such as diabetes. It is essential to analyze these various apps to understand the key features that would potentially be instrumental in helping patients successfully achieve goals in disease self-management. Objective: The objective of this study was to conduct a review of all the available diabetes-related apps in the iOS App Store to evaluate which diabetic app is more interactive and offers a wide variety of operations such as monitoring glucose, water, carbohydrate intake, weight, body mass index (BMI), medication, blood pressure (BP) levels, reminders or push notifications, food database, charts, exercise management, email, sync between devices, syncing data directly to the prescribers, and other miscellaneous functions such as (Twitter integration, password protection, retina display, barcode scanner, apple watch functionality, and cloud syncing). Methods: Data was gathered using the iOS App Store on an iPad. The search term “diabetes” resulted in 1209 results. Many of the results obtained were remotely related to diabetes and focused mainly on diet, exercise, emergency services, refill reminders, providing general diabetes information, and other nontherapeutic options. We reviewed each app description and only included apps that were meant for tracking blood glucose levels. All data were obtained in one sitting by one person on the same device, as we found that carrying out the search at different times or on different devices (iPhones) resulted in varying results. Apps that did not have a feature for tracking glucose levels were excluded from the study. Results: The search resulted in 1209 results; 85 apps were retained based on the inclusion criteria mentioned above. All the apps were reviewed for average customer ratings, number of reviews, price, and functions. Of all the apps surveyed, 18 apps with the highest number of user ratings were used for in-depth analysis. Of these 18 apps, 50% (9/18) also had a medication adherence function. Our analysis revealed that the Diabetes logbook used by the mySugr app was one of the best; it differentiated itself by introducing fun as a method of increasing adherence. Conclusions: A large variation was seen in patient ratings of app features. Many patient reviewers desired simplicity of app functions. Glucose level tracking and email features potentially helped patients and health care providers manage the disease more efficiently. However, none of the apps could sync data directly to the prescribers. Additional features such as graph customization, availability of data backup, and recording previous entries were also requested by many users. Thus, the use of apps in disease management and patient and health-care provider involvement in future app refinement and development should be encouraged. %M 30291096 %R 10.2196/diabetes.6468 %U http://diabetes.jmir.org/2017/2/e12/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/diabetes.6468 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30291096 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 7 %P e234 %T Use of a Connected Glucose Meter and Certified Diabetes Educator Coaching to Decrease the Likelihood of Abnormal Blood Glucose Excursions: The Livongo for Diabetes Program %A Downing,Janelle %A Bollyky,Jenna %A Schneider,Jennifer %+ Livongo Health, 150 W Evelyn Ave #150, Mountain View, CA, 94041, United States, 1 206 403 8450, jbollyky@livongo.com %K SMBG %K blood glucose self-monitoring %K diabetes remote monitoring %K diabetes management %K diabetes mellitus %K self-care %D 2017 %7 11.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The Livongo for Diabetes Program offers members (1) a cellular technology-enabled, two-way messaging device that measures blood glucose (BG), centrally stores the glucose data, and delivers messages back to the individual in real time; (2) unlimited BG test strips; and (3) access to a diabetes coaching team for questions, goal setting, and automated support for abnormal glucose excursions. The program is sponsored by at-risk self-insured employers, health plans and provider organizations where it is free to members with diabetes or it is available directly to the person with diabetes where they cover the cost. Objective: The objective of our study was to evaluate BG data from 4544 individuals with diabetes who were enrolled in the Livongo program from October 2014 through December 2015. Methods: Members used the Livongo glucose meter to measure their BG levels an average of 1.8 times per day. We estimated the probability of having a day with a BG reading outside of the normal range (70-180 mg/dL, or 3.9-10.0 mmol/L) in months 2 to 12 compared with month 1 of the program, using individual fixed effects to control for individual characteristics. Results: Livongo members experienced an average 18.4% decrease in the likelihood of having a day with hypoglycemia (BG <70 mg/dL) and an average 16.4% decrease in hyperglycemia (BG >180 mg/dL) in months 2-12 compared with month 1 as the baseline. The biggest impact was seen on hyperglycemia for nonusers of insulin. We do not know all of the contributing factors such as medication or other treatment changes during the study period. Conclusions: These findings suggest that access to a connected glucose meter and certified diabetes educator coaching is associated with a decrease in the likelihood of abnormal glucose excursions, which can lead to diabetes-related health care savings. %M 28698167 %R 10.2196/jmir.6659 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/7/e234/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6659 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28698167 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 7 %P e93 %T Content Analysis of Smartphone Apps for Smoking Cessation in China: Empirical Study %A Cheng,Feng %A Xu,Junfang %A Su,Chunyan %A Fu,Xiaoxing %A Bricker,Jonathan %+ Division of Public Health Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Avenue North, Seattle, WA,, United States, 1 206 667 5074, jbricker@fredhutch.org %K smoking cessation %K smartphone apps %K China %D 2017 %7 11.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: With 360 million smokers, China consumes more cigarettes than any other country in the world. Given that 620 million Chinese own smartphones, smartphone apps for smoking cessation are increasingly used in China to help smokers quit. Objective: This study analyzed and evaluated the contents of all smoking cessation apps (iOS and Android) available in China, applying the China Clinical Smoking Cessation Guideline (CCSCG; identical to the US Clinical Practice Guideline for Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence) as a framework for analysis. Methods: We conducted a content analysis of Chinese Android and iOS smoking cessation apps (N=64) designed to assist users in quitting smoking. Each app was independently coded by two raters for its approach to smoking cessation and adherence to the CCSCG. We also recorded the features of smoking cessation apps (eg, release date, size, frequency of downloads, user ratings, type, quality scores by raters, and designers). Linear regression was used to test predictors of popularity and user-rated quality. Results: Chinese smoking cessation apps have low levels of adherence to guidelines, with an average score of 11.1 for Android and 14.6 for iOS apps on a scale of 0 to 46. There was no significant association between popularity, user rating, and the characteristics of apps. However, there was a positive relationship between popularity, user rating, and adherence score. Conclusions: Chinese apps for smoking cessation have low levels of adherence to standard clinical practice guidelines. New apps need be developed and existing apps be revised following evidence-based principles in China. %M 28698170 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7462 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/7/e93/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7462 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28698170 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 7 %P e92 %T A Bit of Fit: Minimalist Intervention in Adolescents Based on a Physical Activity Tracker %A Gaudet,Jeffrey %A Gallant,François %A Bélanger,Mathieu %+ Centre de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick, 18 Antonine Maillet street, Moncton, NB,, Canada, 1 506 863 2221, mathieu.f.belanger@usherbrooke.ca %K health behavior %K health promotion %K mHealth %K physical activity tracker %D 2017 %7 06.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Only 5% of Canadian youth meet the recommended 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) per day, with leisure time being increasingly allocated to technology usage. Direct-to-consumer mHealth devices that promote physical activity, such as wrist-worn physical activity trackers, have features with potential appeal to youth. Objective: The primary purpose of this study was to determine whether a minimalist physical activity tracker-based intervention would lead to an increase in physical activity in young adolescents. A secondary aim of this study was to assess change in physical activity across a 7-week intervention, as measured by the tracker. Methods: Using a quasi-experimental crossover design, two groups of 23 young adolescents (aged 13-14 years) were randomly assigned to immediate intervention or delayed intervention. The intervention consisted of wearing a Fitbit-Charge-HR physical activity tracker over a 7-week period. Actical accelerometers were used to measure participants’ levels of MVPA before and at the end of intervention periods for each group. Covariates such as age, sex, stage of change for physical activity behavior, and goal commitment were also measured. Results: There was an increase in physical activity over the course of the study period, though it was not related to overall physical activity tracker use. An intervention response did, however, occur in a subset of participants. Specifically, exposure to the physical activity tracker was associated with an average daily increase in MVPA by more than 15 minutes (P=.01) among participants who reported being in the action and maintenance stages of behavior change in relation to participation in physical activity. Participants in the precontemplation, contemplation, and preparation stages of behavior change had no change in their level of MVPA (P=.81). Conclusions: These results suggest that physical activity trackers may elicit improved physical activity related behavior in young adolescents demonstrating a readiness to be active. Future studies should seek to investigate if integrating physical activity trackers as part of more intensive interventions leads to greater increases in physical activity across different levels of stages of behavior change and if these changes can be sustained over longer periods of time. %M 28684384 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7647 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/7/e92/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7647 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28684384 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-2960 %I JMIR Publications %V 3 %N 3 %P e42 %T A Platform for Crowdsourced Foodborne Illness Surveillance: Description of Users and Reports %A Quade,Patrick %A Nsoesie,Elaine Okanyene %+ Iwaspoisoned.com, 322 W 52nd St #633, New York, NY, 10101, United States, 1 9179034815, patrick@dinesafe.org %K foodborne illness surveillance %K crowdsourced surveillance %K foodborne diseases %K infectious diseases %K outbreaks %K food poisoning %K Internet %K mobile %K participatory surveillance %K participatory epidemiology %D 2017 %7 05.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Public Health Surveill %G English %X Background: Underreporting of foodborne illness makes foodborne disease burden estimation, timely outbreak detection, and evaluation of policies toward improving food safety challenging. Objective: The objective of this study was to present and evaluate Iwaspoisoned.com, an openly accessible Internet-based crowdsourcing platform that was launched in 2009 for the surveillance of foodborne illness. The goal of this system is to collect data that can be used to augment traditional approaches to foodborne disease surveillance. Methods: Individuals affected by a foodborne illness can use this system to report their symptoms and the suspected location (eg, restaurant, hotel, hospital) of infection. We present descriptive statistics of users and businesses and highlight three instances where reports of foodborne illness were submitted before the outbreaks were officially confirmed by the local departments of health. Results: More than 49,000 reports of suspected foodborne illness have been submitted on Iwaspoisoned.com since its inception by individuals from 89 countries and every state in the United States. Approximately 95.51% (42,139/44,119) of complaints implicated restaurants as the source of illness. Furthermore, an estimated 67.55% (3118/4616) of users who responded to a demographic survey were between the ages of 18 and 34, and 60.14% (2776/4616) of the respondents were female. The platform is also currently used by health departments in 90% (45/50) of states in the US to supplement existing programs on foodborne illness reporting. Conclusions: Crowdsourced disease surveillance through systems such as Iwaspoisoned.com uses the influence and familiarity of social media to create an infrastructure for easy reporting and surveillance of suspected foodborne illness events. If combined with traditional surveillance approaches, these systems have the potential to lessen the problem of foodborne illness underreporting and aid in early detection and monitoring of foodborne disease outbreaks. %M 28679492 %R 10.2196/publichealth.7076 %U http://publichealth.jmir.org/2017/3/e42/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/publichealth.7076 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28679492 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 7 %P e225 %T Direct-to-Consumer Promotion of Prescription Drugs on Mobile Devices: Content Analysis %A Aikin,Kathryn J %A Sullivan,Helen W %A Dolina,Suzanne %A Lynch,Molly %A Squiers,Linda B %+ Office of Prescription Drug Promotion, Center for Drug Evaluation, US Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 20993, United States, 1 301 796 1200, kathryn.aikin@fda.hhs.gov %K direct-to-consumer promotion %K direct-to-consumer advertising %K mobile devices %K prescription drugs %D 2017 %7 04.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations state that any prescription drug promotion that presents drug benefits to consumers must also disclose certain information about the drug’s risks in a similar manner. Nearly three-quarters of all US mobile phone subscribers use a smartphone, and over half report receiving mobile advertisements on their device. Objective: The objective of this project was to investigate how prescription drugs are being promoted to consumers using mobile technologies. We were particularly interested in the presentation of drug benefits and risks, with regard to presence, placement, and prominence. Methods: We analyzed a sample of 51 mobile promotional communications and their associated linked landing pages. We assessed the content and format of the mobile communications and landing pages with regard to presentation of drug benefits and risks. Results: Of the 51 mobile communications we coded, 41% (21/51) were product claim communications (includes the drug name, benefits, and risks), 22% (11/51) were reminder communications (includes drug name only), and 37% (19/51) were help-seeking communications (includes information about the medical condition but not the drug name). Some of the product claim communications (5/21, 24%) required scrolling to see all the benefit information; in contrast, 95% (20/21) required scrolling to see all the risk information. Of the 19 product claim communications that presented both benefits and risks, 95% (18/19) presented benefits before risks and 47% (9/19) used a bigger font for benefits than for risks. Most mobile communications (35/51, 69%) linked to branded drug websites with both benefits and risks, 25% (13/51) linked to a landing page with benefits but no visible risks, and 6% (3/51) linked to a landing page with risks but no visible benefits. Few landing pages (4/51, 8%) required scrolling to see all the benefit information; in contrast, 51% (26/51) required scrolling to see all the risk information. Of the 35 landing pages with both benefit and risk information, 71% (25/35) presented benefits before risks and 51% (18/35) used a bigger font for benefits than for risks. Conclusions: These results indicate that, while risks and benefits are both represented in mobile communications and their associated landing pages, they are not equally prominent and accessible. This has implications for compliance with FDA fair balance regulations. %M 28676469 %R 10.2196/jmir.7306 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/7/e225/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7306 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28676469 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 7 %P e235 %T Desirable Components for a Customized, Home-Based, Digital Care-Management App for Children and Young People With Long-Term, Chronic Conditions: A Qualitative Exploration %A Nightingale,Ruth %A Hall,Andrew %A Gelder,Carole %A Friedl,Simone %A Brennan,Eileen %A Swallow,Veronica %+ Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, NHS Foundation Trust, Great Ormond Street, London,, United Kingdom, 44 7825 098844, ruth.nightingale@gosh.nhs.uk %K child %K adolescent %K long-term condition %K chronic condition %K self-management %K self-care %K mobile apps %K apps %K qualitative %D 2017 %7 04.07.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Mobile apps for mobile phones and tablet devices are widely used by children and young people aged 0-18 years with long-term health conditions, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), and their healthy peers for social networking or gaming. They are also poised to become a major source of health guidance. However, app development processes that are coproduced, rigorously developed, and evaluated to provide tailored, condition-specific, practical advice on day-to-day care management are seldom systematic or sufficiently described to enable replication. Furthermore, attempts to extrapolate to the real world are hampered by a poor understanding of the effects of key elements of app components. Therefore, effective and cost-effective novel, digital apps that will effectively and safely support care management are critical and timely. To inform development of such an app for children with CKD, a user requirements-gathering exercise was first needed. Objective: To explore the views of children with CKD, their parents, and health care professionals to inform future development of a child-focused, care-management app. Methods: Using age- and developmentally appropriate methods, we interviewed 36 participants: 5-10-year-olds (n=6), 11-14-year-olds (n=6), 15-18-year-olds (n=5), mothers (n=10), fathers (n=2), and health care professionals (n=7). Data were analyzed using Framework Analysis and behavior change theories. Results: Of the 27 interviews, 19 (70%) interviews were individual and 8 (30%) were joint—5 out of 8 (63%) joint interviews were with a child or young person and their parent, 1 out of 8 (13%) were with a child and both parents, and 2 out of 8 (25%) were with 2 professionals. Three key themes emerged to inform development of a software requirement specification for a future home-based, digital care-management app intervention: (1) Gaps in current online information and support, (2) Difficulties experienced by children with a long-term condition, and (3) Suggestions for a digital care-management app. Reported gaps included the fact that current online information is not usually appropriate for children as it is “dry” and “boring,” could be “scary,” and was either hard to understand or not relevant to individuals’ circumstances. For children, searching online was much less accessible than using a professional-endorsed mobile app. Children also reported difficulty explaining their condition to others, maintaining treatment adherence, coping with feeling isolated, and with trying to live a “normal” life. There was recognition that a developmentally appropriate, CKD-specific app could support the process of explaining the condition to healthy peers, reducing isolation, adhering to care-management plans, and living a “normal” life. Participants recommended a range of media and content to include in a tailored, interactive, age- and developmentally appropriate app. For example, the user would be able to enter their age and diagnosis so that only age-appropriate and condition-specific content is displayed. Conclusions: Future development of a digital app that meets the identified information and support needs and preferences of children with CKD will maximize its utility, thereby augmenting CKD caregiving and optimizing outcomes. %M 28676470 %R 10.2196/jmir.7760 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/7/e235/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7760 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28676470 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 6 %P e85 %T Use of and Beliefs About Mobile Phone Apps for Diabetes Self-Management: Surveys of People in a Hospital Diabetes Clinic and Diabetes Health Professionals in New Zealand %A Boyle,Leah %A Grainger,Rebecca %A Hall,Rosemary M %A Krebs,Jeremy D %+ Department of Medicine, University of Otago Wellington, Department of Medicine, 23A Mein St, PO Box 7343, Wellington, 6242, New Zealand, 64 43855541, Jeremy.Krebs@ccdhb.org.nz %K mHealth, mobile applications %K telemedicine %K diabetes mellitus %D 2017 %7 30.06.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: People with diabetes mellitus (DM) are using mobile phone apps to support self-management. The numerous apps available to assist with diabetes management have a variety of functions. Some functions, like insulin dose calculators, have significant potential for harm. Objectives: The study aimed to establish (1) whether people with DM in Wellington, New Zealand, use apps for DM self-management and evaluate desirable features of apps and (2) whether health professionals (HPs) in New Zealand treating people with DM recommend apps to patients, the features HPs regard as important, and their confidence with recommending apps. Methods: A survey of patients seen at a hospital diabetes clinic over 12 months (N=539) assessed current app use and desirable features. A second survey of HPs attending a diabetes conference (n=286) assessed their confidence with app recommendations and perceived usefulness. Results: Of the 189 responders (35.0% response rate) to the patient survey, 19.6% (37/189) had used a diabetes app. App users were younger and in comparison to other forms of diabetes mellitus, users prominently had type 1 DM. The most favored feature of the app users was a glucose diary (87%, 32/37), and an insulin calculator was the most desirable function for a future app (46%, 17/37). In non-app users, the most desirable feature for a future app was a glucose diary (64.4%, 98/152). Of the 115 responders (40.2% response rate) to the HPs survey, 60.1% (68/113) had recommended a diabetes app. Diaries for blood glucose levels and carbohydrate counting were considered the most useful app features and the features HPs felt most confident to recommend. HPs were least confident in recommending insulin calculation apps. Conclusions: The use of apps to record blood glucose was the most favored function in apps used by people with diabetes, with interest in insulin dose calculating function. HPs do not feel confident in recommending insulin dose calculators. There is an urgent need for an app assessment process to give confidence in the quality and safety of diabetes management apps to people with diabetes (potential app users) and HPs (potential app prescribers). %M 28666975 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7263 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/6/e85/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7263 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28666975 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 6 %P e233 %T Tracing the Potential Flow of Consumer Data: A Network Analysis of Prominent Health and Fitness Apps %A Grundy,Quinn %A Held,Fabian P %A Bero,Lisa A %+ Charles Perkins Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, D17, Level 6 The Hub, Charles Perkins Centre, Sydney, 2006, Australia, 61 286271566, quinn.grundy@sydney.edu.au %K mobile health %K smartphone %K privacy %D 2017 %7 28.06.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: A great deal of consumer data, collected actively through consumer reporting or passively through sensors, is shared among apps. Developers increasingly allow their programs to communicate with other apps, sensors, and Web-based services, which are promoted as features to potential users. However, health apps also routinely pose risks related to information leaks, information manipulation, and loss of information. There has been less investigation into the kinds of user data that developers are likely to collect, and who might have access to it. Objective: We sought to describe how consumer data generated from mobile health apps might be distributed and reused. We also aimed to outline risks to individual privacy and security presented by this potential for aggregating and combining user data across apps. Methods: We purposively sampled prominent health and fitness apps available in the United States, Canada, and Australia Google Play and iTunes app stores in November 2015. Two independent coders extracted data from app promotional materials on app and developer characteristics, and the developer-reported collection and sharing of user data. We conducted a descriptive analysis of app, developer, and user data collection characteristics. Using structural equivalence analysis, we conducted a network analysis of sampled apps’ self-reported sharing of user-generated data. Results: We included 297 unique apps published by 231 individual developers, which requested 58 different permissions (mean 7.95, SD 6.57). We grouped apps into 222 app families on the basis of shared ownership. Analysis of self-reported data sharing revealed a network of 359 app family nodes, with one connected central component of 210 app families (58.5%). Most (143/222, 64.4%) of the sampled app families did not report sharing any data and were therefore isolated from each other and from the core network. Fifteen app families assumed more central network positions as gatekeepers on the shortest paths that data would have to travel between other app families. Conclusions: This cross-sectional analysis highlights the possibilities for user data collection and potential paths that data is able to travel among a sample of prominent health and fitness apps. While individual apps may not collect personally identifiable information, app families and the partners with which they share data may be able to aggregate consumer data, thus achieving a much more comprehensive picture of the individual consumer. The organizations behind the centrally connected app families represent diverse industries, including apparel manufacturers and social media platforms that are not traditionally involved in health or fitness. This analysis highlights the potential for anticipated and voluntary but also possibly unanticipated and involuntary sharing of user data, validating privacy and security concerns in mobile health. %M 28659254 %R 10.2196/jmir.7347 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/6/e233/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7347 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28659254 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 6 %P e126 %T Mobile Phone Short Messages to Improve Exclusive Breastfeeding and Reduce Adverse Infant Feeding Practices: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial in Yangon, Myanmar %A Hmone,Myat Pan %A Li,Mu %A Alam,Ashraful %A Dibley,Michael J %+ Sydney Medical School, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, A27, Edward Ford Building, Sydney,, Australia, 61 4 2470 8124, myat.panhmone@sydney.edu.au %K randomized controlled trial %K mHealth %K text messaging (SMS) %K intervention studies %K exclusive breastfeeding %K infant and young child feeding %K nutrition %K Myanmar %K pregnant women %K child health %D 2017 %7 28.06.2017 %9 Protocol %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Myanmar has a high burden of mortality for children aged younger than 5 years in which undernutrition plays a major role. Despite current efforts, the exclusive breastfeeding rate for children under 6 months is only 24%. To date there have been no interventions using mobile phones to improve breastfeeding and other feeding practices in Myanmar. Objective: This study aims to implement a breastfeeding promotion intervention using mobile phone text messages in Yangon, Myanmar, and evaluate its impact on breastfeeding practices. Methods: M528 is a 2-group parallel-arm randomized controlled trial with 9 months follow-up from recruitment until 6 months post-delivery. A total of 353 pregnant women between 28 and 34 weeks’ gestation who had access to a mobile phone and were able to read and write have been recruited from the Central Women’s Hospital, Yangon, and allocated randomly to an intervention or control group in a 1:1 ratio. The intervention group received breastfeeding promotional SMS messages 3 times a week while the control group received maternal and child health care messages (excluding breastfeeding-related messages) once a week. The SMS messages were tailored for the women’s stage of gestation or the child’s age. A formative qualitative study was conducted prior to the trial to inform the study design and text message content. We hypothesize that the exclusive breastfeeding rate in the intervention group will be double that in the control group. The primary outcome is exclusive breastfeeding from birth to 6 months and secondary outcomes are median durations of exclusive breastfeeding and other infant feeding practices. Both primary and secondary outcomes were assessed by monthly phone calls at 1 to 6 months postdelivery in both groups. Participants’ delivery status was tracked through text messages, phone calls, and hospital records, and delivery characteristics were assessed 1 month after delivery. Child morbidity and breastfeeding self-efficacy scores were assessed at 1, 3, and 5 months postdelivery. Social desirability was measured at 5 months, and text messages expressing delivery success and user experience were assessed at the end of the study. Results: The targeted 353 pregnant women were recruited between January and March 2015. Baseline data have been collected; SMS messages have been developed and pretested and sent to the women from both groups. Follow-up data collection via phone calls has been completed. Data analysis is being done and results are expected soon. This is the first RCT study examining the effects of mobile text messaging for promoting exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusions: This trial is timely in Myanmar following the telecommunications market opening in 2014. Our results will help determine whether text messaging is an effective and feasible method for promoting appropriate feeding practices and will inform further research to assess how this model could be replicated in the broader community. Trial Registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ACTRN12615000063516; https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=367704 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/ 6rGif3l81) %M 28659252 %R 10.2196/resprot.7679 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/6/e126/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.7679 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28659252 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 6 %P e122 %T Reducing Parental Uncertainty Around Childhood Cancer: Implementation Decisions and Design Trade-Offs in Developing an Electronic Health Record-Linked Mobile App %A Marsolo,Keith %A Shuman,William %A Nix,Jeremy %A Morrison,Caroline F %A Mullins,Larry L %A Pai,Ahna LH %+ Division of Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, MLC 7024, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, United States, 1 5138030333, keith.marsolo@cchmc.org %K electronic health records %K mobile apps %K uncertainty %K ethnographic design %D 2017 %7 26.06.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Parents of children newly diagnosed with cancer are confronted with multiple stressors that place them at risk for significant psychological distress. One strategy that has been shown to help reduce uncertainty is the provision of basic information; however, families of newly diagnosed cancer patients are often bombarded with educational material. Technology has the potential to help families manage their informational needs and move towards normalization. Objective: The aim of this study was to create a mobile app that pulls together data from both the electronic health record (EHR) and vetted external information resources to provide tailored information to parents of newly diagnosed children as one method to reduce the uncertainty around their child’s illness. This app was developed to be used by families in a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed at decreasing uncertainty and the subsequent psychological distress. Methods: A 2-phase qualitative study was conducted to elicit the features and content of the mobile app based on the needs and experience of parents of children newly diagnosed with cancer and their providers. Example functions include the ability to view laboratory results, look up appointments, and to access educational material. Educational material was obtained from databases maintained by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) as well as from groups like the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) and care teams within Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC). The use of EHR-based Web services was explored to allow data like laboratory results to be retrieved in real-time. Results: The ethnographic design process resulted in a framework that divided the content of the mobile app into the following 4 sections: (1) information about the patient’s current treatment and other data from the EHR; (2) educational background material; (3) a calendar to view upcoming appointments at their medical center; and (4) a section where participants in the RCT document the study data. Integration with the NCI databases was straightforward; however, accessing the EHR Web services posed a challenge, though the roadblocks were not technical in nature. The lack of a formal, end-to-end institutional process for requesting Web service access and a mechanism to shepherd the request through all stages of implementation proved to be the biggest barrier. Conclusions: We successfully deployed a mobile app with a custom user interface that can integrate with the EHR to retrieve laboratory results and appointment information using vendor-provided Web services. Developers should expect to face hurdles when integrating with the EHR, but many of them can be addressed with frequent communication and thorough documentation. Executive sponsorship is also a key factor for success. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02505165; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02505165 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.Webcitation.org/6r9ZSUgoT) %M 28652227 %R 10.2196/resprot.7523 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/6/e122/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.7523 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28652227 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 6 %P e227 %T Tailored Communication Within Mobile Apps for Diabetes Self-Management: A Systematic Review %A Holmen,Heidi %A Wahl,Astrid Klopstad %A Cvancarova Småstuen,Milada %A Ribu,Lis %+ Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Sciences, PB. 4, St. Olavs plass, Oslo,, Norway, 47 67 23 62 41, heidi.holmen@hioa.no %K diabetes mellitus (MeSH) %K communication (MeSH) %K mobile apps %K self-management %K systematic review %K mHealth %D 2017 %7 23.06.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The prevalence of diabetes is increasing and with the requirements for self-management and risk of late complications, it remains a challenge for the individual and society. Patients can benefit from support from health care personnel in their self-management, and the traditional communication between patients and health care personnel is changing. Smartphones and apps offer a unique platform for communication, but apps with integrated health care personnel communication based on patient data are yet to be investigated to provide evidence of possible effects. Objective: Our goal was to systematically review studies that aimed to evaluate integrated communication within mobile apps for tailored feedback between patients with diabetes and health care personnel in terms of (1) study characteristics, (2) functions, (3) study outcomes, (4) effects, and (5) methodological quality. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted following our International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) protocol, searching for apps with integrated communication for persons with diabetes tested in a controlled trial in the period 2008 to 2016. We searched the databases PubMed, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Cochrane Central, Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE), ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. The search was closed in September 2016. Reference lists of primary articles and review papers were assessed. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and we applied the Cochrane risk of bias tool to assess methodological quality. Results: We identified 2822 citations and after duplicate removal, we assessed 1128 citations. A total of 6 papers were included in this systematic review, reporting on data from 431 persons participating in small trials of short duration. The integrated communication features were mostly individualized as written non–real-time feedback. The number of functions varied from 2 to 9, and blood glucose tracking was the most common. HbA1c was the most common primary outcome, but the remaining reported outcomes were not standardized and comparable. Because of both the heterogeneity of the included trials and the poor methodological quality of the studies, a meta-analysis was not possible. A statistically significant improvement in the primary measure of outcome was found in 3 of the 6 included studies, of which 2 were HbA1c and 1 was mean daytime ambulatory blood pressure. Participants in the included trials reported positive usability or feasibility postintervention in 5 out of 6 trials. The overall methodological quality of the trials was, however, scored as an uncertain risk of bias. Conclusions: This systematic review highlights the need for more trials of higher methodological quality. Few studies offer an integrated function for communication and feedback from health care personnel, and the research field represents an area of heterogeneity with few studies of highly rigorous methodological quality. This, in combination with a low number of participants and a short follow-up, is making it difficult to provide reliable evidence of effects for stakeholders. %M 28645890 %R 10.2196/jmir.7045 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/6/e227/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7045 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28645890 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 6 %P e79 %T Beyond Basic Feedback in Mobile Brief Interventions: Designing SMS Message Content for Delivery to Young Adults During Risky Drinking Events %A Wright,Cassandra J C %A Dietze,Paul M %A Lim,Megan S C %+ Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 99 Commercial Rd, Melbourne,, Australia, 61 392822173, cassandra.wright@burnet.edu.au %K alcohol drinking %K young adult %K mHealth %K text messaging %K motivational interviewing %K community-based participatory research %D 2017 %7 20.06.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Brief interventions can reduce alcohol consumption in young people through screening and delivery of personally relevant feedback. Recently, Web and mobile platforms have been harnessed to increase the reach of brief interventions. Existing literature on mobile-based alcohol brief interventions indicates mixed use of theory in developing interventions. There is no research available to guide the development of SMS text messaging (short message service, SMS) interventions delivered during risky drinking events. Objective: The aim of this study was to develop and pilot an alcohol-related risk-reduction brief intervention delivered by SMS to Australian young adults during drinking events. This paper describes the development of intervention message content, with specific focus on the context of delivery during drinking events. Methods: A sample of 42 young adults attended 4 workshops; these comprised focus-group style discussion on drinking habits and motivations, discussion of intervention design, analysis of existing alcohol media campaigns, and participant development of message content. Data were analyzed thematically. Results: Participants described a focus on having fun and blocking out any incongruent negative influences during drinking episodes. For content to be acceptable, nonjudgmental and non-authoritative language was deemed essential. A preference for short, actionable messages was observed, including suggestions for reminders around drinking water, organizing transport home, checking on friends, and plans the next day. Participants were excited about the potential for messages to be tailored to individuals, as previous alcohol-related campaigns were deemed too generic and often irrelevant. Normative-based messages were also perceived as largely irrelevant as participants felt that they understood the drinking-related norms of their immediate peers already. Conclusions: Findings from this study offer insights into young adults’ drinking events and practical advice for designing alcohol-related brief interventions. During our formative development process, we demonstrated a neat correspondence between young people’s preferences for alcohol harm reduction interventions and the theoretical principles of brief interventions, including acceptable topics and message style. %M 28634153 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6497 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/6/e79/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6497 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28634153 %0 Journal Article %I %V %N %P %T %D %7 .. %9 %J %G English %X %U %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 6 %P e114 %T Phone-Based Interventions in Adolescent Psychiatry: A Perspective and Proof of Concept Pilot Study With a Focus on Depression and Autism %A Chen,Robert Yuzen %A Feltes,Jordan Robert %A Tzeng,William Shun %A Lu,Zoe Yunzhu %A Pan,Michael %A Zhao,Nan %A Talkin,Rebecca %A Javaherian,Kavon %A Glowinski,Anne %A Ross,Will %+ Washington University School of Medicine, Farrell Learning and Teaching Center, 660 S Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO, 63110, United States, 1 425 753 4101, robert.chen@wustl.edu %K telemedicine %K depression %K autistic disorder %K mobile applications %K text messaging %K child %K mental health %D 2017 %7 16.06.2017 %9 Viewpoint %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Telemedicine has emerged as an innovative platform to diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders in a cost-effective fashion. Previous studies have laid the functional framework for monitoring and treating child psychiatric disorders electronically using videoconferencing, mobile phones (smartphones), and Web-based apps. However, phone call and text message (short message service, SMS) interventions in adolescent psychiatry are less studied than other electronic platforms. Further investigations on the development of these interventions are needed. Objective: The aim of this paper was to explore the utility of text message interventions in adolescent psychiatry and describe a user feedback-driven iterative design process for text message systems. Methods: We developed automated text message interventions using a platform for both depression (EpxDepression) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD; EpxAutism) and conducted 2 pilot studies for each intervention (N=3 and N=6, respectively). The interventions were prescribed by and accessible to the patients’ healthcare providers. EpxDepression and EpxAutism utilized an automated system to triage patients into 1 of 3 risk categories based on their text responses and alerted providers directly via phone and an online interface when patients met provider-specified risk criteria. Rapid text-based feedback from participants and interviews with providers allowed for quick iterative cycles to improve interventions. Results: Patients using EpxDepression had high weekly response rates (100% over 2 to 4 months), but exhibited message fatigue with daily prompts with mean (SD) overall response rates of 66.3% (21.6%) and 64.7% (8.2%) for mood and sleep questionnaires, respectively. In contrast, parents using EpxAutism displayed both high weekly and overall response rates (100% and 85%, respectively, over 1 to 4 months) that did not decay significantly with time. Monthly participant feedback surveys for EpxDepression (7 surveys) and EpxAutism (18 surveys) preliminarily indicated that for both interventions, daily messages constituted the “perfect amount” of contact and that EpxAutism, but not EpxDepression, improved patient communication with providers. Notably, EpxDepression detected thoughts of self-harm in patients before their case managers or caregivers were aware of such ideation. Conclusions: Text-message interventions in adolescent psychiatry can provide a cost-effective and engaging method to track symptoms, behavior, and ideation over time. Following the collection of pilot data and feedback from providers and patients, larger studies are already underway to validate the clinical utility of EpxDepression and EpxAutism. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03002311; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03002311 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6qQtlCIS0) %M 28623183 %R 10.2196/resprot.7245 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/6/e114/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.7245 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28623183 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 6 %P e80 %T A Mobile Phone-Based Health Coaching Intervention for Weight Loss and Blood Pressure Reduction in a National Payer Population: A Retrospective Study %A Mao,Alice Yuqing %A Chen,Connie %A Magana,Candy %A Caballero Barajas,Karla %A Olayiwola,J Nwando %+ Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave, Building 80, San Francisco, CA, 94110, United States, 1 510 296 8868, nwando.olayiwola@ucsf.edu %K digital health coaching %K overweight %K obesity %K mobile health %K weight %K blood pressure %D 2017 %7 08.06.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The prevalence of obesity and associated metabolic conditions continue to be challenging and costly to address for health care systems; 71% of American adults were overweight, with 35% of men and 40% of women diagnosed with obesity in 2014. Digital health coaching is an innovative approach to decreasing the barriers of cost and accessibility of receiving health coaching for the prevention and management of chronic disease in overweight or obese individuals. Objective: To evaluate the early impact of a mobile phone-based health coaching service on weight loss and blood pressure management in a commercially insured population. Methods: This was a retrospective study using existing registry data from a pilot commercial collaboration between Vida Health and a large national insurance provider, which enrolled adult members who were overweight (body mass index >25 kg/m2) and able to engage in a mobile phone-based coaching intervention. Participants received 4 months of intensive health coaching via live video, phone, and text message through the Vida Health app. Participants were also provided with a wireless scale, pedometer, and blood pressure cuff. Of the 1012 enrolled, 763 (75.40%) participants had an initial weight upon enrollment and final weight between 3 and 5 months from enrollment; they served as our intervention group. There were 73 participants out of the 1012 (7.21%) who had weight data 4 months prior to and after Vida coaching, who served as the matched-pair control group. Results: Participants in the intervention group lost an average of 3.23% total body weight (TBW) at 4 months of coaching and 28.6% (218/763) intervention participants achieved a clinically significant weight loss of 5% or more of TBW, with an average of 9.46% weight loss in this cohort. In the matched-pair control group, participants gained on average 1.81% TBW in 4 months without Vida coaching and lost, on average, 2.47% TBW after 4 months of Vida coaching, demonstrating a statistically significant difference of 4.28% in mean percentage weight change (P<.001). Among 151 intervention participants with blood pressure data, 112 (74.2%) had a baseline blood pressure that was above the goal (systolic blood pressure >120 mmHg); 55 out of 112 (49.1%) participants improved their blood pressure at 4 months by an entire hypertensive stage—as defined by the Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure. Conclusions: Mobile phone app-based health coaching interventions can be an acceptable and effective means to promote weight loss and improve blood pressure management in overweight or obese individuals. Given the ubiquity of mobile phones, digital health coaching may be an innovative solution to decreasing barriers of access to much-needed weight management interventions for obesity. %M 28596147 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7591 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/6/e80/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7591 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28596147 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 6 %P e77 %T Health App Possession Among Smartphone or Tablet Owners in Hong Kong: Population-Based Survey %A Shen,Chen %A Wang,Man Ping %A Chu,Joanna TW %A Wan,Alice %A Viswanath,Kasisomayajula %A Chan,Sophia Siu Chee %A Lam,Tai Hing %+ School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong,, China (Hong Kong), 852 3917 6636, mpwang@hku.hk %K apps %K smartphone %K Chinese %D 2017 %7 05.06.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Health apps are increasingly used with important implications for health. Hong Kong is one of the most technologically advanced and connected cities—smartphone ownership and Internet access rates are among the highest in the world. Objective: We investigated the prevalence of health app possession and related sociodemographic factors and health behaviors among smartphone or tablet owners in Hong Kong. Methods: A territory-wide population-based dual (landline and mobile) telephone survey was conducted in 2016. Respondents were asked whether they had health-related apps on their smartphones or tablets and what functions were available on the apps (eg, tracking physical activity and logging health records). Logistic regression was used to calculate the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% CI of health app possession for different demographic characteristics, socioeconomic position (education, employment, and income), health behaviors (smoking, alcohol, and physical activity) and health (body mass index and chronic diseases). Results: Of the 4129 smartphone or tablet owners (81.28%, 4129/5080 respondents), 995 (24.10%) had a health app. Tracking physical activity (67.0% of 995) and logging health records (43.0% of 995) were the most common functions of the health apps. Overall, younger age, higher education, and household income were associated with having health apps (all P<.001). Compared with physical inactivity, engaging in moderate physical activity ≥1 day/week was associated with having health apps (aOR 1.45 [95% CI 1.20-1.75] for 1-3 days/week, and aOR 1.32 [95% CI 1.07-1.62] for ≥4 days/week). Having a history of chronic diseases was associated with having health apps (aOR 1.36 [95% CI 1.11-1.68]). Conclusions: We have shown a lower prevalence of use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in respondents with lower education and income in the most developed Chinese city. This could be seen as a confirmation of the “Inverse information law,” which suggests that those most in need have less use of services and hence receive less benefits from advancements in medicine and health related ICTs. %M 28583905 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7628 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/6/e77/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7628 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28583905 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 6 %P e190 %T Mobile Text Messaging to Improve Medication Adherence and Viral Load in a Vulnerable Canadian Population Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Repeated Measures Study %A King,Elizabeth %A Kinvig,Karen %A Steif,Jonathan %A Qiu,Annie Q %A Maan,Evelyn J %A Albert,Arianne YK %A Pick,Neora %A Alimenti,Ariane %A Kestler,Mary H %A Money,Deborah M %A Lester,Richard T %A Murray,Melanie Caroline Margaret %+ Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, E600B, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1, Canada, 1 604 875 2212, melanie.murray@cw.bc.ca %K mHealth %K HIV %K medication adherence %K vulnerable %K female %K viral load %K mobile phone %K engagement %D 2017 %7 01.06.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) as treatment for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is effective and available, but poor medication adherence limits benefits, particularly in vulnerable populations. In a Kenyan randomized controlled trial, a weekly text-messaging intervention (WelTel) improved cART adherence and HIV viral load (VL). Despite growing evidence for short message service (SMS) text-message interventions in HIV care, there is a paucity of data utilizing these interventions in marginalized or female cohorts. Objective: This study was undertaken to assess whether the standardized WelTel SMS text-message intervention applied to a vulnerable, predominantly female, population improved cART adherence and VL. Methods: We conducted a repeated measures study of the WelTel intervention in high-risk HIV-positive persons by measuring change in VL, CD4 count, and self-reported adherence 12 months before and 12 months after the WelTel intervention was introduced. Inclusion criteria included VL ≥200 copies/mL, indication for treatment, and meeting vulnerability criteria. Participants were given a mobile phone with unlimited texting (where required), and weekly check-in text messages were sent for one year from the WelTel computer platform. Clinical data were collected for control and intervention years. Participants were followed by a multidisciplinary team in a clinical setting. Outcomes were assessed using Wilcoxon signed ranks tests for change in CD4 and VL from control year to study end and mixed-effects logistic regressions for change in cART adherence and appointment attendance. A secondary analysis was conducted to assess the effect of response rate on the outcome by modeling final log10 VL by number of responses while controlling for mean log10 VL in the control year. Results: Eighty-five participants enrolled in the study, but 5 withdrew (final N=80). Participants were predominantly female (90%, 72/80) with a variety of vulnerabilities. Mean VL decreased from 1098 copies/mL in the control year to 439 copies/mL at study end (P=.004). Adherence to cART significantly improved (OR 1.14, IQR 1.10-1.18; P<.001), whereas appointment attendance decreased slightly with the intervention (OR 0.81, IQR 0.67-0.99; P=.03). A response was received for 46.57% (1753/3764) of messages sent and 9.62% (362/3764) of text messages sent were replied to with a problem. An outcome analysis examining relationship between reply rate and VL did not meet statistical significance (P=.07), but may be worthy of investigating further in a larger study. Conclusions: WelTel may be an effective tool for improving cART adherence and reducing VLs among high-risk, vulnerable HIV-positive persons. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02603536; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02603536 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6qK57zCwv) %M 28572079 %R 10.2196/jmir.6631 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/6/e190/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6631 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28572079 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 5 %P e70 %T Uptake of an Incentive-Based mHealth App: Process Evaluation of the Carrot Rewards App %A Mitchell,Marc %A White,Lauren %A Oh,Paul %A Alter,David %A Leahey,Tricia %A Kwan,Matthew %A Faulkner,Guy %+ University Health Network, 347 Rumsey Road, Toronto, ON,, Canada, 1 416 660 7881, mmitc26@uwo.ca %K financial incentives %K mHealth %K behavioral economics %K public health %D 2017 %7 30.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Behavioral economics has stimulated renewed interest in financial health incentives worldwide. The Carrot Rewards app was developed as part of a public-private partnership to reward Canadians with loyalty points (eg, movies and groceries) for downloading the app, referring friends, and completing an average of 1 to 2 educational health quizzes per week (“micro-learning”), with long-term objectives of increasing health knowledge and encouraging healthy behaviors. Objective: The main objective of this study was to evaluate uptake of a loyalty points-based mHealth app during the exclusive 3-month launch period in British Columbia (BC), Canada. The secondary aims were to describe the health and sociodemographic characteristics of users, as well as participation levels (eg, proportion of quizzes completed and friends referred). Methods: The app was promoted via loyalty program email campaigns (1.64 million emails). Number of downloads and registrations (users enter age, gender, and valid BC postal code to register) were collected. Additional sociodemographics were inferred by linking postal codes with census data at the local health area (LHA) level. Health risk assessments were also deployed. Participation levels were collected over 3 months and descriptive data were presented. Results: In 3 months, 67,464 individuals downloaded the app; in its first week, Carrot Rewards was the most downloaded health app in Canada. Among valid users (n=57,885; at least one quiz completed), the majority were female (62.96%; 36,446/57,885) and aged 18 to 34 years (54.34%; 31,459/57,885). More than half of the users (52.40%; 30,332/57,885) resided in LHAs where the median personal income was below the provincial average (Can $28,765). Furthermore, 64.42% (37,291/57,885) of users lived in metropolitan (ie, urban) LHAs, compared with 56.17% of the general BC population. The most prevalent risk factors were “not” meeting physical activity guidelines (72.70%; 31,765/43,692) and “not” getting the flu shot last year (67.69%; 30,286/44,739). Regarding participation, 60.05% (34,761/57,885) of users were classified as “very high” engagers (>75% quiz completion rate). Conclusions: Early results suggest that loyalty points may promote mHealth app uptake. The app was downloaded by younger females especially, and BC residents from higher and lower income regions were equally represented. Loyalty points appear to have driven participation throughout the inaugural 3-month period (ie, quiz completion). %M 28559224 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7323 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/5/e70/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7323 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28559224 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 5 %P e147 %T More Than a Text Message: Dismantling Digital Triggers to Curate Behavior Change in Patient-Centered Health Interventions %A Muench,Frederick %A Baumel,Amit %+ Psychiatry, Northwell Health, 311, 1010 Northern Blvd, Great Neck, NY, 11021, United States, 1 191 532 0623, fmuench@northwell.edu %K alerts %K digital triggers %K text messaging %K haptic triggers %K reminder systems %K push alerts %K mHealth %K mobile health %K engagement %K marketing %K behavior change %K behavioral medicine %D 2017 %7 26.05.2017 %9 Viewpoint %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Digital triggers such as text messages, emails, and push alerts are designed to focus an individual on a desired goal by prompting an internal or external reaction at the appropriate time. Triggers therefore have an essential role in engaging individuals with digital interventions delivered outside of traditional health care settings, where other events in daily lives and fluctuating motivation to engage in effortful behavior exist. There is an emerging body of literature examining the use of digital triggers for short-term action and longer-term behavior change. However, little attention has been given to understanding the components of digital triggers. Using tailoring as an overarching framework, we separated digital triggers into 5 primary components: (1) who (sender), (2) how (stimulus type, delivery medium, heterogeneity), (3) when (delivered), (4) how much (frequency, intensity), and (5) what (trigger’s target, trigger’s structure, trigger’s narrative). We highlighted key considerations when tailoring each component and the pitfalls of ignoring common mistakes, such as alert fatigue and habituation. As evidenced throughout the paper, there is a broad literature base from which to draw when tailoring triggers to curate behavior change in health interventions. More research is needed, however, to examine differences in efficacy based on component tailoring, to best use triggers to facilitate behavior change over time, and to keep individuals engaged in physical and mental health behavior change efforts. Dismantling digital triggers into their component parts and reassembling them according to the gestalt of one’s change goals is the first step in this development work. %M 28550001 %R 10.2196/jmir.7463 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/5/e147/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7463 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28550001 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 5 %P e100 %T An mHealth Framework to Improve Birth Outcomes in Benue State, Nigeria: A Study Protocol %A Ezeanolue,Echezona Edozie %A Gbadamosi,Semiu Olatunde %A Olawepo,John Olajide %A Iwelunmor,Juliet %A Sarpong,Daniel %A Eze,Chuka %A Ogidi,Amaka %A Patel,Dina %A Onoka,Chima %+ Global Health Initiative, School of Community Health Sciences, University of Nevada, 4505 S Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV, 89154-4009, United States, 1 702 895 2687, echezona.ezeanolue@unlv.edu %K mHealth %K smart card %K HIV %K hepatitis B %K sickle cell disease %K mobile health technology %K Nigeria %D 2017 %7 26.05.2017 %9 Protocol %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: The unprecedented coverage of mobile technology across the globe has led to an increase in the use of mobile health apps and related strategies to make health information available at the point of care. These strategies have the potential to improve birth outcomes, but are limited by the availability of Internet services, especially in resource-limited settings such as Nigeria. Objective: Our primary objective is to determine the feasibility of developing an integrated mobile health platform that is able to collect data from community-based programs, embed collected data into a smart card, and read the smart card using a mobile phone-based app without the need for Internet access. Our secondary objectives are to determine (1) the acceptability of the smart card among pregnant women and (2) the usability of the smart card by pregnant women and health facilities in rural Nigeria. Methods: We will leverage existing technology to develop a platform that integrates a database, smart card technology, and a mobile phone-based app to read the smart cards. We will recruit 300 pregnant women with one of the three conditions—HIV, hepatitis B virus infection, and sickle cell trait or disease—and four health facilities in their community. We will use Glasgow’s Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance framework as a guide to assess the implementation, acceptability, and usability of the mHealth platform. Results: We have recruited four health facilities and 300 pregnant women with at least one of the eligible conditions. Over the course of 3 months, we will complete the development of the mobile health platform and each participant will be offered a smart card; staff in each health facility will receive training on the use of the mobile health platform. Conclusions: Findings from this study could offer a new approach to making health data from pregnant women available at the point of delivery without the need for an Internet connection. This would allow clinicians to implement evidence-based interventions in real time to improve health outcomes. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03027258; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03027258 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6owR2D0kE) %M 28550003 %R 10.2196/resprot.7743 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/5/e100/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.7743 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28550003 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 5 %P e73 %T Perceptions of Patient Engagement Applications During Pregnancy: A Qualitative Assessment of the Patient’s Perspective %A Goetz,Maren %A Müller,Mitho %A Matthies,Lina Maria %A Hansen,Jenny %A Doster,Anne %A Szabo,Akos %A Pauluschke-Fröhlich,Jan %A Abele,Harald %A Sohn,Christof %A Wallwiener,Markus %A Wallwiener,Stephanie %+ Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 440, Heidelberg, 69121, Germany, 49 6221 5637551, Stephanie.wallwiener@googlemail.com %K pregnancy %K telemedicine %K mobile applications %K information procurement %K patient participation %K qualitative research %D 2017 %7 26.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: With growing demand for medical information and health applications in pregnancy, the potential of electronic health (eHealth) and mobile health (mHealth) solutions in clinical care is increasingly unfolding. However, we still do not know how pregnant women engage with mobile apps, how such apps impact routine medical care, and whether benefit expectations are met. Whereas recent research has raised the subject of user distribution and analyzed the content of pregnancy applications, there is still a significant knowledge gap regarding what pregnant women like and dislike about pregnancy tools, along with how such interventions could be improved. Objective: The aim of the study was to examine the perceptions and expectations of mobile and Web-based patient-engagement pregnancy applications. We assessed usability requirements, general acceptance of eHealth, and the impact of eHealth and mHealth pregnancy applications on the doctor-patient interaction and daily clinical routine. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted at the maternity department of a major German university hospital. The sample included 30 women with low- to medium-risk pregnancies. Half of the patients were seen during outpatient care and half were hospitalized for several days. The extent and frequency of Web- and mobile phone app usage were assessed. Semistructured interviews were conducted and analyzed using systematic thematic analysis. Results: Patients had a high demand for Web-based pregnancy applications. Study findings suggested a strong request for personalization, monitoring, and accessibility for frequent use as main themes derived from the interviews. Fostering patient empowerment in the doctor-patient relationship was also highly valued for a pregnancy app. Participants favored further integration of medical apps in their daily routine and pregnancy care. However, concerns were raised about content quality, trustworthiness of Web sources, and individual data security. Conclusions: eHealth and mHealth applications are a highly frequented source of information. Expectations and usability requirements for those applications are also high, thus posing a challenge to interdisciplinary service providers. Patients’ attitude toward integrating apps in routine care settings was positive with a favorable influence on patient empowerment. Health care professionals should guide pregnant women toward a successful integration of these educational tools in pregnancy care. %M 28550005 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7040 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/5/e73/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7040 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28550005 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 5 %P e184 %T Activity Recognition for Persons With Stroke Using Mobile Phone Technology: Toward Improved Performance in a Home Setting %A O'Brien,Megan K %A Shawen,Nicholas %A Mummidisetty,Chaithanya K %A Kaur,Saninder %A Bo,Xiao %A Poellabauer,Christian %A Kording,Konrad %A Jayaraman,Arun %+ Max Nader Lab for Rehabilitation Technologies and Outcomes Research, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, 345 E. Superior St., Chicago, IL, 60611, United States, 1 312 238 6875, a-jayaraman@northwestern.edu %K smartphone %K activities of daily living %K ambulatory monitoring %K machine learning %K stroke rehabilitation %D 2017 %7 25.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Smartphones contain sensors that measure movement-related data, making them promising tools for monitoring physical activity after a stroke. Activity recognition (AR) systems are typically trained on movement data from healthy individuals collected in a laboratory setting. However, movement patterns change after a stroke (eg, gait impairment), and activities may be performed differently at home than in a lab. Thus, it is important to validate AR for gait-impaired stroke patients in a home setting for accurate clinical predictions. Objective: In this study, we sought to evaluate AR performance in a home setting for individuals who had suffered a stroke, by using different sets of training activities. Specifically, we compared AR performance for persons with stroke while varying the origin of training data, based on either population (healthy persons or persons with stoke) or environment (laboratory or home setting). Methods: Thirty individuals with stroke and fifteen healthy subjects performed a series of mobility-related activities, either in a laboratory or at home, while wearing a smartphone. A custom-built app collected signals from the phone’s accelerometer, gyroscope, and barometer sensors, and subjects self-labeled the mobility activities. We trained a random forest AR model using either healthy or stroke activity data. Primary measures of AR performance were (1) the mean recall of activities and (2) the misclassification of stationary and ambulatory activities. Results: A classifier trained on stroke activity data performed better than one trained on healthy activity data, improving average recall from 53% to 75%. The healthy-trained classifier performance declined with gait impairment severity, more often misclassifying ambulatory activities as stationary ones. The classifier trained on in-lab activities had a lower average recall for at-home activities (56%) than for in-lab activities collected on a different day (77%). Conclusions: Stroke-based training data is needed for high quality AR among gait-impaired individuals with stroke. Additionally, AR systems for home and community monitoring would likely benefit from including at-home activities in the training data. %M 28546137 %R 10.2196/jmir.7385 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/5/e184/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7385 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28546137 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 5 %P e68 %T Cognitive Testing in People at Increased Risk of Dementia Using a Smartphone App: The iVitality Proof-of-Principle Study %A Jongstra,Susan %A Wijsman,Liselotte Willemijn %A Cachucho,Ricardo %A Hoevenaar-Blom,Marieke Peternella %A Mooijaart,Simon Pieter %A Richard,Edo %+ Academic Medical Center, Department of Neurology, University of Amsterdam, Meiberdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, Netherlands, 31 205663446, s.jongstra@amc.uva.nl %K telemedicine %K cognition %K neuropsychological tests %D 2017 %7 25.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Smartphone-assisted technologies potentially provide the opportunity for large-scale, long-term, repeated monitoring of cognitive functioning at home. Objective: The aim of this proof-of-principle study was to evaluate the feasibility and validity of performing cognitive tests in people at increased risk of dementia using smartphone-based technology during a 6 months follow-up period. Methods: We used the smartphone-based app iVitality to evaluate five cognitive tests based on conventional neuropsychological tests (Memory-Word, Trail Making, Stroop, Reaction Time, and Letter-N-Back) in healthy adults. Feasibility was tested by studying adherence of all participants to perform smartphone-based cognitive tests. Validity was studied by assessing the correlation between conventional neuropsychological tests and smartphone-based cognitive tests and by studying the effect of repeated testing. Results: We included 151 participants (mean age in years=57.3, standard deviation=5.3). Mean adherence to assigned smartphone tests during 6 months was 60% (SD 24.7). There was moderate correlation between the firstly made smartphone-based test and the conventional test for the Stroop test and the Trail Making test with Spearman ρ=.3-.5 (P<.001). Correlation increased for both tests when comparing the conventional test with the mean score of all attempts a participant had made, with the highest correlation for Stroop panel 3 (ρ=.62, P<.001). Performance on the Stroop and the Trail Making tests improved over time suggesting a learning effect, but the scores on the Letter-N-back, the Memory-Word, and the Reaction Time tests remained stable. Conclusions: Repeated smartphone-assisted cognitive testing is feasible with reasonable adherence and moderate relative validity for the Stroop and the Trail Making tests compared with conventional neuropsychological tests. Smartphone-based cognitive testing seems promising for large-scale data-collection in population studies. %M 28546139 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6939 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/5/e68/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6939 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28546139 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 5 %P e65 %T What to Build for Middle-Agers to Come? Attractive and Necessary Functions of Exercise-Promotion Mobile Phone Apps: A Cross-Sectional Study %A Liao,Gen-Yih %A Chien,Yu-Tai %A Chen,Yu-Jen %A Hsiung,Hsiao-Fang %A Chen,Hsiao-Jung %A Hsieh,Meng-Hua %A Wu,Wen-Jie %+ Department of Information Management, Chang Gung University, 259 Wen-Hwa 1st Road, Guishan District, Taoyuan City, 333, Taiwan, 886 32118800 ext 5852, gyliao@acm.org %K physical exercise %K middle aged %K mobile application %K self efficacy %K consumer preference %D 2017 %7 25.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Physical activity is important for middle-agers to maintain health both in middle age and in old age. Although thousands of exercise-promotion mobile phone apps are available for download, current literature offers little understanding regarding which design features can enhance middle-aged adults’ quality perception toward exercise-promotion apps and which factor may influence such perception. Objectives: The aims of this study were to understand (1) which design features of exercise-promotion apps can enhance quality perception of middle-agers, (2) whether their needs are matched by current functions offered in app stores, and (3) whether physical activity (PA) and mobile phone self-efficacy (MPSE) influence quality perception. Methods: A total of 105 middle-agers participated and filled out three scales: the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the MPSE scale, and the need for design features questionnaire. The design features were developed based on the Coventry, Aberdeen, and London—Refined (CALO-RE) taxonomy. Following the Kano quality model, the need for design features questionnaire asked participants to classify design features into five categories: attractive, one-dimensional, must-be, indifferent, and reverse. The quality categorization was conducted based on a voting approach and the categorization results were compared with the findings of a prevalence study to realize whether needs match current availability. In total, 52 multinomial logistic regression models were analyzed to evaluate the effects of PA level and MPSE on quality perception of design features. Results: The Kano analysis on the total sample revealed that visual demonstration of exercise instructions is the only attractive design feature, whereas the other 51 design features were perceived with indifference. Although examining quality perception by PA level, 21 features are recommended to low level, 6 features to medium level, but none to high-level PA. In contrast, high-level MPSE is recommended with 14 design features, medium level with 6 features, whereas low-level participants are recommended with 1 feature. The analysis suggests that the implementation of demanded features could be low, as the average prevalence of demanded design features is 20% (4.3/21). Surprisingly, social comparison and social support, most implemented features in current apps, were categorized into the indifferent category. The magnitude of effect is larger for MPSE because it effects quality perception of more design features than PA. Delving into the 52 regression models revealed that high MPSE more likely induces attractive or one- dimensional categorization, suggesting the importance of technological self-efficacy on eHealth care promotion. Conclusions: This study is the first to propose middle-agers’ needs in relation to mobile phone exercise-promotion. In addition to the tailor-made recommendations, suggestions are offered to app designers to enhance the performance of persuasive features. An interesting finding on change of quality perception attributed to MPSE is proposed as future research. %M 28546140 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6233 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/5/e65/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6233 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28546140 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 5 %P e176 %T Mental Health Mobile Apps for Preadolescents and Adolescents: A Systematic Review %A Grist,Rebecca %A Porter,Joanna %A Stallard,Paul %+ Child and Adolescent Mental Health Group, Department for Health, University of Bath, Wessex House, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom, 44 2253850 ext 86, r.grist@bath.ac.uk %K mobile apps %K smartphone apps %K mHealth %K mental health %K self-help %K child %K adolescent %K preadolescent %K review %D 2017 %7 25.05.2017 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: There are an increasing number of mobile apps available for adolescents with mental health problems and an increasing interest in assimilating mobile health (mHealth) into mental health services. Despite the growing number of apps available, the evidence base for their efficacy is unclear. Objective: This review aimed to systematically appraise the available research evidence on the efficacy and acceptability of mobile apps for mental health in children and adolescents younger than 18 years. Methods: The following were systematically searched for relevant publications between January 2008 and July 2016: APA PsychNet, ACM Digital Library, Cochrane Library, Community Care Inform-Children, EMBASE, Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Social Policy and Practice, Web of Science, Journal of Medical Internet Research, Cyberpsychology, Behavior and Social Networking, and OpenGrey. Abstracts were included if they described mental health apps (targeting depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, self-harm, suicide prevention, conduct disorder, eating disorders and body image issues, schizophrenia, psychosis, and insomnia) for mobile devices and for use by adolescents younger than 18 years. Results: A total of 24 publications met the inclusion criteria. These described 15 apps, two of which were available to download. Two small randomized trials and one case study failed to demonstrate a significant effect of three apps on intended mental health outcomes. Articles that analyzed the content of six apps for children and adolescents that were available to download established that none had undergone any research evaluation. Feasibility outcomes suggest acceptability of apps was good and app usage was moderate. Conclusions: Overall, there is currently insufficient research evidence to support the effectiveness of apps for children, preadolescents, and adolescents with mental health problems. Given the number and pace at which mHealth apps are being released on app stores, methodologically robust research studies evaluating their safety, efficacy, and effectiveness is promptly needed. %M 28546138 %R 10.2196/jmir.7332 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/5/e176/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7332 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28546138 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 5 %P e99 %T Development of a Modular Research Platform to Create Medical Observational Studies for Mobile Devices %A Zens,Martin %A Grotejohann,Birgit %A Tassoni,Adrian %A Duttenhoefer,Fabian %A Südkamp,Norbert P %A Niemeyer,Philipp %+ Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Str. 55, Freiburg, 79106, Germany, 49 1633374461, martin.zens@me.com %K mHealth %K telemedicine %K mobile health %K app-based study %K research platform %D 2017 %7 23.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Observational studies have proven to be a valuable resource in medical research, especially when performed on a large scale. Recently, mobile device-based observational studies have been discovered by an increasing number of researchers as a promising new source of information. However, the development and deployment of app-based studies is not trivial and requires profound programming skills. Objective: The aim of this project was to develop a modular online research platform that allows researchers to create medical studies for mobile devices without extensive programming skills. Methods: The platform approach for a modular research platform consists of three major components. A Web-based platform forms the researchers’ main workplace. This platform communicates via a shared database with a platform independent mobile app. Furthermore, a separate Web-based login platform for physicians and other health care professionals is outlined and completes the concept. Results: A prototype of the research platform has been developed and is currently in beta testing. Simple questionnaire studies can be created within minutes and published for testing purposes. Screenshots of an example study are provided, and the general working principle is displayed. Conclusions: In this project, we have created a basis for a novel research platform. The necessity and implications of a modular approach were displayed and an outline for future development given. International researchers are invited and encouraged to participate in this ongoing project %M 28536095 %R 10.2196/resprot.7705 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/5/e99/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.7705 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28536095 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 5 %P e69 %T Smart Devices for Older Adults Managing Chronic Disease: A Scoping Review %A Kim,Ben YB %A Lee,Joon %+ Health Data Science Lab, School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Lyle Hallman North, 3rd Floor, 200 University Avenue W, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada, 1 519 888 4567 ext 31567, joon.lee@uwaterloo.ca %K mobile health %K mHealth %K smartphone %K mobile phone %K tablet %K older adults %K seniors %K chronic disease %K chronic disease management %K scoping review %D 2017 %7 23.05.2017 %9 Review %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The emergence of smartphones and tablets featuring vastly advancing functionalities (eg, sensors, computing power, interactivity) has transformed the way mHealth interventions support chronic disease management for older adults. Baby boomers have begun to widely adopt smart devices and have expressed their desire to incorporate technologies into their chronic care. Although smart devices are actively used in research, little is known about the extent, characteristics, and range of smart device-based interventions. Objective: We conducted a scoping review to (1) understand the nature, extent, and range of smart device-based research activities, (2) identify the limitations of the current research and knowledge gap, and (3) recommend future research directions. Methods: We used the Arksey and O’Malley framework to conduct a scoping review. We identified relevant studies from MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases using search terms related to mobile health, chronic disease, and older adults. Selected studies used smart devices, sampled older adults, and were published in 2010 or after. The exclusion criteria were sole reliance on text messaging (short message service, SMS) or interactive voice response, validation of an electronic version of a questionnaire, postoperative monitoring, and evaluation of usability. We reviewed references. We charted quantitative data and analyzed qualitative studies using thematic synthesis. To collate and summarize the data, we used the chronic care model. Results: A total of 51 articles met the eligibility criteria. Research activity increased steeply in 2014 (17/51, 33%) and preexperimental design predominated (16/50, 32%). Diabetes (16/46, 35%) and heart failure management (9/46, 20%) were most frequently studied. We identified diversity and heterogeneity in the collection of biometrics and patient-reported outcome measures within and between chronic diseases. Across studies, we found 8 self-management supporting strategies and 4 distinct communication channels for supporting the decision-making process. In particular, self-monitoring (38/40, 95%), automated feedback (15/40, 38%), and patient education (13/40, 38%) were commonly used as self-management support strategies. Of the 23 studies that implemented decision support strategies, clinical decision making was delegated to patients in 10 studies (43%). The impact on patient outcomes was consistent with studies that used cellular phones. Patients with heart failure and asthma reported improved quality of life. Qualitative analysis yielded 2 themes of facilitating technology adoption for older adults and 3 themes of barriers. Conclusions: Limitations of current research included a lack of gerontological focus, dominance of preexperimental design, narrow research scope, inadequate support for participants, and insufficient evidence for clinical outcome. Recommendations for future research include generating evidence for smart device-based programs, using patient-generated data for advanced data mining techniques, validating patient decision support systems, and expanding mHealth practice through innovative technologies. %M 28536089 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7141 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/5/e69/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7141 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28536089 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 5 %P e67 %T Effect of a Counseling Session Bolstered by Text Messaging on Self-Selected Health Behaviors in College Students: A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial %A Sandrick,Janice %A Tracy,Doreen %A Eliasson,Arn %A Roth,Ashley %A Bartel,Jeffrey %A Simko,Melanie %A Bowman,Tracy %A Harouse-Bell,Karen %A Kashani,Mariam %A Vernalis,Marina %+ Integrative Cardiac Health Project, Department of Medicine, Walter Reed Military Medical Center, Bldg 17A, 8901 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 20889, United States, 1 301 400 1111, aheliasson@aol.com %K health behaviors %K diet habits %K exercise %K sleep %K text telecommunications %K universities %D 2017 %7 17.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The college experience is often the first time when young adults live independently and make their own lifestyle choices. These choices affect dietary behaviors, exercise habits, techniques to deal with stress, and decisions on sleep time, all of which direct the trajectory of future health. There is a need for effective strategies that will encourage healthy lifestyle choices in young adults attending college. Objective: This preliminary randomized controlled trial tested the effect of coaching and text messages (short message service, SMS) on self-selected health behaviors in the domains of diet, exercise, stress, and sleep. A second analysis measured the ripple effect of the intervention on health behaviors not specifically selected as a goal by participants. Methods: Full-time students aged 18-30 years were recruited by word of mouth and campuswide advertisements (flyers, posters, mailings, university website) at a small university in western Pennsylvania from January to May 2015. Exclusions included pregnancy, eating disorders, chronic medical diagnoses, and prescription medications other than birth control. Of 60 participants, 30 were randomized to receive a single face-to-face meeting with a health coach to review results of behavioral questionnaires and to set a health behavior goal for the 8-week study period. The face-to-face meeting was followed by SMS text messages designed to encourage achievement of the behavioral goal. A total of 30 control subjects underwent the same health and behavioral assessments at intake and program end but did not receive coaching or SMS text messages. Results: The texting app showed that 87.31% (2187/2505) of messages were viewed by intervention participants. Furthermore, 28 of the 30 intervention participants and all 30 control participants provided outcome data. Among intervention participants, 22 of 30 (73%) showed improvement in health behavior goal attainment, with the whole group (n=30) showing a mean improvement of 88% (95% CI 39-136). Mean improvement in any behavioral domains was not seen in the control group. Intervention participants also increased their exercise significantly compared with controls, regardless of their self-selected goal category. The increased exercise was paralleled by significantly lower fasting glucose levels. Conclusions: The health coaching session plus tailored SMS text messages improved self-selected health behaviors with a modest ripple effect to include unselected health behaviors. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02476604; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02476604 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6qAAryS5t) %M 28526664 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6638 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/5/e67/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6638 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28526664 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 5 %P e63 %T North American Public Opinion Survey on the Acceptability of Crowdsourcing Basic Life Support for Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest With the PulsePoint Mobile Phone App %A Dainty,Katie N %A Vaid,Haris %A Brooks,Steven C %+ Rescu, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 1W8, Canada, 1 6474482485, daintyk@smh.ca %K sudden cardiac death %K surveys and questionnaires %K cardiopulmonary resuscitation %K PulsePoint %K North America %D 2017 %7 17.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The PulsePoint Respond app is a novel system that can be implemented in emergency dispatch centers to crowdsource basic life support (BLS) for patients with cardiac arrest and facilitate bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator use while first responders are en route. Objective: The aim of this study was to conduct a North American survey to evaluate the public perception of the above-mentioned strategy, including acceptability and willingness to respond to alerts. Methods: We designed a Web-based survey administered by IPSOS Reid, an established external polling vendor. Sampling was designed to ensure broad representation using recent census statistics. Results: A total of 2415 survey responses were analyzed (1106 from Canada and 1309 from the United States). It was found that 98.37% (1088/1106) of Canadians and 96% (1259/1309) of Americans had no objections to PulsePoint being implemented in their community; 84.27% (932/1106) of Canadians and 55.61% (728/1309) of Americans said they would download the app to become a potential responder to cardiac arrest, respectively. Among Canadians, those who said they were likely to download PulsePoint were also more likely to have ever had CPR training (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2-2.4; P=.002); however, this was not true of American respondents (OR 1.0, 95% CI 0.79-1.3; P=.88). When asked to imagine themselves as a cardiac arrest victim, 95.39% (1055/1106) of Canadians and 92.44% (1210/1309) of Americans had no objections to receiving crowdsourced help in a public setting; 88.79% (982/1106) of Canadians and 84.87% (1111/1309) of Americans also had no objections to receiving help in a private setting, respectively. The most common concern identified with respect to PulsePoint implementation was a responder’s lack of ability, training, or access to proper equipment in a public setting. Conclusions: The North American public finds the concept of crowdsourcing BLS for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest to be acceptable. It demonstrates willingness to respond to PulsePoint CPR notifications and to accept help from others alerted by the app if they themselves suffered a cardiac arrest. %M 28526668 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6926 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/5/e63/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6926 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28526668 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 5 %P e88 %T Using Text Messaging in Long-Term Arthroplasty Follow-Up: A Pilot Study %A Blocker,Oliver %A Bullock,Alison %A Morgan-Jones,Rhidian %A Ghandour,Adel %A Richardson,James %+ Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Heath Park, Cardiff,, United Kingdom, 44 292 074 8044, drblocker@gmail.com %K texting %K text messages %K short message service %K patient outcome assessment %K follow-up studies %K arthroplasty %D 2017 %7 16.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and mobile technology have the potential to change the way patients are monitored following joint replacement surgery. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of text messaging to record PROMs in long-term follow-up of hip and knee arthroplasty. Our participants were 17 patients 2-years-plus post hip or knee arthroplasty attending clinic with a mobile telephone number on record. Methods: A simple PROM (Oswestry Very Short Form) was texted to the patient. Responses were compared to clinical, radiographic, and existing PROM findings. Patients were interviewed to discover their opinions on this use of texting. Results: A total of 11 patients engaged with the text messaging. Reasons for not engaging included wrong numbers, physical barriers, and lack of understanding. A total of 8 patients attending clinic allowed comparison of text messaging with clinical findings. The average age was 70 years. A total of 4 patient text messaging responses matched clinical and radiographic findings; 3 also matched PROM scores collected in clinic. The 3 patients with mixed responses had abnormal clinical, radiographic, or PROM findings. One patient’s text responses conflicted with clinical outcome. Analysis of patients’ views showed a generally positive opinion: patients were happy to communicate with surgeons by text. Practical problems, PROM limitations, and trustworthiness of texting were highlighted. Conclusions: Engaging with changing technology creates challenges for patients and health care professionals. Despite this, our results suggest text messaging is a promising way to communicate with arthroplasty patients. Earlier integration of text communication in the patient pathway may be important and needs further research. %M 28512080 %R 10.2196/resprot.6047 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/5/e88/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.6047 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28512080 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 5 %P e66 %T Text Messaging and Mobile Phone Apps as Interventions to Improve Adherence in Adolescents With Chronic Health Conditions: A Systematic Review %A Badawy,Sherif M %A Barrera,Leonardo %A Sinno,Mohamad G %A Kaviany,Saara %A O’Dwyer,Linda C %A Kuhns,Lisa M %+ Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 225 E Chicago Ave, Box 30, Chicago, IL, 60611, United States, 1 3122274836, sbadawy@luriechildrens.org %K adolescents %K medication adherence %K chronic health conditions %K chronic medical conditions %K text messaging %K mobile phone apps %K smartphone apps %K smartphone applications %D 2017 %7 15.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The number of adolescents with chronic health conditions (CHCs) continues to increase. Medication nonadherence is a global challenge among adolescents across chronic conditions and is associated with poor health outcomes. While there has been growing interest in the use of mHealth technology to improve medication adherence among adolescents with CHCs, particularly text messaging and mobile phone apps, there has been no prior systematic review of their efficacy. Objective: The purpose of this review was to systematically evaluate the most recent evidence for the efficacy of text messaging and mobile phone apps as interventions to promote medication adherence among adolescents with CHCs. Methods: PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and additional databases were searched from 1995 until November 2015. An additional hand search of related themes in the Journal of Medical Internet Research was also conducted. The Preferred Reporting Results of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. Two reviewers independently screened titles/abstracts, assessed full-text articles, extracted data from included articles, and assessed their quality using Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation criteria. Included studies were described in original research articles that targeted adherence in adolescents with CHCs (12-24 years-old). Results: Of the 1423 records examined, 15 met predefined criteria: text messaging (n=12) and mobile phone apps (n=3). Most studies were performed in the United States (11/15, 73%), were randomized-controlled trials (8/15, 53%), had a sample size <50 (11/15, 73%), and included adherence self-report and/or biomarkers (9/15, 60%). Only four studies were designed based on a theoretical framework. Approaches for text messaging and mobile phone app interventions varied across studies. Seven articles (7/15, 47%) reported significant improvement in adherence with moderate to large standardized mean differences. Most of the included studies were of low or moderate quality. Studies varied in sample size, methods of adherence assessment, and definition of adherence, which prohibited performing a meta-analysis. Conclusions: The use of text messaging and mobile phone app interventions to improve medication adherence among adolescents with CHCs has shown promising feasibility and acceptability, and there is modest evidence to support the efficacy of these interventions. Further evaluation of short- and long-term efficacy and cost-effectiveness of these interventions is warranted given the early and evolving state of the science. %M 28506955 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7798 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/5/e66/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7798 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28506955 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 5 %P e87 %T EpxMedTracking: Feasibility Evaluation of an SMS-Based Medication Adherence Tracking System in Community Practice %A Tricarico,Christopher %A Peters,Robert %A Som,Avik %A Javaherian,Kavon %A Ross,Will %+ Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Campus Box 8023, St. Louis, MO,, United States, 1 314 362 6854, rossw@wustl.edu %K medication adherence %K eHealth %K text messaging %D 2017 %7 15.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Medication adherence remains a difficult problem to both assess and improve in patients. It is a multifactorial problem that goes beyond the commonly cited reason of forgetfulness. To date, eHealth (also known as mHealth and telehealth) interventions to improve medication adherence have largely been successful in improving adherence. However, interventions to date have used time- and cost-intensive strategies or focused solely on medication reminding, leaving much room for improvement in using a modality as flexible as eHealth. Objective: Our objective was to develop and implement a fully automated short message service (SMS)-based medication adherence system, EpxMedTracking, that reminds patients to take their medications, explores reasons for missed doses, and alerts providers to help address problems of medication adherence in real time. Methods: EpxMedTracking is a fully automated bidirectional SMS-based messaging system with provider involvement that was developed and implemented through Epharmix, Inc. Researchers analyzed 11 weeks of de-identified data from patients cared for by multiple provider groups in routine community practice for feasibility and functionality. Patients included were those in the care of a provider purchasing the EpxMedTracking tool from Epharmix and were enrolled from a clinic by their providers. The primary outcomes assessed were the rate of engagement with the system, reasons for missing doses, and self-reported medication adherence. Results: Of the 25 patients studied over the 11 weeks, 3 never responded and subsequently opted out or were deleted by their provider. No other patients opted out or were deleted during the study period. Across the 11 weeks of the study period, the overall weekly engagement rate was 85.9%. There were 109 total reported missed doses including “I forgot” at 33 events (30.3%), “I felt better” at 29 events (26.6%), “out of meds” at 20 events (18.4%), “I felt sick” at 19 events (17.4%), and “other” at 3 events (2.8%). We also noted an increase in self-reported medication adherence in patients using the EpxMedTracking system. Conclusions: EpxMedTracking is an effective tool for tracking self-reported medication adherence over time. It uniquely identifies actionable reasons for missing doses for subsequent provider intervention in real time based on patient feedback. Patients enrolled on EpxMedTracking also self-report higher rates of medication adherence over time while on the system. %M 28506954 %R 10.2196/resprot.7223 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/5/e87/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.7223 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28506954 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 5 %P e64 %T Assessing the Impact of a Novel Smartphone Application Compared With Standard Follow-Up on Mobility of Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis Following Treatment With Hylan G-F 20: A Randomized Controlled Trial %A Skrepnik,Nebojsa %A Spitzer,Andrew %A Altman,Roy %A Hoekstra,John %A Stewart,John %A Toselli,Richard %+ Tucson Orthopaedic Institute, 5301 E. Grant Road, Tucson, AZ,, United States, 1 520 784 6140, NSkrepnik@tucsonortho.com %K mobile health %K mHealth %K mobile apps %K osteoarthritis %K osteoarthritis, knee %K hylan G-F 20 %K Synvisc %D 2017 %7 09.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of disability in the United States. Although no disease-modifying therapies exist, patients with knee OA who increase walking may reduce risk of functional limitations. Objective: The objective of the study is to evaluate the impact of a mobile app (OA GO) plus wearable activity monitor/pedometer (Jawbone UP 24) used for 90 days on the mobility of patients with knee OA treated with hylan G-F 20. Methods: Patients with knee OA aged 30 to 80 years who were eligible to receive hylan G-F 20 and were familiar with smartphone technology were enrolled in this randomized, multicenter, open-label study. Patients who had a body mass index above 35 kg/m2 were excluded. All patients received a single 6-mL injection of hylan G-F 20 and wore the Jawbone monitor. The patients were then randomized 1:1 to Jawbone and OA GO (Group A; n=107) with visible feedback (unblinded) or Jawbone only (Group B; n=104) with no visible feedback (blinded). The primary endpoint was mean change from baseline in steps per day at day 90 between Groups A and B. Results: Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. There were significant differences between the increases in least squares (LS) mean number of steps per day (1199 vs 467, P=.03) and the mean percentage change (35.8% vs 11.5%, P=.02) from baseline in favor of Group A over Group B. There was a greater reduction in pain from baseline during the 6-minute walk test in Group A versus Group B. (LS mean change: −55.3 vs −33.8, P=.007). Most patients (65.4%) and surveys of physicians (67.3%) reported they would be likely or very likely to use/recommend the devices. Patient Activity Measure-13 scores improved from baseline (LS mean change for Groups A and B: 5.0 vs 6.9), with no significant differences between groups. The occurrence of adverse events was similar in the 2 groups. Conclusions: Use of a novel smartphone app in conjunction with a wearable activity monitor provided additional improvement on mobility parameters such as steps per day and pain with walking in the 6-minute walk test in patients with knee OA who were treated with hylan G-F 20. Results also highlight the amenability of patients and physicians to using mobile health technology in the treatment of OA and suggest further study is warranted. %M 28487266 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7179 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/5/e64/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7179 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28487266 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 5 %P e152 %T Evaluation of Pollen Apps Forecasts: The Need for Quality Control in an eHealth Service %A Bastl,Katharina %A Berger,Uwe %A Kmenta,Maximilian %+ Research group Aerobiology and pollen information, Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Medical University of Vienna, HNO-Klinik, 8J, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, Wien, 1090, Austria, 43 140400 ext 33380, katharina.bastl@meduniwien.ac.at %K pollen forecast %K pollen information service %K mobile app %K pollen forecast quality %K allergen avoidance %D 2017 %7 08.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Pollen forecasts are highly valuable for allergen avoidance and thus raising the quality of life of persons concerned by pollen allergies. They are considered as valuable free services for the public. Careful scientific evaluation of pollen forecasts in terms of accurateness and reliability has not been available till date. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze 9 mobile apps, which deliver pollen information and pollen forecasts, with a focus on their accurateness regarding the prediction of the pollen load in the grass pollen season 2016 to assess their usefulness for pollen allergy sufferers. Methods: The following number of apps was evaluated for each location: 3 apps for Vienna (Austria), 4 apps for Berlin (Germany), and 1 app each for Basel (Switzerland) and London (United Kingdom). All mobile apps were freely available. Today’s grass pollen forecast was compared throughout the defined grass pollen season at each respective location with measured grass pollen concentrations. Hit rates were calculated for the exact performance and for a tolerance in a range of ±2 and ±4 pollen per cubic meter. Results: In general, for most apps, hit rates score around 50% (6 apps). It was found that 1 app showed better results, whereas 3 apps performed less well. Hit rates increased when calculated with tolerances for most apps. In contrast, the forecast for the “readiness to flower” for grasses was performed at a sufficiently accurate level, although only two apps provided such a forecast. The last of those forecasts coincided with the first moderate grass pollen load on the predicted day or 3 days after and performed even from about a month before well within the range of 3 days. Advertisement was present in 3 of the 9 analyzed apps, whereas an imprint mentioning institutions with experience in pollen forecasting was present in only three other apps. Conclusions: The quality of pollen forecasts is in need of improvement, and quality control for pollen forecasts is recommended to avoid potential harm to pollen allergy sufferers due to inadequate forecasts. The inclusion of information on reliability of provided forecasts and a similar handling regarding probabilistic weather forecasts should be considered. %M 28483740 %R 10.2196/jmir.7426 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/5/e152/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7426 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28483740 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 5 %P e140 %T Building the Evidence Base for Remote Data Collection in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Comparing Reliability and Accuracy Across Survey Modalities %A Greenleaf,Abigail R %A Gibson,Dustin G %A Khattar,Christelle %A Labrique,Alain B %A Pariyo,George W %+ Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, 615 N Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, United States, 1 410 955 3543, agreenleaf@jhu.edu %K mHealth %K developing countries %K Africa South of the Sahara %K cell phones %K health surveys %K reproducibility of results %K surveys and questionnaires %K text messaging %K interviews as topic %K humans %K research design %K data collection methods %D 2017 %7 05.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Given the growing interest in mobile data collection due to the proliferation of mobile phone ownership and network coverage in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), we synthesized the evidence comparing estimates of health outcomes from multiple modes of data collection. In particular, we reviewed studies that compared a mode of remote data collection with at least one other mode of data collection to identify mode effects and areas for further research. Objective: The study systematically reviewed and summarized the findings from articles and reports that compare a mode of remote data collection to at least one other mode. The aim of this synthesis was to assess the reliability and accuracy of results. Methods: Seven online databases were systematically searched for primary and grey literature pertaining to remote data collection in LMICs. Remote data collection included interactive voice response (IVR), computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI), short message service (SMS), self-administered questionnaires (SAQ), and Web surveys. Two authors of this study reviewed the abstracts to identify articles which met the primary inclusion criteria. These criteria required that the survey collected the data from the respondent via mobile phone or landline. Articles that met the primary screening criteria were read in full and were screened using secondary inclusion criteria. The four secondary inclusion criteria were that two or more modes of data collection were compared, at least one mode of data collection in the study was a mobile phone survey, the study had to be conducted in a LMIC, and finally, the study should include a health component. Results: Of the 11,568 articles screened, 10 articles were included in this study. Seven distinct modes of remote data collection were identified: CATI, SMS (singular sitting and modular design), IVR, SAQ, and Web surveys (mobile phone and personal computer). CATI was the most frequent remote mode (n=5 articles). Of the three in-person modes (face-to-face [FTF], in-person SAQ, and in-person IVR), FTF was the most common (n=11) mode. The 10 articles made 25 mode comparisons, of which 12 comparisons were from a single article. Six of the 10 articles included sensitive questions. Conclusions: This literature review summarizes the existing research about remote data collection in LMICs. Due to both heterogeneity of outcomes and the limited number of comparisons, this literature review is best positioned to present the current evidence and knowledge gaps rather than attempt to draw conclusions. In order to advance the field of remote data collection, studies that employ standardized sampling methodologies and study designs are necessary to evaluate the potential for differences by survey modality. %M 28476728 %R 10.2196/jmir.7331 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/5/e140/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7331 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28476728 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 5 %P e137 %T Leveraging Mobile Phones for Monitoring Risks for Noncommunicable Diseases in the Future %A Ellis,Jennifer A %+ Bloomberg Philanthropies, 25 E 78th St., New York, NY,, United States, 1 212 205 0129, Jennifer@bloomberg.org %K mHealth %K low- and middle-income countries %K noncommunicable diseases %K health systems strengthening %D 2017 %7 05.05.2017 %9 Guest Editorial %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X %M 28476721 %R 10.2196/jmir.7622 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/5/e137/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7622 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28476721 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 5 %P e139 %T Mobile Phone Surveys for Collecting Population-Level Estimates in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Literature Review %A Gibson,Dustin G %A Pereira,Amanda %A Farrenkopf,Brooke A %A Labrique,Alain B %A Pariyo,George W %A Hyder,Adnan A %+ Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, United States, 1 443 287 8763, dgibso28@jhu.edu %K survey methodology %K cellular phone %K interactive voice response %K short messages service %K computer-assisted telephone interview %K mobile phone surveys %D 2017 %7 05.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: National and subnational level surveys are important for monitoring disease burden, prioritizing resource allocation, and evaluating public health policies. As mobile phone access and ownership become more common globally, mobile phone surveys (MPSs) offer an opportunity to supplement traditional public health household surveys. Objective: The objective of this study was to systematically review the current landscape of MPSs to collect population-level estimates in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Methods: Primary and gray literature from 7 online databases were systematically searched for studies that deployed MPSs to collect population-level estimates. Titles and abstracts were screened on primary inclusion and exclusion criteria by two research assistants. Articles that met primary screening requirements were read in full and screened for secondary eligibility criteria. Articles included in review were grouped into the following three categories by their survey modality: (1) interactive voice response (IVR), (2) short message service (SMS), and (3) human operator or computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI). Data were abstracted by two research assistants. The conduct and reporting of the review conformed to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Results: A total of 6625 articles were identified through the literature review. Overall, 11 articles were identified that contained 19 MPS (CATI, IVR, or SMS) surveys to collect population-level estimates across a range of topics. MPSs were used in Latin America (n=8), the Middle East (n=1), South Asia (n=2), and sub-Saharan Africa (n=8). Nine articles presented results for 10 CATI surveys (10/19, 53%). Two articles discussed the findings of 6 IVR surveys (6/19, 32%). Three SMS surveys were identified from 2 articles (3/19, 16%). Approximately 63% (12/19) of MPS were delivered to mobile phone numbers collected from previously administered household surveys. The majority of MPS (11/19, 58%) were panel surveys where a cohort of participants, who often were provided a mobile phone upon a face-to-face enrollment, were surveyed multiple times. Conclusions: Very few reports of population-level MPS were identified. Of the MPS that were identified, the majority of surveys were conducted using CATI. Due to the limited number of identified IVR and SMS surveys, the relative advantages and disadvantages among the three survey modalities cannot be adequately assessed. The majority of MPS were sent to mobile phone numbers that were collected from a previously administered household survey. There is limited evidence on whether a random digit dialing (RDD) approach or a simple random sample of mobile network provided list of numbers can produce a population representative survey. %M 28476725 %R 10.2196/jmir.7428 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/5/e139/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7428 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28476725 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 5 %P e121 %T Health Surveys Using Mobile Phones in Developing Countries: Automated Active Strata Monitoring and Other Statistical Considerations for Improving Precision and Reducing Biases %A Labrique,Alain %A Blynn,Emily %A Ahmed,Saifuddin %A Gibson,Dustin %A Pariyo,George %A Hyder,Adnan A %+ Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of International Health, W5501, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg SPH, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, United States, 1 4102361568, alabriqu@jhsph.edu %K surveys and questionnaires %K sampling studies %K mobile health %K mobile phone %K research methodology %D 2017 %7 05.05.2017 %9 Policy Proposal %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), historically, household surveys have been carried out by face-to-face interviews to collect survey data related to risk factors for noncommunicable diseases. The proliferation of mobile phone ownership and the access it provides in these countries offers a new opportunity to remotely conduct surveys with increased efficiency and reduced cost. However, the near-ubiquitous ownership of phones, high population mobility, and low cost require a re-examination of statistical recommendations for mobile phone surveys (MPS), especially when surveys are automated. As with landline surveys, random digit dialing remains the most appropriate approach to develop an ideal survey-sampling frame. Once the survey is complete, poststratification weights are generally applied to reduce estimate bias and to adjust for selectivity due to mobile ownership. Since weights increase design effects and reduce sampling efficiency, we introduce the concept of automated active strata monitoring to improve representativeness of the sample distribution to that of the source population. Although some statistical challenges remain, MPS represent a promising emerging means for population-level data collection in LMICs. %M 28476726 %R 10.2196/jmir.7329 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/5/e121/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7329 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28476726 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 5 %P e110 %T Ethics Considerations in Global Mobile Phone-Based Surveys of Noncommunicable Diseases: A Conceptual Exploration %A Ali,Joseph %A Labrique,Alain B %A Gionfriddo,Kara %A Pariyo,George %A Gibson,Dustin G %A Pratt,Bridget %A Deutsch-Feldman,Molly %A Hyder,Adnan A %+ Berman Institute of Bioethics, Johns Hopkins University, Rm 208, 1809 Ashland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, United States, 1 410 614 5370, jali@jhu.edu %K ethics %K mobile phone survey %K mHealth %K noncommunicable diseases %K research ethics %K bioethics %D 2017 %7 05.05.2017 %9 Viewpoint %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Mobile phone coverage has grown, particularly within low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), presenting an opportunity to augment routine health surveillance programs. Several LMICs and global health partners are seeking opportunities to launch basic mobile phone–based surveys of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). The increasing use of such technology in LMICs brings forth a cluster of ethical challenges; however, much of the existing literature regarding the ethics of mobile or digital health focuses on the use of technologies in high-income countries and does not consider directly the specific ethical issues associated with the conduct of mobile phone surveys (MPS) for NCD risk factor surveillance in LMICs. In this paper, we explore conceptually several of the central ethics issues in this domain, which mainly track the three phases of the MPS process: predata collection, during data collection, and postdata collection. These include identifying the nature of the activity; stakeholder engagement; appropriate design; anticipating and managing potential harms and benefits; consent; reaching intended respondents; data ownership, access and use; and ensuring LMIC sustainability. We call for future work to develop an ethics framework and guidance for the use of mobile phones for disease surveillance globally. %M 28476723 %R 10.2196/jmir.7326 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/5/e110/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7326 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28476723 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 5 %P e115 %T Moving the Agenda on Noncommunicable Diseases: Policy Implications of Mobile Phone Surveys in Low and Middle-Income Countries %A Pariyo,George W %A Wosu,Adaeze C %A Gibson,Dustin G %A Labrique,Alain B %A Ali,Joseph %A Hyder,Adnan A %+ Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of International Health, 615 North Wolfe Street E 8648, Baltimore, MD, 21205, United States, 1 410 502 5790, gpariyo1@jhu.edu %K NCDs %K policy %K mHealth %K policy analysis %K surveys %D 2017 %7 05.05.2017 %9 Viewpoint %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X The growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), for example, cardiovascular diseases and chronic respiratory diseases, in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) presents special challenges for policy makers, due to resource constraints and lack of timely data for decision-making. Concurrently, the increasing ubiquity of mobile phones in LMICs presents possibilities for rapid collection of population-based data to inform the policy process. The objective of this paper is to highlight potential benefits of mobile phone surveys (MPS) for developing, implementing, and evaluating NCD prevention and control policies. To achieve this aim, we first provide a brief overview of major global commitments to NCD prevention and control, and subsequently explore how countries can translate these commitments into policy action at the national level. Using the policy cycle as our frame of reference, we highlight potential benefits of MPS which include (1) potential cost-effectiveness of using MPS to inform NCD policy actions compared with using traditional household surveys; (2) timeliness of assessments to feed into policy and planning cycles; (3) tracking progress of interventions, hence assessment of reach, coverage, and distribution; (4) better targeting of interventions, for example, to high-risk groups; (5) timely course correction for suboptimal or non-effective interventions; (6) assessing fairness in financial contribution and financial risk protection for those affected by NCDs in the spirit of universal health coverage (UHC); and (7) monitoring progress in reducing catastrophic medical expenditure due to chronic health conditions in general, and NCDs in particular. We conclude that MPS have potential to become a powerful data collection tool to inform policies that address public health challenges such as NCDs. Additional forthcoming assessments of MPS in LMICs will inform opportunities to maximize this technology. %M 28476720 %R 10.2196/jmir.7302 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/5/e115/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7302 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28476720 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 5 %P e133 %T Noncommunicable Disease Risk Factors and Mobile Phones: A Proposed Research Agenda %A Hyder,Adnan A %A Wosu,Adaeze C %A Gibson,Dustin G %A Labrique,Alain B %A Ali,Joseph %A Pariyo,George W %+ Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of International Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Suite E8132, Baltimore, MD, 21205, United States, 1 410 502 8947, ahyder1@jhu.edu %K mHealth %K noncommunicable disease %K mobile phone %K research agenda %K survey %D 2017 %7 05.05.2017 %9 Viewpoint %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) account for two-thirds of all deaths globally, with 75% of these occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Many LMICs seek cost-effective methods to obtain timely and quality NCD risk factor data that could inform resource allocation, policy development, and assist evaluation of NCD trends over time. Over the last decade, there has been a proliferation of mobile phone ownership and access in LMICs, which, if properly harnessed, has great potential to support risk factor data collection. As a supplement to traditional face-to-face surveys, the ubiquity of phone ownership has made large proportions of most populations reachable through cellular networks. However, critical gaps remain in understanding the ways by which mobile phone surveys (MPS) could aid in collection of NCD data in LMICs. Specifically, limited information exists on the optimization of these surveys with regard to incentives and structure, comparative effectiveness of different MPS modalities, and key ethical, legal, and societal issues (ELSI) in the development, conduct, and analysis of these surveys in LMIC settings. We propose a research agenda that could address important knowledge gaps in optimizing MPS for the collection of NCD risk factor data in LMICs and provide an example of a multicountry project where elements of that agenda aim to be integrated over the next two years. %M 28476722 %R 10.2196/jmir.7246 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/5/e133/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7246 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28476722 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 5 %P e57 %T Mobile Technology Interventions for Asthma Self-Management: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis %A Miller,Lisa %A Schüz,Benjamin %A Walters,Julia %A Walters,E Haydn %+ School of Medicine, Psychology, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 30, Hobart, TAS 7001, Australia, 61 3 6226 7471, lisa.miller@utas.edu.au %K asthma %K mhealth %K medication adherence %K patient monitoring %K behavior and behavior mechanisms %K meta-analysis %D 2017 %7 02.05.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mobile technology interventions (MTI) are becoming increasingly popular in the management of chronic health behaviors. Most MTI allow individuals to monitor medication use, record symptoms, or store and activate disease-management action plans. Therefore, MTI may have the potential to improve low adherence to medication and action plans for individuals with asthma, which is associated with poor clinical outcomes. Objective: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of MTI on clinical outcomes as well as adherence in individuals with asthma. As the use of evidence-based behavior change techniques (BCT) has been shown to improve intervention effects, we also conducted exploratory analyses to determine the role of BCT and engagement with MTI as moderators of MTI efficacy. Methods: We searched electronic databases for randomized controlled trials up until June 2016. Random effect models were used to assess the effect of MTI on clinical outcomes as well as adherence to preventer medication or symptom monitoring. Mixed effects models assessed whether the features of the MTI (ie, use of BCT) and how often a person engaged with MTI moderated the effects of MTI. Results: The literature search located 11 studies meeting the inclusion criteria, with 9 providing satisfactory data for meta-analysis. Compared with standard treatment, MTI had moderate to large effect sizes (Hedges g) on medication adherence and clinical outcomes. MTI had no additional effects on adherence or clinical outcomes when compared with paper-based monitoring. No moderator effects were found, and the number of studies was small. A narrative review of the two studies, which are not included in the meta-analysis, found similar results. Conclusions: This review indicated the efficacy of MTI for self-management in individuals with asthma and also indicated that MTI appears to be as efficacious as paper-based monitoring. This review also suggested a need for robust studies to examine the effects of BCT use and engagement on MTI efficacy to inform the evidence base for MTI in individuals with asthma. %M 28465281 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7168 %U https://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/5/e57/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7168 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28465281 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 5 %P e60 %T mHealth Assessment: Conceptualization of a Global Framework %A Bradway,Meghan %A Carrion,Carme %A Vallespin,Bárbara %A Saadatfard,Omid %A Puigdomènech,Elisa %A Espallargues,Mireia %A Kotzeva,Anna %+ Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), Rambla del Poblenou, 156, Catalonia, 08018, Spain, 34 253 23 00, mcarrionr@uoc.edu %K mhealth %K evaluation %K assessment %K checklist %K framework %D 2017 %7 02.05.2017 %9 Viewpoint %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The mass availability and use of mobile health (mHealth) technologies offers the potential for these technologies to support or substitute medical advice. However, it is worrisome that most assessment initiatives are still not able to successfully evaluate all aspects of mHealth solutions. As a result, multiple strategies to assess mHealth solutions are being proposed by medical regulatory bodies and similar organizations. Objective: We aim to offer a collective description of a universally applicable description of mHealth assessment initiatives, given their current and, as we see it, potential impact. In doing so, we recommend a common foundation for the development or update of assessment initiatives by addressing the multistakeholder issues that mHealth technology adds to the traditional medical environment. Methods: Organized by the Mobile World Capital Barcelona Foundation, we represent a workgroup consisting of patient associations, developers, and health authority representatives, including medical practitioners, within Europe. Contributions from each group’s diverse competencies has allowed us to create an overview of the complex yet similar approaches to mHealth evaluation that are being developed today, including common gaps in concepts and perspectives. In response, we summarize commonalities of existing initiatives and exemplify additional characteristics that we believe will strengthen and unify these efforts. Results: As opposed to a universal standard or protocol in evaluating mHealth solutions, assessment frameworks should respect the needs and capacity of each medical system or country. Therefore, we expect that the medical system will specify the content, resources, and workflow of assessment protocols in order to ensure a sustainable plan for mHealth solutions within their respective countries. Conclusions: A common framework for all mHealth initiatives around the world will be useful in order to assess whatever mHealth solution is desirable in different areas, adapting it to the specifics of each context, to bridge the gap between health authorities, patients, and mHealth developers. We aim to foster a more trusting and collaborative environment to safeguard the well-being of patients and citizens while encouraging innovation of technology and policy. %M 28465282 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7291 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/5/e60/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7291 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28465282 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 4 %P e67 %T Evaluation of a Mindfulness-Based Mobile App Aimed at Promoting Awareness of Weight-Related Behaviors in Adolescents: A Pilot Study %A Turner,Tami %A Hingle,Melanie %+ Department of Nutritional Sciences, The University of Arizona, 1177 E 4th St, Shantz Bldg, Room 328, Tucson, AZ,, United States, 1 520 626 7112, tamiturner@email.arizona.edu %K mindfulness %K adolescent %K mHealth %K diet %K physical activity %K app %D 2017 %7 26.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Mindfulness-based interventions are reported to be highly acceptable and have positive effects on youth, yet most are clinic- or school-based aimed at emotional regulation or academic performance. To provide flexible program delivery, we developed and tested a standalone mindfulness-based app aimed at improving weight-related behaviors (eg, diet, physical activity, sleep) in adolescents. Objective: Our objective was to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and utility of a mindfulness-based mobile app. Methods: In a single-arm pilot study, 15 adolescents (14-18 years) were prompted to access the app once a day, every day for 6 weeks. Outcomes were measured by in-app and poststudy surveys, and descriptive statistical analyses were performed. Time within a mindfulness state was self-reported during weekly timed practices. Results: The app was rated highly for content and encouraging the practice of activities to promote mindfulness states. Teens reported increased awareness of eating behaviors and high adherence, particularly during physically active practices. Average self-reported time spent in a mindfulness state increased 2.5 times by week 6 (78 [SD 17] seconds) compared to week 1 (31 [SD 21] seconds). Conclusions: The high acceptability and utility ratings of the app, increases in reported time in mindfulness states, and high frequency of participation, including mindful eating and physical activity, suggest the mindfulness-based mobile app has the potential to improve awareness of weight-related behaviors. %M 28446423 %R 10.2196/resprot.6695 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/4/e67/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.6695 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28446423 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 4 %P e132 %T Compliance With Mobile Ecological Momentary Assessment Protocols in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis %A Wen,Cheng K Fred %A Schneider,Stefan %A Stone,Arthur A %A Spruijt-Metz,Donna %+ Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, Soto Bldg 1, 3rd Fl, 2001 N Soto St, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, United States, 1 5626822468, chengkuw@usc.edu %K ecological momentary assessment %K compliance %K youth %K mHealth %D 2017 %7 26.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Mobile device-based ecological momentary assessment (mobile-EMA) is increasingly used to collect participants' data in real-time and in context. Although EMA offers methodological advantages, these advantages can be diminished by participant noncompliance. However, evidence on how well participants comply with mobile-EMA protocols and how study design factors associated with participant compliance is limited, especially in the youth literature. Objective: To systematically and meta-analytically examine youth’s compliance to mobile-EMA protocols and moderators of participant compliance in clinical and nonclinical settings. Methods: Studies using mobile devices to collect EMA data among youth (age ≤18 years old) were identified. A systematic review was conducted to describe the characteristics of mobile-EMA protocols and author-reported factors associated with compliance. Random effects meta-analyses were conducted to estimate the overall compliance across studies and to explore factors associated with differences in youths’ compliance. Results: This review included 42 unique studies that assessed behaviors, subjective experiences, and contextual information. Mobile phones were used as the primary mode of EMA data collection in 48% (20/42) of the reviewed studies. In total, 12% (5/42) of the studies used wearable devices in addition to the EMA data collection platforms. About half of the studies (62%, 24/42) recruited youth from nonclinical settings. Most (98%, 41/42) studies used a time-based sampling protocol. Among these studies, most (95%, 39/41) prompted youth 2-9 times daily, for a study length ranging from 2-42 days. Sampling frequency and study length did not differ between studies with participants from clinical versus nonclinical settings. Most (88%, 36/41) studies with a time-based sampling protocol defined compliance as the proportion of prompts to which participants responded. In these studies, the weighted average compliance rate was 78.3%. The average compliance rates were not different between studies with clinical (76.9%) and nonclinical (79.2%; P=.29) and studies that used only a mobile-EMA platform (77.4%) and mobile platform plus additional wearable devices (73.0%, P=.36). Among clinical studies, the mean compliance rate was significantly lower in studies that prompted participants 2-3 times (73.5%) or 4-5 times (66.9%) compared with studies with a higher sampling frequency (6+ times: 89.3%). Among nonclinical studies, a higher average compliance rate was observed in studies that prompted participants 2-3 times daily (91.7%) compared with those that prompted participants more frequently (4-5 times: 77.4%; 6+ times: 75.0%). The reported compliance rates did not differ by duration of EMA period among studies from either clinical or nonclinical settings. Conclusions: The compliance rate among mobile-EMA studies in youth is moderate but suboptimal. Study design may affect protocol compliance differently between clinical and nonclinical participants; including additional wearable devices did not affect participant compliance. A more consistent compliance-related result reporting practices can facilitate understanding and improvement of participant compliance with EMA data collection among youth. %M 28446418 %R 10.2196/jmir.6641 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/4/e132/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6641 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28446418 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 4 %P e56 %T Clickotine, A Personalized Smartphone App for Smoking Cessation: Initial Evaluation %A Iacoviello,Brian M %A Steinerman,Joshua R %A Klein,David B %A Silver,Theodore L %A Berger,Adam G %A Luo,Sean X %A Schork,Nicholas J %+ Click Therapeutics, Inc., 101 Avenue of the Americas, 8th Floor, New York, NY, 10013, United States, 1 646 844 2158, brian@clicktherapeutics.com %K smoking cessation %K cigarette smoking %K tobacco %K therapeutics %K smartphone %D 2017 %7 25.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Tobacco smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States, and the annual economic burden attributable to smoking exceeds US $300 billion. Obstacles to smoking cessation include limited access and adherence to effective cessation interventions. Technology can help overcome these obstacles; many smartphone apps have been developed to aid smoking cessation, but few that conform to the US clinical practice guideline (USCPG) have been rigorously tested and reported in the literature. Clickotine is a novel smartphone app for smoking cessation, designed to deliver the essential features of the USCPG and engineered to engage smokers by personalizing intervention components. Objective: Our objective was to assess the engagement, efficacy, and safety of Clickotine in an initial, single-arm study. Outcomes measured were indicators of engagement with the smartphone app (number of app opens, number of interactions with the Clickotine program, and weeks active with Clickotine), cessation outcomes of 7- and 30-day self-reported abstinence from smoking, and negative health events. Methods: We recruited US residents between 18 and 65 years of age who owned an iPhone and smoked 5 or more cigarettes daily for the study via online advertising. Respondents were prescreened for eligibility by telephone and, if appropriate, directed to a Web portal to provide informed consent, confirm eligibility, and download the Clickotine app. Participants completed study assessments via the online portal at baseline and after 8 weeks. Data were collected in Amazon S3 with no manual data entry, and access to all data was maximally restrictive, logged, and auditable. Results: A total of 416 participants downloaded the app and constituted the intention-to-treat (ITT) sample. On average, participants opened the Clickotine app 100.6 times during the 8-week study (median 69), logged 214.4 interactions with the Clickotine program (median 178), and remained engaged with Clickotine for 5.3 weeks (median 5). Among the ITT sample, 45.2% (188/416) reported 7-day abstinence and 26.2% (109/416) reported 30-day abstinence from smoking after 8 weeks. Completer analysis focused on 365 (87.7%) of the 416 enrolled participants who completed the 8-week questionnaire revealed that 51.5% (188/365) of completers reported 7-day abstinence and 29.9% (109/365) reported 30-day abstinence. Few adverse events, mostly consistent with nicotine withdrawal symptoms, were reported and overall no safety signal was detected. Conclusions: In this initial single-arm trial, Clickotine users appeared to demonstrate encouraging indicators of engagement in terms of the number of app opens, number of program interactions, and continued engagement over time. Clickotine users reported encouraging quit rates while reporting few adverse events. Future research is warranted to assess Clickotine’s efficacy in a randomized controlled trial. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02656745; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02656745 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6peTT4x60) %M 28442453 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7226 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/4/e56/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7226 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28442453 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 4 %P e58 %T Use of Fitness and Nutrition Apps: Associations With Body Mass Index, Snacking, and Drinking Habits in Adolescents %A De Cock,Nathalie %A Vangeel,Jolien %A Lachat,Carl %A Beullens,Kathleen %A Vervoort,Leentje %A Goossens,Lien %A Maes,Lea %A Deforche,Benedicte %A De Henauw,Stefaan %A Braet,Caroline %A Eggermont,Steven %A Kolsteren,Patrick %A Van Camp,John %A Van Lippevelde,Wendy %+ Food Chemistry and Human Nutrition, Department of Food safety and Food quality, University of Ghent, Coupure links 653, Gent, 9000, Belgium, 32 9 264 58 67, nathalieL.decock@ugent.be %K mhealth %K adolescents %K snacks %K beverages %K body mass index %D 2017 %7 25.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Efforts to improve snacking and drinking habits are needed to promote a healthy body mass index (BMI) in adolescents. Although commercial fitness and nutrition mobile phone apps are widely used, little is known regarding their potential to improve health behaviors, especially in adolescents. In addition, evidence on the mechanisms through which such fitness and nutrition apps influence behavior is lacking. Objectives: This study assessed whether the use of commercial fitness or nutrition apps was associated with a lower BMI and healthier snacking and drinking habits in adolescents. Additionally, it explored if perceived behavioral control to eat healthy; attitudes to eat healthy for the good taste of healthy foods, for overall health or for appearance; social norm on healthy eating and social support to eat healthy mediated the associations between the frequency of use of fitness or nutrition apps and BMI, the healthy snack, and beverage ratio. Methods: Cross-sectional self-reported data on snack and beverage consumption, healthy eating determinants, and fitness and nutrition app use of adolescents (N=889; mean age 14.7 years, SD 0.8; 54.8% [481/878] boys; 18.1% [145/803] overweight) were collected in a representative sample of 20 schools in Flanders, Belgium. Height and weight were measured by the researchers. The healthy snack ratio and the healthy beverage ratio were calculated as follows: gram healthy snacks or beverages/(gram healthy snacks or beverages+gram unhealthy snacks or beverages)×100. Multilevel regression and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the proposed associations and to explore multiple mediation. Results: A total of 27.6% (245/889) of the adolescents used fitness, nutrition apps or both. Frequency of using nutrition apps was positively associated with a higher healthy beverage ratio (b=2.96 [1.11], P=.008) and a higher body mass index z-scores (zBMI; b=0.13 [0.05], P=.008. A significant interaction was found between the frequency of using nutrition and for the zBMI (b=−0.03 [0.02], P=.04) and the healthy snack ratio (b=−0.84 [0.37], P=.03). Attitude to eat healthy for appearance mediated both the fitness app use frequency-zBMI (a × b=0.02 [0.01], P=.02) and the nutrition app use frequency-zBMI (a × b=0.04 [0.01], P=.001) associations. No mediation was observed for the associations between the frequency of use of fitness or nutrition apps and the healthy snack or beverage ratio. Conclusions: Commercial fitness and nutrition apps show some association with healthier eating behaviors and BMI in adolescents. However, effective behavior change techniques should be included to affect key determinants of healthy eating. %M 28442455 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6005 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/4/e58/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6005 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28442455 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 4 %P e63 %T Testing the Feasibility and Usability of a Novel Smartphone-Based Self-Management Support System for Dialysis Patients: A Pilot Study %A Hayashi,Aki %A Yamaguchi,Satoko %A Waki,Kayo %A Fujiu,Katsuhito %A Hanafusa,Norio %A Nishi,Takahiro %A Tomita,Hyoe %A Kobayashi,Haruka %A Fujita,Hideo %A Kadowaki,Takashi %A Nangaku,Masaomi %A Ohe,Kazuhiko %+ Department of Ubiquitous Health Informatics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo,, Japan, 81 3 3815 5411 ext 34462, kwaki-tky@umin.ac.jp %K telemedicine %K mobile phone app %K hemodialysis %K self-management %D 2017 %7 20.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Diet and fluid restrictions that need continuous self-management are among the most difficult aspects of dialysis treatment. Smartphone applications may be useful for supporting self-management. Objective: Our objective is to investigate the feasibility and usability of a novel smartphone-based self-management support system for dialysis patients. Methods: We developed the Self-Management and Recording System for Dialysis (SMART-D), which supports self-monitoring of three mortality-related factors that can be modified by lifestyle: interdialytic weight gain and predialysis serum potassium and phosphorus concentrations. Data is displayed graphically, with all data evaluated automatically to determine whether they achieve the values suggested by the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy guidelines. In a pilot study, 9 dialysis patients used SMART-D system for 2 weeks. A total of 7 of them completed questionnaires rating their assessment of SMART-D’s usability and their satisfaction with the system. In addition, the Kidney Disease Quality of Life scale was compared before and after the study period. Results: All 9 participants were able to use SMART-D with no major problems. Completion rates for body weight, pre- and postdialysis weight, and serum potassium and phosphorus concentrations were, respectively, 89% (SD 23), 95% (SD 7), and 78% (SD 44). Of the 7 participants who completed the usability survey, all were motivated by the sense of security derived from using the system, and 6 of the 7 (86%) reported that using SMART-D helped improve their lifestyle and self-management. Conclusions: Using SMART-D was feasible, and the system was well regarded by patients. Further study with larger scale cohorts and longer study and follow-up periods is needed to evaluate the effects of SMART-D on clinical outcomes and quality of life. %M 28428168 %R 10.2196/resprot.7105 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/4/e63/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.7105 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28428168 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 4 %P e51 %T User Interest in Digital Health Technologies to Encourage Physical Activity: Results of a Survey in Students and Staff of a German University %A Salzwedel,Annett %A Rabe,Sophie %A Zahn,Thomas %A Neuwirth,Julia %A Eichler,Sarah %A Haubold,Kathrin %A Wachholz,Anne %A Reibis,Rona %A Völler,Heinz %+ Center of Rehabilitation Research, University of Potsdam, House 12, Am Neuen Palais 10, Potsdam, 14469, Germany, 49 331 977 4062, heinz.voeller@uni-potsdam.de %K physical activity %K telemedicine %K primary prevention %K healthy lifestyle %D 2017 %7 19.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Although the benefits for health of physical activity (PA) are well documented, the majority of the population is unable to implement present recommendations into daily routine. Mobile health (mHealth) apps could help increase the level of PA. However, this is contingent on the interest of potential users. Objective: The aim of this study was the explorative, nuanced determination of the interest in mHealth apps with respect to PA among students and staff of a university. Methods: We conducted a Web-based survey from June to July 2015 in which students and employees from the University of Potsdam were asked about their activity level, interest in mHealth fitness apps, chronic diseases, and sociodemographic parameters. Results: A total of 1217 students (67.30%, 819/1217; female; 26.0 years [SD 4.9]) and 485 employees (67.5%, 327/485; female; 42.7 years [SD 11.7]) participated in the survey. The recommendation for PA (3 times per week) was not met by 70.1% (340/485) of employees and 52.67% (641/1217) of students. Within these groups, 53.2% (341/641 students) and 44.2% (150/340 employees)—independent of age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and level of education or professional qualification—indicated an interest in mHealth fitness apps. Conclusions: Even in a younger, highly educated population, the majority of respondents reported an insufficient level of PA. About half of them indicated their interest in training support. This suggests that the use of personalized mobile fitness apps may become increasingly significant for a positive change of lifestyle. %M 28428156 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7192 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/4/e51/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7192 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28428156 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 4 %P e45 %T Assessing the Medication Adherence App Marketplace From the Health Professional and Consumer Vantage Points %A Dayer,Lindsey E %A Shilling,Rebecca %A Van Valkenburg,Madalyn %A Martin,Bradley C %A Gubbins,Paul O %A Hadden,Kristie %A Heldenbrand,Seth %+ Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Pharmacy, 4301 W Markham, Little Rock, AR, 72205, United States, 1 501 526 4211, ledayer@uams.edu %K smartphone %K apps %K adherence %K medication %K health literacy %D 2017 %7 19.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Nonadherence produces considerable health consequences and economic burden to patients and payers. One approach to improve medication nonadherence that has gained interest in recent years is the use of smartphone adherence apps. The development of smartphone adherence apps has increased rapidly since 2012; however, literature evaluating the clinical app and effectiveness of smartphone adherence apps to improve medication adherence is generally lacking. Objective: The aims of this study were to (1) provide an updated evaluation and comparison of medication adherence apps in the marketplace by assessing the features, functionality, and health literacy (HL) of the highest-ranking adherence apps and (2) indirectly measure the validity of our rating methodology by determining the relationship between our app evaluations and Web-based consumer ratings. Methods: Two independent reviewers assessed the features and functionality using a 4-domain rating tool of all adherence apps identified based on developer claims. The same reviewers downloaded and tested the 100 highest-ranking apps including an additional domain for assessment of HL. Pearson product correlations were estimated between the consumer ratings and our domain and total scores. Results: A total of 824 adherence apps were identified; of these, 645 unique apps were evaluated after applying exclusion criteria. The median initial score based on descriptions was 14 (max of 68; range 0-60). As a result, 100 of the highest-scoring unique apps underwent user testing. The median overall user-tested score was 31.5 (max of 73; range 0-60). The majority of the user tested the adherence apps that underwent user testing reported a consumer rating score in their respective online marketplace. The mean consumer rating was 3.93 (SD 0.84). The total user-tested score was positively correlated with consumer ratings (r=.1969, P=.04). Conclusions: More adherence apps are available in the Web-based marketplace, and the quality of these apps varies considerably. Consumer ratings are positively but weakly correlated with user-testing scores suggesting that our rating tool has some validity but that consumers and clinicians may assess adherence app quality differently. %M 28428169 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6582 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/4/e45/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6582 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28428169 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 4 %P e125 %T Who Uses Mobile Phone Health Apps and Does Use Matter? A Secondary Data Analytics Approach %A Carroll,Jennifer K %A Moorhead,Anne %A Bond,Raymond %A LeBlanc,William G %A Petrella,Robert J %A Fiscella,Kevin %+ Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado, Mail Stop F496, 12631 E. 17th Ave, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States, 1 303 724 9232, jennifer.2.carroll@ucdenver.edu %K smartphone %K cell phone %K Internet %K mobile applications %K health promotion %K health behavior %D 2017 %7 19.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Mobile phone use and the adoption of healthy lifestyle software apps (“health apps”) are rapidly proliferating. There is limited information on the users of health apps in terms of their social demographic and health characteristics, intentions to change, and actual health behaviors. Objective: The objectives of our study were to (1) to describe the sociodemographic characteristics associated with health app use in a recent US nationally representative sample; (2) to assess the attitudinal and behavioral predictors of the use of health apps for health promotion; and (3) to examine the association between the use of health-related apps and meeting the recommended guidelines for fruit and vegetable intake and physical activity. Methods: Data on users of mobile devices and health apps were analyzed from the National Cancer Institute’s 2015 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS), which was designed to provide nationally representative estimates for health information in the United States and is publicly available on the Internet. We used multivariable logistic regression models to assess sociodemographic predictors of mobile device and health app use and examine the associations between app use, intentions to change behavior, and actual behavioral change for fruit and vegetable consumption, physical activity, and weight loss. Results: From the 3677 total HINTS respondents, older individuals (45-64 years, odds ratio, OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.47-68; 65+ years, OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.14-0.24), males (OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.66-0.94), and having degree (OR 2.83, 95% CI 2.18-3.70) or less than high school education (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.24-0.72) were all significantly associated with a reduced likelihood of having adopted health apps. Similarly, both age and education were significant variables for predicting whether a person had adopted a mobile device, especially if that person was a college graduate (OR 3.30). Individuals with apps were significantly more likely to report intentions to improve fruit (63.8% with apps vs 58.5% without apps, P=.01) and vegetable (74.9% vs 64.3%, P<.01) consumption, physical activity (83.0% vs 65.4%, P<.01), and weight loss (83.4% vs 71.8%, P<.01). Individuals with apps were also more likely to meet recommendations for physical activity compared with those without a device or health apps (56.2% with apps vs 47.8% without apps, P<.01). Conclusions: The main users of health apps were individuals who were younger, had more education, reported excellent health, and had a higher income. Although differences persist for gender, age, and educational attainment, many individual sociodemographic factors are becoming less potent in influencing engagement with mobile devices and health app use. App use was associated with intentions to change diet and physical activity and meeting physical activity recommendations. %M 28428170 %R 10.2196/jmir.5604 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/4/e125/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.5604 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28428170 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 4 %P e50 %T Texting and Mobile Phone App Interventions for Improving Adherence to Preventive Behavior in Adolescents: A Systematic Review %A Badawy,Sherif M %A Kuhns,Lisa M %+ Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplant, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 225 E, Chicago Ave, Box #30, Chicago, IL, 60611, United States, 1 312 227 4836, sbadawy@luriechildrens.org %K adolescent %K text messaging %K smartphone %K mobile phone %K mobile applications %K medication adherence %K behavior %K prevention %D 2017 %7 19.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Many preventable behaviors contribute to adolescent mortality and morbidity. Non-adherence to preventive measures represents a challenge and has been associated with worse health outcomes in this population. The widespread use of electronic communication technologies by adolescents, particularly the use of text messaging (short message service, SMS) and mobile phones, presents new opportunities to intervene on risk and preventive risk behavior, but little is known about their efficacy. Objective: This study aimed to systematically evaluate evidence for the efficacy of text messaging and mobile phone app interventions to improve adherence to preventive behavior among adolescents and describe intervention approaches to inform intervention development. Methods: This review covers literature published between 1995 and 2015. Searches included PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, CINAHL, INSPEC, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and additional databases. The search strategy sought articles on text messaging and mobile phone apps combined with adherence or compliance, and adolescents and youth. An additional hand search of related themes in the Journal of Medical Internet Research was also conducted. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts, assessed full-text articles, and extracted data from articles that met inclusion criteria. Included studies reflect original research—experimental or preexperimental designs with text messaging or mobile phone app interventions—targeting adherence to preventive behavior among adolescents (12-24 years old). The preferred reporting items of systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed for reporting results, and findings were critically appraised against the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine criteria. Results: Of 1454 records, 19 met inclusion criteria, including text messaging (n=15) and mobile phone apps (n=4). Studies targeted clinic attendance, contraceptive use, oral health, physical activity and weight management, sun protection, human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, smoking cessation, and sexual health. Most studies were performed in the United States (47%, 9/19), included younger adolescents (63%, 12/19), and had sample size <100 (63%, 12/19). Although most studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs; 58%, 11/19), only 5 followed an intent-to-treat analysis. Only 6 of 19 studies (32%) incorporated a theoretical framework in their design. Most studies reported good feasibility with high acceptability and satisfaction. About half of the included studies (42%, 8/19) demonstrated significant improvement in preventive behavior with moderate standardized mean differences. As early efforts in this field to establish feasibility and initial efficacy, most studies were low to moderate in quality. Studies varied in sample size and methods of preventive behavior adherence or outcome assessment, which prohibited performing a meta-analysis. Conclusions: Despite the promising feasibility and acceptability of text messaging and mobile phone apps in improving preventive behavior among adolescents, overall findings were modest in terms of efficacy. Further research evaluating the efficacy, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of these intervention approaches in promoting preventive behavior among adolescents is needed. %M 28428157 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6837 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/4/e50/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6837 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28428157 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 4 %P e55 %T A Digital Tool to Promote Alcohol and Drug Use Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment Skill Translation: A Mobile App Development and Randomized Controlled Trial Protocol %A Satre,Derek D %A Ly,Khanh %A Wamsley,Maria %A Curtis,Alexa %A Satterfield,Jason %+ Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry, University of California, 401 Parnassus Avenue, Box 0984, San Francisco, CA, 94143, United States, 1 415 476 7382, Derek.Satre@ucsf.edu %K SBIRT %K mobile app %K digital health %K training, implementation %K alcohol %K drug %K depression %K anxiety %D 2017 %7 18.04.2017 %9 Protocol %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Translation of knowledge and skills from classroom settings to clinical practice is a major challenge in healthcare training, especially for behavioral interventions. For example, screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) is a highly-promoted approach to identifying and treating individuals at risk for alcohol or drug problems, yet effective, routine use of SBIRT has lagged. Objective: The objective of this paper is to describe the development, pilot testing, and trial protocol of a mobile app based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) to promote SBIRT skill translation and application. Methods: Intended for use after classroom training occurs, the mobile app has three primary functions designed to increase behavioral intent to deliver SBIRT: (1) review skills (ie, address knowledge and beliefs about SBIRT), (2) apply skills with patients (ie, build confidence and perceived behavioral control), and (3) report performance data (ie, increase accountability and social norms and/or influence). The app includes depression and anxiety screening tools due to high comorbidity with substance use. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) is in progress among health and social service learners (N=200) recruited from 3 universities and 6 different training programs in nursing, social work, internal medicine, psychiatry, and psychology. Participants are randomized to SBIRT classroom instruction alone or classroom instruction plus app access prior to beginning their field placement rotations. TPB-based data are collected via Qualtrics or via the mobile app pre-post and SBIRT utilization, weekly for 10 weeks. Key outcomes include the frequency of and self-reported confidence in delivery of SBIRT. Results: Beta testing with advanced practice nursing students (N=22) indicated that the app and its associated assessment tools were acceptable and useful. The system usability scale (SUS) mean was 65.8 (n=19), which indicated that the SBIRT app was acceptable but could benefit from improvement. Indeed, modifications were implemented prior to starting the trial. Enrollment of trial participants began in September 2016. Results are expected by December 2017. Conclusions: This report describes the process of TPB-based app development and testing, and the protocol for a RCT to determine the effectiveness of the app in enhancing skill translation. If effective, this approach could improve SBIRT implementation, fidelity, and clinical outcomes. %M 28420604 %R 10.2196/resprot.7070 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/4/e55/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.7070 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28420604 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 4 %P e118 %T Scalable Passive Sleep Monitoring Using Mobile Phones: Opportunities and Obstacles %A Saeb,Sohrab %A Cybulski,Thaddeus R %A Schueller,Stephen M %A Kording,Konrad P %A Mohr,David C %+ Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies, Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr, Rubloff Building, 10th floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, United States, 1 312 503 4626, s-saeb@northwestern.edu %K sleep monitoring %K mobile phones %K decision trees %K classification %D 2017 %7 18.4.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Sleep is a critical aspect of people’s well-being and as such assessing sleep is an important indicator of a person’s health. Traditional methods of sleep assessment are either time- and resource-intensive or suffer from self-reporting biases. Recently, researchers have started to use mobile phones to passively assess sleep in individuals’ daily lives. However, this work remains in its early stages, having only examined relatively small and homogeneous populations in carefully controlled contexts. Thus, it remains an open question as to how well mobile device-based sleep monitoring generalizes to larger populations in typical use cases. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the ability of machine learning algorithms to detect the sleep start and end times for the main sleep period in a 24-h cycle using mobile devices in a diverse sample. Methods: We collected mobile phone sensor data as well as daily self-reported sleep start and end times from 208 individuals (171 females; 37 males), diverse in age (18−66 years; mean 39.3), education, and employment status, across the United States over 6 weeks. Sensor data consisted of geographic location, motion, light, sound, and in-phone activities. No specific instructions were given to the participants regarding phone placement. We used random forest classifiers to develop both personalized and global predictors of sleep state from the phone sensor data. Results: Using all available sensor features, the average accuracy of classifying whether a 10-min segment was reported as sleep was 88.8%. This is somewhat better than using the time of day alone, which gives an average accuracy of 86.9%. The accuracy of the model considerably varied across the participants, ranging from 65.1% to 97.3%. We found that low accuracy in some participants was due to two main factors: missing sensor data and misreports. After correcting for these, the average accuracy increased to 91.8%, corresponding to an average median absolute deviation (MAD) of 38 min for sleep start time detection and 36 min for sleep end time. These numbers are close to the range reported by previous research in more controlled situations. Conclusions: We find that mobile phones provide adequate sleep monitoring in typical use cases, and that our methods generalize well to a broader population than has previously been studied. However, we also observe several types of data artifacts when collecting data in uncontrolled settings. Some of these can be resolved through corrections, but others likely impose a ceiling on the accuracy of sleep prediction for certain subjects. Future research will need to focus more on the understanding of people’s behavior in their natural settings in order to develop sleep monitoring tools that work reliably in all cases for all people. %R 10.2196/jmir.6821 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/4/e118/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6821 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 4 %P e48 %T Design of a Mobile App for Nutrition Education (TreC-LifeStyle) and Formative Evaluation With Families of Overweight Children %A Gabrielli,Silvia %A Dianti,Marco %A Maimone,Rosa %A Betta,Marta %A Filippi,Lorena %A Ghezzi,Monica %A Forti,Stefano %+ Fondazione Bruno Kessler, High Impact Initiative on Health & Wellbeing, Via Sommarive 18, Trento, 38123, Italy, 39 0461 312 477, sgabrielli@fbk.eu %K mHealth %K child %K overweight %K pediatrics %K health behavior %K evaluation studies %D 2017 %7 13.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Nutrition and diet apps represent today a popular area of mobile health (mHealth), offering the possibility of delivering behavior change (BC) interventions for healthy eating and weight management in a scalable and cost-effective way. However, if commercial apps for pediatric weight management fail to retain users because of a lack of theoretical background and evidence-based content, mHealth apps that are more evidence-based are found less engaging and popular among consumers. Approaching the apps development process from a multidisciplinary and user-centered design (UCD) perspective is likely to help overcome these limitations, raising the chances for an easier adoption and integration of nutrition education apps within primary care interventions. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the design and development of the TreC-LifeStyle nutrition education app and the results of a formative evaluation with families. Methods: The design of the nutrition education intervention was based on a multidisciplinary UCD approach, involving a team of BC experts, working with 2 nutritionists and 3 pediatricians from a primary care center. The app content was derived from evidence-based knowledge founded on the Food Pyramid and Mediterranean Diet guidelines used by pediatricians in primary care. A formative evaluation of the TreC-LifeStyle app involved 6 families of overweight children (aged 7-12 years) self-reporting daily food intake of children for 6 weeks and providing feedback on the user experience with the mHealth intervention. Analysis of the app’s usage patterns during the intervention and of participants’ feedback informed the refinement of the app design and a tuning of the nutrition education strategies to improve user engagement and compliance with the intervention. Results: Design sessions with the contribution of pediatricians and nutritionists helped define the nutrition education app and intervention, providing an effective human and virtual coaching approach to raise parents’ awareness about children’s eating behavior and lifestyle. The 6 families participating in the pilot study found the app usable and showed high compliance with the intervention over the 6 weeks, but analysis of their interaction and feedback showed the need for improving some of the app features related to the BC techniques “monitoring of the behavior” and “information provision.” Conclusions: The UCD and formative evaluation of TreC-LifeStyle show that nutrition education apps are feasible and acceptable solutions to support health promotion interventions in primary care. %M 28408361 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7080 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/4/e48/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7080 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28408361 %0 Journal Article %@ 2292-9495 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 2 %P e10 %T Personal Communication Device Use by Nurses Providing In-Patient Care: Survey of Prevalence, Patterns, and Distraction Potential %A McBride,Deborah L %A LeVasseur,Sandra A %+ Samuel Merritt University, 1720 S Amphlett Blvd #300, San Mateo, CA, 94402, United States, 1 510 848 1721, dmcbride@samuelmerritt.edu %K distraction %K mobile devices %K nurses %D 2017 %7 13.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Hum Factors %G English %X Background: Coincident with the proliferation of employer-provided mobile communication devices, personal communication devices, including basic and enhanced mobile phones (smartphones) and tablet computers that are owned by the user, have become ubiquitous among registered nurses working in hospitals. While there are numerous benefits of personal communication device use by nurses at work, little is known about the impact of these devices on in-patient care. Objective: Our aim was to examine how hospital-registered nurses use their personal communication devices while doing both work-related and non‒work-related activities and to assess the impact of these devices on in-patient care. Methods: A previously validated survey was emailed to 14,797 members of two national nursing organizations. Participants were asked about personal communication device use and their opinions about the impact of these devices on their own and their colleagues’ work. Results: Of the 1268 respondents (8.57% response rate), only 5.65% (70/1237) never used their personal communication device at work (excluding lunch and breaks). Respondents self-reported using their personal communication devices at work for work-related activities including checking or sending text messages or emails to health care team members (29.02%, 363/1251), as a calculator (25.34%, 316/1247), and to access work-related medical information (20.13%, 251/1247). Fewer nurses reported using their devices for non‒work-related activities including checking or sending text messages or emails to friends and family (18.75%, 235/1253), shopping (5.14%, 64/1244), or playing games (2.73%, 34/1249). A minority of respondents believe that their personal device use at work had a positive effect on their work including reducing stress (29.88%, 369/1235), benefiting patient care (28.74%, 357/1242), improving coordination of patient care among the health care team (25.34%, 315/1243), or increasing unit teamwork (17.70%, 220/1243). A majority (69.06%, 848/1228) of respondents believe that on average personal communication devices have a more negative than positive impact on patient care and 39.07% (481/1231) reported that personal communication devices were always or often a distraction while working. Respondents acknowledged their own device use negatively affected their work performance (7.56%, 94/1243), or caused them to miss important clinical information (3.83%, 47/1225) or make a medical error (0.90%, 11/1218). Respondents reported witnessing another nurse’s use of devices negatively affect their work performance (69.41%, 860/1239), or cause them to miss important clinical information (30.61%, 378/1235) or make a medical error (12.51%, 155/1239). Younger respondents reported greater device use while at work than older respondents and generally had more positive opinions about the impact of personal communication devices on their work. Conclusions: The majority of registered nurses believe that the use of personal communication devices on hospital units raises significant safety issues. The high rate of respondents who saw colleagues distracted by their devices compared to the rate who acknowledged their own distraction may be an indication that nurses are unaware of their own attention deficits while using their devices. There were clear generational differences in personal communication device use at work and opinions about the impact of these devices on patient care. Professional codes of conduct for personal communication device use by hospital nurses need to be developed that maximize the benefits of personal communication device use, while reducing the potential for distraction and adverse outcomes. %M 28408359 %R 10.2196/humanfactors.5110 %U http://humanfactors.jmir.org/2017/2/e10/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/humanfactors.5110 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28408359 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 4 %P e44 %T Immediate Mood Scaler: Tracking Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety Using a Novel Mobile Mood Scale %A Nahum,Mor %A Van Vleet,Thomas M %A Sohal,Vikaas S %A Mirzabekov,Julie J %A Rao,Vikram R %A Wallace,Deanna L %A Lee,Morgan B %A Dawes,Heather %A Stark-Inbar,Alit %A Jordan,Joshua Thomas %A Biagianti,Bruno %A Merzenich,Michael %A Chang,Edward F %+ Posit Science Corporation, 160 Pine St, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94111, United States, 1 4152692425, mor.nahum@positscience.com %K mood disorders %K mobile %K ecological momentary assessment %K depression %K anxiety %D 2017 %7 12.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mood disorders are dynamic disorders characterized by multimodal symptoms. Clinical assessment of symptoms is currently limited to relatively sparse, routine clinic visits, requiring retrospective recollection of symptoms present in the weeks preceding the visit. Novel advances in mobile tools now support ecological momentary assessment of mood, conducted frequently using mobile devices, outside the clinical setting. Such mood assessment may help circumvent problems associated with infrequent reporting and better characterize the dynamic presentation of mood symptoms, informing the delivery of novel treatment options. Objectives: The aim of our study was to validate the Immediate Mood Scaler (IMS), a newly developed, iPad-deliverable 22-item self-report tool designed to capture current mood states. Methods: A total of 110 individuals completed standardized questionnaires (Patient Health Questionnaire, 9-item [PHQ-9]; generalized anxiety disorder, 7-Item [GAD-7]; and rumination scale) and IMS at baseline. Of the total, 56 completed at least one additional session of IMS, and 17 completed one additional administration of PHQ-9 and GAD-7. We conducted exploratory Principal Axis Factor Analysis to assess dimensionality of IMS, and computed zero-order correlations to investigate associations between IMS and standardized scales. Linear Mixed Model (LMM) was used to assess IMS stability across time and to test predictability of PHQ-9 and GAD-7 score by IMS. Results: Strong correlations were found between standard mood scales and the IMS at baseline (r=.57-.59, P<.001). A factor analysis revealed a 12-item IMS (“IMS-12”) with two factors: a “depression” factor and an “anxiety” factor. IMS-12 depression subscale was more strongly correlated with PHQ-9 than with GAD-7 (z=1.88, P=.03), but the reverse pattern was not found for IMS-12 anxiety subscale. IMS-12 showed less stability over time compared with PHQ-9 and GAD-7 (.65 vs .91), potentially reflecting more sensitivity to mood dynamics. In addition, IMS-12 ratings indicated that individuals with mild to moderate depression had greater mood fluctuations compared with individuals with severe depression (.42 vs .79; P=.04). Finally, IMS-12 significantly contributed to the prediction of subsequent PHQ-9 (beta=1.03, P=.02) and GAD-7 scores (beta =.93, P=.01). Conclusions: Collectively, these data suggest that the 12-item IMS (IMS-12) is a valid tool to assess momentary mood symptoms related to anxiety and depression. Although IMS-12 shows good correlation with standardized scales, it further captures mood fluctuations better and significantly adds to the prediction of the scales. Results are discussed in the context of providing continuous symptom quantification that may inform novel treatment options and support personalized treatment plans. %M 28404542 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6544 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/4/e44/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6544 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28404542 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 4 %P e70 %T Mobile Phone-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia: A Randomized Waitlist Controlled Trial %A Horsch,Corine HG %A Lancee,Jaap %A Griffioen-Both,Fiemke %A Spruit,Sandor %A Fitrianie,Siska %A Neerincx,Mark A %A Beun,Robbert Jan %A Brinkman,Willem-Paul %+ Department of Intelligent Systems, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 4, Delft, 2628 CD, Netherlands, 31 152784145, corinehorsch@gmail.com %K insomnia %K smartphone app %K cognitive behavioral therapy %K eHealth %D 2017 %7 11.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: This study is one of the first randomized controlled trials investigating cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) delivered by a fully automated mobile phone app. Such an app can potentially increase the accessibility of insomnia treatment for the 10% of people who have insomnia. Objective: The objective of our study was to investigate the efficacy of CBT-I delivered via the Sleepcare mobile phone app, compared with a waitlist control group, in a randomized controlled trial. Methods: We recruited participants in the Netherlands with relatively mild insomnia disorder. After answering an online pretest questionnaire, they were randomly assigned to the app (n=74) or the waitlist condition (n=77). The app packaged a sleep diary, a relaxation exercise, sleep restriction exercise, and sleep hygiene and education. The app was fully automated and adjusted itself to a participant’s progress. Program duration was 6 to 7 weeks, after which participants received posttest measurements and a 3-month follow-up. The participants in the waitlist condition received the app after they completed the posttest questionnaire. The measurements consisted of questionnaires and 7-day online diaries. The questionnaires measured insomnia severity, dysfunctional beliefs about sleep, and anxiety and depression symptoms. The diary measured sleep variables such as sleep efficiency. We performed multilevel analyses to study the interaction effects between time and condition. Results: The results showed significant interaction effects (P<.01) favoring the app condition on the primary outcome measures of insomnia severity (d=–0.66) and sleep efficiency (d=0.71). Overall, these improvements were also retained in a 3-month follow-up. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the efficacy of a fully automated mobile phone app in the treatment of relatively mild insomnia. The effects were in the range of what is found for Web-based treatment in general. This supports the applicability of such technical tools in the treatment of insomnia. Future work should examine the generalizability to a more diverse population. Furthermore, the separate components of such an app should be investigated. It remains to be seen how this app can best be integrated into the current health regimens. Trial Registration: Netherlands Trial Register: NTR5560; http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=5560 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6noLaUdJ4) %M 28400355 %R 10.2196/jmir.6524 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/4/e70/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6524 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28400355 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 4 %P e113 %T Young People’s Preferences for an Asthma Self-Management App Highlight Psychological Needs: A Participatory Study %A Peters,Dorian %A Davis,Sharon %A Calvo,Rafael Alejandro %A Sawyer,Susan M %A Smith,Lorraine %A Foster,Juliet M %+ School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Sydney, Bldg J03, Electrical Engineering, Maze Crescent, Sydney, 2006, Australia, 61 0289015604, dorian.peters@sydney.edu.au %K asthma %K mobile applications %K quality of life %K mental health %K adolescents %K chronic disease %K mhealth %K participatory design %D 2017 %7 11.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Although the prevalence of mental illness among young people with asthma is known to be twice the rate of the wider population, none of the asthma apps reported have acknowledged or attempted to include psychological support features. This is perhaps because user involvement in the development of asthma apps has been scarce. User involvement, facilitated by participatory design methods, can begin to address these issues while contributing insights to our understanding of the psychological experience associated with asthma and how technology might improve quality of life. Objective: The goal of this participatory user research study was to explore the experience, needs, and ideas of young people with asthma while allowing them to define requirements for an asthma app that would be engaging and effective at improving their well-being. Methods: Young people aged 15-24 years with doctor-diagnosed asthma were invited to participate in a participatory workshop and to complete a workbook designed to elicit their thoughts and ideas about living with asthma, technology use, and the design of an app. Participants generated a number of artifacts (including collages, concept maps, and paper prototypes) designed to reify their ideas, tacit knowledge, and experience. Results: A total of 20 participants (mean age 17.8 years; 60%, 12/20 female) representing a range from inadequately to well-controlled asthma completed a workbook and 13 of these also took part in a workshop (four workshops were held in total), resulting in 102 participant-generated artifacts. Theoretical thematic analysis resulted in a set of personal needs, feature ideas, and app characteristics considered relevant by young people for an asthma support app. The data revealed that psychological factors such as anxiety, and impediments to autonomy, competence, and relatedness (as consistent with self-determination theory [SDT]), were considered major influences on quality of life by young people with asthma. Furthermore, the incorporation of features pertaining to psychological experience was particularly valued by participants. Conclusions: In addition to practical features for asthma management, an app for young people with asthma should include support for the mental health factors associated with lived experience (ie, anxiety, lack of autonomy, and social disconnectedness). We show how support for these factors can be translated into design features of an app for asthma. In addition to informing the development of asthma-support technologies for young people, these findings could have implications for technologies designed to support people with chronic illness more generally. %M 28400353 %R 10.2196/jmir.6994 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/4/e113/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6994 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28400353 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 4 %P e105 %T The Reviews Are in: A Qualitative Content Analysis of Consumer Perspectives on Apps for Bipolar Disorder %A Nicholas,Jennifer %A Fogarty,Andrea S %A Boydell,Katherine %A Christensen,Helen %+ Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Hospital rd, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, 2031, Australia, 61 293828507, J.nicholas@blackdog.org.au %K mobile applications %K bipolar disorder %K smartphone %K telemedicine %K qualitative research %D 2017 %7 07.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The delivery of mobile health (mHealth) services is acceptable to mental health consumers. However, despite the benefits of accessibility, cost-effectiveness, anonymity, and ability to tailor content to individual needs, consumer engagement remains a hurdle for uptake and continued use. This may be unsurprising as few studies have examined app content from the consumer perspective or assessed consumer preferences for the content of apps for mental health management. An opportunity to examine consumer perspectives exists in using naturally generated data that is publically available in the Google Play and Apple app stores. Whereas commercial developers routinely use this data, to date there has been no in-depth evaluation within scientific research. Objective: The aim of our study was to explore what consumers consider useful content for mental health management apps, identify unmet needs, and understand user expectations of mental health apps within the context of apps for bipolar disorder. Methods: Publically available English language consumer reviews of 48 apps for bipolar disorder were used as data, providing a total of 2173 reviews. Review text was coded and analyzed using a team approach to qualitative content analysis. Results were presented in 2 forms: (1) a quantitative summary of the 9 major and minor themes and (2) a qualitative synthesis of key thematic findings. Results: The majority of reviews were for symptom monitoring apps (87.94%, 1911/2173). The qualitative content analysis revealed 5 main themes: (1) laudatory talk, comments regarding the app’s benefits including helpfulness and successful design features (74.00% of reviews, 1608/2173); (2) unfavorable feedback, negative reviews largely concerning unmet needs, privacy and technical issues, and potential dangers of app use (25.54%, 555/2173); (3) conceptions of community, referring to both communities of users with mental ill-health accessed via the app and a community created among app users and developers (24.25%, 527/2173); (4) wishlist features, app features requested by users (17.53%, 381/2173); and (5) apps and therapy, app use within clinical care (10.58%, 230/2173). Four minor themes were also identified: (1) app cost, (2) privacy and data security, (3) comparisons with traditional monitoring, and (4) evidence-based mHealth. Conclusions: Although mostly positive, the proportion of reviews containing wishlist requests indicates consumer needs are not adequately addressed by currently available disorder management apps. Consumers value content that is helpful, supportive, and easy to use, and they are integrating apps into their health management and clinical care without necessarily considering the evidence-base or clinical effectiveness of the tool. User expectations regarding developer responsiveness to their needs has implications for community-based participatory research and integrated knowledge translation. However, this expectation is incompatible with current mHealth funding structures. %M 28389420 %R 10.2196/jmir.7273 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/4/e105/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7273 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28389420 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 4 %P e101 %T Using Smartphones and Health Apps to Change and Manage Health Behaviors: A Population-Based Survey %A Ernsting,Clemens %A Dombrowski,Stephan U %A Oedekoven,Monika %A O´Sullivan,Julie L %A Kanzler,Melanie %A Kuhlmey,Adelheid %A Gellert,Paul %+ Institute of Medical Sociology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Chariteplatz 1, Berlin,, Germany, 49 30450529215, clemens.ernsting@charite.de %K telemedicine %K eHealth %K mHealth %K smartphone %K mobile apps %K health promotion %K chronic disease %K health literacy %K quality of life %D 2017 %7 05.04.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Chronic conditions are an increasing challenge for individuals and the health care system. Smartphones and health apps are potentially promising tools to change health-related behaviors and manage chronic conditions. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore (1) the extent of smartphone and health app use, (2) sociodemographic, medical, and behavioral correlates of smartphone and health app use, and (3) associations of the use of apps and app characteristics with actual health behaviors. Methods: A population-based survey (N=4144) among Germans, aged 35 years and older, was conducted. Sociodemographics, presence of chronic conditions, health behaviors, quality of life, and health literacy, as well as the use of the Internet, smartphone, and health apps were assessed by questionnaire at home visit. Binary logistic regression models were applied. Results: It was found that 61.25% (2538/4144) of participants used a smartphone. Compared with nonusers, smartphone users were younger, did more research on the Internet, were more likely to work full-time and more likely to have a university degree, engaged more in physical activity, and less in low fat diet, and had a higher health-related quality of life and health literacy. Among smartphone users, 20.53% (521/2538) used health apps. App users were younger, less likely to be native German speakers, did more research on the Internet, were more likely to report chronic conditions, engaged more in physical activity, and low fat diet, and were more health literate compared with nonusers who had a smartphone. Health apps focused on smoking cessation (232/521, 44.5%), healthy diet (201/521, 38.6%), and weight loss (121/521, 23.2%). The most common app characteristics were planning (264/521, 50.7%), reminding (188/521, 36.1%), prompting motivation (179/521 34.4%), and the provision of information (175/521, 33.6%). Significant associations were found between planning and the health behavior physical activity, between feedback or monitoring and physical activity, and between feedback or monitoring and adherence to doctor’s advice. Conclusions: Although there were many smartphone and health app users, a substantial proportion of the population was not engaged. Findings suggest age-related, socioeconomic-related, literacy-related, and health-related disparities in the use of mobile technologies. Health app use may reflect a user’s motivation to change or maintain health behaviors. App developers and researchers should take account of the needs of older people, people with low health literacy, and chronic conditions. %M 28381394 %R 10.2196/jmir.6838 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/4/e101/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6838 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28381394 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 4 %P e49 %T The Impact of Mobile Apps on Alcohol Use Disorder: A Systematic Review Protocol %A Sawares,Antoine SA %A Shen,Nelson %A Xue,Yunlin %A Abi-Jaoude,Alexxa %A Wiljer,David %+ University Health Network, 190 Elizabeth Street, Room 441, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada, 1 416 340 6322, David.wiljer@uhn.ca %K mobile health %K apps %K alcohol use disorder %K systematic review %K protocol %K mental health %K addiction %K alcoholism %D 2017 %7 04.04.2017 %9 Protocol %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is among the most prevalent mental disorders worldwide and is associated with a diverse range of physical and psychological comorbidities. Despite various types of treatment, there are many barriers to accessing treatment (ie, stigma, cost, accessibility of service, etc). Mobile apps have the potential to overcome these barriers and provide support to those who need it. Objective: The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the effectiveness of mobile apps in reducing alcohol consumption for individuals with AUD and understand the psychological outcomes of using the apps (ie, client empowerment, self-efficacy, etc). Methods: The search strategy was applied to 7 health sciences and interdisciplinary databases. Two reviewers will independently assess all titles and abstracts for relevance and then full texts of relevant articles for eligibility. To be included, the article must be a quantitative evaluation of clinical outcomes using the intervention and the intervention must be a consumer-facing app focused on supporting individuals with AUD. Two reviewers will independently extract data from all eligible articles using a standardized extraction worksheet and will independently assess the study quality. A meta-analysis will be conducted if appropriate. Depending on outcomes reported, pooled risk ratios or standardized mean differences will be calculated and reported in the review. Results: The search strategy yielded 699 unique citations. Of those, 63 (9.0%, 63/699) articles were assessed as relevant for full-text review. The full-text reviews are currently underway and the final review is projected to be completed in the summer of 2017. Conclusions: There is potential for mobile apps to support individuals with AUD to reduce their alcohol consumption. This review will be the first to assess the effectiveness of AUD mobile apps and client experiences using the apps. %M 28377366 %R 10.2196/resprot.6975 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/4/e49/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.6975 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28377366 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 3 %P e37 %T Cloudy with a Chance of Pain: Engagement and Subsequent Attrition of Daily Data Entry in a Smartphone Pilot Study Tracking Weather, Disease Severity, and Physical Activity in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis %A Reade,Samuel %A Spencer,Karen %A Sergeant,Jamie C %A Sperrin,Matthew %A Schultz,David M %A Ainsworth,John %A Lakshminarayana,Rashmi %A Hellman,Bruce %A James,Ben %A McBeth,John %A Sanders,Caroline %A Dixon,William G %+ Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Arthritis Research UK Centre for Epidemiology, University of Manchester, Stopford Building,, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT., United Kingdom, 44 161 275 1642, will.dixon@manchester.ac.uk %K smartphone %K mHealth %K attrition %K weather %K arthritis %D 2017 %7 24.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: The increasing ownership of smartphones provides major opportunities for epidemiological research through self-reported and passively collected data. Objective: This pilot study aimed to codesign a smartphone app to assess associations between weather and joint pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to study the success of daily self-reported data entry over a 60-day period and the enablers of and barriers to data collection. Methods: A patient and public involvement group (n=5) and 2 focus groups of patients with RA (n=9) supported the codesign of the app collecting self-reported symptoms. A separate “capture app” was designed to collect global positioning system (GPS) and continuous raw accelerometer data, with the GPS-linking providing local weather data. A total of 20 patients with RA were then recruited to collect daily data for 60 days, with entry and exit interviews. Of these, 17 were loaned an Android smartphone, whereas 3 used their own Android smartphones. Results: Of the 20 patients, 6 (30%) withdrew from the study: 4 because of technical challenges and 2 for health reasons. The mean completion of daily entries was 68% over 2 months. Patients entered data at least five times per week 65% of the time. Reasons for successful engagement included a simple graphical user interface, automated reminders, visualization of data, and eagerness to contribute to this easily understood research question. The main barrier to continuing engagement was impaired battery life due to the accelerometer data capture app. For some, successful engagement required ongoing support in using the smartphones. Conclusions: This successful pilot study has demonstrated that daily data collection using smartphones for health research is feasible and achievable with high levels of ongoing engagement over 2 months. This result opens important opportunities for large-scale longitudinal epidemiological research. %M 28341616 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6496 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/3/e37/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6496 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28341616 %0 Journal Article %@ 2292-9495 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 1 %P e9 %T Design and Usability of a Heart Failure mHealth System: A Pilot Study %A Alnosayan,Nagla %A Chatterjee,Samir %A Alluhaidan,Ala %A Lee,Edward %A Houston Feenstra,Linda %+ IDEA Laboratory, Center for Information Systems and Technology, Claremont Graduate University, 130 East 9th Street, Claremont, CA, 91711, United States, 1 (909) 541 1559, nagla.alnosayan@alumni.cgu.edu %K mHealth %K telehealth %K heart failure %K human factors engineering %K self-management %D 2017 %7 24.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Hum Factors %G English %X Background: Despite the advances in mobile health (mHealth) systems, little is known about patients’ and providers’ experiences using a new mHealth system design. Objective: This study aimed to understand challenges and provide design considerations for a personalized mHealth system that could effectively support heart failure (HF) patients after they transition into the home environment. Methods: Following exploratory interviews with nurses and preventive care physicians, an mHealth system was developed. Patients were asked to measure their weight, blood pressure, and blood glucose (if they had diabetes). They were also instructed to enter symptoms, view notifications, and read messages on a mobile app that we developed. A Bluetooth-enabled weight scale, blood pressure monitor, glucometer, and mobile phone was provided after an introductory orientation and training session. HF nurses used a dashboard to view daily measurements for each patient and received text and email alerts when risk was indicated. Observations of usage, cases of deterioration, readmissions, and metrics related to system usability and quality of life outcomes were used to determine overall effectiveness of the system, whereas focus group sessions with patients were conducted to elicit participants’ feedback on the system’s design. Results: A total of 8 patients with HF participated over a 6-month period. Overall, the mean users’ satisfaction with the system ranked 73%, which was above average. Quality of life improvement was 3.6. Patients and nurses used the system on a regular basis and were able to successfully identify and manage 8 health deteriorations, of which 5 were completely managed remotely. Focus groups revealed that, on one hand, the system was beneficial and helped patients with: recording and tracking readings; receiving encouragement and reassurance from nurses; spotting and solving problems; learning from past experiences; and communication. On the other hand, findings also highlighted design issues and recommendations for future systems such as the need to communicate via other media, personalize symptom questions and messages, integrate other health tracking technologies, and provide additional methods to analyze and visualize their data. Conclusions: Understanding users’ experiences provides important design considerations that could complement existing design recommendations from the literature, and, when combined with physician and nurse requirements, have the potential to yield a feasible telehealth system that is effective in supporting HF self-care. Future studies will include these guidelines and use a larger sample size to validate the outcomes. %M 28341615 %R 10.2196/humanfactors.6481 %U http://humanfactors.jmir.org/2017/1/e9/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/humanfactors.6481 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28341615 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-2529 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 1 %P e3 %T Designing a Mobile Health App for Patients With Dysphagia Following Head and Neck Cancer: A Qualitative Study %A Constantinescu,Gabriela %A Loewen,Irene %A King,Ben %A Brodt,Chris %A Hodgetts,William %A Rieger,Jana %+ Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Alberta, 2-70 Corbett Hall, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6R 3T5, Canada, 1 780 492 4992, jana.rieger@ualberta.ca %K app design %K dysphagia %K games for health %K gamification %K head and neck cancer %K mHealth %K mobile health %K patient adherence %K patient engagement %D 2017 %7 24.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Rehabil Assist Technol %G English %X Background: Adherence to swallowing rehabilitation exercises is important to develop and maintain functional improvement, yet more than half of head and neck cancer (HNC) patients report having difficulty adhering to prescribed regimens. Health apps with game elements have been used in other health domains to motivate and engage patients. Understanding the factors that impact adherence may allow for more effective gamified solutions. Objective: The aim of our study was to (1) identify self-reported factors that influence adherence to conventional home therapy without a mobile device in HNC patients and (2) identify appealing biofeedback designs that could be used in a health app. Methods: A total of 10 (4 females) HNC patients (mean=60.1 years) with experience completing home-based rehabilitation programs were recruited. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews was used to answer the first objective. Convergent interviews were used to obtain reactions to biofeedback designs. Results: Facilitators and barriers of adherence to home therapy were described through 6 themes: patient perceptions on outcomes and progress, clinical appointments, cancer treatment, rehabilitation program, personal factors, and connection. App visuals that provide feedback on performance during swallowing exercises should offer an immediate representation of effort relative to a goal. Simple, intuitive graphics were preferred over complex, abstract ones. Continued engagement with the app could be facilitated by tracking progress and by using visuals that build structures with each use. Conclusions: This is a detailed documentation of the initial steps in designing a health app for a specific patient group. Results revealed the importance of patient engagement in early stages of app development. %M 28582245 %R 10.2196/rehab.6319 %U http://rehab.jmir.org/2017/1/e3/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/rehab.6319 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28582245 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 3 %P e38 %T mHealth for Clinical Decision-Making in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review %A Adepoju,Ibukun-Oluwa Omolade %A Albersen,Bregje Joanna Antonia %A De Brouwere,Vincent %A van Roosmalen,Jos %A Zweekhorst,Marjolein %+ Athena Institute for Research on Innovation and Communication in Health and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1105, WN Building, Room S-544, Amsterdam, 1081HV, Netherlands, 31 205983143, i.o.adepoju@vu.nl %K mHealth %K decision support systems, clinical %K sub-Saharan Africa %K clinical decision-making %D 2017 %7 23.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: In a bid to deliver quality health services in resource-poor settings, mobile health (mHealth) is increasingly being adopted. The role of mHealth in facilitating evidence-based clinical decision-making through data collection, decision algorithms, and evidence-based guidelines, for example, is established in resource-rich settings. However, the extent to which mobile clinical decision support systems (mCDSS) have been adopted specifically in resource-poor settings such as Africa and the lessons learned about their use in such settings are yet to be established. Objective: The aim of this study was to synthesize evidence on the use of mHealth for point-of-care decision support and improved quality of care by health care workers in Africa. Methods: A scoping review of 4 peer-reviewed and 1 grey literature databases was conducted. No date limits were applied, but only articles in English language were selected. Using pre-established criteria, 2 reviewers screened articles and extracted data. Articles were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and MAXQDA. Results: We retained 22 articles representing 11 different studies in 7 sub-Saharan African countries. Interventions were mainly in the domain of maternal health and ranged from simple text messaging (short message service, SMS) to complex multicomponent interventions. Although health workers are generally supportive of mCDSS and perceive them as useful, concerns about increased workload and altered workflow hinder sustainability. Facilitators and barriers to use of mCDSS include technical and infrastructural support, ownership, health system challenges, and training. Conclusions: The use of mCDSS in sub-Saharan Africa is an indication of progress in mHealth, although their effect on quality of service delivery is yet to be fully explored. Lessons learned are useful for informing future research, policy, and practice for technologically supported health care delivery, especially in resource-poor settings. %M 28336504 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7185 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/3/e38/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7185 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28336504 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 3 %P e82 %T Enlight: A Comprehensive Quality and Therapeutic Potential Evaluation Tool for Mobile and Web-Based eHealth Interventions %A Baumel,Amit %A Faber,Keren %A Mathur,Nandita %A Kane,John M %A Muench,Fred %+ Psychiatry Research, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, 75-59 263rd street, Glen Oaks, NY, 11004, United States, 1 7184708267, abaumel@northwell.edu %K eHealth %K mHealth %K assessment %K evaluation %K quality %K persuasive design %K behavior change %K therapeutic alliance %D 2017 %7 21.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Studies of criteria-based assessment tools have demonstrated the feasibility of objectively evaluating eHealth interventions independent of empirical testing. However, current tools have not included some quality constructs associated with intervention outcome, such as persuasive design, behavior change, or therapeutic alliance. In addition, the generalizability of such tools has not been explicitly examined. Objective: The aim is to introduce the development and further analysis of the Enlight suite of measures, developed to incorporate the aforementioned concepts and address generalizability aspects. Methods: As a first step, a comprehensive systematic review was performed to identify relevant quality rating criteria in line with the PRISMA statement. These criteria were then categorized to create Enlight. The second step involved testing Enlight on 42 mobile apps and 42 Web-based programs (delivery mediums) targeting modifiable behaviors related to medical illness or mental health (clinical aims). Results: A total of 476 criteria from 99 identified sources were used to build Enlight. The rating measures were divided into two sections: quality assessments and checklists. Quality assessments included usability, visual design, user engagement, content, therapeutic persuasiveness, therapeutic alliance, and general subjective evaluation. The checklists included credibility, privacy explanation, basic security, and evidence-based program ranking. The quality constructs exhibited excellent interrater reliability (intraclass correlations=.77-.98, median .91) and internal consistency (Cronbach alphas=.83-.90, median .88), with similar results when separated into delivery mediums or clinical aims. Conditional probability analysis revealed that 100% of the programs that received a score of fair or above (≥3.0) in therapeutic persuasiveness or therapeutic alliance received the same range of scores in user engagement and content—a pattern that did not appear in the opposite direction. Preliminary concurrent validity analysis pointed to positive correlations of combined quality scores with selected variables. The combined score that did not include therapeutic persuasiveness and therapeutic alliance descriptively underperformed the other combined scores. Conclusions: This paper provides empirical evidence supporting the importance of persuasive design and therapeutic alliance within the context of a program’s evaluation. Reliability metrics and preliminary concurrent validity analysis indicate the potential of Enlight in examining eHealth programs regardless of delivery mediums and clinical aims. %M 28325712 %R 10.2196/jmir.7270 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/3/e82/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7270 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28325712 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 3 %P e36 %T Investigating the Perceptions of Care Coordinators on Using Behavior Theory-Based Mobile Health Technology With Medicaid Populations: A Grounded Theory Study %A Sigler,Brittany Erika %+ Wellpass (formerly Sense Health), 821 Broadway, floor 5, New York, NY,, United States, 1 917 359 7114, bs2897@caa.columbia.edu %K communication %K health behavior %K Medicaid %K mHealth %K patient engagement %K safety-net providers %K text messaging %D 2017 %7 21.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Medicaid populations are less engaged in their health care than the rest of the population, translating to worse health outcomes and increased health care costs. Since theory-based mobile health (mHealth) interventions have been shown to increase patient engagement, mobile phones may be an optimal strategy to reach this population. With increased development of theory-based mHealth technology, these interventions must now be evaluated with these medically underserved populations in a real-world setting. Objective: The aim of our study was to investigate care coordinators’ perceived value of using a health behavior theory-based mHealth platform with Medicaid clients. In particular, attention was paid to the perceived impact on patient engagement. This research was conducted using the patient-provider text messaging (short message service, SMS) platform, Sense Health (now Wellpass), which integrates the transtheoretical model (TTM), also called the stages of change model; social cognitive theory (SCT); supportive accountability; and motivational interviewing (MI). Methods: Interviews based in grounded theory methodology were conducted with 10 care managers to understand perceptions of the relationship between mHealth and patient engagement. Results: The interviews with care managers yielded a foundation for a grounded theory model, presenting themes that suggested 4 intertwined correlative relationships revolving around patient engagement: (1) A text messaging (short message service, SMS) platform supplements the client-care manager dynamic, which is grounded in high quality, reciprocal-communication to increase patient engagement; (2) Texting enhances the relationship between literacy and access to care for Medicaid patients, increasing low-literacy patients’ agency to access services; (3) Texting enhances communication, providing care managers with a new means to support their clients; and (4) Reminders augment client accountability, leading to both increased motivation and readiness to change behaviors, as well as an improved client-care manager relationship. Conclusions: Messaging platform features tied to health behavior theory appear to be effective in improving patient engagement. Two-way communication (supportive accountability), trusted relationships (supportive accountability, SCT), personalized messages (TTM), and patient input (TTM, SCT, MI) appeared as the most relevant components in achieving desired outcomes. Additionally, reminder messages were noted as especially useful in making Medicaid patients accountable and in turn engaging them in their health and health care. These findings convey suggested elements for inclusion in other mHealth interventions aiming to improve patient engagement in Medicaid populations. %M 28325711 %R 10.2196/mhealth.5892 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/3/e36/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.5892 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28325711 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 3 %P e44 %T Biometrics and Policing: A Protocol for Multichannel Sensor Data Collection and Exploratory Analysis of Contextualized Psychophysiological Response During Law Enforcement Operations %A Furberg,Robert D %A Taniguchi,Travis %A Aagaard,Brian %A Ortiz,Alexa M %A Hegarty-Craver,Meghan %A Gilchrist,Kristin H %A Ridenour,Ty A %+ Digital Health & Clinical Informatics, RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Rd, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, United States, 1 919 316 3726, rfurberg@rti.org %K psychophysiology %K law enforcement %K sensor, wearable %K clinical trial %K digital health %D 2017 %7 17.03.2017 %9 Protocol %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Stress experienced by law enforcement officers is often extreme and is in many ways unique among professions. Although past research on officer stress is informative, it is limited, and most studies measure stress using self-report questionnaires or observational studies that have limited generalizability. We know of no research studies that have attempted to track direct physiological stress responses in high fidelity, especially within an operational police setting. The outcome of this project will have an impact on both practitioners and policing researchers. To do so, we will establish a capacity to obtain complex, multisensor data; process complex datasets; and establish the methods needed to conduct idiopathic clinical trials on behavioral interventions in similar contexts. Objective: The objective of this pilot study is to demonstrate the practicality and utility of wrist-worn biometric sensor-based research in a law enforcement agency. Methods: We will use nonprobability convenience-based sampling to recruit 2-3 participants from the police department in Durham, North Carolina, USA. Results: Data collection was conducted in 2016. We will analyze data in early 2017 and disseminate our results via peer reviewed publications in late 2017. Conclusions: We developed the Biometrics & Policing Demonstration project to provide a proof of concept on collecting biometric data in a law enforcement setting. This effort will enable us to (1) address the regulatory approvals needed to collect data, including human participant considerations, (2) demonstrate the ability to use biometric tracking technology in a policing setting, (3) link biometric data to law enforcement data, and (4) explore project results for law enforcement policy and training. %M 28314707 %R 10.2196/resprot.7499 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/3/e44/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.7499 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28314707 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 3 %P e34 %T Estimating Accuracy at Exercise Intensities: A Comparative Study of Self-Monitoring Heart Rate and Physical Activity Wearable Devices %A Dooley,Erin E %A Golaszewski,Natalie M %A Bartholomew,John B %+ Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, University of Texas at Austin, UT Mail Code: D3700 2109 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX, 78712-1415, United States, 1 512 232 6021, jbart@austin.utexas.edu %K motor activity %K physical exertion %K exercise %K monitoring, physiologic %K energy metabolism %K heart rate %K photoplethysmography %D 2017 %7 16.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Physical activity tracking wearable devices have emerged as an increasingly popular method for consumers to assess their daily activity and calories expended. However, whether these wearable devices are valid at different levels of exercise intensity is unknown. Objective: The objective of this study was to examine heart rate (HR) and energy expenditure (EE) validity of 3 popular wrist-worn activity monitors at different exercise intensities. Methods: A total of 62 participants (females: 58%, 36/62; nonwhite: 47% [13/62 Hispanic, 8/62 Asian, 7/62 black/ African American, 1/62 other]) wore the Apple Watch, Fitbit Charge HR, and Garmin Forerunner 225. Validity was assessed using 2 criterion devices: HR chest strap and a metabolic cart. Participants completed a 10-minute seated baseline assessment; separate 4-minute stages of light-, moderate-, and vigorous-intensity treadmill exercises; and a 10-minute seated recovery period. Data from devices were compared with each criterion via two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance and Bland-Altman analysis. Differences are expressed in mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). Results: For the Apple Watch, HR MAPE was between 1.14% and 6.70%. HR was not significantly different at the start (P=.78), during baseline (P=.76), or vigorous intensity (P=.84); lower HR readings were measured during light intensity (P=.03), moderate intensity (P=.001), and recovery (P=.004). EE MAPE was between 14.07% and 210.84%. The device measured higher EE at all stages (P<.01). For the Fitbit device, the HR MAPE was between 2.38% and 16.99%. HR was not significantly different at the start (P=.67) or during moderate intensity (P=.34); lower HR readings were measured during baseline, vigorous intensity, and recovery (P<.001) and higher HR during light intensity (P<.001). EE MAPE was between 16.85% and 84.98%. The device measured higher EE at baseline (P=.003), light intensity (P<.001), and moderate intensity (P=.001). EE was not significantly different at vigorous (P=.70) or recovery (P=.10). For Garmin Forerunner 225, HR MAPE was between 7.87% and 24.38%. HR was not significantly different at vigorous intensity (P=.35). The device measured higher HR readings at start, baseline, light intensity, moderate intensity (P<.001), and recovery (P=.04). EE MAPE was between 30.77% and 155.05%. The device measured higher EE at all stages (P<.001). Conclusions: This study provides one of the first validation assessments for the Fitbit Charge HR, Apple Watch, and Garmin Forerunner 225. An advantage and novel approach of the study is the examination of HR and EE at specific physical activity intensities. Establishing validity of wearable devices is of particular interest as these devices are being used in weight loss interventions and could impact findings. Future research should investigate why differences between exercise intensities and the devices exist. %M 28302596 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7043 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/3/e34/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7043 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28302596 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 3 %P e32 %T mHealth Interventions for Health System Strengthening in China: A Systematic Review %A Tian,Maoyi %A Zhang,Jing %A Luo,Rong %A Chen,Shi %A Petrovic,Djordje %A Redfern,Julie %A Xu,Dong Roman %A Patel,Anushka %+ The George Institute for Global Health at Peking University Health Science Center, Suite 1801, Tower B, Horizon Tower, 6 Zhichun Road, Beijing, 100088, China, 86 1082800577 ext 303, mtian@georgeinstitute.org.cn %K mHealth %K China %K health care systems %D 2017 %7 16.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: With rapidly expanding infrastructure in China, mobile technology has been deemed to have the potential to revolutionize health care delivery. There is particular promise for mobile health (mHealth) to positively influence health system reform and confront the new challenges of chronic diseases. Objective: The aim of this study was to systematically review existing mHealth initiatives in China, characterize them, and examine the extent to which mHealth contributes toward the health system strengthening in China. Furthermore, we also aimed to identify gaps in mHealth development and evaluation. Methods: We systematically reviewed the literature from English and Chinese electronic database and trial registries, including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, China National Knowledge of Infrastructure (CNKI), and World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. We used the English keywords of mHealth, eHealth, telemedicine, telehealth, mobile phone, cell phone, text messaging, and China, as well as their corresponding Chinese keywords. All articles using mobile technology for health care management were included in the study. Results: A total of 1704 articles were found using the search terms, and eventually 72 were included. Overall, few high quality interventions were identified. Most interventions were found to be insufficient in scope, and their evaluation was of inadequate rigor to generate scalable solutions and provide reliable evidence of effectiveness. Most interventions focused on text messaging for consumer education and behavior change. There were a limited number of interventions that addressed health information management, health workforce issues, use of medicines and technologies, or leadership and governance from a health system perspective. Conclusions: We provide four recommendations for future mHealth interventions in China that include the need for the development, evaluation and trials examining integrated mHealth interventions to guide the development of future mHealth interventions, target disadvantaged populations with mHealth interventions, and generate appropriate evidence for scalable and sustainable models of care. %M 28302597 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6889 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/3/e32/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6889 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28302597 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 3 %P e75 %T Behavioral Indicators on a Mobile Sensing Platform Predict Clinically Validated Psychiatric Symptoms of Mood and Anxiety Disorders %A Place,Skyler %A Blanch-Hartigan,Danielle %A Rubin,Channah %A Gorrostieta,Cristina %A Mead,Caroline %A Kane,John %A Marx,Brian P %A Feast,Joshua %A Deckersbach,Thilo %A Pentland,Alex “Sandy” %A Nierenberg,Andrew %A Azarbayejani,Ali %+ Department of Natural and Applied Sciences, Bentley University, 175 Forest Street, 106 Jennison, Waltham, MA, 02452, United States, 1 7818912066, danielleblanch@gmail.com %K mHealth %K post-traumatic stress disorders %K depression %K behavioral symptoms %D 2017 %7 16.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: There is a critical need for real-time tracking of behavioral indicators of mental disorders. Mobile sensing platforms that objectively and noninvasively collect, store, and analyze behavioral indicators have not yet been clinically validated or scalable. Objective: The aim of our study was to report on models of clinical symptoms for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression derived from a scalable mobile sensing platform. Methods: A total of 73 participants (67% [49/73] male, 48% [35/73] non-Hispanic white, 33% [24/73] veteran status) who reported at least one symptom of PTSD or depression completed a 12-week field trial. Behavioral indicators were collected through the noninvasive mobile sensing platform on participants’ mobile phones. Clinical symptoms were measured through validated clinical interviews with a licensed clinical social worker. A combination hypothesis and data-driven approach was used to derive key features for modeling symptoms, including the sum of outgoing calls, count of unique numbers texted, absolute distance traveled, dynamic variation of the voice, speaking rate, and voice quality. Participants also reported ease of use and data sharing concerns. Results: Behavioral indicators predicted clinically assessed symptoms of depression and PTSD (cross-validated area under the curve [AUC] for depressed mood=.74, fatigue=.56, interest in activities=.75, and social connectedness=.83). Participants reported comfort sharing individual data with physicians (Mean 3.08, SD 1.22), mental health providers (Mean 3.25, SD 1.39), and medical researchers (Mean 3.03, SD 1.36). Conclusions: Behavioral indicators passively collected through a mobile sensing platform predicted symptoms of depression and PTSD. The use of mobile sensing platforms can provide clinically validated behavioral indicators in real time; however, further validation of these models and this platform in large clinical samples is needed. %M 28302595 %R 10.2196/jmir.6678 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/3/e75/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6678 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28302595 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 3 %P e77 %T Ecological Momentary Assessment in Behavioral Research: Addressing Technological and Human Participant Challenges %A Burke,Lora E %A Shiffman,Saul %A Music,Edvin %A Styn,Mindi A %A Kriska,Andrea %A Smailagic,Asim %A Siewiorek,Daniel %A Ewing,Linda J %A Chasens,Eileen %A French,Brian %A Mancino,Juliet %A Mendez,Dara %A Strollo,Patrick %A Rathbun,Stephen L %+ Department of Health & Community Systems, University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing, 415 Victoria Building, 3500 Victoria Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, United States, 1 412 624 2305, lbu100@pitt.edu %K ecological momentary assessment %K relapse %K obesity %K smartphone %K eating behavior %K adherence %D 2017 %7 15.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) assesses individuals’ current experiences, behaviors, and moods as they occur in real time and in their natural environment. EMA studies, particularly those of longer duration, are complex and require an infrastructure to support the data flow and monitoring of EMA completion. Objective: Our objective is to provide a practical guide to developing and implementing an EMA study, with a focus on the methods and logistics of conducting such a study. Methods: The EMPOWER study was a 12-month study that used EMA to examine the triggers of lapses and relapse following intentional weight loss. We report on several studies that informed the implementation of the EMPOWER study: (1) a series of pilot studies, (2) the EMPOWER study’s infrastructure, (3) training of study participants in use of smartphones and the EMA protocol and, (4) strategies used to enhance adherence to completing EMA surveys. Results: The study enrolled 151 adults and had 87.4% (132/151) retention rate at 12 months. Our learning experiences in the development of the infrastructure to support EMA assessments for the 12-month study spanned several topic areas. Included were the optimal frequency of EMA prompts to maximize data collection without overburdening participants; the timing and scheduling of EMA prompts; technological lessons to support a longitudinal study, such as proper communication between the Android smartphone, the Web server, and the database server; and use of a phone that provided access to the system’s functionality for EMA data collection to avoid loss of data and minimize the impact of loss of network connectivity. These were especially important in a 1-year study with participants who might travel. It also protected the data collection from any server-side failure. Regular monitoring of participants’ response to EMA prompts was critical, so we built in incentives to enhance completion of EMA surveys. During the first 6 months of the 12-month study interval, adherence to completing EMA surveys was high, with 88.3% (66,978/75,888) completion of random assessments and around 90% (23,411/25,929 and 23,343/26,010) completion of time-contingent assessments, despite the duration of EMA data collection and challenges with implementation. Conclusions: This work informed us of the necessary preliminary steps to plan and prepare a longitudinal study using smartphone technology and the critical elements to ensure participant engagement in the potentially burdensome protocol, which spanned 12 months. While this was a technology-supported and -programmed study, it required close oversight to ensure all elements were functioning correctly, particularly once human participants became involved. %M 28298264 %R 10.2196/jmir.7138 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/3/e77/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7138 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28298264 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 3 %P e35 %T Mobile App-Based Interventions to Support Diabetes Self-Management: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials to Identify Functions Associated with Glycemic Efficacy %A Wu,Yuan %A Yao,Xun %A Vespasiani,Giacomo %A Nicolucci,Antonio %A Dong,Yajie %A Kwong,Joey %A Li,Ling %A Sun,Xin %A Tian,Haoming %A Li,Sheyu %+ Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 37# Guoxue Road, Wuhou District, Chengdu, 610041, China, 86 13194874843, lisheyu@gmail.com %K mobile health %K mHealth %K mobile applications %K mobile apps %K diabetes mellitus %K classification %D 2017 %7 14.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Mobile health apps for diabetes self-management have different functions. However, the efficacy and safety of each function are not well studied, and no classification is available for these functions. Objective: The aims of this study were to (1) develop and validate a taxonomy of apps for diabetes self-management, (2) investigate the glycemic efficacy of mobile app-based interventions among adults with diabetes in a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and (3) explore the contribution of different function to the effectiveness of entire app-based interventions using the taxonomy. Methods: We developed a 3-axis taxonomy with columns of clinical modules, rows of functional modules and cells of functions with risk assessments. This taxonomy was validated by reviewing and classifying commercially available diabetes apps. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, and ClinicalTrials.gov from January 2007 to May 2016. We included RCTs of adult outpatients with diabetes that compared using mobile app-based interventions with usual care alone. The mean differences (MDs) in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) concentrations and risk ratios of adverse events were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis. After taxonomic classification, we performed exploratory subgroup analyses of the presence or absence of each module across the included app-based interventions. Results: Across 12 included trials involving 974 participants, using app-based interventions was associated with a clinically significant reduction of HbA1c (MD 0.48%, 95% CI 0.19%-0.78%) without excess adverse events. Larger HbA1c reductions were noted among patients with type 2 diabetes than those with type 1 diabetes (MD 0.67%, 95% CI 0.30%-1.03% vs MD 0.37%, 95% CI –0.12%-0.86%). Having a complication prevention module in app-based interventions was associated with a greater HbA1c reduction (with complication prevention: MD 1.31%, 95% CI 0.66%-1.96% vs without: MD 0.38%, 95% CI 0.09%-0.67%; intersubgroup P=.01), as was having a structured display (with structured display: MD 0.69%, 95% CI 0.32%-1.06% vs without: MD 0.69%, 95% CI –0.18%-0.53%; intersubgroup P=.03). However, having a clinical decision-making function was not associated with a larger HbA1c reduction (with clinical decision making: MD 0.19%, 95% CI –0.24%-0.63% vs without: MD 0.61%, 95% CI 0.27%-0.95%; intersubgroup P=.14). Conclusions: The use of mobile app-based interventions yields a clinically significant HbA1c reduction among adult outpatients with diabetes, especially among those with type 2 diabetes. Our study suggests that the clinical decision-making function needs further improvement and evaluation before being added to apps. %M 28292740 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6522 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/3/e35/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6522 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28292740 %0 Journal Article %@ 2561-1011 %I JMIR Publications %V 1 %N 1 %P e1 %T Bioimpedance-Based Heart Failure Deterioration Prediction Using a Prototype Fluid Accumulation Vest-Mobile Phone Dyad: An Observational Study %A Darling,Chad Eric %A Dovancescu,Silviu %A Saczynski,Jane S %A Riistama,Jarno %A Sert Kuniyoshi,Fatima %A Rock,Joseph %A Meyer,Theo E %A McManus,David D %+ UMass Memorial Health Care, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA, 01655, United States, 1 508 421 1464, chad.darling@umassmed.edu %K telemedicine %K outpatient monitoring %K heart failure %K electric impedance %D 2017 %7 13.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Cardio %G English %X Background: Recurrent heart failure (HF) events are common in patients discharged after acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). New patient-centered technologies are needed to aid in detecting HF decompensation. Transthoracic bioimpedance noninvasively measures pulmonary fluid retention. Objective: The objectives of our study were to (1) determine whether transthoracic bioimpedance can be measured daily with a novel, noninvasive, wearable fluid accumulation vest (FAV) and transmitted using a mobile phone and (2) establish whether an automated algorithm analyzing daily thoracic bioimpedance values would predict recurrent HF events. Methods: We prospectively enrolled patients admitted for ADHF. Participants were trained to use a FAV–mobile phone dyad and asked to transmit bioimpedance measurements for 45 consecutive days. We examined the performance of an algorithm analyzing changes in transthoracic bioimpedance as a predictor of HF events (HF readmission, diuretic uptitration) over a 75-day follow-up. Results: We observed 64 HF events (18 HF readmissions and 46 diuretic uptitrations) in the 106 participants (67 years; 63.2%, 67/106, male; 48.1%, 51/106, with prior HF) who completed follow-up. History of HF was the only clinical or laboratory factor related to recurrent HF events (P=.04). Among study participants with sufficient FAV data (n=57), an algorithm analyzing thoracic bioimpedance showed 87% sensitivity (95% CI 82-92), 70% specificity (95% CI 68-72), and 72% accuracy (95% CI 70-74) for identifying recurrent HF events. Conclusions: Patients discharged after ADHF can measure and transmit daily transthoracic bioimpedance using a FAV–mobile phone dyad. Algorithms analyzing thoracic bioimpedance may help identify patients at risk for recurrent HF events after hospital discharge. %R 10.2196/cardio.6057 %U http://cardio.jmir.org/2017/1/e1/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/cardio.6057 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 3 %P e66 %T Mobile Device–Based Electronic Data Capture System Used in a Clinical Randomized Controlled Trial: Advantages and Challenges %A Zhang,Jing %A Sun,Lei %A Liu,Yu %A Wang,Hongyi %A Sun,Ningling %A Zhang,Puhong %+ The George Institute for Global Health at Peking University Health Science Center, Level 18, Tower B, Horizon Tower, No. 6 Zhichun Rd Haidian District | Beijing, 100088 P.R. China, Beijing,, China, 86 1082800577 ext 512, zpuhong@georgeinstitute.org.cn %K mEDC %K electronic data capture %K mobile data capture %K mhealth %K randomized controlled trial %K clinical research %D 2017 %7 08.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Electronic data capture (EDC) systems have been widely used in clinical research, but mobile device–based electronic data capture (mEDC) system has not been well evaluated. Objective: The aim of our study was to evaluate the feasibility, advantages, and challenges of mEDC in data collection, project management, and telemonitoring in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Methods: We developed an mEDC to support an RCT called “Telmisartan and Hydrochlorothiazide Antihypertensive Treatment (THAT)” study, which was a multicenter, double-blinded, RCT, with the purpose of comparing the efficacy of telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) monotherapy in high-sodium-intake patients with mild to moderate hypertension during a 60 days follow-up. Semistructured interviews were conducted during and after the trial to evaluate the feasibility, advantage, and challenge of mEDC. Nvivo version 9.0 (QSR International) was used to analyze records of interviews, and a thematic framework method was used to obtain outcomes. Results: The mEDC was successfully used to support the data collection and project management in all the 14 study hospitals. A total of 1333 patients were recruited with support of mEDC, of whom 1037 successfully completed all 4 visits. Across all visits, the average time needed for 141 questions per patient was 53 min, which were acceptable to both doctors and patients. All the interviewees, including 24 doctors, 53 patients, 1 clinical research associate (CRA), 1 project manager (PM), and 1 data manager (DM), expressed their satisfaction to nearly all the functions of the innovative mEDC in randomization, data collection, project management, quality control, and remote monitoring in real time. The average satisfaction score was 9.2 (scale, 0-10). The biggest challenge came from the stability of the mobile or Wi-Fi signal although it was not a problem in THAT study. Conclusions: The innovative mEDC has many merits and is well acceptable in supporting data collection and project management in a timely manner in clinical trial. %M 28274907 %R 10.2196/jmir.6978 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/3/e66/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6978 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28274907 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 3 %P e68 %T Evaluating the Consistency of Current Mainstream Wearable Devices in Health Monitoring: A Comparison Under Free-Living Conditions %A Wen,Dong %A Zhang,Xingting %A Liu,Xingyu %A Lei,Jianbo %+ Center for Medical Informatics, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Rd., Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China, 86 (10) 8280 5901, jblei@hsc.pku.edu.cn %K fitness trackers %K monitoring, physiologic %K motor activity %K activities of daily living %K health status %D 2017 %7 07.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Wearable devices are gaining increasing market attention; however, the monitoring accuracy and consistency of the devices remains unknown. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the consistency of the monitoring measurements of the latest wearable devices in the state of normal activities to provide advice to the industry and support to consumers in making purchasing choices. Methods: Ten pieces of representative wearable devices (2 smart watches, 4 smart bracelets of Chinese brands or foreign brands, and 4 mobile phone apps) were selected, and 5 subjects were employed to simultaneously use all the devices and the apps. From these devices, intact health monitoring data were acquired for 5 consecutive days and analyzed on the degree of differences and the relationships of the monitoring measurements ​​by the different devices. Results: The daily measurements by the different devices fluctuated greatly, and the coefficient of variation (CV) fluctuated in the range of 2-38% for the number of steps, 5-30% for distance, 19-112% for activity duration, .1-17% for total energy expenditure (EE), 22-100% for activity EE, 2-44% for sleep duration, and 35-117% for deep sleep duration. After integrating the measurement data of 25 days among the devices, the measurements of the number of steps (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC=.89) and distance (ICC=.84) displayed excellent consistencies, followed by those of activity duration (ICC=.59) and the total EE (ICC=.59) and activity EE (ICC=.57). However, the measurements for sleep duration (ICC=.30) and deep sleep duration (ICC=.27) were poor. For most devices, there was a strong correlation between the number of steps and distance measurements (R2>.95), and for some devices, there was a strong correlation between activity duration measurements and EE measurements (R2>.7). A strong correlation was observed in the measurements of steps, distance and EE from smart watches and mobile phones of the same brand, Apple or Samsung (r>.88). Conclusions: Although wearable devices are developing rapidly, the current mainstream devices are only reliable in measuring the number of steps and distance, which can be used as health assessment indicators. However, the measurement consistencies of activity duration, EE, sleep quality, and so on, are still inadequate, which require further investigation and improved algorithms. %M 28270382 %R 10.2196/jmir.6874 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/3/e68/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6874 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28270382 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 3 %P e67 %T Assessing the Quality of Mobile Exercise Apps Based on the American College of Sports Medicine Guidelines: A Reliable and Valid Scoring Instrument %A Guo,Yi %A Bian,Jiang %A Leavitt,Trevor %A Vincent,Heather K %A Vander Zalm,Lindsey %A Teurlings,Tyler L %A Smith,Megan D %A Modave,François %+ Department of Health Outcomes and Policy, University of Florida, 2004 Mowry Road, Suite 2251 PO Box 100165, Gainesville, FL, 32610, United States, 1 352 294 5969, yiguo@ufl.edu %K mHealth %K mobile apps %K physical activity %K measures %D 2017 %7 07.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Regular physical activity can not only help with weight management, but also lower cardiovascular risks, cancer rates, and chronic disease burden. Yet, only approximately 20% of Americans currently meet the physical activity guidelines recommended by the US Department of Health and Human Services. With the rapid development of mobile technologies, mobile apps have the potential to improve participation rates in exercise programs, particularly if they are evidence-based and are of sufficient content quality. Objective: The goal of this study was to develop and test an instrument, which was designed to score the content quality of exercise program apps with respect to the exercise guidelines set forth by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). Methods: We conducted two focus groups (N=14) to elicit input for developing a preliminary 27-item scoring instruments based on the ACSM exercise prescription guidelines. Three reviewers who were no sports medicine experts independently scored 28 exercise program apps using the instrument. Inter- and intra-rater reliability was assessed among the 3 reviewers. An expert reviewer, a Fellow of the ACSM, also scored the 28 apps to create criterion scores. Criterion validity was assessed by comparing nonexpert reviewers’ scores to the criterion scores. Results: Overall, inter- and intra-rater reliability was high with most coefficients being greater than .7. Inter-rater reliability coefficients ranged from .59 to .99, and intra-rater reliability coefficients ranged from .47 to 1.00. All reliability coefficients were statistically significant. Criterion validity was found to be excellent, with the weighted kappa statistics ranging from .67 to .99, indicating a substantial agreement between the scores of expert and nonexpert reviewers. Finally, all apps scored poorly against the ACSM exercise prescription guidelines. None of the apps received a score greater than 35, out of a possible maximal score of 70. Conclusions: We have developed and presented valid and reliable scoring instruments for exercise program apps. Our instrument may be useful for consumers and health care providers who are looking for apps that provide safe, progressive general exercise programs for health and fitness. %M 28270378 %R 10.2196/jmir.6976 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/3/e67/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6976 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28270378 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 3 %P e27 %T Development and Testing of a Mobile Phone App for Self-Monitoring of Calcium Intake in Young Women %A Tay,Ilona %A Garland,Suzanne %A Gorelik,Alexandra %A Wark,John Dennis %+ Royal Melbourne Hospital, Bone and Mineral Medicine, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia, 61 3 83445201, jdwark@unimelb.edu.au %K behavior therapy %K cell phones %K health behavior %K primary prevention %K self care %K telemedicine %D 2017 %7 07.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Interventions to prevent osteoporosis by increasing dairy intake or physical activity in young women have been limited to increasing osteoporosis knowledge and awareness. However, findings have shown that this does not always lead to a change in behaviors. Self-monitoring using mobile devices in behavioral interventions has yielded significant and positive outcomes. Yet, to our knowledge, mobile self-monitoring has not been used as an intervention strategy to increase calcium intake, particularly in young women, for better bone health outcomes. Objective: As development and testing of mobile app–based interventions requires a sequence of steps, our study focused on testing the acceptability and usability of Calci-app, a dietary app to self-monitor calcium consumption, before it is used in a behavioral change intervention in young women aged 18-25 years. Methods: Calci-app development followed 4 steps: (1) conceptualization, (2) development and pretesting, (3) pilot testing, and (4) mixed methods evaluation. Results: We present the development process of Calci-app and evaluation of the acceptability and usability of the app in young women. Overall, 78% (31/40) of study participants completed the 5-day food record with high compliance levels (defined as more than 3 days of full or partial completion). There was a significant reduction in the proportion of participants completing all meal entries over the 5 days (P=.01). Participants generally found Calci-app easy and convenient to use, but it was time-consuming and they expressed a lack of motivation to use the app. Conclusions: We present a detailed description of the development process of Calci-app and an evaluation of its usability and acceptability to self-monitor dietary calcium intake. The findings from this preliminary study demonstrated acceptable use of Calci-app to self-monitor calcium consumption. However, for regular and long-term use the self-monitoring function in Calci-app could be expanded to allow participants to view their total daily calcium intake compared with the recommended daily intake. Additionally, to facilitate sustainable lifestyle behavior modifications, a combination of various behavior change techniques should be considered, such as education, goal setting, and advice to participants based on their stage of change. The feedback on barriers and facilitators from testing Calci-app will be used to design a bone health mHealth intervention to modify risky lifestyle behaviors in young women for better bone health outcomes. %M 28270379 %R 10.2196/mhealth.5717 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/3/e27/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.5717 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28270379 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 3 %P e28 %T Feasibility and Acceptability of a Wearable Technology Physical Activity Intervention With Telephone Counseling for Mid-Aged and Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial %A Lyons,Elizabeth J %A Swartz,Maria C %A Lewis,Zakkoyya H %A Martinez,Eloisa %A Jennings,Kristofer %+ Department of Nutrition and Metabolism, The University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555, United States, 1 4097722575, ellyons@utmb.edu %K physical activity %K technology %K mobile health %K health behavior %K self-control %D 2017 %7 06.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: As adults age, their physical activity decreases and sedentary behavior increases, leading to increased risk of negative health outcomes. Wearable electronic activity monitors have shown promise for delivering effective behavior change techniques. However, little is known about the feasibility and acceptability of non-Fitbit wearables (Fitbit, Inc, San Francisco, California) combined with telephone counseling among adults aged more than 55 years. Objective: The purpose of our study was to determine the feasibility, acceptability, and effect on physical activity of an intervention combining a wearable physical activity monitor, tablet device, and telephone counseling among adults aged 55-79 years. Methods: Adults (N=40, aged 55-79 years, body mass index=25-35, <60 min of activity per week) were randomized to receive a 12-week intervention or to a wait list control. Intervention participants received a Jawbone Up24 monitor, a tablet with the Jawbone Up app installed, and brief weekly telephone counseling. Participants set daily and weekly step goals and used the monitor’s idle alert to notify them when they were sedentary for more than 1 h. Interventionists provided brief counseling once per week by telephone. Feasibility was measured using observation and study records, and acceptability was measured by self-report using validated items. Physical activity and sedentary time were measured using ActivPAL monitors following standard protocols. Body composition was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scans, and fitness was measured using a 6-min walk test. Results: Participants were 61.48 years old (SD 5.60), 85% (34/40) female, 65% (26/40) white. Average activity monitor wear time was 81.85 (SD 3.73) of 90 days. Of the 20 Up24 monitors, 5 were reported broken and 1 lost. No related adverse events were reported. Acceptability items were rated at least 4 on a scale of 1-5. Effect sizes for most outcomes were small, including stepping time per day (d=0.35), steps per day (d=0.26), sitting time per day (d=0.21), body fat (d=0.17), and weight (d=0.33). Conclusions: The intervention was feasible and acceptable in this population. Effect sizes were similar to the sizes found using other wearable electronic activity monitors, indicating that when combined with telephone counseling, wearable activity monitors are a potentially effective tool for increasing physical activity and decreasing sedentary behavior. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01869348; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01869348 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6odlIolqy) %M 28264796 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6967 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/3/e28/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6967 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28264796 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 3 %P e38 %T Enhancing mHealth Technology in the Patient-Centered Medical Home Environment to Activate Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Multisite Feasibility Study Protocol %A Gimbel,Ronald %A Shi,Lu %A Williams,Joel E %A Dye,Cheryl J %A Chen,Liwei %A Crawford,Paul %A Shry,Eric A %A Griffin,Sarah F %A Jones,Karyn O %A Sherrill,Windsor W %A Truong,Khoa %A Little,Jeanette R %A Edwards,Karen W %A Hing,Marie %A Moss,Jennie B %+ Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, 501 Edwards Hall, Clemson, SC, 29634-0745, United States, 1 864 656 1969, rgimbel@clemson.edu %K mHealth %K diabetes mellitus %K patient activation %K patient-centered medical home %K patient centered care %K eHealth %K health information %D 2017 %7 06.03.2017 %9 Protocol %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: The potential of mHealth technologies in the care of patients with diabetes and other chronic conditions has captured the attention of clinicians and researchers. Efforts to date have incorporated a variety of tools and techniques, including Web-based portals, short message service (SMS) text messaging, remote collection of biometric data, electronic coaching, electronic-based health education, secure email communication between visits, and electronic collection of lifestyle and quality-of-life surveys. Each of these tools, used alone or in combination, have demonstrated varying degrees of effectiveness. Some of the more promising results have been demonstrated using regular collection of biometric devices, SMS text messaging, secure email communication with clinical teams, and regular reporting of quality-of-life variables. In this study, we seek to incorporate several of the most promising mHealth capabilities in a patient-centered medical home (PCMH) workflow. Objective: We aim to address underlying technology needs and gaps related to the use of mHealth technology and the activation of patients living with type 2 diabetes. Stated differently, we enable supporting technologies while seeking to influence patient activation and self-care activities. Methods: This is a multisite phased study, conducted within the US Military Health System, that includes a user-centered design phase and a PCMH-based feasibility trial. In phase 1, we will assess both patient and provider preferences regarding the enhancement of the enabling technology capabilities for type 2 diabetes chronic care management. Phase 2 research will be a single-blinded 12-month feasibility study that incorporates randomization principles. Phase 2 research will seek to improve patient activation and self-care activities through the use of the Mobile Health Care Environment with tailored behavioral messaging. The primary outcome measure is the Patient Activation Measure scores. Secondary outcome measures are Summary of Diabetes Self-care Activities Measure scores, clinical measures, comorbid conditions, health services resource consumption, and technology system usage statistics. Results: We have completed phase 1 data collection. Formal analysis of phase 1 data has not been completed. We have obtained institutional review board approval and began phase 1 research in late fall 2016. Conclusions: The study hypotheses suggest that patients can, and will, improve their activation in chronic care management. Improved activation should translate into improved diabetes self-care. Expected benefits of this research to the scientific community and health care services include improved understanding of how to leverage mHealth technology to activate patients living with type 2 diabetes in self-management behaviors. The research will shed light on implementation strategies in integrating mHealth into the clinical workflow of the PCMH setting. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02949037. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02949037. (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6oRyDzqei) %M 28264792 %R 10.2196/resprot.6993 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/3/e38/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.6993 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28264792 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 3 %P e62 %T Using Mobile Sensing to Test Clinical Models of Depression, Social Anxiety, State Affect, and Social Isolation Among College Students %A Chow,Philip I %A Fua,Karl %A Huang,Yu %A Bonelli,Wesley %A Xiong,Haoyi %A Barnes,Laura E %A Teachman,Bethany A %+ School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, 151 Engineer's Way, Olsson Hall 101B, PO Box 400747, Charlottesville, VA, 22904-4747, United States, 1 434 924 1723, lbarnes@virginia.edu %K mental health %K depression %K social anxiety %K affect %K homestay %K mobile health %K mHealth %D 2017 %7 03.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Research in psychology demonstrates a strong link between state affect (moment-to-moment experiences of positive or negative emotionality) and trait affect (eg, relatively enduring depression and social anxiety symptoms), and a tendency to withdraw (eg, spending time at home). However, existing work is based almost exclusively on static, self-reported descriptions of emotions and behavior that limit generalizability. Despite adoption of increasingly sophisticated research designs and technology (eg, mobile sensing using a global positioning system [GPS]), little research has integrated these seemingly disparate forms of data to improve understanding of how emotional experiences in everyday life are associated with time spent at home, and whether this is influenced by depression or social anxiety symptoms. Objective: We hypothesized that more time spent at home would be associated with more negative and less positive affect. Methods: We recruited 72 undergraduate participants from a southeast university in the United States. We assessed depression and social anxiety symptoms using self-report instruments at baseline. An app (Sensus) installed on participants’ personal mobile phones repeatedly collected in situ self-reported state affect and GPS location data for up to 2 weeks. Time spent at home was a proxy for social isolation. Results: We tested separate models examining the relations between state affect and time spent at home, with levels of depression and social anxiety as moderators. Models differed only in the temporal links examined. One model focused on associations between changes in affect and time spent at home within short, 4-hour time windows. The other 3 models focused on associations between mean-level affect within a day and time spent at home (1) the same day, (2) the following day, and (3) the previous day. Overall, we obtained many of the expected main effects (although there were some null effects), in which higher social anxiety was associated with more time or greater likelihood of spending time at home, and more negative or less positive affect was linked to longer homestay. Interactions indicated that, among individuals higher in social anxiety, higher negative affect and lower positive affect within a day was associated with greater likelihood of spending time at home the following day. Conclusions: Results demonstrate the feasibility and utility of modeling the relationship between affect and homestay using fine-grained GPS data. Although these findings must be replicated in a larger study and with clinical samples, they suggest that integrating repeated state affect assessments in situ with continuous GPS data can increase understanding of how actual homestay is related to affect in everyday life and to symptoms of anxiety and depression. %M 28258049 %R 10.2196/jmir.6820 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/3/e62/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6820 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28258049 %0 Journal Article %@ 2292-9495 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 1 %P e7 %T Mobile Phone Apps for Smoking Cessation: Quality and Usability Among Smokers With Psychosis %A Ferron,Joelle C %A Brunette,Mary F %A Geiger,Pamela %A Marsch,Lisa A %A Adachi-Mejia,Anna M %A Bartels,Stephen J %+ Health Promotion Research Center at Dartmouth, Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, 105 Pleasant Street, Hugh Gallon Office Park, Main Bldg, Concord, NH, 03301, United States, 1 603 271 5044, joelle.ferron@dartmouth.edu %K mHealth %K mobile apps %K smoking cessation %K schizophrenia %K psychotic disorders %D 2017 %7 03.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Hum Factors %G English %X Background: Smoking is one of the top preventable causes of mortality in people with psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Cessation treatment improves abstinence outcomes, but access is a barrier. Mobile phone apps are one way to increase access to cessation treatment; however, whether they are usable by people with psychotic disorders, who often have special learning needs, is not known. Objective: Researchers reviewed 100 randomly selected apps for smoking cessation to rate them based on US guidelines for nicotine addiction treatment and to categorize them based on app functions. We aimed to test the usability and usefulness of the top-rated apps in 21 smokers with psychotic disorders. Methods: We identified 766 smoking cessation apps and randomly selected 100 for review. Two independent reviewers rated each app with the Adherence Index to US Clinical Practice Guideline for Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence. Then, smokers with psychotic disorders evaluated the top 9 apps within a usability testing protocol. We analyzed quantitative results using descriptive statistics and t tests. Qualitative data were open-coded and analyzed for themes. Results: Regarding adherence to practice guidelines, most of the randomly sampled smoking cessation apps scored poorly—66% rated lower than 10 out of 100 on the Adherence Index (Mean 11.47, SD 11.8). Regarding usability, three common usability problems emerged: text-dense content, abstract symbols on the homepage, and subtle directions to edit features. Conclusions: In order for apps to be effective and usable for this population, developers should utilize a balance of text and simple design that facilitate ease of navigation and content comprehension that will help people learn quit smoking skills. %M 28258047 %R 10.2196/humanfactors.5933 %U http://humanfactors.jmir.org/2017/1/e7/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/humanfactors.5933 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28258047 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-9279 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 1 %P e4 %T A Mobile, Avatar-Based App for Improving Body Perceptions Among Adolescents: A Pilot Test %A Lyles,Annmarie A %A Amresh,Ashish %A Huberty,Jennifer %A Todd,Michael %A Lee,Rebecca E %+ College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, 550 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, United States, 1 602 496 2196, Annmarie.Lyles@asu.edu %K adolescents %K avatars %K eHealth %K mHealth %K perceptions %K Web-based %K usability testing %D 2017 %7 02.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Serious Games %G English %X Background: One barrier to effectively treating weight issues among adolescents is that they tend to use social comparison instead of objective measures to evaluate their own health status. When adolescents correctly perceive themselves as overweight, they are more likely to adopt healthy lifestyle behaviors. Objective: The purpose of this pilot test was to develop and assess acceptability and usability of an avatar-based, theoretically derived mobile app entitled Monitor Your Avatar (MYA). Methods: The MYA app was engineered for high school adolescents to identify, using avatars, what they thought they looked like, what they wanted to look like, and what they actually looked like based on body measurements. Results: The MYA app was pilot-tested with male and female adolescents aged 15-18 years to assess for acceptability and usability. A total of 42 students created and viewed their avatars. The majority of the adolescents were female (28/42, 67%), age 16 years (16/42, 38%), white (35/42, 83%), non-Hispanic (36/42, 86%), in grade 10 (20/42, 48%), healthy weight for females (23/28, 82%), and obese for males (7/14, 50%). The adolescents had positive reactions to the avatar app and being able to view avatars that represented them. All but one student (41/42, 98%) indicated some level of comfort viewing the avatars and would use the app in the future to see how their bodies change over time. Conclusions: Avatar-based mobile apps, such as the MYA app, provide immediate feedback and allow users to engage with images that are personalized to represent their perceptions and actual body images. This pilot study adds to the increasing but limited research of using games to improve health outcomes among high school adolescents. There is a need to further adapt the MYA app and gather feedback from a larger number of high school adolescents, including those from diverse backgrounds. %M 28254737 %R 10.2196/games.6354 %U http://games.jmir.org/2017/1/e4/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/games.6354 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28254737 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 3 %P e4 %T Efficacy of Mobile Apps to Support the Care of Patients With Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials %A Bonoto,Bráulio Cezar %A de Araújo,Vânia Eloisa %A Godói,Isabella Piassi %A de Lemos,Lívia Lovato Pires %A Godman,Brian %A Bennie,Marion %A Diniz,Leonardo Mauricio %A Junior,Augusto Afonso Guerra %+ Post Graduate Program in Medicines and Pharmaceutical Assistance, Department of Social Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Campus Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, Brazil, 55 31 98722 9477, brauliofarma@yahoo.com.br %K diabetes mellitus %K self-care %K mobile applications %K telemedicine %D 2017 %7 01.03.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease that is considered a global public health problem. Education and self-monitoring by diabetic patients help to optimize and make possible a satisfactory metabolic control enabling improved management and reduced morbidity and mortality. The global growth in the use of mobile phones makes them a powerful platform to help provide tailored health, delivered conveniently to patients through health apps. Objective: The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of mobile apps through a systematic review and meta-analysis to assist DM patients in treatment. Methods: We conducted searches in the electronic databases MEDLINE (Pubmed), Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature), including manual search in references of publications that included systematic reviews, specialized journals, and gray literature. We considered eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted after 2008 with participants of all ages, patients with DM, and users of apps to help manage the disease. The meta-analysis of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was performed in Review Manager software version 5.3. Results: The literature search identified 1236 publications. Of these, 13 studies were included that evaluated 1263 patients. In 6 RCTs, there were a statistical significant reduction (P<.05) of HbA1c at the end of studies in the intervention group. The HbA1c data were evaluated by meta-analysis with the following results (mean difference, MD −0.44; CI: −0.59 to −0.29; P<.001; I²=32%).The evaluation favored the treatment in patients who used apps without significant heterogeneity. Conclusions: The use of apps by diabetic patients could help improve the control of HbA1c. In addition, the apps seem to strengthen the perception of self-care by contributing better information and health education to patients. Patients also become more self-confident to deal with their diabetes, mainly by reducing their fear of not knowing how to deal with potential hypoglycemic episodes that may occur. %M 28249834 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6309 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/3/e4/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6309 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28249834 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 2 %P e46 %T Factors Associated With Dropout During Recruitment and Follow-Up Periods of a mHealth-Based Randomized Controlled Trial for Mobile.Net to Encourage Treatment Adherence for People With Serious Mental Health Problems %A Kannisto,Kati Anneli %A Korhonen,Joonas %A Adams,Clive E %A Koivunen,Marita Hannele %A Vahlberg,Tero %A Välimäki,Maritta Anneli %+ Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Joukahaisenkatu 3-5, Turku, FI-20014, Finland, 358 505312652, kaankan@utu.fi %K text messaging %K mobile health %K antipsychotics %K mental health %K psychiatric services %K methodological study %D 2017 %7 21.02.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Clinical trials are the gold standard of evidence-based practice. Still many papers inadequately report methodology in randomized controlled trials (RCTs), particularly for mHealth interventions for people with serious mental health problems. To ensure robust enough evidence, it is important to understand which study phases are the most vulnerable in the field of mental health care. Objective: We mapped the recruitment and the trial follow-up periods of participants to provide a picture of the dropout predictors from a mHealth-based trial. As an example, we used a mHealth-based multicenter RCT, titled “Mobile.Net,” targeted at people with serious mental health problems. Methods: Recruitment and follow-up processes of the Mobile.Net trial were monitored and analyzed. Recruitment outcomes were recorded as screened, eligible, consent not asked, refused, and enrolled. Patient engagement was recorded as follow-up outcomes: (1) attrition during short message service (SMS) text message intervention and (2) attrition during the 12-month follow-up period. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify which demographic factors were related to recruitment and retention. Results: We recruited 1139 patients during a 15-month period. Of 11,530 people screened, 36.31% (n=4186) were eligible. This eligible group tended to be significantly younger (mean 39.2, SD 13.2 years, P<.001) and more often women (2103/4181, 50.30%) than those who were not eligible (age: mean 43.7, SD 14.6 years; women: 3633/6514, 55.78%). At the point when potential participants were asked to give consent, a further 2278 refused. Those who refused were a little older (mean 40.2, SD 13.9 years) than those who agreed to participate (mean 38.3, SD 12.5 years; t1842=3.2, P<.001). We measured the outcomes after 12 months of the SMS text message intervention. Attrition from the SMS text message intervention was 4.8% (27/563). The patient dropout rate after 12 months was 0.36% (4/1123), as discovered from the register data. In all, 3.12% (35/1123) of the participants withdrew from the trial. However, dropout rates from the patient survey (either by paper or telephone interview) were 52.45% (589/1123) and 27.8% (155/558), respectively. Almost all participants (536/563, 95.2%) tolerated the intervention, but those who discontinued were more often women (21/27, 78%; P=.009). Finally, participants’ age (P<.001), gender (P<.001), vocational education (P=.04), and employment status (P<.001) seemed to predict their risk of dropping out from the postal survey. Conclusions: Patient recruitment and engagement in the 12-month follow-up conducted with a postal survey were the most vulnerable phases in the SMS text message-based trial. People with serious mental health problems may need extra support during the recruitment process and in engaging them in SMS text message-based trials to ensure robust enough evidence for mental health care. ClinicalTrial: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 27704027; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN27704027 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6oHcU2SFp) %M 28223262 %R 10.2196/jmir.6417 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/2/e46/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6417 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28223262 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 2 %P e18 %T Use of a Novel Artificial Intelligence Platform on Mobile Devices to Assess Dosing Compliance in a Phase 2 Clinical Trial in Subjects With Schizophrenia %A Bain,Earle E %A Shafner,Laura %A Walling,David P %A Othman,Ahmed A %A Chuang-Stein,Christy %A Hinkle,John %A Hanina,Adam %+ AiCure, LLC, 19 West 24th Street, 11th Fl., New York, NY, 10010, United States, 1 800 570 0448, laura.shafner@aicure.com %K medication adherence %K artificial intelligence %K clinical trials as topic %D 2017 %7 21.02.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Accurately monitoring and collecting drug adherence data can allow for better understanding and interpretation of the outcomes of clinical trials. Most clinical trials use a combination of pill counts and self-reported data to measure drug adherence, despite the drawbacks of relying on these types of indirect measures. It is assumed that doses are taken, but the exact timing of these events is often incomplete and imprecise. Objective: The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the use of a novel artificial intelligence (AI) platform (AiCure) on mobile devices for measuring medication adherence, compared with modified directly observed therapy (mDOT) in a substudy of a Phase 2 trial of the α7 nicotinic receptor agonist (ABT-126) in subjects with schizophrenia. Methods: AI platform generated adherence measures were compared with adherence inferred from drug concentration measurements. Results: The mean cumulative pharmacokinetic adherence over 24 weeks was 89.7% (standard deviation [SD] 24.92) for subjects receiving ABT-126 who were monitored using the AI platform, compared with 71.9% (SD 39.81) for subjects receiving ABT-126 who were monitored by mDOT. The difference was 17.9% (95% CI -2 to 37.7; P=.08). Conclusions: Using drug levels, this substudy demonstrates the potential of AI platforms to increase adherence, rapidly detect nonadherence, and predict future nonadherence. Subjects monitored using the AI platform demonstrated a percentage change in adherence of 25% over the mDOT group. Subjects were able to use the technology successfully for up to 6 months in an ambulatory setting with early termination rates that are comparable to subjects outside of the substudy. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01655680 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01655680?term=NCT01655680 %M 28223265 %R 10.2196/mhealth.7030 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/2/e18/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.7030 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28223265 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 2 %P e7 %T Apps for People With Rheumatoid Arthritis to Monitor Their Disease Activity: A Review of Apps for Best Practice and Quality %A Grainger,Rebecca %A Townsley,Hermaleigh %A White,Bonnie %A Langlotz,Tobias %A Taylor,William J %+ Rehabilitation Teaching and Research Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Otago Wellington, 23a Mein St, PO Box 7343, Wellington South, Wellington, 6242, New Zealand, 64 4 385 5541 ext 4031, rebecca.grainger@otago.ac.nz %K mHealth %K mobile applications %K telemedicine %K self-management %K rheumatoid arthritis %D 2017 %7 21.02.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis requiring long-term treatment with regular monitoring by a rheumatologist to achieve good health outcomes. Since people with RA may wish to monitor their own disease activity with a smartphone app, it is important to understand the functions and quality of apps for this purpose. Objective: The aim of our study was to assess the features and quality of apps to assist people to monitor their RA disease activity by (1) summarizing the available apps, particularly the instruments used for measurement of RA disease activity; (2) comparing the app features with American College of Rheumatology and European League against Rheumatism (ACR and EULAR) guidelines for monitoring of RA disease activity; and (3) rating app quality with the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). Methods: Systematic searches of the New Zealand iTunes and Google Play app stores were used to identify all apps for monitoring of RA disease activity that could be used by people with RA. The apps were described by both key metadata and app functionality. App adherence with recommendations for monitoring of RA disease activity in clinical practice was evaluated by identifying whether apps included calculation of a validated composite disease activity measure and recorded results for future retrieval. App quality was assessed by 2 independent reviewers using the MARS. Results: The search identified 721 apps in the Google Play store and 216 in the iTunes store, of which 19 unique apps met criteria for inclusion (8 from both app stores, 8 iTunes, and 3 Google Play). In total, 14 apps included at least one validated instrument measuring RA disease activity; 7 of 11 apps that allowed users to enter a joint count used the standard 28 swollen and tender joint count; 8 apps included at least one ACR and EULAR-recommended RA composite disease activity (CDA) measure; and 10 apps included data storage and retrieval. Only 1 app, Arthritis Power, included both an RA CDA measure and tracked data, but this app did not include the standard 28 tender and swollen joint count. The median overall MARS score for apps was 3.41/5. Of the 6 apps that scored ≥4/5 on the overall MARS rating, only 1 included a CDA score endorsed by ACR and EULAR; however, this app did not have a data tracking function. Conclusions: This review found a lack of high-quality apps for longitudinal assessment of RA disease activity. Current apps fall into two categories: simple calculators primarily for rheumatologists and data tracking tools for people with RA. The latter do not uniformly collect data using validated instruments or composite disease activity measures. There is a need for appropriate, high-quality apps for use by rheumatologists and patients together in co-management of RA. %M 28223263 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6956 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/2/e7/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6956 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28223263 %0 Journal Article %@ 2371-4379 %I JMIR Publications %V 2 %N 1 %P e4 %T The Use of Mobile Health to Deliver Self-Management Support to Young People With Type 1 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Survey %A Dobson,Rosie %A Whittaker,Robyn %A Murphy,Rinki %A Khanolkar,Manish %A Miller,Steven %A Naylor,Joanna %A Maddison,Ralph %+ National Institute for Health Innovation, School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland Mail Centre, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand, 64 93737599 ext 88908, r.dobson@auckland.ac.nz %K mHealth %K diabetes mellitus %K mobile phone %K mobile applications %K text messages %D 2017 %7 15.02.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Diabetes %G English %X Background: Young people living with type 1 diabetes face not only the challenges typical of adolescence, but also the challenges of daily management of their health and evolving understanding of the impact of their diagnosis on their future. Adolescence is a critical time for diabetes self-management, with a typical decline in glycemic control increasing risk for microvascular diabetes complications. To improve glycemic control, there is a need for evidence-based self-management support interventions that address the issues pertinent to this population, utilizing platforms that engage them. Increasingly, mobile health (mHealth) interventions are being developed and evaluated for this purpose with some evidence supporting improved glycemic control. A necessary step to enhance effectiveness of such approaches is to understand young people’s preferences for this mode of delivery. Objective: A cross-sectional survey was conducted to investigate the current and perceived roles of mHealth in supporting young people to manage their diabetes. Methods: Young adults (16-24 years) with type 1 diabetes in Auckland, New Zealand, were invited to take part in a survey via letter from their diabetes specialist. Results: A total of 115 young adults completed the survey (mean age 19.5 years; male 52/115, 45%; European 89/115, 77%), with all reporting they owned a mobile phone and 96% (110/115) of those were smartphones. However, smartphone apps for diabetes management had been used by only 33% (38/115) of respondents. The most commonly reported reason for not using apps was a lack of awareness that they existed. Although the majority felt they managed their diabetes well, 63% (72/115) reported wanting to learn more about diabetes and how to manage it. A total of 64% (74/115) respondents reported that they would be interested in receiving diabetes self-management support via text message (short message service, SMS). Conclusions: Current engagement with mHealth in this population appears low, although the findings from this study provide support for the use of mHealth in this group because of the ubiquity and convenience of mobile devices. mHealth has potential to provide information and support to this population, utilizing mediums commonplace for this group and with greater reach than traditional methods. %M 30291057 %R 10.2196/diabetes.7221 %U http://diabetes.jmir.org/2017/1/e4/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/diabetes.7221 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30291057 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 2 %P e41 %T Smartphone-Based Self-Assessment of Stress in Healthy Adult Individuals: A Systematic Review %A Þórarinsdóttir,Helga %A Kessing,Lars Vedel %A Faurholt-Jepsen,Maria %+ Psychiatric Center Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Department O, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark, 45 38647073, maria@faurholt-jepsen.dk %K smartphone %K emotional stress %K healthy individuals %K self-report %K objective smartphone generated measures of stress %D 2017 %7 13.02.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Stress is a common experience in today’s society. Smartphone ownership is widespread, and smartphones can be used to monitor health and well-being. Smartphone-based self-assessment of stress can be done in naturalistic settings and may potentially reflect real-time stress level. Objective: The objectives of this systematic review were to evaluate (1) the use of smartphones to measure self-assessed stress in healthy adult individuals, (2) the validity of smartphone-based self-assessed stress compared with validated stress scales, and (3) the association between smartphone-based self-assessed stress and smartphone generated objective data. Methods: A systematic review of the scientific literature was reported and conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. The scientific databases PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, IEEE, and ACM were searched and supplemented by a hand search of reference lists. The databases were searched for original studies involving healthy individuals older than 18 years, measuring self-assessed stress using smartphones. Results: A total of 35 published articles comprising 1464 individuals were included for review. According to the objectives, (1) study designs were heterogeneous, and smartphone-based self-assessed stress was measured using various methods (e.g., dichotomized questions on stress, yes or no; Likert scales on stress; and questionnaires); (2) the validity of smartphone-based self-assessed stress compared with validated stress scales was investigated in 3 studies, and of these, only 1 study found a moderate statistically significant positive correlation (r=.4; P<.05); and (3) in exploratory analyses, smartphone-based self-assessed stress was found to correlate with some of the reported smartphone generated objective data, including voice features and data on activity and phone usage. Conclusions: Smartphones are being used to measure self-assessed stress in different contexts. The evidence of the validity of smartphone-based self-assessed stress is limited and should be investigated further. Smartphone generated objective data can potentially be used to monitor, predict, and reduce stress levels. %M 28193600 %R 10.2196/jmir.6397 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/2/e41/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6397 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28193600 %0 Journal Article %@ 2371-4379 %I JMIR Publications %V 2 %N 1 %P e3 %T Mixed-Methods Research in Diabetes Management via Mobile Health Technologies: A Scoping Review %A Sahin,Cigdem %A Naylor,Patti-Jean %+ Social Dimensions of Health Program, University of Victoria, PO Box 3050, STN CSC, Victoria, BC, V8W 3P5, Canada, 1 250 472 5185, csahin@uvic.ca %K mHealth %K self-management %K methods %K review %D 2017 %7 06.02.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Diabetes %G English %X Background: Considering the increasing incidence and prevalence of diabetes worldwide and the high level of patient involvement it requires, diabetes self-management is a serious issue. The use of mobile health (mHealth) in diabetes self-management has increased, but so far research has not provided sufficient information about the uses and effectiveness of mHealth-based interventions. Alternative study designs and more rigorous methodologies are needed. Mixed-methods designs may be particularly useful because both diabetes self-management and mHealth studies require integrating theoretical and methodological approaches. Objective: This scoping review aimed to examine the extent of the use of mixed-methods research in mHealth-based diabetes management studies. The methodological approaches used to conduct mixed-methods studies were analyzed, and implications for future research are provided. Methods: Guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, this scoping review implemented a comprehensive search strategy including reviewing electronic databases, key journal searches, Web-based research and knowledge centers, websites, and handsearching reference lists of the studies. The studies focusing on mHealth technologies and diabetes management were included in the review if they were primary research papers published in academic journals and reported using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. The key data extracted from the reviewed studies include purpose of mixing, design type, stage of integration, methods of legitimation, and data collection techniques. Results: The final sample (N=14) included studies focused on the feasibility and usability of mHealth diabetes apps (n=7), behavioral measures related to the mHealth apps (n=6), and challenges of intervention delivery in the mHealth context (n=1). Reviewed studies used advanced forms of mixed-methods designs where integration occurred at multiple points and data were collected using multiple techniques. However, the majority of studies did not identify a specific mixed-methods design or use accepted terminology; nor did they justify using this approach. Conclusions: This review provided important insights into the use of mixed methods in studies focused on diabetes management via mHealth technologies. The prominent role of qualitative methods and tailored measures in diabetes self-management studies was confirmed, and the importance of using multiple techniques and approaches in this field was emphasized. This review suggests defining specific mixed-methods questions, using specific legitimation methods, and developing research designs that overcome sampling and other methodological problems in future studies. %M 30291052 %R 10.2196/diabetes.6667 %U http://diabetes.jmir.org/2017/1/e3/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/diabetes.6667 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30291052 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 2 %P e8 %T Weight Loss Associated With Different Patterns of Self-Monitoring Using the Mobile Phone App My Meal Mate %A Carter,Michelle C %A Burley,Victoria J %A Cade,Janet E %+ Nutritional Epidemiology Group, School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Stead House, Leeds, LS29 7QH, United Kingdom, 44 1133436946, j.e.cade@leeds.ac.uk %K self-monitoring %K mobile phone %K obesity %K weight loss %D 2017 %7 02.02.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Obesity is a major global public health issue due to its association with a number of serious chronic illnesses and its high economic burden to health care providers. Self-monitoring of diet has been consistently linked to weight loss. However, there is limited evidence about how frequently individuals need to monitor their diet for optimal weight loss. Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe app usage frequency and pattern in the mobile phone arm of a previously conducted randomized controlled trial. The relationship between frequency and pattern of electronic dietary self-monitoring and weight loss is also investigated. Methods: A randomized pilot trial comparing three methods of self-monitoring (mobile phone app, paper diary, Web-based) was previously conducted. Trial duration was 6 months. The mobile phone app My Meal Mate features an electronic food diary and encourages users to self-monitor their dietary intake. All food consumption data were automatically uploaded with a time and date stamp. Post hoc regression analysis of app usage patterns was undertaken in the My Meal Mate group (n=43; female: 77%, 33/43; white: 100%, 43/43; age: mean 41, SD 9 years; body mass index: mean 34, SD 4 kg/m2) to explore the relationship between frequency and pattern of electronic dietary self-monitoring and weight loss. Baseline characteristics of participants were also investigated to identify any potential predictors of dietary self-monitoring. Results: Regression analysis showed that those in the highest frequency-of-use category (recorded ≥129 days on the mobile phone app) had a −6.4 kg (95% CI −10.0 to −2.9) lower follow-up weight (adjusted for baseline weight) than those in the lowest frequency-of-use category (recorded ≤42 days; P<.001). Long-term intermittent monitoring over 6 months appeared to facilitate greater mean weight loss than other patterns of electronic self-monitoring (ie, monitoring over the short or moderate term and stopping and consistently monitoring over consecutive days). Participant characteristics such as age, baseline weight, sex, ethnicity, conscientiousness, and consideration of future consequences were not statistically associated with extent of self-monitoring. Conclusions: The results of this post hoc exploratory analysis indicate that duration and frequency of app use is associated with improved weight loss, but further research is required to identify whether there are participant characteristics that would reliably predict those who are most likely to regularly self-monitor their diet. ClinicalTrial: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01744535; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01744535 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6FEtc3PVB) %M 28153814 %R 10.2196/mhealth.4520 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/2/e8/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.4520 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28153814 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 2 %P e10 %T Clinical Evaluation of the Measurement Performance of the Philips Health Watch: A Within-Person Comparative Study %A Hendrikx,Jos %A Ruijs,Loes S %A Cox,Lieke GE %A Lemmens,Paul MC %A Schuijers,Erik GP %A Goris,Annelies HC %+ Philips Research, High Tech Campus 34, Eindhoven, 5656AE, Netherlands, 31 40 27 91111, lieke.cox@philips.com %K sedentary lifestyle %K monitoring, ambulatory %K monitoring, physiologic %K accelerometry %K actigraphy %K photoplethysmography %K heart rate %K energy metabolism %K adult %K humans %D 2017 %7 02.02.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Physical inactivity is an important modifiable risk factor for chronic diseases. A new wrist-worn heart rate and activity monitor has been developed for unobtrusive data collection to aid prevention and management of lifestyle-related chronic diseases by means of behavioral change programs. Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the performance of total energy expenditure and resting heart rate measures of the Philips health watch. Secondary objectives included the assessment of accuracy of other output parameters of the monitor: heart rate, respiration rate at rest, step count, and activity type recognition. Methods: A within-person comparative study was performed to assess the performance of the health watch against (medical) reference measures. Participants executed a protocol including 15 minutes of rest and various activities of daily life. A two one-sided tests approach was adopted for testing equivalence. In addition, error metrics such as mean error and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) were calculated. Results: A total of 29 participants (14 males; mean age 41.2, SD 14.4, years; mean weight 77.2, SD 10.2, kg; mean height 1.8, SD 0.1, m; mean body mass index 25.1, SD 3.1, kg/m2) completed the 81-minute protocol. Their mean resting heart rate in beats per minute (bpm) was 64 (SD 7.3). With a mean error of −10 (SD 38.9) kcal and a MAPE of 10% (SD 8.7%), total energy expenditure estimation of the health watch was found to be within the 15% predefined equivalence margin in reference to a portable indirect calorimeter. Resting heart rate determined during a 15-minute rest protocol was found to be within a 10% equivalence margin in reference to a wearable electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor, with a mean deviation of 0 bpm and a maximum deviation of 3 bpm. Heart rate was within 10 bpm and 10% of the ECG monitor reference for 93% of the duration of the protocol. Step count estimates were on average 21 counts lower than a waist-mounted step counter over all walking activities combined, with a MAPE of 3.5% (SD 2.4%). Resting respiration rate was on average 0.7 (SD 1.1) breaths per minute lower than the reference measurement by the spirometer embedded in the indirect calorimeter during the 15-minute rest, resulting in a MAPE of 8.3% (SD 7.0%). Activity type recognition of walking, running, cycling, or other was overall 90% accurate in reference to the activities performed. Conclusions: The health watch can serve its medical purpose of measuring resting heart rate and total energy expenditure over time in an unobtrusive manner, thereby providing valuable data for the prevention and management of lifestyle-related chronic diseases. Trial Registration: Netherlands trial register NTR5552; http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=5552 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6neYJgysl) %M 28153815 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6893 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/2/e10/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6893 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28153815 %0 Journal Article %@ 2292-9495 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 1 %P e5 %T A Self-Regulation Theory–Based Asthma Management Mobile App for Adolescents: A Usability Assessment %A Sage,Adam %A Roberts,Courtney %A Geryk,Lorie %A Sleath,Betsy %A Tate,Deborah %A Carpenter,Delesha %+ Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2213 Kerr Hall, Chapel Hill, NC,, United States, 1 330 388 3025, asage@email.unc.edu %K mHealth %K asthma %K mobile %K usability %D 2017 %7 01.02.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Hum Factors %G English %X Background: Self-regulation theory suggests people learn to influence their own behavior through self-monitoring, goal-setting, feedback, self-reward, and self-instruction, all of which smartphones are now capable of facilitating. Several mobile apps exist to manage asthma; however, little evidence exists about whether these apps employ user-centered design processes that adhere to government usability guidelines for mobile apps. Objective: Building upon a previous study that documented adolescent preferences for an asthma self-management app, we employed a user-centered approach to assess the usability of a high-fidelity wireframe for an asthma self-management app intended for use by adolescents with persistent asthma. Methods: Individual interviews were conducted with adolescents (ages 11-18 years) with persistent asthma who owned a smartphone (N=8). Adolescents were asked to evaluate a PDF app wireframe consisting of 76 screen shots displaying app features, including log in and home screen, profile setup, settings and info, self-management features, and graphical displays for charting asthma control and medication. Preferences, comments, and suggestions for each set of screen shots were assessed using the audio-recorded interviews. Two coders reached consensus on adolescent evaluations of the following aspects of app features: (1) usability, (2) behavioral intentions to use, (3) confusing aspects, and (4) suggestions for improvement. Results: The app wireframe was generally well received, and several suggestions for improvement were recorded. Suggestions included increased customization of charts and notifications, reminders, and alerts. Participants preferred longitudinal data about asthma control and medication use to be displayed using line graphs. All participants reported that they would find an asthma management app like the one depicted in the wireframe useful for managing their asthma. Conclusions: Early stage usability tests guided by government usability guidelines (usability.gov) revealed areas for improvement for an asthma self-management app for adolescents. Addressing these areas will be critical to developing an engaging and effective asthma self-management app that is capable of improving adolescent asthma outcomes. %M 28148471 %R 10.2196/humanfactors.7133 %U http://humanfactors.jmir.org/2017/1/e5/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/humanfactors.7133 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28148471 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 2 %P e31 %T A Mobile Device App to Reduce Time to Drug Delivery and Medication Errors During Simulated Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Randomized Controlled Trial %A Siebert,Johan N %A Ehrler,Frederic %A Combescure,Christophe %A Lacroix,Laurence %A Haddad,Kevin %A Sanchez,Oliver %A Gervaix,Alain %A Lovis,Christian %A Manzano,Sergio %+ Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Geneva Children's Hospital, University Hospitals of Geneva, Avenue de la Roseraie, 47, Geneva, 1205, Switzerland, 41 795534072, Johan.Siebert@hcuge.ch %K resuscitation %K medication errors %K pharmaceutical preparations %K pediatrics %K biomedical technology %D 2017 %7 01.02.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: During pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), vasoactive drug preparation for continuous infusion is both complex and time-consuming, placing children at higher risk than adults for medication errors. Following an evidence-based ergonomic-driven approach, we developed a mobile device app called Pediatric Accurate Medication in Emergency Situations (PedAMINES), intended to guide caregivers step-by-step from preparation to delivery of drugs requiring continuous infusion. Objective: The aim of our study was to determine whether the use of PedAMINES reduces drug preparation time (TDP) and time to delivery (TDD; primary outcome), as well as medication errors (secondary outcomes) when compared with conventional preparation methods. Methods: The study was a randomized controlled crossover trial with 2 parallel groups comparing PedAMINES with a conventional and internationally used drugs infusion rate table in the preparation of continuous drug infusion. We used a simulation-based pediatric CPR cardiac arrest scenario with a high-fidelity manikin in the shock room of a tertiary care pediatric emergency department. After epinephrine-induced return of spontaneous circulation, pediatric emergency nurses were first asked to prepare a continuous infusion of dopamine, using either PedAMINES (intervention group) or the infusion table (control group), and second, a continuous infusion of norepinephrine by crossing the procedure. The primary outcome was the elapsed time in seconds, in each allocation group, from the oral prescription by the physician to TDD by the nurse. TDD included TDP. The secondary outcome was the medication dosage error rate during the sequence from drug preparation to drug injection. Results: A total of 20 nurses were randomized into 2 groups. During the first study period, mean TDP while using PedAMINES and conventional preparation methods was 128.1 s (95% CI 102-154) and 308.1 s (95% CI 216-400), respectively (180 s reduction, P=.002). Mean TDD was 214 s (95% CI 171-256) and 391 s (95% CI 298-483), respectively (177.3 s reduction, P=.002). Medication errors were reduced from 70% to 0% (P<.001) by using PedAMINES when compared with conventional methods. Conclusions: In this simulation-based study, PedAMINES dramatically reduced TDP, to delivery and the rate of medication errors. %M 28148473 %R 10.2196/jmir.7005 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/2/e31/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.7005 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28148473 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 2 %P e9 %T Text Messaging to Improve Hypertension Medication Adherence in African Americans From Primary Care and Emergency Department Settings: Results From Two Randomized Feasibility Studies %A Buis,Lorraine %A Hirzel,Lindsey %A Dawood,Rachelle M %A Dawood,Katee L %A Nichols,Lauren P %A Artinian,Nancy T %A Schwiebert,Loren %A Yarandi,Hossein N %A Roberson,Dana N %A Plegue,Melissa A %A Mango,LynnMarie C %A Levy,Phillip D %+ Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan, 1018 Fuller St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States, 1 734 998 7120 ext 312, buisl@umich.edu %K cell phone %K text messaging %K hypertension %K blood pressure %K African Americans %K medication adherence %K telemedicine %D 2017 %7 01.02.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Hypertension (HTN) is an important problem in the United States, with an estimated 78 million Americans aged 20 years and older suffering from this condition. Health disparities related to HTN are common in the United States, with African Americans suffering from greater prevalence of the condition than whites, as well as greater severity, earlier onset, and more complications. Medication adherence is an important component of HTN management, but adherence is often poor, and simply forgetting to take medications is often cited as a reason. Mobile health (mHealth) strategies have the potential to be a low-cost and effective method for improving medication adherence that also has broad reach. Objective: Our goal was to determine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary clinical effectiveness of BPMED, an intervention designed to improve medication adherence among African Americans with uncontrolled HTN, through fully automated text messaging support. Methods: We conducted two parallel, unblinded randomized controlled pilot trials with African-American patients who had uncontrolled HTN, recruited from primary care and emergency department (ED) settings. In each trial, participants were randomized to receive either usual care or the BPMED intervention for one month. Data were collected in-person at baseline and one-month follow-up, assessing the effect on medication adherence, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP), medication adherence self-efficacy, and participant satisfaction. Data for both randomized controlled pilot trials were analyzed separately and combined. Results: A total of 58 primary care and 65 ED participants were recruited with retention rates of 91% (53/58) and 88% (57/65), respectively. BPMED participants consistently showed numerically greater, yet nonsignificant, improvements in measures of medication adherence (mean change 0.9, SD 2.0 vs mean change 0.5, SD 1.5, P=.26), SBP (mean change –12.6, SD 24.0 vs mean change –11.3, SD 25.5 mm Hg, P=.78), and DBP (mean change –4.9, SD 13.1 mm Hg vs mean change –3.3, SD 14.3 mm Hg, P=.54). Control and BPMED participants had slight improvements to medication adherence self-efficacy (mean change 0.8, SD 9.8 vs mean change 0.7, SD 7.0) with no significant differences found between groups (P=.92). On linear regression analysis, baseline SBP was the only predictor of SBP change; participants with higher SBP at enrollment exhibited significantly greater improvements at one-month follow-up (β=–0.63, P<.001). In total, 94% (51/54) of BPMED participants agreed/strongly agreed that they were satisfied with the program, regardless of pilot setting. Conclusions: Use of text message reminders to improve medication adherence is a feasible and acceptable approach among African Americans with uncontrolled HTN. Although differences in actual medication adherence and blood pressure between BPMED and usual care controls were not significant, patterns of improvement in the BPMED condition suggest that text message medication reminders may have an effect and fully powered investigations with longer-term follow-up are warranted. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01465217; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01465217 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6V0tto0lZ). %M 28148474 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6630 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/2/e9/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6630 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28148474 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-2960 %I JMIR Publications %V 3 %N 1 %P e5 %T Assessing Mobile Phone Access and Perceptions for Texting-Based mHealth Interventions Among Expectant Mothers and Child Caregivers in Remote Regions of Northern Kenya: A Survey-Based Descriptive Study %A Kazi,Abdul Momin %A Carmichael,Jason-Louis %A Hapanna,Galgallo Waqo %A Wangoo,Patrick Gikaria %A Karanja,Sarah %A Wanyama,Denis %A Muhula,Samuel Opondo %A Kyomuhangi,Lennie Bazira %A Loolpapit,Mores %A Wangalwa,Gilbert Bwire %A Kinagwi,Koki %A Lester,Richard Todd %+ Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver General Hospital site, Department of Medicine, 10th Floor, Gordon and Leslie Diamond Health Care Centre, room #10127 – 2775, Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9, Canada, 1 604 875 4111 ext 63140, mominkazi@gmail.com %K mobile health %K text messaging %K prenatal care %K immunization %K Kenya %D 2017 %7 30.01.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Public Health Surveill %G English %X Background: With a dramatic increase in mobile phone use in low- and middle-income countries, mobile health (mHealth) has great potential to connect health care services directly to participants enrolled and improve engagement of care. Rural and remote global settings may pose both significant challenges and opportunities. Objective: The objective of our study was to understand the demographics, phone usage and ownership characteristics, and feasibility among patients in rural and remote areas of Kenya of having text messaging (short messaging service, SMS)-based mHealth intervention for improvements in antenatal care attendance and routine immunization among children in Northern Kenya. Methods: A survey-based descriptive study was conducted between October 2014 and February 2015 at 8 health facilities in Northern Kenya as part of a program to scale up an mHealth service in rural and remote regions. The study was conducted at 6 government health facilities in Isiolo, Marsabit, and Samburu counties in remote and northern arid lands (NAL). Two less remote health facilities in Laikipia and Meru counties in more populated central highlands were included as comparison sites. Results: A total of 284 participants were surveyed; 63.4% (180/284) were from NAL clinics, whereas 36.6% (104/284) were from adjacent central highland clinics. In the NAL, almost half (48.8%, 88/180) reported no formal education and 24.4% (44/180) self-identified as nomads. The majority of participants from both regions had access to mobile phone: 99.0% (103/104) of participants from central highlands and 82.1% (147/180) of participants from NAL. Among those who had access to a phone, there were significant differences in network challenges and technology literacy between the 2 regions. However, there was no significant difference in the proportion of participants from NAL and central highlands who indicated that they would like to receive a weekly SMS text message from their health care provider (90.0% vs 95.0%; P=.52). Overall, 92.0% (230/250) of participants who had access to a telephone said that they would like to receive a weekly SMS text message from their health care provider. Most phone users already spent the equivalent of 626 SMS text messages on mobile credit for personal use. Conclusions: Despite the remoteness of northern Kenya’s NAL, the results indicate that the majority of pregnant women or care givers attending the maternal, newborn, and child health clinics have access to mobile phone and would like to receive text messages from their health care provider. mHealth programs, if designed appropriately for these settings, may be an innovative way for engaging women in care for improved maternal and newborn child health outcomes in order to achieve sustainable development goals. %M 28137702 %R 10.2196/publichealth.5386 %U http://publichealth.jmir.org/2017/1/e5/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/publichealth.5386 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28137702 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 1 %P e5 %T A Smarter Pathway for Delivering Cue Exposure Therapy? The Design and Development of a Smartphone App Targeting Alcohol Use Disorder %A Mellentin,Angelina Isabella %A Stenager,Elsebeth %A Nielsen,Bent %A Nielsen,Anette Søgaard %A Yu,Fei %+ Unit of Clinical Alcohol Research, Unit of Psychiatric Research, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Department of Psychiatry, 220, Sdr Boulevard 29, Odense C, 5000, Denmark, 45 50517901, amellentin@health.sdu.dk %K alcohol use disorder %K exposure therapy %K mobile application %K smartphone %D 2017 %7 30.01.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Although the number of alcohol-related treatments in app stores is proliferating, none of them are based on a psychological framework and supported by empirical evidence. Cue exposure treatment (CET) with urge-specific coping skills (USCS) is often used in Danish treatment settings. It is an evidence-based psychological approach that focuses on promoting “confrontation with alcohol cues” as a means of reducing urges and the likelihood of relapse. Objective: The objective of this study was to describe the design and development of a CET-based smartphone app; an innovative delivery pathway for treating alcohol use disorder (AUD). Methods: The treatment is based on Monty and coworkers’ manual for CET with USCS (2002). It was created by a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychologists, programmers, and graphic designers as well as patients with AUD. A database was developed for the purpose of registering and monitoring training activities. A final version of the CET app and database was developed after several user tests. Results: The final version of the CET app includes an introduction, 4 sessions featuring USCS, 8 alcohol exposure videos promoting the use of one of the USCS, and a results component providing an overview of training activities and potential progress. Real-time urges are measured before, during, and after exposure to alcohol cues and are registered in the app together with other training activity variables. Data packages are continuously sent in encrypted form to an external database and will be merged with other data (in an internal database) in the future. Conclusions: The CET smartphone app is currently being tested at a large-scale, randomized controlled trial with the aim of clarifying whether it can be classified as an evidence-based treatment solution. The app has the potential to augment the reach of psychological treatment for AUD. %M 28137701 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6500 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/1/e5/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6500 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28137701 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 1 %P e25 %T Ecological Assessment of Clinicians’ Antipsychotic Prescription Habits in Psychiatric Inpatients: A Novel Web- and Mobile Phone–Based Prototype for a Dynamic Clinical Decision Support System %A Berrouiguet,Sofian %A Barrigón,Maria Luisa %A Brandt,Sara A %A Nitzburg,George C %A Ovejero,Santiago %A Alvarez-Garcia,Raquel %A Carballo,Juan %A Walter,Michel %A Billot,Romain %A Lenca,Philippe %A Delgado-Gomez,David %A Ropars,Juliette %A de la Calle Gonzalez,Ivan %A Courtet,Philippe %A Baca-García,Enrique %+ Department of Psychiatry, Brest Medical University Hospital at Brest, Urgences Psychiatrques CHRU Brest, Brest, 29200, France, 33 668204178, sofian.berrouiguet@gmail.com %K clinical decision-making %K antipsychotic agents %K software %K mobile applications %K off-label use %K prescriptions %D 2017 %7 26.01.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Electronic prescribing devices with clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) hold the potential to significantly improve pharmacological treatment management. Objective: The aim of our study was to develop a novel Web- and mobile phone–based application to provide a dynamic CDSS by monitoring and analyzing practitioners’ antipsychotic prescription habits and simultaneously linking these data to inpatients’ symptom changes. Methods: We recruited 353 psychiatric inpatients whose symptom levels and prescribed medications were inputted into the MEmind application. We standardized all medications in the MEmind database using the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification system and the defined daily dose (DDD). For each patient, MEmind calculated an average for the daily dose prescribed for antipsychotics (using the N05A ATC code), prescribed daily dose (PDD), and the PDD to DDD ratio. Results: MEmind results found that antipsychotics were used by 61.5% (217/353) of inpatients, with the largest proportion being patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (33.4%, 118/353). Of the 217 patients, 137 (63.2%, 137/217) were administered pharmacological monotherapy and 80 (36.8%, 80/217) were administered polytherapy. Antipsychotics were used mostly in schizophrenia spectrum and related psychotic disorders, but they were also prescribed in other nonpsychotic diagnoses. Notably, we observed polypharmacy going against current antipsychotics guidelines. Conclusions: MEmind data indicated that antipsychotic polypharmacy and off-label use in inpatient units is commonly practiced. MEmind holds the potential to create a dynamic CDSS that provides real-time tracking of prescription practices and symptom change. Such feedback can help practitioners determine a maximally therapeutic drug treatment while avoiding unproductive overprescription and off-label use. %M 28126703 %R 10.2196/jmir.5954 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/1/e25/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.5954 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28126703 %0 Journal Article %@ 2371-4379 %I JMIR Publications %V 2 %N 1 %P e2 %T Smartphone App Use for Diabetes Management: Evaluating Patient Perspectives %A Lithgow,Kirstie %A Edwards,Alun %A Rabi,Doreen %+ Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 1820 Richmond Road SW, Calgary, AB, T2T 5C7, Canada, 1 403 605 0811, kclithgo@ucalgary.ca %K type 1 diabetes %K mobile health %K smartphone %D 2017 %7 23.01.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Diabetes %G English %X Background: Finding novel ways to engage patients in chronic disease management has led to increased interest in the potential of mobile health technologies for the management of diabetes. There is currently a wealth of smartphone apps for diabetes management that are available for free download or purchase. However, the usability and desirability of these apps has not been extensively studied. These are important considerations, as these apps must be accepted by the patient population at a practical level if they are to be utilized. Objective: The purpose of this study was to gain insight into patient experiences related to the use of smartphone apps for the management of type 1 diabetes. Methods: Adults with type 1 diabetes who had previously (or currently) used apps to manage their diabetes were eligible to participate. Participants (n=12) completed a questionnaire in which they were required to list the names of preferred apps and indicate which app functions they had used. Participants were given the opportunity to comment on app functions that they perceived to be missing from the current technology. Participants were also asked whether they had previously paid for an app and whether they would be willing to do so. Results: MyFitnessPal and iBGStar were the apps most commonly listed as the best available on the market. Blood glucose tracking, carbohydrate counting, and activity tracking were the most commonly used features. Ten participants fulfilled all eligibility criteria, and indicated that they had not encountered any one app that included all of the functions that they had used. The ability to synchronize an app with a glucometer or insulin pump was the most common function that participants stated was missing from current app technology. One participant had previously paid for a diabetes-related app and the other 9 participants indicated that they would be willing to pay. Conclusions: Despite dissatisfaction with the currently available apps, there is interest in using these tools for diabetes management. Adapting existing technology to better meet the needs of this patient population may allow these apps to become more widely utilized. %M 30291051 %R 10.2196/diabetes.6643 %U http://diabetes.jmir.org/2017/1/e2/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/diabetes.6643 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30291051 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 1 %P e18 %T Remote Monitoring of Patients With Heart Failure: An Overview of Systematic Reviews %A Bashi,Nazli %A Karunanithi,Mohanraj %A Fatehi,Farhad %A Ding,Hang %A Walters,Darren %+ Australian eHealth Research Centre, CSIRO, Level 5 - UQ Health Sciences Building 901/16, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, QLD 4029, Brisbane,, Australia, 61 7 3253 3611, nazli.bashi@csiro.au %K systematic review %K patient monitoring %K mobile phone %K telemedicine %K heart failure %D 2017 %7 20.01.2017 %9 Review %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Many systematic reviews exist on the use of remote patient monitoring (RPM) interventions to improve clinical outcomes and psychological well-being of patients with heart failure. However, research is broadly distributed from simple telephone-based to complex technology-based interventions. The scope and focus of such evidence also vary widely, creating challenges for clinicians who seek information on the effect of RPM interventions. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of RPM interventions on the health outcomes of patients with heart failure by synthesizing review-level evidence. Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), and the Cochrane Library from 2005 to 2015. We screened reviews based on relevance to RPM interventions using criteria developed for this overview. Independent authors screened, selected, and extracted information from systematic reviews. AMSTAR (Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews) was used to assess the methodological quality of individual reviews. We used standardized language to summarize results across reviews and to provide final statements about intervention effectiveness. Results: A total of 19 systematic reviews met our inclusion criteria. Reviews consisted of RPM with diverse interventions such as telemonitoring, home telehealth, mobile phone–based monitoring, and videoconferencing. All-cause mortality and heart failure mortality were the most frequently reported outcomes, but others such as quality of life, rehospitalization, emergency department visits, and length of stay were also reported. Self-care and knowledge were less commonly identified. Conclusions: Telemonitoring and home telehealth appear generally effective in reducing heart failure rehospitalization and mortality. Other interventions, including the use of mobile phone–based monitoring and videoconferencing, require further investigation. %M 28108430 %R 10.2196/jmir.6571 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/1/e18/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6571 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28108430 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e5 %T Assessing the Efficacy of an App-Based Method of Family Planning: The Dot Study Protocol %A Simmons,Rebecca G %A Shattuck,Dominick C %A Jennings,Victoria H %+ Institute for Reproductive Health, Georgetown University, 1825 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 699, Washington, DC,, United States, 1 202 687 9156, rebecca.simmons@georgetown.edu %K fertility %K fertility awareness %K family planning %K contraception %K natural family planning %K reproductive health %K mHealth %K mobile health apps %K study protocol %D 2017 %7 18.01.2017 %9 Protocol %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: Some 222 million women worldwide have unmet needs for contraception; they want to avoid pregnancy, but are not using a contraceptive method, primarily because of concerns about side effects associated with most available methods. Expanding contraceptive options—particularly fertility awareness options that provide women with information about which days during their menstrual cycles they are likely to become pregnant if they have unprotected intercourse—has the potential to reduce unmet need. Making these methods available to women through their mobile phones can facilitate access. Indeed, many fertility awareness applications have been developed for smartphones, some of which are digital platforms for existing methods, requiring women to enter information about fertility signs such as basal body temperature and cervical secretions. Others are algorithms based on (unexplained) calculations of the fertile period of the menstrual cycle. Considering particularly this latter (largely untested) group, it is critical that these apps be subject to the same rigorous research as other contraceptive methods. Dynamic Optimal Timing, available via the Dot app as a free download for iPhone and Android devices, is one such method and the only one that has published the algorithm that forms its basis. It combines historical cycle data with a woman’s own personal cycle history, continuing to accrue this information over time to identify her fertile period. While Dot has a theoretical failure rate of only 3 in 100 for preventing pregnancy with perfect use, its effectiveness in typical use has yet to be determined. Objective: The study objective is to assess both perfect and typical use to determine the efficacy of the Dot app for pregnancy prevention. Methods: To determine actual use efficacy, the Institute for Reproductive Health is partnering with Cycle Technologies, which developed the Dot app, to conduct a prospective efficacy trial, following 1200 women over the course of 13 menstrual cycles to assess pregnancy status over time. This paper outlines the protocol for this efficacy trial, following the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Intervention Trials checklist, to provide an overview of the rationale, methodology, and analysis plan. Participants will be asked to provide daily sexual history data and periodically answer surveys administered through a call center or directly on their phone. Results: Funding for the study was provided in 2013 under the United States Agency for International Development Fertility Awareness for Community Transformation project. Recruitment for the study will begin in January of 2017. The study is expected to last approximately 18 months, depending on recruitment. Findings on the study’s primary outcomes are expected to be finalized by September 2018. Conclusions: Reproducibility and transparency, important aspects of all research, are particularly critical in developing new approaches to research design. This protocol outlines the first study to prospectively test both the efficacy (correct use) and effectiveness (actual use) of a pregnancy prevention app. This protocol and the processes it describes reflect the dynamic integration of mobile technologies, a call center, and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act–compliant study procedures. Future fertility app studies can build on our approaches to develop methodologies that can contribute to the evidence base around app-based methods of contraception. ClinicalTrial: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02833922; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02833922 (Archived be WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6nDkr0e76) %M 28100441 %R 10.2196/resprot.6886 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/1/e5/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.6886 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28100441 %0 Journal Article %@ 1929-0748 %I JMIR Publications %V 6 %N 1 %P e4 %T Assessing the Quality, Feasibility, and Efficacy of Electronic Patient Platforms Designed to Support Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer: A Systematic Review Protocol %A Pugh,Gemma %A McCann,Lisa %+ Health Behaviour Research Centre, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London,, United Kingdom, 44 2076791736, gemma.pugh.14@ucl.ac.uk %K adolescent %K neoplasms %K telemedicine %K review %D 2017 %7 17.01.2017 %9 Protocol %J JMIR Res Protoc %G English %X Background: A range of innovative websites, mobile technologies, eHealth and mHealth platforms have emerged to support adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer. Previous reviews have identified these various applications and solutions, but no review has summarized the quality, feasibility, and efficacy of existing patient platforms (inclusive of websites, mobile technologies, mHealth and eHealth platforms) developed specifically for young people with cancer. Objective: This paper describes the design of a protocol to conduct a review of published studies or reports which describe or report on an existing platform designed specifically for AYAs who have had a cancer diagnosis. Methods: A search string was developed using a variety of key words and Medical Subject Heading and applied to bibliographic databases. General data (sample characteristics, patient platform development, design and, if applicable, pilot testing outcomes) will be extracted from reports and studies. Drawing on a previously developed coding schematic, the identified patient platforms will be coded for mode of delivery into (1) automated functions, (2) communicative functions, and (3) use of supplementary modes. An adapted version of the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS) will be used to assess the of quality of each identified patient platform. The methodological quality of included studies will be assessed using the Quality Assessment Criteria for Evaluating Primary Research Papers from a Variety of Fields (QualSyst). Both authors will independently screen eligible studies for final inclusion and will both be responsible for data extraction and appraisal. Data will be synthesized narratively to provide an overview of identified patient platforms. Results: The review began in October 2016 and is currently in progress. The review paper will be submitted for peer-review and publication in the summer of 2017. Conclusions: This review will be unique in its focus on assessing, where possible, the quality and efficacy of patient platforms for adolescents and young adults diagnosed with cancer. Results generated from this review will provide an invaluable insight into the utility of modern technology in supporting young people with cancer. %M 28096067 %R 10.2196/resprot.6597 %U http://www.researchprotocols.org/2017/1/e4/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/resprot.6597 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28096067 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 5 %N 1 %P e1 %T Analyzing mHealth Engagement: Joint Models for Intensively Collected User Engagement Data %A Scherer,Emily A %A Ben-Zeev,Dror %A Li,Zhigang %A Kane,John M %+ Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, HB7927, Hanover, NH,, United States, 1 603 653 9060, emily.a.scherer@dartmouth.edu %K joint models %K engagement %K informative missingness %D 2017 %7 12.01.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Evaluating engagement with an intervention is a key component of understanding its efficacy. With an increasing interest in developing behavioral interventions in the mobile health (mHealth) space, appropriate methods for evaluating engagement in this context are necessary. Data collected to evaluate mHealth interventions are often collected much more frequently than those for clinic-based interventions. Additionally, missing data on engagement is closely linked to level of engagement resulting in the potential for informative missingness. Thus, models that can accommodate intensively collected data and can account for informative missingness are required for unbiased inference when analyzing engagement with an mHealth intervention. Objective: The objectives of this paper are to discuss the utility of the joint modeling approach in the analysis of longitudinal engagement data in mHealth research and to illustrate the application of this approach using data from an mHealth intervention designed to support illness management among people with schizophrenia. Methods: Engagement data from an evaluation of an mHealth intervention designed to support illness management among people with schizophrenia is analyzed. A joint model is applied to the longitudinal engagement outcome and time-to-dropout to allow unbiased inference on the engagement outcome. Results are compared to a naïve model that does not account for the relationship between dropout and engagement. Results: The joint model shows a strong relationship between engagement and reduced risk of dropout. Using the mHealth app 1 day more per week was associated with a 23% decreased risk of dropout (P<.001). The decline in engagement over time was steeper when the joint model was used in comparison with the naïve model. Conclusions: Naïve longitudinal models that do not account for informative missingness in mHealth data may produce biased results. Joint models provide a way to model intensively collected engagement outcomes while simultaneously accounting for the relationship between engagement and missing data in mHealth intervention research. %M 28082257 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6474 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2017/1/e1/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6474 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28082257 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-1999 %I JMIR Publications %V 3 %N 1 %P e1 %T Rotterdam Prostate Cancer Risk Calculator: Development and Usability Testing of the Mobile Phone App %A Pereira-Azevedo,Nuno %A Osório,Luís %A Fraga,Avelino %A Roobol,Monique J %+ Department of Urology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Room NA-1706, PO Box 2040, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands, 31 107032240, nuno@pereira-azevedo.com %K mHealth %K prostate cancer %K nomogram %D 2017 %7 06.01.2017 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Cancer %G English %X Background: The use of prostate cancer screening tools that take into account relevant prebiopsy information (ie, risk calculators) is recommended as a way of determining the risk of cancer and the subsequent need for a prostate biopsy. This has the potential to limit prostate cancer overdiagnosis and subsequent overtreatment. mHealth apps are gaining traction in urological practice and are used by both practitioners and patients for a variety of purposes. Objective: The impetus of the study was to design, develop, and assess a smartphone app for prostate cancer screening, based on the Rotterdam Prostate Cancer Risk Calculator (RPCRC). Methods: The results of the Rotterdam arm of the European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (ERSPC) study were used to elaborate several algorithms that allowed the risk of prostate cancer to be estimated. A step-by-step workflow was established to ensure that depending on the available clinical information the most complete risk model of the RPCRC was used. The user interface was designed and then the app was developed as a native app for iOS. The usability of the app was assessed using the Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ) developed by IBM, in a group of 92 participants comprising urologists, general practitioners, and medical students. Results: A total of 11 questions were built into the app, and, depending on the answers, one of the different algorithms of the RPCRC could be used to predict the risk of prostate cancer and of clinically significant prostate cancer (Gleason score ≥7 and clinical stage >T2b). The system usefulness, information quality, and interface quality scores were high—92% (27.7/30), 87% (26.2/30), and 89% (13.4/15), respectively. No usability problems were identified. Conclusions: The RPCRC app is helpful in predicting the risk of prostate cancer and, even more importantly, clinically significant prostate cancer. Its algorithms have been externally validated before and the usability score shows the app’s interface is well designed. Further usability testing is required in different populations to verify these results and ensure that it is easy to use, to warrant a broad appeal, and to provide better patient care. %M 28410180 %R 10.2196/cancer.6750 %U http://cancer.jmir.org/2017/1/e1/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/cancer.6750 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28410180 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 19 %N 1 %P e10 %T IntelliCare: An Eclectic, Skills-Based App Suite for the Treatment of Depression and Anxiety %A Mohr,David C %A Tomasino,Kathryn Noth %A Lattie,Emily G %A Palac,Hannah L %A Kwasny,Mary J %A Weingardt,Kenneth %A Karr,Chris J %A Kaiser,Susan M %A Rossom,Rebecca C %A Bardsley,Leland R %A Caccamo,Lauren %A Stiles-Shields,Colleen %A Schueller,Stephen M %+ Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies (CBITs), Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lakeshore Drive, 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, United States, 1 312 503 1403, d-mohr@northwestern.edu %K mHealth %K eHealth %K mobile health %K depression %K anxiety %D 2017 %7 05.01.2017 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Digital mental health tools have tended to use psychoeducational strategies based on treatment orientations developed and validated outside of digital health. These features do not map well to the brief but frequent ways that people use mobile phones and mobile phone apps today. To address these challenges, we developed a suite of apps for depression and anxiety called IntelliCare, each developed with a focused goal and interactional style. IntelliCare apps prioritize interactive skills training over education and are designed for frequent but short interactions. Objective: The overall objective of this study was to pilot a coach-assisted version of IntelliCare and evaluate its use and efficacy at reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Methods: Participants, recruited through a health care system, Web-based and community advertising, and clinical research registries, were included in this single-arm trial if they had elevated symptoms of depression or anxiety. Participants had access to the 14 IntelliCare apps from Google Play and received 8 weeks of coaching on the use of IntelliCare. Coaching included an initial phone call plus 2 or more texts per week over the 8 weeks, with some participants receiving an additional brief phone call. Primary outcomes included the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) for depression and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) for anxiety. Participants were compensated up to US $90 for completing all assessments; compensation was not for app use or treatment engagement. Results: Of the 99 participants who initiated treatment, 90.1% (90/99) completed 8 weeks. Participants showed substantial reductions in the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 (P<.001). Participants used the apps an average of 195.4 (SD 141) times over the 8 weeks. The average length of use was 1.1 (SD 2.1) minutes, and 95% of participants downloaded 5 or more of the IntelliCare apps. Conclusions: This study supports the IntelliCare framework of providing a suite of skills-focused apps that can be used frequently and briefly to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. The IntelliCare system is elemental, allowing individual apps to be used or not used based on their effectiveness and utility, and it is eclectic, viewing treatment strategies as elements that can be applied as needed rather than adhering to a singular, overarching, theoretical model. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02176226; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02176226 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation/6mQZuBGk1) %M 28057609 %R 10.2196/jmir.6645 %U http://www.jmir.org/2017/1/e10/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6645 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28057609 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-2529 %I JMIR Publications %V 3 %N 2 %P e13 %T Validated Smartphone-Based Apps for Ear and Hearing Assessments: A Review %A Bright,Tess %A Pallawela,Danuk %+ London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom, 44 (0)20 7636 8636, tess.bright1@lshtm.ac.uk %K hearing %K testing %K mobile %K audiometry %K smartphone %K applications %K app %K hearing loss %K hearing impairment %K surveys %K prevalence %D 2016 %7 23.12.2016 %9 Review %J JMIR Rehabil Assist Technol %G English %X Background: An estimated 360 million people have a disabling hearing impairment globally, the vast majority of whom live in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Early identification through screening is important to negate the negative effects of untreated hearing impairment. Substantial barriers exist in screening for hearing impairment in LMICs, such as the requirement for skilled hearing health care professionals and prohibitively expensive specialist equipment to measure hearing. These challenges may be overcome through utilization of increasingly available smartphone app technologies for ear and hearing assessments that are easy to use by unskilled professionals. Objective: Our objective was to identify and compare available apps for ear and hearing assessments and consider the incorporation of such apps into hearing screening programs Methods: In July 2015, the commercial app stores Google Play and Apple App Store were searched to identify apps for ear and hearing assessments. Thereafter, six databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, Global Health, Web of Science, CINAHL, and mHealth Evidence) were searched to assess which of the apps identified in the commercial review had been validated against gold standard measures. A comparison was made between validated apps. Results: App store search queries returned 30 apps that could be used for ear and hearing assessments, the majority of which are for performing audiometry. The literature search identified 11 eligible validity studies that examined 6 different apps. uHear, an app for self-administered audiometry, was validated in the highest number of peer reviewed studies against gold standard pure tone audiometry (n=5). However, the accuracy of uHear varied across these studies. Conclusions: Very few of the available apps have been validated in peer-reviewed studies. Of the apps that have been validated, further independent research is required to fully understand their accuracy at detecting ear and hearing conditions. %M 28582261 %R 10.2196/rehab.6074 %U http://rehab.jmir.org/2016/2/e13/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/rehab.6074 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28582261 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 18 %N 12 %P e333 %T The Role of Online Social Support in Supporting and Educating Parents of Young Children With Special Health Care Needs in the United States: A Scoping Review %A DeHoff,Beth A %A Staten,Lisa K %A Rodgers,Rylin Christine %A Denne,Scott C %+ Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University Health Physicians, 699 Riley Hospital Dr S, RR208, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, United States, 1 3179441528, badehoff@iu.edu %K health communication %K child %K social media %K health education %K health resources %K early childhood %K disability %K neonatal intensive care unit %K family %K maternal-child health services %D 2016 %7 22.12.2016 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: When parents of young children with special health care needs (CSHCN) receive their child’s diagnosis, they encounter information they may not understand, emotions they may not know how to cope with, and questions about their child’s immediate and long-term future that frequently lack answers. The challenge of health care providers is how to prepare parents for caring for their CSHCN, for coping with any resulting challenges, and for accessing the systems and services that can assist them. Objective: The purpose of this work was to review evidence of the information and support needs of parents of young CSHCN and to determine whether online social support can serve as an avenue for learning and empowerment for these parents. Methods: A scoping review identified the challenges, coping mechanisms, and support needs among parents of CSHCN, and the reach and effectiveness of digital technologies with these families and health care providers. We also conducted interviews with professionals serving parents of CSHCN. Results: The literature review and interviews suggested that parents best learn the information they need, and cope with the emotional challenges of raising a CSHCN, with support from other parents of CSHCN, and that young parents in recent years have most often been finding this parent-to-parent support through digital media, particularly social media, consistent with the theory of online social support. Evidence also shows that social media, particularly Facebook, is used by nearly all women aged 18-29 years across racial and socioeconomic lines in the United States. Conclusions: Parents of young CSHCN experience significant stress but gain understanding, receive support, and develop the ability to care for and be advocates for their child through parent-to-parent emotional and informational social support. Online social support is most effective with young adults of childbearing age, with social media and apps being the most useful within the theoretical framework of social support. This opens new opportunities to effectively educate and support parents of young CSHCN. Providers seeking to inform, educate, and support families of CSHCN should develop strategies to help parents find and use social support through digital resources to facilitate their emotional adjustment and practical abilities to care for and access services for their child. %M 28007689 %R 10.2196/jmir.6722 %U http://www.jmir.org/2016/12/e333/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6722 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28007689 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 4 %P e137 %T Design and Feasibility of a Text Messaging Intervention to Prevent Indoor Tanning Among Young Adult Women: A Pilot Study %A Evans,William D %A Mays,Darren %+ Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Avenue, Washington, DC, 20052, United States, 1 202 994 3632, wdevans@gwu.edu %K indoor tanning %K risk perceptions %K text messaging %K feasibility testing %D 2016 %7 22.12.2016 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Although skin cancer is largely preventable, it affects nearly 1 of 5 US adults. There is a need for research on how to optimally design persuasive public health indoor tanning prevention messages. Objective: The objective of our study was to examine whether framed messages on indoor tanning behavioral intentions delivered through short message service (SMS) text messaging would produce (1) positive responses to the messages, including message receptivity and emotional response; (2) indoor tanning efficacy beliefs, including response efficacy and self-efficacy; and (3) indoor tanning risk beliefs. Methods: We conducted a pilot study of indoor tanning prevention messages delivered via mobile phone text messaging in a sample of 21 young adult women who indoor tan. Participants completed baseline measures, were randomly assigned to receive gain-, loss-, or balanced-framed text messages, and completed postexposure outcome measures on indoor tanning cognitions and behaviors. Participants received daily mobile phone indoor tanning prevention text messages for 1 week and completed the same postexposure measures as at baseline. Results: Over the 1-week period there were trends or significant changes after receipt of the text messages, including increased perceived susceptibility (P<.001), response efficacy beliefs (P<.001), and message receptivity (P=.03). Ordinary least squares stepwise linear regression models showed an effect of text message exposure on self-efficacy to quit indoor tanning (t6=–2.475, P<.02). Ordinary least squares linear regression including all measured scales showed a marginal effect of SMS texts on self-efficacy (t20=1.905, P=.08). Participants endorsed highly favorable views toward the text messaging protocol. Conclusions: This study supports this use of mobile text messaging as an indoor tanning prevention strategy. Given the nature of skin cancer risk perceptions, the addition of multimedia messaging service is another area of potential innovation for disseminating indoor tanning prevention messages. %M 28007691 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6493 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2016/4/e137/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6493 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28007691 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 18 %N 12 %P e330 %T The Use and Effectiveness of Mobile Apps for Depression: Results From a Fully Remote Clinical Trial %A Arean,Patricia A %A Hallgren,Kevin A %A Jordan,Joshua T %A Gazzaley,Adam %A Atkins,David C %A Heagerty,Patrick J %A Anguera,Joaquin A %+ Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, 675 Nelson Rising Lane, San Francisco, CA, 94158, United States, 1 415 502 7322, joaquin.anguera@ucsf.edu %K depression %K mobile apps %K RCT %K randomized controlled trial %K cognitive training %K iPST %K problem-solving therapy %D 2016 %7 20.12.2016 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: Mobile apps for mental health have the potential to overcome access barriers to mental health care, but there is little information on whether patients use the interventions as intended and the impact they have on mental health outcomes. Objective: The objective of our study was to document and compare use patterns and clinical outcomes across the United States between 3 different self-guided mobile apps for depression. Methods: Participants were recruited through Web-based advertisements and social media and were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 mood apps. Treatment and assessment were conducted remotely on each participant’s smartphone or tablet with minimal contact with study staff. We enrolled 626 English-speaking adults (≥18 years old) with mild to moderate depression as determined by a 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) score ≥5, or if their score on item 10 was ≥2. The apps were (1) Project: EVO, a cognitive training app theorized to mitigate depressive symptoms by improving cognitive control, (2) iPST, an app based on an evidence-based psychotherapy for depression, and (3) Health Tips, a treatment control. Outcomes were scores on the PHQ-9 and the Sheehan Disability Scale. Adherence to treatment was measured as number of times participants opened and used the apps as instructed. Results: We randomly assigned 211 participants to iPST, 209 to Project: EVO, and 206 to Health Tips. Among the participants, 77.0% (482/626) had a PHQ-9 score >10 (moderately depressed). Among the participants using the 2 active apps, 57.9% (243/420) did not download their assigned intervention app but did not differ demographically from those who did. Differential treatment effects were present in participants with baseline PHQ-9 score >10, with the cognitive training and problem-solving apps resulting in greater effects on mood than the information control app (χ22=6.46, P=.04). Conclusions: Mobile apps for depression appear to have their greatest impact on people with more moderate levels of depression. In particular, an app that is designed to engage cognitive correlates of depression had the strongest effect on depressed mood in this sample. This study suggests that mobile apps reach many people and are useful for more moderate levels of depression. ClinicalTrial: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00540865; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00540865 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6mj8IPqQr) %M 27998876 %R 10.2196/jmir.6482 %U http://www.jmir.org/2016/12/e330/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6482 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27998876 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 4 %P e135 %T Smartphone Apps for Measuring Human Health and Climate Change Co-Benefits: A Comparison and Quality Rating of Available Apps %A Sullivan,Rachel K %A Marsh,Samantha %A Halvarsson,Jakob %A Holdsworth,Michelle %A Waterlander,Wilma %A Poelman,Maartje P %A Salmond,Jennifer Ann %A Christian,Hayley %A Koh,Lenny SC %A Cade,Janet E %A Spence,John C %A Woodward,Alistair %A Maddison,Ralph %+ Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Locked Bag 20000, Geelong, Victoria,, Australia, 61 3 52271100, ralph.maddison@deakin.edu.au %K climate change %K noncommunicable diseases %K smartphone apps %K travel %K diet %K greenhouse gas emissions %K carbon footprint %K individual %K behavior change %D 2016 %7 19.12.2016 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Climate change and the burden of noncommunicable diseases are major global challenges. Opportunities exist to investigate health and climate change co-benefits through a shift from motorized to active transport (walking and cycling) and a shift in dietary patterns away from a globalized diet to reduced consumption of meat and energy dense foods. Given the ubiquitous use and proliferation of smartphone apps, an opportunity exists to use this technology to capture individual travel and dietary behavior and the associated impact on the environment and health. Objective: The objective of the study is to identify, describe the features, and rate the quality of existing smartphone apps which capture personal travel and dietary behavior and simultaneously estimate the carbon cost and potential health consequences of these actions. Methods: The Google Play and Apple App Stores were searched between October 19 and November 6, 2015, and a secondary Google search using the apps filter was conducted between August 8 and September 18, 2016. Eligible apps were required to estimate the carbon cost of personal behaviors with the potential to include features to maximize health outcomes. The quality of included apps was assessed by 2 researchers using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS). Results: Out of 7213 results, 40 apps were identified and rated. Multiple travel-related apps were identified, however no apps solely focused on the carbon impact or health consequences of dietary behavior. None of the rated apps provided sufficient information on the health consequences of travel and dietary behavior. Some apps included features to maximize participant engagement and encourage behavior change towards reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Most apps were rated as acceptable quality as determined by the MARS; 1 was of poor quality and 10 apps were of good quality. Interrater reliability of the 2 evaluators was excellent (ICC=0.94, 95% CI 0.87-0.97). Conclusions: Existing apps capturing travel and dietary behavior and the associated health and environmental impact are of mixed quality. Most apps do not include all desirable features or provide sufficient health information. Further research is needed to determine the potential of smartphone apps to evoke behavior change resulting in climate change and health co-benefits. %M 27993762 %R 10.2196/mhealth.5931 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2016/4/e135/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.5931 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27993762 %0 Journal Article %@ 1438-8871 %I JMIR Publications %V 18 %N 12 %P e331 %T Short-Term Effectiveness of a Mobile Phone App for Increasing Physical Activity and Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet in Primary Care: A Randomized Controlled Trial (EVIDENT II Study) %A Recio-Rodriguez,Jose I %A Agudo-Conde,Cristina %A Martin-Cantera,Carlos %A González-Viejo,Mª Natividad %A Fernandez-Alonso,Mª Del Carmen %A Arietaleanizbeaskoa,Maria Soledad %A Schmolling-Guinovart,Yolanda %A Maderuelo-Fernandez,Jose-Angel %A Rodriguez-Sanchez,Emiliano %A Gomez-Marcos,Manuel A %A Garcia-Ortiz,Luis %A , %+ Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca (IBSAL), Primary Health Care Research Unit, La Alamedilla Health Center, Castilla León Health Service, Av. Comuneros 37-31, Salamanca, 37003, Spain, 34 635542886, lgarciao@usal.es %K physical activity %K food %K information and communication technologies %K arterial aging %D 2016 %7 19.12.2016 %9 Original Paper %J J Med Internet Res %G English %X Background: The use of mobile phone apps for improving lifestyles has become generalized in the population, although little is still known about their effectiveness in improving health. Objective: We evaluate the effect of adding an app to standard counseling on increased physical activity (PA) and adherence to the Mediterranean diet, 3 months after implementation. Methods: A randomized, multicenter clinical trial was carried out. A total of 833 participants were recruited in six primary care centers in Spain through random sampling: 415 in the app+counseling group and 418 in the counseling only group. Counseling on PA and the Mediterranean diet was given to both groups. The app+counseling participants additionally received training in the use of an app designed to promote PA and the Mediterranean diet over a 3-month period. PA was measured with the 7-day Physical Activity Recall (PAR) questionnaire and an accelerometer; adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener questionnaire. Results: Participants were predominantly female in both the app+counseling (249/415, 60.0%) and counseling only (268/418, 64.1%) groups, with a mean age of 51.4 (SD 12.1) and 52.3 (SD 12.0) years, respectively. Leisure-time moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) by 7-day PAR increased in the app+counseling (mean 29, 95% CI 5-53 min/week; P=.02) but not in the counseling only group (mean 17.4, 95% CI –18 to 53 min/week; P=.38). No differences in increase of activity were found between the two groups. The accelerometer recorded a decrease in PA after 3 months in both groups: MVPA mean –55.3 (95% CI –75.8 to –34.9) min/week in app+counseling group and mean –30.1 (95% CI –51.8 to –8.4) min/week in counseling only group. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet increased in both groups (8.4% in app+counseling and 10.4% in counseling only group), with an increase in score of 0.42 and 0.53 points, respectively (P<.001), but no difference between groups (P=.86). Conclusions: Leisure-time MVPA increased more in the app+counseling than counseling only group, although no difference was found when comparing the increase between the two groups. Counseling accompanied by printed materials appears to be effective in improving adherence to the Mediterranean diet, although the app does not increase adherence. ClinicalTrial: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02016014; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02016014 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6mnopADbf) %M 27993759 %R 10.2196/jmir.6814 %U http://www.jmir.org/2016/12/e331/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.6814 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27993759 %0 Journal Article %@ 2291-5222 %I JMIR Publications %V 4 %N 4 %P e136 %T Patient-Facing Mobile Apps to Treat High-Need, High-Cost Populations: A Scoping Review %A Singh,Karandeep %A Drouin,Kaitlin %A Newmark,Lisa P %A Filkins,Malina %A Silvers,Elizabeth %A Bain,Paul A %A Zulman,Donna M %A Lee,Jae-Ho %A Rozenblum,Ronen %A Pabo,Erika %A Landman,Adam %A Klinger,Elissa V %A Bates,David W %+ Departments of Learning Health Sciences and Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1161H NIB, 300 N Ingalls St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5403, United States, 1 734 936 1649, kdpsingh@umich.edu %K review %K mobile apps %K mHealth %K chronic disease %K self-management %D 2016 %7 19.12.2016 %9 Original Paper %J JMIR Mhealth Uhealth %G English %X Background: Self-management is essential to caring for high-need, high-cost (HNHC) populations. Advances in mobile phone technology coupled with increased availability and adoption of health-focused mobile apps have made self-management more achievable, but the extent and quality of the literature supporting their use is not well defined. Objective: The purpose of this review was to assess the breadth, quality, bias, and types of outcomes measured in the literature supporting the use of apps targeting HNHC populations. Methods: Data sources included articles in PubMed and MEDLINE (National Center for Biotechnology Information), EMBASE (Elsevier), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (EBSCO), Web of Science (Thomson Reuters), and the NTIS (National Technical Information Service) Bibliographic Database (EBSCO) published since 2008. We selected studies involving use of patient-facing iOS or Android mobile health apps. Extraction was performed by 1 reviewer; 40 randomly selected articles were evaluated by 2 reviewers to assess agreement. Results: Our final analysis included 175 studies. The populations most commonly targeted by apps included patients with obesity, physical handicaps, diabetes, older age, and dementia. Only 30.3% (53/175) of the apps studied in the reviewed literature were identifiable and available to the public through app stores. Many of the studies were cross-sectional analyses (42.9%, 75/175), small (median number of participants=31, interquartile range 11.0-207.2, maximum 11,690), or performed by an app’s developers (61.1%, 107/175). Of the 175 studies, only 36 (20.6%, 36/175) studies evaluated a clinical outcome. Conclusions: Most apps described in the literature could not be located on the iOS or Android app stores, and existing research does not robustly evaluate the potential of mobile apps. Whereas apps may be useful in patients with chronic conditions, data do not support this yet. Although we had 2-3 reviewers to screen and assess abstract eligibility, only 1 reviewer abstracted the data. This is one limitation of our study. With respect to the 40 articles (22.9%, 40/175) that were assigned to 2 reviewers (of which 3 articles were excluded), inter-rater agreement was significant on the majority of items (17 of 30) but fair-to-moderate on others. %M 27993761 %R 10.2196/mhealth.6445 %U http://mhealth.jmir.org/2016/4/e136/ %U https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.6445 %U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27993761 %0 Journal Article %@ 2369-6893 %I JMIR Publications %V 2 %N 1 %P e1 %T Can a Free Wearable Activity Tracker Change Behavior? The Impact of Trackers on Adults in a Physician-Led Wellness Group %A Gualtieri,Lisa %A Rosenbluth,Sandra %A Phillips,Jeffrey %+ Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA, 02111, United States, 1 617 636 0438, lisa.gualtieri@tufts.edu %K wearable activity trackers %K fitness trackers %K trackers %K physical activity %K chronic disease %K behavior change %K wellness group %K wellness %K older adults %K digital health %D 2016 %7 15.12.2016 %9 Poster %J iproc %G English %X Background: Wearable activity trackers (trackers) are increasingly popular devices used to track step count and other health indicators. Trackers have the potential to benefit those in need of increased physical activity, such as adults who are older and who face significant health challenges. These populations are least likely to purchase trackers and most likely to face challenges in using them, yet may derive educational, motivational, and health benefits from their use once these barriers are removed. Objective: The aim of this research was to investigate the use of trackers by older adults with chronic medical conditions who had never used trackers previously. Our primary research questions were (1) if participants would accept and use trackers to increase their physical activity; (2) if there were barriers to use besides cost and training; (3) if trackers would educate participants on their baseline and ongoing activity levels and support behavior change; and (4) if clinical outcomes would show improvements in participants’ health. Methods: This study was conducted with 10 patients in a 12 week physician-led wellness group offered by Family Doctors, LLC. Patients were given trackers in the second week of the wellness group and were interviewed 2-4 weeks after it ended. The study investigators analyzed the interview notes to extract themes about the participants’ attitudes and behavior changes and collected and analyzed participants’ clinical data, including weight and LDL-Cholesterol (LDL), over the course of the study. Results: Over the 12-14 weeks of tracker use, improvements were seen in clinical outcomes, attitudes towards the trackers, and physical activity behaviors. Participants lost an average of a half-pound per week (SD=0.408), with a mean total weight loss of 5.97 pounds (P=.0038). Other short-term clinical outcomes included a 9.2% decrease in LDL levels (P=.0377). All participants reported an increase in well-being and confidence in their ability to lead more active lives. We identified 6 major attitudinal themes from our qualitative analysis of the interview notes: (1) barriers to tracker purchase included cost, perceived value, and choice confusion; (2) attitudes towards the trackers shifted for many, from half of the participants expressing excitement and hope and half expressing hesitation or trepidation, to all participants feeling positive towards their tracker at the time of the interviews; (3) trackers served as educational tools for baseline activity levels; (4) trackers provided concrete feedback on physical activity, which motivated behavior change; (5) tracker use reinforced wellness group activities and goals; and (6) although commitment to tracker use did not waver, external circumstances influenced some participants’ ongoing use. Conclusion