Nutrition-Related Mobile Apps in the French App Store: Assessment of Functionality and Quality (Preprint)

BACKGROUND The global burden of disease attributes 20% of deaths to poor nutrition. Although hundreds of nutrition-related mobile applications have been created to help improve this situation and these have been downloaded by millions of users, the effectiveness of integrating these technologies on the adoption of healthy eating remains mixed. Similarly, no significant evaluation of nutrition applications in French, spoken by approximately 300 million people, has yet been identified in the literature. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to review which nutrition mobile apps are currently available on the French market, and to carry out an exhaustive assessment of their quality using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS) tool. METHODS A screening of apps related to nutritional health was conducted from March 10 to 17, 2021, on the Google Play Store and the French App Store. A shortlist of 15 apps was identified and assessed using the French version of MARS. Eight dietitian nutritionists assigned to assess seven apps. Remaining apps were randomly allocated to ensure four ratings per app. Intraclass correlation was used to evaluate inter-rater agreement. Mean ± SD scores and their distributions for each section and item were calculated. RESULTS The top scores for quality were obtained by Yazio (mean 3.84 ± standard deviation 0.32), FeelEat (3.71 ± 0.47) and BonneApp (3.65 ± 0.09). The engagement scores (Section A) ranged from 1.95 ± 0.5 for iEatBetter to 3.85 ± 0.44 for Feeleat. The functionality scores (Section B) ranged from 2.25 ± 0.54 for Naor to 4.25 ± 0.46 for Yazio. The Aesthetics scores (Section C) ranged from 2.17 ± 0.34 for Naor to 3.88 ± 0.47 for Yazio. The information scores (Section D) ranged from 2.38 ± 0.60 for iEatBetter:Journal alimentaire to 3.73 ± 0.29 for Yazio. The MARS subjective quality (Section E) varied from 1.13 ± 0.26 for Naor and 1.13 ± 0.25 iEatBetter:Journal alimentaire to 2.28 ± 0.88 for Compteur de calories Fatsecret. The specificity of apps varied from 1.38 ± 0.64 for iEatBetter:Journal alimentaire to 3.50 ± 0.91 for Feeleat. The app-specific score was always lower than the subjective quality score that was always lower than the quality score and that was lower than the rating score from the iOS or Android app stores. CONCLUSIONS Although the prevention and information messages regarding nutritional habits are not scientifically verified before marketing, dieteticians-nutritionists evaluated that the apps quality was quite relevant. The subjective quality and mobile app specificities were associated with lower ratings. Further investigations are needed to assess their alignment with recommendations and their long-term impact on users.

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Assessing the Quality of skin Healthcare Mobile Apps: a systematic review and scoring using the MARS

European Journal of Public Health ◽

10.1093/eurpub/ckaa166.066 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽

Author(s):

H Woo ◽

G h Kim ◽

Y w Kim

Keyword(s):

Rating Scale ◽

Mobile Apps ◽

Quality Score ◽

Mobile App ◽

Subjective Quality ◽

High Quality ◽

Simple Task ◽

Content Quality ◽

Assessment Scores ◽

Static Correlation

Abstract Background With the number of skin healthcare-related apps users increasing, the selection of high-quality apps is not a simple task. The aim of this study was to (1)describe the content of available skin healthcare apps, (2)evaluate their objective quality regarding engagement, functionality, aesthetics, information and subjective quality. Methods The App Store and Google Play store were systematically searched to identify skin healthcare mobile apps for general population use. Eligible apps were downloaded and independently evaluated for quality by 4 reviewers using the Mobile App Rating Scale(MARS). The MARS is the only currently available tool that provides a comprehensive, multidimensional evaluation of app quality. MARS assesses the dimensions of engagement, functionality, aesthetics, information, and subjective quality on 5-point scales. In addition, the correlation between MARS score and user score was analyzed. Results The overall 37 apps obtained a mean quality score of 2.77(SD.62). 'Trove skin(Android: 4.13)' received the highest score, while 'Complete Beauty Guides(Android: 1.8)' received the lowest score. User scores were found to have no significant correlation between overall quality scores through MARS and content scores(r= .240, p= .153)(r= .290, p= .081), the overall quality score through MARS and the Content Score were significant static correlation(r= .487, p= .002). Conclusions As the use, and introduction, of mobile apps continue to grow, it will become increasingly important for consumers to adopt high-quality apps. Understanding the effectiveness of high-quality apps compared with low-quality apps can make it easier and more accurate for consumers decisions about using related to skin healthcare apps. Furthermore, qualities of apps that ranked higher could be used to improve existing apps or help with the development of new ones. Key messages Consumers refer to the User Score when selecting skin healthcare-related apps. However, User Score was not correlated with MARS content quality assessment scores evaluated by experts. This study is a significant help that enables consumers to select good-quality skin healthcare apps by high-quality content information through MARS.

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Quality of a Supporting Mobile App for Rheumatic Patients: Assessment Using the User Version of the Mobile Application Scale (uMARS) and Associated Patient Characteristics (Preprint)

10.2196/preprints.30324 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Antonia Lambrecht ◽

Nicolas Vuillerme ◽

Christina Raab ◽

David Simon ◽

Eva-Maria Messner ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Rheumatoid Arthritis ◽

Psoriatic Arthritis ◽

Rating Scale ◽

End Users ◽

Quality Score ◽

Mobile App ◽

Subjective Quality ◽

Ehealth Literacy ◽

Rheumatic Patients

BACKGROUND Mobile applications promise to improve current health care. A growing number app quality studies exist to help patients and physicians choose appropriate, helpful and useful applications. However, current mobile app quality ratings are mostly physician-based. They exclude patients although as end-users, patients are able to provide the most relevant feedback. In a recent physician-based review of rheumatic apps, Rheuma Auszeit received the best overall rating (4.2/5), however this app has never been systematically evaluated by the intended end-users, rheumatic patients. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was (1) to assess the quality of Rheuma Auszeit by rheumatic patients and (2) to evaluate the association between uMARS (User Version of the Mobile App Rating Scale) scores and patients’ characteristics. METHODS Consecutive patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and spondyloarthritis were seen at the rheumatology clinic at university hospital Erlangen, Germany. They were asked to evaluate the app Rheuma Auszeit using the uMARS and to complete a paper-based survey evaluating the individual preferences, attitudes and ehealth literacy. uMARS assesses the dimensions of engagement, functionality, aesthetics, information, and subjective quality on 5-point scales. The association between uMARS scores and patients’ characteristics was further explored. RESULTS Between December 2018 and January 2019, a total of 126 patients evaluated Rheuma Auszeit using uMARS and filled out the paper-based survey. The median uMARS score was 3.9, IQR 0.7. Functionality was the domain with the highest rating (median 4.8, IQR 0.8), followed by aesthetics (median 4.0, IQR 0.7), information (median 3.5, IQR 0.8), and engagement (median 3.2, IQR 1.0). Subjective quality was average (median 3.0, IQR 1.0). The lowest scoring individual item was customization with a median of 2.5/5. Lower functionality scores were reported among older female rheumatic patients (P<.004). Older male rheumatic patients reported a higher subjective quality score (P<.024). Perceived disease activity and disease duration did not significantly correlate with any uMARS subdomain scores. eHealth literacy significantly correlated with functionality uMARS subdomain ratings (Rho=0.18; P<.042). Preferred time of app usage significantly correlated with engagement (Rho=0.20; P<.024), functionality (Rho=0.19; P<.029), total uMARS score (Rho=0.21; P<.017) and subjective quality score (Rho=0.21; P<.017). The vast majority of rheumatic patients would consider recommending Rheuma Auszeit to other patients (117/126; 92.9%). CONCLUSIONS Rheuma Auszeit was well accepted by patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondyloarthritis. Lacking customization could lead to low app compliance and should be improved. The study highlights the potential and feasibility of therapeutic complementary digital solutions in rheumatology.

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Vaping-Related Mobile Apps Available in the Google Play Store After the Apple Ban: Content Review

Journal of Medical Internet Research ◽

10.2196/20009 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 22 (11) ◽

pp. e20009

Author(s):

Meredith C Meacham ◽

Erin A Vogel ◽

Johannes Thrul

Keyword(s):

Rating Scale ◽

Mobile Apps ◽

Mobile App ◽

Sources Of Information ◽

App Store ◽

Quit Smoking ◽

Quitting Smoking ◽

Do It Yourself ◽

Content Review ◽

Google Play

Background In response to health concerns about vaping devices (eg, youth nicotine use, lung injury), Apple removed 181 previously approved vaping-related apps from the App Store in November 2019. This policy change may lessen youth exposure to content that glamorizes vaping; however, it may also block important sources of information and vaping device control for adults seeking to use vaping devices safely. Objective Understanding the types of nicotine and cannabis vaping–related apps still available in the competing Google Play Store can shed light on how digital apps may reflect information available to consumers. Methods In December 2019, we searched the Google Play Store for vaping-related apps using the keywords "vape" and "vaping" and reviewed the first 100 apps presented in the results. We reviewed app titles, descriptions, screenshots, and metadata to categorize the intended substance (nicotine or cannabis/tetrahydrocannabinol) and the app’s purpose. The most installed apps in each purpose category were downloaded and evaluated for quality and usability with the Mobile App Rating Scale. Results Of the first 100 apps, 79 were related to vaping. Of these 79 apps, 43 (54%) were specific to nicotine, 3 (4%) were specific to cannabis, 1 (1%) was intended for either, and for the remaining 31 (39%), the intended substance was unclear. The most common purposes of the apps were making do-it-yourself e-liquids (28/79, 35%) or coils (25/79, 32%), games/entertainment (19/79, 24%), social networking (16/79, 20%), and shopping for vaping products (15/79, 19%). Of the 79 apps, at least 4 apps (5%) paired with vaping devices to control temperature or dose settings, 8 apps (10%) claimed to help people quit smoking using vaping, and 2 apps (3%) had the goal of helping people quit vaping. Conclusions The majority of vaping-related apps in the Google Play Store had features either to help users continue vaping, such as information for modifying devices, or to maintain interest in vaping. Few apps were for controlling device settings or assisting with quitting smoking or vaping. Assuming that these Google Play Store apps were similar in content to the Apple App Store apps that were removed, it appears that Apple’s ban would have a minimal effect on people who vape with the intention of quitting smoking or who are seeking information about safer vaping via mobile apps.

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Mobile Apps for Speech-Language Therapy in Adults With Communication Disorders: Review of Content and Quality

JMIR mhealth and uhealth ◽

10.2196/18858 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 8 (10) ◽

pp. e18858

Author(s):

Atiyeh Vaezipour ◽

Jessica Campbell ◽

Deborah Theodoros ◽

Trevor Russell

Keyword(s):

Rating Scale ◽

Mobile Apps ◽

Communication Disorders ◽

Mobile App ◽

Evidence Based ◽

Language Therapy ◽

Eligibility Criteria ◽

App Store ◽

Google Play

Background Worldwide, more than 75% of people with acquired brain injury (ABI) experience communication disorders. Communication disorders are impairments in the ability to communicate effectively, that is, sending, receiving, processing, and comprehending verbal and nonverbal concepts and symbols. Such disorders may have enduring impacts on employment, social participation, and quality of life. Technology-enabled interventions such as mobile apps have the potential to increase the reach of speech-language therapy to treat communication disorders. However, ensuring that apps are evidence-based and of high quality is critical for facilitating safe and effective treatment for adults with communication disorders. Objective The aim of this review is to identify mobile apps that are currently widely available to adults with communication disorders for speech-language therapy and to assess their content and quality using the validated Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). Methods Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and webpages were searched to identify mobile apps for speech-language therapy. Apps were included in the review if they were designed for the treatment of adult communication disorders after ABI, were in English, and were either free or for purchase. Certified speech-language pathologists used the MARS to assess the quality of the apps. Results From a total of 2680 apps identified from Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and web searches, 2.61% (70/2680) apps met the eligibility criteria for inclusion. Overall, 61% (43/70) were available for download on the iPhone Operating System (iOS) platform, 20% (14/70) on the Android platform, and 19% (13/70) on both iOS and Android platforms. A content analysis of the apps revealed 43 apps for language, 17 apps for speech, 8 apps for cognitive communication, 6 apps for voice, and 5 apps for oromotor function or numeracy. The overall MARS mean score was 3.7 out of 5, SD 0.6, ranging between 2.1 and 4.5, with functionality being the highest-scored subscale (4.3, SD 0.6), followed by aesthetics (3.8, SD 0.8), information (3.4, SD 0.6), and engagement (3.3, SD 0.6). The top 5 apps were Naming Therapy (4.6/5), Speech Flipbook Standard (4.6/5), Number Therapy (4.5/5), Answering Therapy, and Constant Therapy (4.4/5). Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first study to systematically identify and evaluate a broad range of mobile apps for speech-language therapy for adults with communication disorders after sustaining ABI. We found a lack of interactive and engaging elements in the apps, a critical factor in sustaining self-managed speech-language therapy. More evidence-based apps with a focus on human factors, user experience, and a patient-led design approach are required to enhance effectiveness and long-term use.

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Quality of a Supporting Mobile App for Rheumatic Patients: Patient-Based Assessment Using the User Version of the Mobile Application Scale (uMARS)

Frontiers in Medicine ◽

10.3389/fmed.2021.715345 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 8 ◽

Author(s):

Antonia Lambrecht ◽

Nicolas Vuillerme ◽

Christina Raab ◽

David Simon ◽

Eva-Maria Messner ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Rheumatoid Arthritis ◽

Psoriatic Arthritis ◽

Rating Scale ◽

Quality Score ◽

Mobile App ◽

Subjective Quality ◽

University Hospital ◽

Ehealth Literacy ◽

Rheumatic Patients

Introduction: Mobile applications promise to improve current health care. However, current mobile app quality ratings are mostly physician-based. The aim of this study was (1) to assess the quality of the self-management app Rheuma Auszeit using the validated uMARS (User Version of the Mobile App Rating Scale) app quality assessment tool and (2) to evaluate the association between uMARS scores and patients' characteristics.Materials and Methods: Consecutive patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and spondyloarthritis were seen at the rheumatology clinic at university hospital Erlangen, Germany. They were asked to test Rheuma Auszeit, evaluate its quality using uMARS and complete a paper-based survey evaluating the individual preferences, attitudes and ehealth literacy. The association between uMARS scores and patients' characteristics was further explored.Results: Between December 2018 and January 2019, a total of 126 patients evaluated Rheuma Auszeit using uMARS and filled out the paper-based survey. The median uMARS score was 3.9, IQR 0.7. Functionality was the domain with the highest rating (median 4.8, IQR 0.8), followed by aesthetics (median 4.0, IQR 0.7), information (median 3.5, IQR 0.8), and engagement (median 3.2, IQR 1.0). Subjective quality was average (median 3.0, IQR 1.0). The lowest scoring individual item was customization with a median of 2.5/5. Lower functionality scores were reported among older female rheumatic patients (P < 0.004). Older male rheumatic patients reported a higher subjective quality score (P < 0.024). Perceived disease activity and disease duration did not significantly correlate with any uMARS subdomain scores. eHealth literacy significantly correlated with functionality uMARS subdomain ratings (Rho = 0.18; P < 0.042). Preferred time of app usage significantly correlated with engagement (Rho = 0.20; P < 0.024), functionality (Rho = 0.19; P < 0.029), total uMARS score (Rho = 0.21; P < 0.017) and subjective quality score (Rho = 0.21; P < 0.017). The vast majority of rheumatic patients would consider recommending Rheuma Auszeit to other patients (117/126; 92.9%).Conclusion: Rheuma Auszeit was well-accepted by German patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondyloarthritis. Lacking customization could lead to low app compliance and should be improved. Lower functionality scores among older female rheumatic patients highlight the need for patient education. The study underlines the potential and feasibility of therapeutic complementary digital solutions in rheumatology.

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Measuring the Quality of Mobile Apps for the Management of Pain: Systematic Search and Evaluation Using the Mobile App Rating Scale (Preprint)

10.2196/preprints.10718 ◽

2018 ◽

Author(s):

Alejandro Salazar ◽

Helena de Sola ◽

Inmaculada Failde ◽

Jose Antonio Moral-Munoz

Keyword(s):

New Technologies ◽

Rating Scale ◽

Mobile Apps ◽

Scientific Evidence ◽

Mobile App ◽

Subjective Quality ◽

Global Quality ◽

Final Score ◽

Biopsychosocial Model Of Pain

BACKGROUND Chronic pain is a major health issue requiring an approach that not only considers medication, but also many other factors included in the biopsychosocial model of pain. New technologies, such as mobile apps, are tools to address these factors, although in many cases they lack proven quality or are not based on scientific evidence, so it is necessary to review and measure their quality. OBJECTIVE The aim is to evaluate and measure the quality of mobile apps for the management of pain using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). METHODS This study included 18 pain-related mobile apps from the App Store and Play Store. The MARS was administered to measure their quality. We list the scores (of each section and the final score) of every app and we report the mean score (and standard deviation) for an overall vision of the quality of the pain-related apps. We compare the section scores between the groups defined according to the tertiles via analysis of variance (ANOVA) or Kruskal-Wallis test, depending on the normality of the distribution (Shapiro-Wilk test). RESULTS The global quality ranged from 1.74 (worst app) to 4.35 (best app). Overall, the 18 apps obtained a mean score of 3.17 (SD 0.75). The best-rated sections were functionality (mean 3.92, SD 0.72), esthetics (mean 3.29, SD 1.05), and engagement (mean 2.87, SD 1.14), whereas the worst rated were app specific (mean 2.48, SD 1.00), information (mean 2.52, SD 0.82), and app subjective quality (mean 2.68, SD 1.22). The main differences between tertiles were found on app subjective quality, engagement, esthetics, and app specific. CONCLUSIONS Current pain-related apps are of a certain quality mainly regarding their technical aspects, although they fail to offer information and have an impact on the user. Most apps are not based on scientific evidence, have not been rigorously tested, and the confidentiality of the information collected is not guaranteed. Future apps would need to improve these aspects and exploit the capabilities of current devices.

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Vaping-Related Mobile Apps Available in the Google Play Store After the Apple Ban: Content Review (Preprint)

10.2196/preprints.20009 ◽

2020 ◽

Author(s):

Meredith C Meacham ◽

Erin A Vogel ◽

Johannes Thrul

Keyword(s):

Rating Scale ◽

Mobile Apps ◽

Mobile App ◽

Sources Of Information ◽

App Store ◽

Quit Smoking ◽

Quitting Smoking ◽

Do It Yourself ◽

Content Review ◽

Google Play

BACKGROUND In response to health concerns about vaping devices (eg, youth nicotine use, lung injury), Apple removed 181 previously approved vaping-related apps from the App Store in November 2019. This policy change may lessen youth exposure to content that glamorizes vaping; however, it may also block important sources of information and vaping device control for adults seeking to use vaping devices safely. OBJECTIVE Understanding the types of nicotine and cannabis vaping–related apps still available in the competing Google Play Store can shed light on how digital apps may reflect information available to consumers. METHODS In December 2019, we searched the Google Play Store for vaping-related apps using the keywords "vape" and "vaping" and reviewed the first 100 apps presented in the results. We reviewed app titles, descriptions, screenshots, and metadata to categorize the intended substance (nicotine or cannabis/tetrahydrocannabinol) and the app’s purpose. The most installed apps in each purpose category were downloaded and evaluated for quality and usability with the Mobile App Rating Scale. RESULTS Of the first 100 apps, 79 were related to vaping. Of these 79 apps, 43 (54%) were specific to nicotine, 3 (4%) were specific to cannabis, 1 (1%) was intended for either, and for the remaining 31 (39%), the intended substance was unclear. The most common purposes of the apps were making do-it-yourself e-liquids (28/79, 35%) or coils (25/79, 32%), games/entertainment (19/79, 24%), social networking (16/79, 20%), and shopping for vaping products (15/79, 19%). Of the 79 apps, at least 4 apps (5%) paired with vaping devices to control temperature or dose settings, 8 apps (10%) claimed to help people quit smoking using vaping, and 2 apps (3%) had the goal of helping people quit vaping. CONCLUSIONS The majority of vaping-related apps in the Google Play Store had features either to help users continue vaping, such as information for modifying devices, or to maintain interest in vaping. Few apps were for controlling device settings or assisting with quitting smoking or vaping. Assuming that these Google Play Store apps were similar in content to the Apple App Store apps that were removed, it appears that Apple’s ban would have a minimal effect on people who vape with the intention of quitting smoking or who are seeking information about safer vaping via mobile apps.

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Mobile Apps for Speech-Language Therapy in Adults With Communication Disorders: Review of Content and Quality (Preprint)

10.2196/preprints.18858 ◽

2020 ◽

Author(s):

Atiyeh Vaezipour ◽

Jessica Campbell ◽

Deborah Theodoros ◽

Trevor Russell

Keyword(s):

Rating Scale ◽

Mobile Apps ◽

Communication Disorders ◽

Mobile App ◽

Evidence Based ◽

Language Therapy ◽

Eligibility Criteria ◽

App Store ◽

Google Play

BACKGROUND Worldwide, more than 75% of people with acquired brain injury (ABI) experience communication disorders. Communication disorders are impairments in the ability to communicate effectively, that is, sending, receiving, processing, and comprehending verbal and nonverbal concepts and symbols. Such disorders may have enduring impacts on employment, social participation, and quality of life. Technology-enabled interventions such as mobile apps have the potential to increase the reach of speech-language therapy to treat communication disorders. However, ensuring that apps are evidence-based and of high quality is critical for facilitating safe and effective treatment for adults with communication disorders. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review is to identify mobile apps that are currently widely available to adults with communication disorders for speech-language therapy and to assess their content and quality using the validated Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). METHODS Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and webpages were searched to identify mobile apps for speech-language therapy. Apps were included in the review if they were designed for the treatment of adult communication disorders after ABI, were in English, and were either free or for purchase. Certified speech-language pathologists used the MARS to assess the quality of the apps. RESULTS From a total of 2680 apps identified from Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and web searches, 2.61% (70/2680) apps met the eligibility criteria for inclusion. Overall, 61% (43/70) were available for download on the iPhone Operating System (iOS) platform, 20% (14/70) on the Android platform, and 19% (13/70) on both iOS and Android platforms. A content analysis of the apps revealed 43 apps for language, 17 apps for speech, 8 apps for cognitive communication, 6 apps for voice, and 5 apps for oromotor function or numeracy. The overall MARS mean score was 3.7 out of 5, SD 0.6, ranging between 2.1 and 4.5, with functionality being the highest-scored subscale (4.3, SD 0.6), followed by aesthetics (3.8, SD 0.8), information (3.4, SD 0.6), and engagement (3.3, SD 0.6). The top 5 apps were Naming Therapy (4.6/5), Speech Flipbook Standard (4.6/5), Number Therapy (4.5/5), Answering Therapy, and Constant Therapy (4.4/5). CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study to systematically identify and evaluate a broad range of mobile apps for speech-language therapy for adults with communication disorders after sustaining ABI. We found a lack of interactive and engaging elements in the apps, a critical factor in sustaining self-managed speech-language therapy. More evidence-based apps with a focus on human factors, user experience, and a patient-led design approach are required to enhance effectiveness and long-term use.

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Correction: Mobile Apps for Speech-Language Therapy in Adults With Communication Disorders: Review of Content and Quality (Preprint)

10.2196/preprints.26309 ◽

2020 ◽

Author(s):

Atiyeh Vaezipour ◽

Jessica Campbell ◽

Deborah Theodoros ◽

Trevor Russell

Keyword(s):

Rating Scale ◽

Mobile Apps ◽

Communication Disorders ◽

Mobile App ◽

Evidence Based ◽

Language Therapy ◽

Eligibility Criteria ◽

App Store ◽

Google Play

UNSTRUCTURED Worldwide, more than 75% of people with acquired brain injury (ABI) experience communication disorders. Communication disorders are impairments in the ability to communicate effectively, that is, sending, receiving, processing, and comprehending verbal and nonverbal concepts and symbols. Such disorders may have enduring impacts on employment, social participation, and quality of life. Technology-enabled interventions such as mobile apps have the potential to increase the reach of speech-language therapy to treat communication disorders. However, ensuring that apps are evidence-based and of high quality is critical for facilitating safe and effective treatment for adults with communication disorders. The aim of this review is to identify mobile apps that are currently widely available to adults with communication disorders for speech-language therapy and to assess their content and quality using the validated Mobile App Rating Scale(MARS). Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and webpages were searched to identify mobile apps for speech-language therapy. Apps were included in the review if they were designed for the treatment of adult communication disorders after ABI, were in English, and were either free or for purchase. Certified speech-language pathologists used the MARS to assess the quality of the apps. From a total of 2680 apps identified from Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and web searches, 2.61% (70/2680) apps met the eligibility criteria for inclusion. Overall, 61% (43/70) were available for download on the iPhone Operating System (iOS) platform, 20% (14/70) on the Android platform, and 19% (13/70) on both iOS and Android platforms. A content analysis of the apps revealed 43 apps for language, 17 apps for speech, 8 apps for cognitive communication, 6 apps for voice, and 5 apps for oromotor function or numeracy. The overall MARS mean score was 3.7 out of 5, SD 0.6, ranging between 2.1 and 4.5, with functionality being the highest-scored subscale (4.3, SD 0.6), followed by aesthetics (3.8, SD 0.8), information (3.4, SD 0.6), and engagement (3.3, SD 0.6). The top 5 apps were Naming Therapy (4.6/5), Speech Flipbook Standard (4.6/5), Number Therapy(4.5/5), Answering Therapy, and Constant Therapy (4.4/5). To our knowledge, this is the first study to systematically identify and evaluate a broad range of mobile apps for speech-language therapy for adults with communication disorders after sustaining ABI. We found a lack of interactive and engaging elements in the apps, a critical factor in sustaining self-managed speech-language therapy. More evidence-based apps with a focus on human factors, user experience, and a patient-led design approach are required to enhance effectiveness and long-term use.

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Smartphone Apps Targeting Physical Activity in People With Rheumatoid Arthritis: Systematic Quality Appraisal and Content Analysis

JMIR mhealth and uhealth ◽

10.2196/18495 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 8 (7) ◽

pp. e18495 ◽

Cited By ~ 1

Author(s):

Lindsay M Bearne ◽

Mandeep Sekhon ◽

Rebecca Grainger ◽

Anthony La ◽

Mehrdad Shamali ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Rheumatoid Arthritis ◽

Physical Activity ◽

Rating Scale ◽

Mobile App ◽

Information Support ◽

World Health ◽

Smartphone Apps ◽

High Quality ◽

App Store ◽

Google Play

Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disabling, inflammatory joint condition affecting 0.5%-1% of the global population. Physical activity (PA) and exercise are recommended for people with RA, but uptake and adherence tend to be low. Smartphone apps could assist people with RA to achieve PA recommendations. However, it is not known whether high quality, evidence-informed PA apps that include behavior change techniques (BCTs) previously identified as effective for PA adherence are available for people with RA. Objective This study aims to systematically identify apps that include goals to facilitate PA for adults with RA and assess app quality and content for the inclusion of relevant BCTs against recommendations for cardiorespiratory, resistance, flexibility, and neuromotor PA and exercise. Methods A systematic search of the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in the United Kingdom was conducted to identify English language apps that promote PA for adults with RA. Two researchers independently assessed app quality (mobile app rating scale [MARS]; range 0-5) and content (BCT Taxonomy version 1, World Health Organization, the American College of Sports Medicine, and the European League against Rheumatism recommendations for PA). The completeness of reporting of PA prescription was evaluated using a modified version of the Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template (CERT; range 0-14). Results A total of 14,047 apps were identified. Following deduplication, 2737 apps were screened for eligibility; 6 apps were downloaded (2 on the Apple App Store and 4 on the Google Play Store), yielding 4 unique apps. App quality varied (MARS score 2.25-4.17). Only 1 app was congruent with all aspects of the PA recommendations. All apps completely or partially recommended flexibility and resistance exercises, 3 apps completely or partially advised some form of neuromotor exercise, but only 2 offered full or partial guidance on cardiorespiratory exercise. Completeness of exercise reporting was mixed (CERT scores 7-14 points) and 3-7 BCTs were identified. Two BCTs were common to all apps (information about health consequences and instruction on how to perform behavior). Higher quality apps included a greater number of BCTs and were more closely aligned to PA guidance. No published trials evaluating the effect of the included apps were identified. Conclusions This review identifies 4 PA apps of mixed quality and content for use by people with RA. Higher quality apps were more closely aligned to PA guidance and included a greater number of BCTs. One high-quality app (Rheumatoid Arthritis Information Support and Education) included 7 BCTs and was fully aligned with PA and exercise guidance. The effect of apps on PA adherence should be established before implementation.

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