Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Self-management is crucial for people with diabetes to maintain their health and prevent complications. Mobile applications have emerged as promising tools to help people with diabetes self-manage their condition. Our recent article in the journal BMJ Open – What are the perceptions and experiences of adults using mobile applications for self-management in diabetes? A systematic review – reviewed some of the the research literature in this area to obtain patient perspectives on these apps.
What are the benefits of using mobile apps for diabetes self-management?
Our systematic review explored the perceptions and experiences of adults with types 1, 2, and gestational diabetes using mobile applications for self-management. The review included 24 qualitative studies that interviewed or surveyed people with diabetes who used mobile apps for self-management.
We found that people with diabetes generally have a positive view of mobile apps for self-management. App features that were particularly valued included:
- Monitoring blood glucose, diet, and exercise
- Receiving reminders about blood glucose checks, medication, and mealtimes
- Learning about the interrelationship between blood glucose, diet, and exercise
What are the challenges of using mobile apps for diabetes self-management?
We also identified several challenges that people with diabetes face when using mobile apps for self-management. These challenges include:
- Uploading excessive information
- Monitoring device incompatibility
- Episodic app crashes
- Telephone handling issues
What are the implications of this research?
We concluded that mobile applications are promising tools to help people with diabetes self-manage their condition. However, it is important to address the challenges that people with diabetes face when using these apps. We also recommended that future research should:
- Include healthcare professionals (HCPs) to get their views on the apps
- Explore the long-term usage of mobile apps
- Evaluate the role of AI in providing interactive support for self-management
Conclusion
Mobile apps have the potential to improve diabetes self-management. By addressing the challenges and incorporating the recommendations of this research, we can develop apps that are truly beneficial for people with diabetes.