Development of an integrated mobile application for lifestyle modification in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome

Abstract

Background: Lifestyle modification is the primary treatment for overweight and obese women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Developing mobile applications that motivate and provide lifestyle modification advice and evidence-based information for women with PCOS is needed. Aims: This study is aimed at the development of an integrated mobile application for lifestyle modifications in women with PCOS. Methods: This study is a development study to develop a lifestyle modification mobile application for PCOS based on a systematic review and needs analysis according to the ADDIE model. The survey was conducted consecutively on patients with PCOS who visited a university hospital in Incheon, Republic of Korea from 1 November 2020 to 28 February 2021. The questionnaire was developed based on prior literature, and validity was evaluated by experts. The survey investigated respondents’ general characteristics, the perceptions and needs, and the preferred components of integrated mobile application for lifestyle modification. The usability of the application was evaluated by experts. STROBE statement has been followed in this study. Results: The lifestyle modification programme was confirmed to be clinical effect through a systematic review. The necessity application and high scores in preference of all components was confirmed in a survey. The mobile application included every amount of intake, exercise time, menstrual period, and daily weight compared with the target weight and BMI. It also included questionnaires on hirsutism and acne, disease information, and communication with the researcher for counselling purposes. The application will motivate users to participate by giving scores according to a goal achievement each day. In usability test, experts evaluate this mobile application as suitable for use. Conclusion: In this study, an integrated mobile application was developed in consideration of the systematic review and needs analysis of women with PCOS. The effectiveness of the application will need to be verified through further research. Relevance to clinical practice: This study developed an integrated mobile application including diet and exercise therapy, as well as weight and menstrual period management, questionnaires and disease information. In addition, the mobile application motivates women with PCOS to provide personalised counselling and achieve goals. We expect to use it in future studies for women with PCOS in clinical practice. © 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd