Understanding usage of a hybrid website and smartphone app for weight management: a mixed-methods study.

Leanne G Morrison Charlie Hargood Sharon Xiaowen Lin Laura Dennison Judith Joseph Stephanie Hughes Danius T Michaelides Derek W Johnston Marie Johnston Susan Michie Paul Little Peter Wf Smith Mark J Weal Lucy Yardley

Published in: Journal of medical Internet research (2014)

This study provides evidence that smartphones have the potential to improve individuals' engagement with their health-related goals when used as a supplement to an existing online intervention. The perceived convenience of mobile access to information does not appear to deter use of Web-based interventions or strengthen the impact of app access on goal engagement. A mixed-methods design enabled exploration of individual variation in daily usage of the app-based tools.

Keyphrases

physical activity
social media
health information
randomized controlled trial
depressive symptoms
social support
weight loss
healthcare
public health
weight gain