Guidelines for a cancer prevention smartphone application: amixed-methods study

Abstract

tObjectives: This study sought to explore the views and experiences of healthy young adults concerningthe fundamental features of a cancer prevention smartphone app that seeks behaviour change.Methods: Three focus groups were conducted with 16 healthy young adults that explored prior experi-ences, points of view and opinions about currently available health-related smartphone apps. Then, anonline questionnaire was designed and applied to a larger sample of healthy young adults. Focus groupand online questionnaire data were analysed and confronted.Results: Study results identified behaviour tracking, goal setting, tailored information and use of remindersas the most desired features in a cancer prevention app. Participants highlighted the importance of privacyand were reluctant to share personal health information with other users. The results also point outimportant dimensions to be considered for long-term use of health promotion apps related with usabilityand perceived usefulness. Participants didn’t consider gamification features as important dimensions forlong-term use of apps.Conclusions: This study allowed the definition of a guideline set for the development of a cancer preventionapp.