The development of an mHealth app for a T2D prevention program using faster

Abstract

Introduction: Prediabetes is a condition which increases type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk by up to 70% and is expected to affect 587 million adults globally by 2045. mHealth apps can increase the accessibility of diabetes prevention programs (DPP). Small Steps for Big Changes (SSBC) is a DPP which utilizes evidence-based behaviour change and motivational interviewing techniques. This work aimed to develop an mHealth app to support SSBC participants. Methods: To identify which app components are important to end-users and grounded in evidence, we conducted: 1) a needs assessment with SSBC coaches; and 2) a literature review summarizing reviews assessing physical activity apps. This work is grounded within the development phase of the Framework for Accelerated and Systematic Technology-based intervention development and Evaluation Research (FASTER). Results: The needs assessment resulted in recommendations regarding data collection requirements, user interface, and considerations on equity, diversity, and inclusion. Fourteen potential app components were identified based on both the needs assessment and literature review. Logic models were created linking app components with behaviour change techniques important for PA behaviour, constructs of the COM-B model, and anticipated short- and long-term outcomes. Conclusion: By using past literature and expert end users, we identified 14 app components worthy of consideration in future apps designed to sustain PA behaviour after completing a DPP. The series of logic models outlining mechanisms of action for each proposed app component can now be tested in future research.