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Are smartphone health applications effective in modifying obesity and smoking behaviours? A systematic review

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Abstract

Technological interventions specifically, mobile health application have risen dramatically. Individuals prefer to seek support from a mobile health application, which can serve to be effective in delivering health promotion initiatives and interventions. Therefore, we aimed to assess the available mobile “apps” for smoking and obesity by conducting a systematic review of current mobile “app” controlled interventions. Research articles published between 2006 and 2013 were considered, seven research papers were included within the review. An introduction and overview of the current research available in understanding the efficacy and development of mobile health ‘apps’ was outlined. In conclusion this review proposes the need for more comprehensive research within this area. Publishing accurate findings will provide good basis for understanding if smoking or obesity can be altered and supported through smartphone mobile application. Mobile technology has the potential to reach millions, with the on-going development of new innovative phones, offering health promotion and intervention through this portal is the future.

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Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. City University London, Goswel Road, Islington, EC1V 0HB, UK

    S. Riaz & C. Sykes

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  1. S. Riaz
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  2. C. Sykes
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Correspondence to S. Riaz.

Additional information

Riaz holds a PhD, City University London

Dr. Sykes, City University London

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Riaz, S., Sykes, C. Are smartphone health applications effective in modifying obesity and smoking behaviours? A systematic review. Health Technol. 5, 73–81 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12553-015-0104-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12553-015-0104-4

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