Mobile Health Applications and their Effectiveness in Chronic Disease Management: Review

Abstract

Background: The rising prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders, presents a significant public health challenge globally. Mobile health applications (mHealth) have emerged as a promising tool for enhancing chronic disease management by improving patient engagement and self-management.

Methods: This review systematically evaluates randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published from 2005 to 2023, focusing on the effectiveness of mHealth interventions in adult populations with chronic illnesses. We conducted comprehensive searches in peer-reviewed databases, including PubMed and the Cochrane Library, using relevant keywords related to mHealth and chronic disease management.

Results: Out of 12 analyzed studies, 83.3% demonstrated statistically significant improvements in health outcomes, including enhanced physical functioning, medication adherence, and symptom management. For instance, patients using mHealth interventions for chronic pain reported better compliance and symptom monitoring compared to control groups. However, 16.7% of studies showed negligible effects, indicating variability in the effectiveness of mHealth applications.

Conclusion: While mHealth interventions can positively impact chronic disease management, their effectiveness may vary based on factors such as intervention design, patient demographics, and adherence levels. Future research should focus on developing user-friendly applications, ensuring data privacy, and integrating caregiver support to enhance engagement. These findings highlight the potential of mHealth technologies to transform chronic disease management and underscore the need for ongoing evaluation of their effectiveness in diverse populations.