Ask PCOS: Identifying Need to Inform Evidence-Based App Development for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract

Background: People are increasingly seeking health information and managing their health through electronic technologies. We aimed to determine if women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) identified a need for PCOS-related mobile health apps and to evaluate related apps currently available.

Design: A national survey of women and a review of apps available on the iOS and Android platforms.

Setting: Community recruitment in Australia in 2016 and review of mobile apps available in 2017.

Sample: The survey received 264 responses. Sixteen apps related to PCOS were evaluated.

Main outcome measures: Survey: Women's likeliness to use mobile health apps, specifically a PCOS-related app and preferred features of apps. App review: Mapping of available apps and evaluation using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS).

Results: Of 264 respondents, almost all women had a smartphone (98%), 72% had previously used an app to manage their health, and most (91%) would use a PCOS-specific app if available. The most important feature was the availability of current, evidence-based information. Current apps on PCOS lack provision of quality information.

Conclusion: Women with PCOS would use a PCOS-specific app of good quality that responds to their needs and facilitates self-care; however, currently available apps are unlikely to meet their information needs.