| Abstrakt: |
Background: Celiac disease (CD) is the most recognized inflammatory small intestine disorder that occurs as a result of an immune response to ingested gluten proteins of wheat, barley, and rye in genetically predisposed individuals. Adhering to a strict gluten-free (GF) diet is required to be assured of nutritional sufficiency and prompt healing the CD manifestations. Therefore, regarding the popularization of mobile technologies, using mobile health (mHealth) applications provide a favored opportunity to encourage patient interest in personal nutrition education and disease symptomatology. Objective: The goal of our study was to develop a Persian-language smartphone application (CeliacPlus; C+) by user-centered design for individuals with CD, to improve adherence to GF diet and enhance patients' knowledge. Material and Methods: This project was a developmental-applied study which involved three phases of analysis, design, and development. At first, a scientific review was performed on existing CD related mobile applications. Also, celiac patients were consulted to realize their preferences, barriers, and facilitators in the use of mHealth. Then, the main learning menu of C+ was designed based on the collected information. Eventually, the final version of C+ was developed under the supervision of the team consists of nutritionists, gastroenterologist and expert app developers. Results: The mobile software can provide consumers with easy-to-understand nutrition information, FAQs, and practical tips for the disease management and also support the selection of GF choices when shopping or cooking food. Conclusion: C+ may be a potentially helpful approach in empowering patients to acquire self-care abilities and ensure overall gut health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
