Development of a mobile application based on the salutogenic model for self-management in adolescents with Moyamoya disease

Purpose: Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare disease which has a high incidence of onset in adolescence. Disease self-management skills are imperative for adolescents with MMD. This study aimed to describe the systematic development, content, and usability of the Moyamoya Healthy Youth application (app), which was developed to enhance self-management skills for adolescents with MMD. Design and methods: The theoretical grounding for the app was salutogenic model and the development process of the app was guided by the intervention mapping (IM) protocol. Results of each IM step were applied to the next step leading to the design of the app. Additionally, a pilot test was conducted to determine the usability of the app. Results: Following the salutogenic model, we identified the stressors, behaviors, and resources regarding managing symptoms of MMD by interviewing adolescents with MMD, their parents, and healthcare providers. Based on the findings of the interviews, we determined the program outcomes and performance objectives to improve the self-management of MMD in adolescents. The app was developed by translating the theoretical methods to achieve the performance objectives into practical strategies for delivering the program. A pilot test with eight participants showed satisfaction with the app in terms of its usefulness and ease of use. Conclusion: We delineated the development process of the Moyamoya Healthy Youth. Additionally, we presented the positive outcomes regarding the usability of the app. Practice implications: The Moyamoya Healthy Youth app could benefit adolescents with MMD, by improving their self-management skills which are crucial for their health.