Development of a smartphone application for promoting bone health in Korean young adult women: A pilot study

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop a smartphone application and evaluate it's effectiveness and usability for promoting bone health in Korean young adult women. Methods: A smartphone application was developed covering exercise, nutrition, and health habits related to bone health. A pilot testing was conducted using a one-group pre/posttest design. A total of 22 female college students with low bone mass participated in the 8-week use of a pilot testing. Results: The "Strong bone Fit body (SbFb)" application was developed using Android platform. In the pilot testing, bone mineral density, serum CTX, and 25 (OH)Vit.D were significantly decreased. There is no significant change in serum osteocalcin and calcium. Serum phosphorus concentration, nutrient intakes (fiber, VitB6, and pantotenic acid), and all bone composition profiles were significantly increased. Bonehealth knowledge was significantly increased but no change in health belief and self-efficacy. Conclusion: The results of this pilot testing suggest the effectiveness of the SbFb application to enhance and promote self-managing abilities for bone health. It can provide continuous feedback and high-quality bone health information. However, some contents and working methods of the application need to be modified and its effectiveness on bone health requires further investigations.