Introduction
This article focuses on the problem of how e-medicine interacts with conventional institutions at a time when patients are trying to lose excess weight. Statistics show that, among the growing volume of mobile apps in the health category, 38% of apps are for tracking physical activity, 31% are for those on a diet, and 12% are for monitoring weight (McGuire & Wiens). The emphasis on diet and weight loss apps speaks to the immense popularity and demand for such developments.
Plenty is available because 70% of mobile diet control apps are free (McGuire & Wiens). However, most people continue to prefer offline treatment under the supervision of qualified professionals. To break down this paradox, the study’s authors chose to use the case of Canada, one of the most digitally advanced countries in the world. The effectiveness of the diet is predictable – and maximal in those who use mobile apps. Other studies have shown similar results.
Mobile Applications and Dietary Behavior Change
People can discuss the undeniable effectiveness of mobile applications in dieting and changing eating behaviors (Obermann & Thielscher, 2022). With the advancement of technology, the capabilities of smartphones are continually evolving. For example, with certain applications, it is possible to estimate the caloric content and composition of food (including proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) simply by taking a picture of the food and sending the data to the service for evaluation.
Core Functions of Food Monitoring Apps
Scientists can discuss several key features of mobile food monitoring apps. First, data entry of food intake (manual entry, automatic entry by photographing foods or scanning barcodes, voice data entry). Second, tracking users’ physical activity and counting calorie intake. Thirdly, adherence to nutrition can be monitored via SMS and other means.
Motivation, Feedback, and Limitations of Digital Health Tools
Displaying the data in general ratings to support a competitive mood is one method of motivation. Additional information on diets, physical activity, and health assessments should be provided to the user. However, several disadvantages follow from the digitalization of medicine, which, in the long run, may lead to either a deterioration in health or a reduction in the jobs of medical professionals.
Technology, Autonomy, and Shifts in Healthcare Practice
In general, health care operates within a conservative culture that is highly regulated and fragmented (McGuire & Wiens). Technology will enable clients to gain more control and autonomy over their health, while healthcare providers will experience a decrease in control over a client’s health. Many patients have admitted that accessing information online has already replaced at least one visit to a health care provider.
Conclusion
To summarize, information technology is both helping to combat overweight and contributing to obesity. However, the more health apps collaborate with medical organizations, the more effective the treatment is. The apps are still unused, but have excellent prospects for success in the future. For example, if apps communicate data to the medical establishment via the Internet, the effect of weight loss will be more significant. Technology and medicine are continually improving; therefore, cooperation must be increased to reduce the risk of fatalities and enhance public health.
Reference
McGuire, K. A. & Wiens, S. e-Health: Developing personal skills for weight management.
Obermann, K., & Thielscher, C. (2022). Health technology and health technology assessment. In Medical Economics: An Integrated Approach to the Economics of Health (pp. 193–206). Agenda Publishing.