A Review of Diabetes Apps: Features, Limitations, and Improvement Suggestions

Abstract

Mobile applications (apps) for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) management are gaining global attention. These apps have been reported to facilitate better clinical outcomes and patient adherence. However, the specific features that contribute to improvements in T2DM management remain unclear. This study aims to analyze prevalent features in commercially available T2DM apps and identify limitations and areas for future development. A scoping review was conducted on literature published from June 2012 to May 2023. Databases such as Ovid, PubMed, and Scopus were extensively searched. The study adhered to PRISMA-Scr guidelines for reporting scoping reviews. Study inclusion and exclusion criteria were based on the PCC framework. The primary outcome was identifying patterns in app features. Fourteen review papers, covering over 900 diabetes management apps, were included in the analysis. The most common features were self-monitoring of blood glucose, blood pressure, and body weight. However, significant limitations were noted, including the lack of automatic data entry, medication management tracking, psychological support, and comprehensive disease education. Concerns about health data security and privacy were found to contribute to patient hesitancy in adopting these apps. This review highlights several essential features and limitations of diabetes management apps. Future app development should prioritize enhancing patient motivation and incorporating heuristic design principles like instructional videos and help features. Collaboration between healthcare providers, policymakers, and app developers is crucial to improving the quality, usability, and engagement of T2DM apps.