Designing Sustainable Mobile Weight Management Applications: Perspectives from Focus Groups

Yahya Al Naabi, Nazrita Ibrahim, Jaspaljeet Singh Dhillon

Abstract

Obesity is a widespread chronic disease. Numerous weight management interventions are in place, yet the prevalence of obesity continues to rise. There is a need for long-term solutions that empower individuals to take charge of their health by regulating their weight. This study has two main objectives: (1) to understand the issues/problems faced by the participants in their current weight management initiatives and (2) to determine the expected user experience that mobile weight management applications should offer. In this study, we examine the perspectives and experiences of overweight and weight-conscious people on factors contributing to excess weight gain, challenges that prevent them from using mobile apps to manage weight, and how mobile apps can be best designed to aid in sustainable weight management. We conducted online focus group discussions (FGDs) with five groups (25 participants) comprising overweight and weight-conscious individuals. Seven major themes emerged: (1) lifestyle, (2) behavior, (3) social support and social factors, (4) technology, (5) education and awareness, (6) motivation and commitment, and (7) online support and coaching. Results indicate that obesity or being overweight can be managed and controlled through a stable lifestyle, social influences, and the willingness of the individual. Several features were proposed for inclusion: diet management, lifestyle, exercise, time and activity planning, goal setting, knowledge, and social support. These features will be incorporated into a framework to design mobile applications for sustainable weight management.

 

Keywords: obesity, focus group discussion, weight management, mHealth, mobile applications.

 

https://doi.org/10.55463/issn.1674-2974.51.1.6


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