Most people assume that diabetic care apps only matter to people with diabetes. Did you know: the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends digital health for all, even healthy individuals without diabetes? Read on to find out!
The world is seeing increasing use of mobile phones and broadband. For example, 87% of people in developed nations have internet access. Given this, WHO has started a global initiative, “Be He@lthy, Be Mobile”, to encourage governments to set up programs using mobile health (mHealth) to help combat chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and respiratory diseases. mHealth programs can serve people from all walks of life. Whether you are a healthy individual just wanting to learn about good lifestyle habits, or you are a diagnosed diabetic patient, an excellent diabetic care app has something for you!
The mDiabetes continuum of diabetes prevention and care (image from Be He@lthy, Be Mobile by WHO and ITU)
1. Lifestyle Awareness and Guidance
If you do not have diabetes, you should still find out more about diabetes prevention and care to help your loved ones or avoid getting the disease yourself. The society can prevent 80% of diabetes cases by getting at-risk individuals to quit smoking, exercise more and eat more healthily. Diabetic care apps can increase your self-awareness through interactive assessments and track your health and lifestyle parameters. They can also help you to build knowledge about good lifestyle habits via their content hubs or personalised text messaging.
Keeping Yourself Healthy: Quit Smoking, Exercise, Eat Healthily and use diabetic care apps Picture: Courtesy of Bewakoof.com Official on Unsplash
2. Screening Prevention and Diagnosis
If you are unsure about your diabetic risk level or suspect that you may be at a higher risk, diabetic care apps can help you. An example is the Diabetes Risk Assessment (DRA) offered by HealthHub under the “Let’s Beat Diabetes” national campaign. With a clearer idea of your risk profile, you will be able to take active steps to maintain your well-being or go for screening to catch diabetes and nip the issue at the bud.
Take Advantage of Assessment Tools and Health Screening to Maximise Your Health.
3. Education, Monitoring and Coaching
If you are a diabetic patient, diabetic care apps can add value by providing a platform to access professional. Some mHealth apps enable you to connect with your healthcare professional, bringing healthcare in the comfort of your workplace or home while affording you with social distancing and reducing the risk of infectious diseases. Other apps may help link you up with fellow diabetics to share personal stories, insights and ideas on diabetes management. Remember, you are not fighting the battle alone! Talk to your doctor, pharmacist and friends.
As shown, health apps give you clear and vital information, connect you to valuable expertise, and allows you to take timely and effective action. Use the 6 ‘C’s of mHealth app to help you in your journey toward good health!
Diabetic Care Apps: Bringing Healthcare to the Comfort of your Home
Whether in health or sickness, in good times and bad times, you should carry out diabetes prevention and care. Talk to your Guardian pharmacist to find out more. Harness the power of diabetic care apps to live better now!