Korean J Clin Pharm.  2023 Mar;33(1):51-61. 10.24304/kjcp.2023.33.1.51.

Systematic Search and Qualitative Evaluation of Dietary Supplement Mobile Applications: Using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS)

• Lee HJ
• Seong SH
• Chung H
• Lee YJ
• Kim JH

• KMID: 2544342
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.24304/kjcp.2023.33.1.51

Abstract

Background
Mobile applications (apps) on dietary supplements can increase consumers’ access to information. However, it can lead to indiscriminate use of dietary supplements. This study aims to systematically review dietary supplement apps released in English and Korean and evaluate the quality of those apps.
Methods
Through the app stores, apps on dietary supplements were systemically searched and examined. Two independent evaluators evaluated the apps and presented a mean score using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). The correlation between MARS scores, user and evaluator ratings, and the number of secondary features of the apps were analyzed.
Results
Of the 2,772 dietary supplement apps identified, 17 apps were included according to the selection criteria. The mean MARS score was 3.28 (standard deviation: 0.29) out of 5. Apps had higher scores in aesthetics and functionality dimensions, while engagement and information dimensions had lower scores. There was a positive correlation between the number of app downloads and information among MARS dimensions. The subjective evaluation also correlated with the information dimension. There was a positive correlation between the secondary features of the apps and MARS total score as well as the engagement dimension.
Conclusion
The dietary supplement apps need to be managed at a higher level of quality to provide safe and reliable information to consumers. Especially, quality on information and engagement dimensions can be improved. Involvement of healthcare professionals in the app development, management with adequate referencing of information, and use of secondary features for enhanced user engagement can be helpful.

Keyword

App review; dietary supplement; MARS; mHealth; mobile applications