K.L.N.U. Liyanage

Designing a Mobile-Based Nutrition Education Application Platform for Obese Sub-fertile Women of Childbearing Age in Sri Lanka

Globally several studies were conducted to prove the inter-relationship between sub-fertility and obesity and to find solutions to overcome it. Relatively fewer studies were conducted in the Sri Lankan context. Additionally, a lower level of knowledge and awareness about sub-fertility and obesity among women of childbearing age in Sri Lanka is a concern. Hence, there is a need to transform information gathered and proven from scientific research into real-world change. Furthermore, education and nutrition are among the effective factors in improving the quality of life of women with subfertility. No proper mobile-based application was developed for the Sri Lankan context aiming at obese sub-fertile women up until now. Thereby, considering the significant role of smartphones in people’s lives and their increased usage among the target population, the mobile app ‘Aarya’ was developed. This will greatly benefit obese sub-fertile women to reduce and maintain their weight within the normal BMI range by adopting proper dietary management and lifestyle modifications. The educational content of the app was developed under three stages; literature review, expert consultation, and success stories of succeeded individuals. Aarya is based on four major goals; BMI and weight goal, diet goal, physical activity goal, and mindfulness goal. The app bar has six navigation icons; Dashboard, Diary, Assessment, Journal, Reminders, and Guide. The technical feasibility and usability of the mobile application were evaluated. The usability and features of the app showed good acceptance. Aarya guides them to be in the proper BMI range to aid in conceiving and having a healthy baby in the future. Aarya will help obese sub-fertile women understand their machines, optimize their chemistry, and craft new individual cultures by providing the required knowledge and awareness to make their dream a reality. Furthermore, institutions and organizations providing health care services will be provided with this application to enhance their patients’ information, help them to improve their diet and lifestyle, and promote their quality of life.