The rise of apps also simplified the monitoring of health-related behavior. This development was an important driver of the quantified self movement. These apps also provided a simpler and more complete way of collecting data on established diseases. An example of this is the HelpDiabetes App . This app allows diabetics to easily monitor eating behavior, blood values, medication use and physical exertion.
The self-diagnosing patient
We are currently on the verge of entering a new era of digital self-care. The latest generation of apps diagnoses list to data based on a measurement. An example is the aforementioned blood values app from the University of Rhode Island . By connecting the smartphone to a few tools, users can analyze blood values via the app to detect deviations that may indicate a disease.
Another example is the Uchek app . This app comes with strips that you dip in urine. You then take a photo of the strip with your smartphone. The app then analyses the photo of the urine for 25 possible diseases.
Screenshot of the Ucheck app
Great potential
Diseases can be mapped earlier. On the one hand, because the possibility of a diagnosis is much more accessible. On the other hand, because diseases can be detected at an early stage, before physical complaints occur.