An investigation into the efficacy of a smartphone application promoting breast awareness protective behaviours

Abstract

Background: To investigate if a pre-existing smartphone application (app) can increase breast awareness in a student population by both investigating users’ experiences and by coding the app functions using the Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy (BCT) (Michie et al, 2011). Methods: A mixed methods, single blind design will be conducted. Eighty female students will be divided into two experimental conditions (app users versus controls). Breast awareness will be measured using the Breast Awareness Questionnaire. Users’ experiences of the app will be assessed using the Software Usability Measurement Inventory. The Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy will be used to code the app functions. A 2x3 mixed analysis of variance will be conducted to detect changes in self-reported behaviour between groups. Expected results: It is expected that app users will have a greater increase in Breast Awareness scores than controls. Current stage of work: Participant recruitment is underway. Discussion: This research will provide a template for the evaluation of pre-existing apps and provide important insight into how the app works by coding the app functions using the BCT and by investigating users’ experiences.