Alison Olivia Booth*, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia Davina Mann, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia Karen Lim, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia Caryl A Nowson, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia Manuela Rigo, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia Ewa A Szymlek-Gay, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia Lynn Riddell, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia Track: Research Presentation Topic: Mobile & Tablet Health Applications Presentation Type: Poster presentation Submission Type: Single Presentation Last modified: 2014-05-16

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Background: Iron deficiency (ID) is associated with impaired cognitive function, impaired immune function and can reduce work capacity. Premenopausal women are at increased risk of low iron stores and ID due to menstrual blood losses.

Objective: The aim of this study was to develop a mobile phone application (app) that aims to improve dietary intake of bioavailable iron in premenopausal women with low iron stores and to gather qualitative feedback on the app content and functionality from target population.

Methods: A literature search on effective behavioural change techniques and dietary factors associated with iron intake and/or status in women was undertaken to inform the development of the app content. A sample of the target population (premenopausal women) will be asked to use the app for 2 weeks and attend a focus group to discuss their views on the content, functionality and style of the app. Focus group discussions will be transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis will be conducted using NVivo software.

Results: Goal setting, tailored advice, feedback, self-monitoring, education and reminders were identified as effective techniques for dietary behaviour change. Five effective dietary change techniques that can improve iron intake, absorption and or status in women were identified; consumption of meat, fish and poultry, increased intake of iron-fortified foods, consumption of vitamin C with meals, increased intake of iron-rich foods and avoiding drinking tea and coffee with meals. The app included: dietary goal setting and monitoring; reminders; interactive games; and information about dietary iron including iron-rich food sources and foods that enhance or inhibit iron absorption. For the evaluation, focus groups of 5-8 premenopausal women will be conducted until the point of saturation and will take place between May and August, 2014. Findings will be used to inform further app development.

Conclusion: A search of the literature allows for the development of an evidence-based mobile phone app targeting dietary behaviour change to improve iron intake and status in premenopausal women with low iron stores. Formative research of this new and professionally-developed health app will provide an in-depth review of its content and functionality. The efficacy of the app in improving iron intake and status in the target population will be evaluated in a 16-week randomised controlled trial.