Mobile applications used to limit alcohol consumption – a literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Research results show that mobile applications are an increasingly accepted and useful improving health intervention instruments. The purpose of the article is to identify telephone apps used to limit alcohol consumption and a description of their effectiveness. Material and methods: Web of Science (WoS) and EBSCO Publishing (EBSCO) databases were used to search out articles. The date range was limited to years 2010-2018 so only most recent publications were included to analysis. Results: Literature review has identified a number of interventions aimed at limiting alcohol use. They can be divided into three categories: 1) telephone applications, 2) websites, 3) interventions using text messages - SMS (short message service). The methodological limitations of the research conducted so far with the use of this type technology have also been identified. Discussion: The reviewed studies have shown that mHealth interventions can be an effective form of support in dependence treatment, significantly contributing to increase in the number of days in maintaining abstinence and improvement of social functioning. There are a number of benefits resulting from application use, however, there were also evident limitations. Conclusions: mHealth interventions are increasingly used as a form of support in alcohol dependence treatment. Mobile phone apps are most often used, however, interventions providing text messages are also quite popular. These interventions may be an effective form of altering addictive behaviour though their effectiveness decreases when personal contacts with therapist are not maintained. Apps used among the youth do not bring such spectacular results as among adults.