A smartphone-based ecological momentary assessment tool shows promise for capturing real-time health risk behaviors among high-risk HIV populations. In a study conducted among men who have sex with men with HIV in Peru, the app demonstrated high usability and strong daily compliance.
The 10-day field test saw a 93% compliance rate, with users completing 93 out of 100 expected entries. Participants rated the app a 6.4 out of 7.0 for usability, praising its navigability and time efficiency.
Researchers say the approach could help reduce recall bias and protect privacy while tracking sensitive behaviors like substance use, sexual risk, stigma, and medication adherence. The findings lay groundwork for just-in-time interventions that respond to risk patterns as they occur.