SMART-IBD

Functionality & Mechanism

SMART-IBD is a digital therapeutic tool designed to support self-management in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The system facilitates daily tracking of symptoms, including mood, pain, and stool characteristics, through a structured diary interface. It integrates modules for medication and appointment reminders to promote adherence. The application also renders longitudinal data as graphical summaries, allowing for the visualization of symptom trends and medication adherence patterns over time to inform patient and provider discussions.

Evidence & Research Context

• Two preliminary pilot and feasibility studies (total N≈44) involving pediatric IBD patients established the tool's feasibility, acceptability, and good user engagement.
• A single-arm pilot trial (N=22) demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in medication adherence (mean increase: 24–31%) and a reduction in self-management barriers.
• Increased medication adherence was also found to be associated with patient-reported sleep duration, mood, and specific stool characteristics in a 30-day feasibility study.
• A protocol has been published for a randomized controlled pilot trial designed to further evaluate the app's efficacy against a usual care control group in adolescents.

Intended Use & Scope

This application is intended for adolescents and pediatric patients with IBD as an adjunct tool to support evidence-based self-management. Its primary utility is to facilitate adherence and symptom monitoring between clinical consultations. The app does not provide medical advice or diagnosis and is not a substitute for professional clinical care or treatment planning.