Features of mobile apps for diabetic kidney disease self-management: A scoping review

TL;DR

This study reviews mobile apps for managing diabetic kidney disease and finds common features like monitoring and education, but highlights a lack of integration with healthcare providers.

Contribution

The study provides a comprehensive overview of mobile app features for DKD self-management through a scoping review.

Findings

Common app features include self-care monitoring, education, and patient motivation.

Few apps integrate real-time communication with healthcare providers or use gamification.

Most apps lack personalized feedback and sustained engagement mechanisms.

Abstract

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a chronic complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). DKD and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are both long-term conditions requiring ongoing patient care. Individuals living with DKD or CKD can benefit from mobile apps that support effective self-management. However, limited evidence is available about what mobile apps features are commonly included for DKD.

This scoping review aimed to identify the features of mobile applications on self-management for individuals with DKD, DM or CKD.

The review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews and adhered to PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines. Five databases (PubMed, Scopus, SAGE Journals, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science) were searched from inception to February 26, 2025. Studies were included if they reported on mobile apps supporting self-management in adults with DKD, DM or CKD. DM and CKD apps were included due to similar self-management needs such as blood sugar or blood pressure tracking that are also relevant to people with DKD. Data were extracted on study characteristics, app features, use of technology, integration with care teams, and reported outcomes.

Out of 3521 records identified, eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Five studies focused on CKD, two on DKD, and four on diabetes. Across the eleven mobile apps reviewed, four core domains of self-management were identified: self-care monitoring (91%), educational components (64%), patient support and motivation (100%), and performance incentives (18%). Four apps employed wearable devices and incorporated supportive devices such as Bluetooth glucometers. However, only two apps included real-time communication features with providers integration with healthcare teams and gamification strategies.

Mobile apps targeting DKD frequently incorporate monitoring, education, and motivational features. However, consistent integration with healthcare providers and incentive-based engagement strategies remains limited. Future app development should emphasise personalised feedback, clinical integration, and sustained engagement mechanisms to enhance usability and impact.

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