NCI quitpal: An evidence-based app to help people quit smoking

Cigarette smoking is a leading preventable risk factor for cancer and other causes of death. The National Cancer Institute (NCI), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), developed an iPhone app to help people quit smoking. The development of NCI QuitPal extends the reach of health behavior interventions available from the Institute and adapts to the rising rates of Smartphone ownership in the United States. Although mobile applications for smoking cessation exist, they are lacking in theory and outcomes evaluation. NCI QuitPal applies the latest smoking cessation evidence and behavior change theory. In response to the need established in the literature and the lack of evidence-based interventions using mobile devices, NCI conducted three rounds of user-centered research to guide the development of a smoking cessation app. Several research activities were conducted to develop NCI QuitPal, including a review of existing apps and focus groups with adult smokers with iPhones to determine current iPhone usage and factors in adoption of apps. In addition, triads with adult smokers with iPhones to gauge reactions to features and functionality, and a beta test to evaluate the stability of the code and obtain initial user feedback on usability of this application were completed. The app was developed using formative research results, and contains more than 10 functional areas such as setting a quit date, financial goals, and reminders. It allows users to track daily smoking habits with an easy-to-use calendar, includes motivational reminders that coincide with progress, sends health milestones and craving tips to motivate, allows users to connect with social networks and view personalized video messages from loved ones. Since its launch in October 2012 for free in the App Store™, NCI QuitPal, was downloaded 5,129 times and received two 5-star reviews from consumers.