S1090 Evaluating the Quality and Reach of Digital Health Tools for IBS: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Introduction: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects 10%–15% of the global population, presenting major challenges to quality of life and healthcare systems. As digital health tools rise in popularity, patients are increasingly turning to smartphone apps and social media for IBS-related information. However, concerns about the accuracy and reliability of these resources underscore the need for careful evaluation. Methods: Google Trends data from 2005 to 2025 was analyzed to assess trends in IBS-related searches. A survey distributed via several Facebook and Reddit groups evaluated patient preferences for IBS information sources and app usage. The top 6 IBS smartphone apps were selected for a cross-sectional analysis based on download metrics and relevance. The ‘information-quality’ subscale of the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) was used to assess the overall quality of information published in these apps, while the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT) evaluated understandability and actionability. Three independent evaluators conducted assessments with these tools, and statistical analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel. Results: Google Trends showed a steady rise in interest in IBS definitions and symptoms over 2 decades. Survey results indicated that Reddit and TikTok were the most popular platforms for IBS information. Nearly half of respondents (48.5%) reported using IBS apps, with 65% using them daily. Most apps focused on low fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols diet tracking. MARS scores varied widely, averaging only 16.6 out of 35, with physician- or university-developed apps scoring significantly higher. PEMAT results showed overall satisfactory understandability (mean score 73) but low actionability (mean score 61). Apps from academic or clinical sources consistently outperformed those from commercial developers. Conclusion: Our study underscores the growing patient reliance on digital health tools for learning about IBS and managing symptoms. However, the quality and consistency of information provided by smartphone apps remain variable and often insufficient. Increased physician and university involvement would help improve IBS apps, ensuring that patients receive accurate, reliable, and actionable information through these digital platforms. Clinicians should be aware of the digital resources their patients are using and consider formal recommendations or at least integrate discussions about app use into routine IBS management to enhance education and engagement.