In BMC Gastroenterology, Dr. Adam Burton and Dr. Bryce Perler review the fast-growing role of mobile health technologies in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). From apps like HealthPROMISE and UCLA eIBD to commercial platforms like Oshi Health and Ayble, these tools are reshaping how patients track symptoms, manage diets, access mental health support, and connect with providers.
Wearables also show promise: metrics like heart rate variability and step counts may predict flares before symptoms arise. But challenges remain — from cost barriers and digital literacy to the lack of large-scale trials proving long-term outcomes.
Are we on the cusp of seeing digital platforms fully integrated into standard IBD care — or will adoption stall without stronger evidence and insurance coverage?