New opportunities of digital healthcare (mobile app) in the prevention of STIs and HIV infection among young people

Introduction. The Internet is a source of information on the sexual life for most adolescents and young people. However, the information is not always correct and reliable. The use of modern, relevant and continuing to gain popularity technologies (mobile applications and social networks) should contribute to a better perception of preventive information regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV infection among young people.
Aim of the research. Improving methods of primary prevention of STIs and HIV infection among young people using a mobile application.
Materials and methods. The mobile application (Personal Sexual Health) was developed taking into account previously conducted scientific (sociological) research, during which the level of awareness on STIs and HIV infection among the youth of Novosibirsk was assessed. The development of the mobile application was carried out using the Agile methodology (agile software development).
Results. It was found that young people trust online information and consider the Internet as a reliable source of sexual health advice. The concept of the Personal Sexual Health mobile application implies raising awareness among young people on the prevention of STIs and HIV infection. The information component of the Personal Sexual Health mobile application has been developed taking into account the previously obtained results from a sociological survey of young people.
Conclusion. Personal Sexual Health is the first mobile application created in Russia, which is dedicated to sexual health and primary prevention of STIs and HIV infection among young people. Given the significant role of modern digital technologies in the search for information among young people, the Department of Social Policy of the Mayor’s Office of Novosibirsk recommends this mobile application for widespread implementation in the social sphere of the city and, in particular, in the work of institutions for orphans and abandoned children.

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