Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Formative Research
Date Submitted: Mar 21, 2022
Date Accepted: Mar 8, 2023
An evidence-based digital prevention program (The MuMi-App) to improve oral health literacy of persons with migration background: Intervention Mapping Approach
ABSTRACT
Background:
Studies have shown that vulnerable groups, such as persons with migration background, have poorer oral health than the majority population in Germany. Limited oral health literacy appears to be an important factor that affects the oral health of these groups.
Objective:
This paper describes the development process of an evidence-based prevention program in form of a health app, the MuMi-App, which aims to improve the oral health literacy of its users.
Methods:
For the description and analysis of the systematic development process of the MuMi-App, we used the intervention mapping approach (IMA). The approach was implemented within six steps: 1) needs assessment, 2) formulation of intervention goals, 3) selection of evidence-based methods and practical strategies for behavior change, 4) planning and designing the intervention, 5) planning implementation and delivery, and 6) planning the evaluation.
Results:
The needs assessment revealed that persons with migration background tend to have problem-oriented dental care utilization patterns. Language barriers and different healthcare socialization impede the access to health services. Information on the German healthcare system, tooth-friendly diets and efficient daily oral hygiene routines were identified as main educational content to achieve an open, prevention-oriented utilization behavior and therefore improve the oral health of the app users. Current literature was screened to fill the instructional content of the MuMi-App with evidence-based information. The provision of information in a game-like manner through culturally sensitive illustrations and simple expressions was identified as a method to effectively change the behavior of the app users. In total, over 350 evidence-based learning elements were developed and provided in five different languages.
Conclusions:
The IMA provided a transparent, structured and evidence-based process for the development of our prevention program. The MuMi-App is a scientifically tested app that takes into account cultural and specific determinants of vulnerable groups.
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