BACKGROUND: Physicians have limited time for weight-loss counseling, and there 
is a lack of resources to which they can refer patients for assistance with 
weight loss. Weight-loss mobile applications (apps) have the potential to be a 
helpful tool, but the extent to which they include the behavioral strategies 
included in evidence-based interventions is unknown.
PURPOSE: The primary aims of the study were to determine the degree to which 
commercial weight-loss mobile apps include the behavioral strategies included in 
evidence-based weight-loss interventions, and to identify features that enhance 
behavioral strategies via technology.
METHODS: Thirty weight-loss mobile apps, available on iPhone and/or Android 
platforms, were coded for whether they included any of 20 behavioral strategies 
derived from an evidence-based weight-loss program (i.e., Diabetes Prevention 
Program). Data on available apps were collected in January 2012; data were 
analyzed in June 2012.
RESULTS: The apps included on average 18.83% (SD=13.24; range=0%-65%) of the 20 
strategies. Seven of the strategies were not found in any app. The most common 
technology-enhanced features were barcode scanners (56.7%) and a social network 
(46.7%).
CONCLUSIONS: Weight-loss mobile apps typically included only a minority of the 
behavioral strategies found in evidence-based weight-loss interventions. 
Behavioral strategies that help improve motivation, reduce stress, and assist 
with problem solving were missing across apps. Inclusion of additional 
strategies could make apps more helpful to users who have motivational 
challenges.