Triple E Project to boost adolescent health engagement

Thursday, 1 August 2024

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The Hunter Medical Research Institute’s (HMRI) Healthy Minds Research Program, in collaboration with researchers from the University of Newcastle and University of Sydney, have launched the Triple E Project, a research study aiming to improve adolescents’ engagement with health apps, empowering young Australians to enhance their physical and mental health.

Triple E Project to boost adolescent health engagement

The Triple E Project is a nationwide study focusing on the use of the Health4Life app, a self-monitoring app designed to track various health behaviours including physical activity, diet, sleep, screen time, alcohol intake, and smoking or vaping. The app remains in the testing phase, so only those participating in the research study can access it currently.

The study seeks to address a critical issue: the majority of Australian teenagers are not meeting recommended health guidelines.

Alarmingly, 68 per cent have consumed alcohol, 86 per cent exceed recommended screen time, 82 per cent lack sufficient exercise, and 93 per cent do not consume enough fruits and vegetables.

The Triple E Project aims to test strategies to improve ongoing engagement with health apps among adolescents.

"We know digital health programs can work, but sustained engagement is a challenge. This study will help us understand how to make health apps more appealing to teenagers, ultimately supporting their long-term health," Chief Investigator and Project Lead, Triple E Project, Dr Louise Thornton said.

"Teenagers today are incredibly tech-savvy. By involving them in the development of these health apps, we can create tools that not only meet their needs but also engage them in meaningful ways," Dr Thornton said. “And it turns the negative perceptions of using their technology into a positive experience.”

Participants will use the Health4Life app for three months, during which they will receive various app notifications or ‘triggers’ to determine which methods effectively increase continuous app usage.

By enhancing engagement, the study aims to leverage teenagers' technological capabilities and active digital presence to create health programs that they will find appealing and useful.

Participant requirements: Volunteers aged 13-17, along with their parents or guardians, are invited to join this study. Participants must have access to a smartphone and be willing to use the Health4Life app to monitor their health behaviours over a three-month period.

Benefits of participating:

  • Active role in cutting-edge research: Participants will contribute to the development of innovative health solutions designed specifically for adolescents.
  • Health monitoring: Use the Health4Life app to track and improve physical activity, diet, sleep, screen time, alcohol intake, and smoking or vaping habits.
  • Incentives: Participants will receive a gift voucher for their time and contribution to the study.

How to participate:  To learn more about the Triple E Project visit the website and signup! https://www.tripleeproject.org

Dr Louise Thornton is the Chief Investigator and Project Lead for the Triple E Project. Dr Thorton is a Senior Research Fellow and has extensive experience leading eHealth projects with a focus on improving mental and physical health. Louise has also been involved in a large range of projects working with young people, schools, and parents.

HMRI is a partnership between the University of Newcastle, Hunter New England Health and the community.

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