New application fields for cell phones are found all the time, and the spectrum of cell phone functions is growing constantly. Thus, the MEDIGREIF Island Clinic Heringsdorf (Usedom, Germany) and the Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research in Rostock, Germany found a way to help teenagers lose weight with the aid of cell phones, a measure that teenagers probably appreciate since they cannot live without their communications device anymore.
The concept works as follows: The devices dispose of integrated movement sensors that measure the physical activity of the child. If the child moves too little it is informed about it via cell phone, and thus has the opportunity to do something against the lack of exercise. Increased physical activity is followed by a digital treat. That way the awareness for a healthy way of life is raised among these children and teenagers. The cell phone is also a supportive tool with respect to healthy nutrition: Each meal is documented with the cell phone camera. The picture is sent to a nutrition expert who talks to the teenagers about their diet.
Right now the whole project is still just a study of the clinic and the Fraunhofer Institute which was started in May. 80 to 120 overweight children and teenagers are currently there in order to lose weight with the aid of their cell phone. After leaving the clinic, the cell phone is supposed to keep controlling their nutrition and activity on a long term basis.
A really good idea with a great potential! Regarding the increase in obese and overweight children this is obviously a step in the right direction. The fact that cell phones are included in the therapy carries from my point of view an extraordinary potential since it is status symbol and entertainment device number 1 at once for teenagers, thus it motivates additionally.