Prostate Action's iWee web app
The prostate charity has launched a mobile web app to help men monitor their toilet habits
What is it?
A new smartphone web application has been designed to help men track their urinary troubles. The charity’s iWee application, which uses digital technology to help men monitor their habits, has been designed to help them get around the acute embarrassment the topic can cause. The app uses quirky, interactive symbols to help men answer key questions about their experience. For example, to answer the question "how much?", men are asked to choose from a variety of different sized on-screen containers, ranging from an egg cup to a pint glass.
Why has the charity developed it?
Experts in male health believe many men suffer urinary problems in silence because they are uncomfortable acknowledging they have a problem or bringing it up with their doctors.
The web app is a high-tech version of the traditional 'bladder diary' men are often asked to fill in by their GPs, and provides a discreet digital alternative to the paper forms. Once they have entered their information into the web app, they can email themselves the data to share with their doctor, who can then help determine the cause of any problems.
How can they access it?
"iWee" does not need to be downloaded. It is freely available on the internet for mobile devices at http://iwee.prostateaction.org.uk/. The mobile web app can be used by almost every mobile device, including Apple iOS for iPhone and iPad, Android, Blackberry and Windows Phone 6 and 7.
Who’s behind the app?
The technology behind the web app has been created by global digital agency Reading Room, with support from mobile web technology expert Netbiscuits.
Third Sector verdict:
The web app is a great example of a charity using new technology to answer a need from its audience. The app is a well thought-through solution to men's embarassment when it comes to dealing with bladder problems, because it provides a discreet and convenient way of tracking their toilet habits.
