A new smartphone app was recently launched to provide credible factual information about a range of illnesses to people in Ireland.

With 86% of adults in Ireland now having access to an online device, the number of people turning to mobile devices to manage their lives is soaring. Recent research found that one in 20 searches using Google was for health-related information and 81% of Irish adults had gone online seeking to self-diagnose, with almost half reporting increased stress or worry as a result of their search. The new RCSI MyHealth app aims to combat this by providing information on specific health conditions in a clear, focused and organised manner that is easy to understand.

The app has four easy to use features which provides users with access to information about more than 800 specific health conditions inlcuding Alpha-1. It also provides a very helpful list of health services in Ireland ranging from emergency contact numbers to support organisations and hospital details as well as links to up to date health news websites. For those interested in donating blood the app also includes up to date information on the level of blood supply left in the country. The app also allows a user to calculate their body mass index or BMI.