Designing for diversity: identifying Determinants to Guide Personalization of eHealth Tools

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) refers to the co-occurrence of health conditions that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. It disproportionately affects low socioeconomic (SEP) populations, and traditional healthcare often fails to support lasting lifestyle changes. While eHealth interventions are promising many lack personalization for high-risk, low-SEP groups. To bridge this gap, we developed the HealthBox, a tailored eHealth tool combining tele monitoring and digital coaching to promote healthier habits and reduce chronic disease risk. A key step was understanding user diversity to guide personalization strategies. In this first-phase study, we conducted semi- structured interviews with nine MetS patients, identifying personalization determinants across three categories: personal and health factors, behavioral tendencies, and system-related aspects. These insights highlight user variability in managing MetS and engaging with eHealth, forming a foundation for future personalized interventions.

Authors 4

1. Jasper S Faber

   Delft University of Technology

   Affiliation as printed

   Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands

2. Peter Alexander van de Hoef

   University of Applied Sciences Utrecht

   Affiliation as printed

   Hogeschool Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands

3. Sofie H Willems Aachen

   Leiden University · Leiden University Medical Center

   Affiliation as printed

   Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands

4. Jos Johannes Kraal

   Delft University of Technology

   Affiliation as printed

   Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands