In recent years, health apps have seen a surge in popularity across Egypt, as more and more people are seeking ways to monitor their physical well-being from the convenience of their smartphones. 

With a wide range of apps that measure blood pressure, heart rates, calories burned, and even offer virtual yoga sessions and diet plans, many people are embracing these tools as a substitute for in-person consultations with doctors.

The attraction is understandable, as health apps can offer a level of accessibility that traditional healthcare can often lack. For example, with just a few taps on their phones, users can track their daily physical activity, monitor key health indicators, or receive personalised workout plans. In a country where healthcare services can be overburdened, costly, or difficult to access, these apps can provide a quick and affordable solution. 

Ahmed Salah, a 32-year-old software engineer from Cairo, is one such user. “I used to visit my doctor regularly to check my blood pressure, but now I just use an app. It’s quicker and I don’t have to wait in line at the clinic,” Salah said.

He uses a range of health apps, from those that measure his heart rate and blood pressure, to others that offer personalised exercise routines. He feels that with the data he collects from these apps, he is better informed about his health. “I know my numbers everyday, and I can make changes on the spot if something seems off,” he added.

Health apps also offer guidance on diet and exercise. Apps that offer meal planning, calorie counting, and customised workout routines have found their place in the daily lives of many health-conscious individuals. 

Salma Hassan, a 28-year-old nutritionist in Cairo, relies on her app to track both her diet and her physical activity. “I love the ability to log everything in one place. It helps me stay disciplined with my eating habits and exercise routines,” Hassan said.

However, despite the popularity of the apps, there are growing concerns about the implications of replacing traditional healthcare with digital tools. 

Samir Taha, a Cairo-based cardiologist, is wary of relying too heavily on health apps. “While some apps can be useful for tracking basic metrics, they are not a substitute for medical advice. The risk is that people might misinterpret their data, or, worse, overlook serious health issues,” he cautioned. 

“A lot of the health data from these apps is not validated or analysed by professionals, which can lead to false readings and unnecessary panic.”

Taha’s concerns have been echoed by other medical professionals, who point to the importance of medical training and experience when it comes to diagnosing and treating patients. “A blood pressure reading from an app cannot replace the clinical judgement of a doctor,” said Mai Hussein, a general practitioner based in Alexandria. 

“These apps may provide useful insights, but they don’t account for the full picture of a person’s health, including their medical history, lifestyle, or family history of conditions.”

There are also significant risks involved when individuals rely solely on apps for health monitoring. Hussein noted that some apps are not subject to rigorous regulation, making it difficult to know whether they are providing accurate information. 

“The technology behind these apps can vary, and many are not reviewed by health authorities before being released to the public,” she explained. “This lack of oversight could lead to dangerous consequences, especially if someone is using an app to self-diagnose or treat a health problem.”

Furthermore, the social and cultural landscape in Egypt can complicate the issue. In a country where access to healthcare remains a challenge for many, especially in rural areas, health apps have become a vital resource for people who might otherwise go without medical advice.

However, Taha said that this should not mean the replacement of face-to-face consultations with healthcare professionals. “We need to address the root causes of why people turn to these apps in the first place. The healthcare system needs to become more accessible and efficient so that people feel confident in seeking professional care,” he said.

For those who do choose to use health apps, it is also important to remain cautious. “Apps should be used as a complement to, not a replacement for, professional medical care,” advised Taha. While they may be useful for tracking symptoms or offering general wellness advice, they should not be relied upon for diagnosis or the treatment of serious health conditions.

But despite these warnings, many people continue to embrace health apps as part of their everyday wellness routine. “I don’t think anyone would replace a doctor entirely with an app,” said Salma Hassan. “But if an app helps me stay on track with my health goals and gives me useful feedback, I think it’s worth using.”

It seems that health apps will continue to grow in popularity, offering both convenience and a sense of control over personal well-being. As they become more sophisticated, it is also likely that they will play an increasingly prominent role in the way people approach health and fitness. However, experts agree that they should never be seen as a substitute for proper medical care.

In the end, the future of healthcare in Egypt lies not in choosing between doctors or apps, but in finding a balance between technology and traditional healthcare. Using apps responsibly, while continuing to seek medical advice when necessary, may be the key to ensuring that people can enjoy the benefits of both worlds.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 12 December, 2024 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly