Finding an effective health app can be a challenge because most are not reviewed by medical experts. But, consumers can identify better apps by following advice from health technology experts at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

“Quality apps are hard to find because many companies are in such a hurry to sell their apps,” says Alexander V. Prokhorov, M.D., Ph.D., director of MD Anderson’s e-Health Technology Program and professor in the Department of Behavioral Science. “And, they don’t take the time to conduct a study to see if users adopt real, lasting change.”

Prokhorov suggests using these tips when choosing health apps.

Set realistic expectations.

“Think of health apps as tools that complement what you’re doing offline,” says Jermaine McMillan, project director of MD Anderson’s e-Health Technology Program.

Before downloading, consumers should figure out what they need to do to achieve their health goals. Then, figure out how an app can and cannot help.

“Set a specific and achievable goal,” McMillan says. “Once you choose an app, make sure you understand what it’s intended to do and how you will use it to help reach your goal.”

Avoid apps that promise too much.

Beware of apps promising big results — and fast.

Research shows that most people can’t change a behavior overnight or even in a week. So, an app that promises quick weight loss or quitting smoking for good by the end of the month probably won’t produce the desired results.

Research the developers.

“Many questionable health apps are developed by good designers who aren’t experts in behavior change,” Prokhorov says.

He suggests looking in the app store or on the app’s website to see who developed the app. Then, research the developers to find out:

• Whether they’ve designed other health apps
• How long they’ve been developing health apps
• Whether they consulted health professionals 
• Whether any reputable hospitals or health organizations endorse the app

“If the answer to these questions is no, that’s a red flag,” McMillan says.

Opt for familiar techniques.

Beware if an app uses unusual strategies to improve users’ health, such as hypnosis to quit smoking.

“Most effective behavior change strategies are based on years of research,” Prokhorov says. “They’re things you’ve probably heard your doctor recommend.”

Play it safe by choosing apps that use well-known strategies.

Test apps before committing.

Even the best app can’t work its magic if it isn’t used as recommended. So, consumers should try several health apps before choosing one, and look for apps that are easy and convenient to use.

Users shouldn’t give up if the first few apps don’t do the trick. Testing different apps is a good way to learn about personal preferences and find an effective app — or offline solution.

“The good news is that more health researchers are starting to help design apps,” Prokhorov says. “And, that means many great health apps should appear in the next year or two.”

From smartphone apps to interactive websites, there are plenty of digital tools that can help you lead a healthier life. Here are some to get you started — at home and on the go...

Exercise Apps

• Exercise Counts Calculator (American Cancer Society): Web
• Loops (Livestrong): Web
• MyStart! (American Heart Association):Web
• Target Heart Rate Calculator (American Cancer Society): Web
• Walking Paths (American Heart Association):  Web / Android / iPhone

Nutrition Apps

• Calorie Counter (American Cancer Society): Web
• Calorie Tracker (Livestrong): Blackberry / iPhone / iPad
• Daily Food Plan (U.S. Department of Agriculture): Web
• Daily Food Planner for Moms (U.S. Department of Agriculture): Web
• The Daily Plate (Livestrong): Web
• Menu Planner (National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute): Web
• My Food-a-Pedia (U.S. Department of Agriculture): Web / Mobile web
• Text-2-Eat (Livestrong): Text messaging
• Vending Machine Nutritional Information (American Heart Association): Web

Weight Management Apps

• BMI Calculator (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute): iPhone / Web

Quit Smoking Apps

• Cigarette Calculator (American Cancer Society): Web
• Freedom From Smoking® (American Lung Association): Web
• MyQuit Coach (Livestrong): iPhone
• My QuitLine (National Cancer Institute): iPhone
• QuitGuide (National Cancer Institute): iPhone
• Smoking Cost Calculator (American Cancer Society): Web

Sun-Safety Apps

• UV Index (Environmental Protection Agency): Android / Blackberry / Mobile web

Kids Apps

• Apps for Healthy Kids (U.S. Department of Agriculture): Web  
• Daily Food Plan for Preschoolers (U.S. Department of Agriculture): Web

General Health Information Apps

• CDC Health Tips (Centers for Disease Control): Text messaging

Risk Assessment Tools

• Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool (National Cancer Institute): Web / Mobile web
• Cancer Risk Check (MD Anderson): Web
• Colorectal Risk Assessment Tool (National Cancer Institute): Web
• Melanoma Risk Assessment Tool (National Cancer Institute): Web / Mobile web
• My Life Check (American Heart Association): Web

Screening Exams Apps

• Mammogram Reminder (American Cancer Society): Web
• Find a Health Center (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services): iPhone

Cancer Treatment and Survivorship Apps

• Cancer.net (American Society of Clinical Oncology): Mobile web
• Caring Bridge (CaringBridge.org): Web / Android / iPhone / Mobile web