Can your cell phone keep you healthy?

November 24, 2009

A study published in the Archives of Dermatology suggests that sending reminders about healthy practices via text message could encourage responsible behavior, HealthDay News reports.

Of the 70 volunteers who participated in the study, a total of 35 were sent daily text messages reminding them to apply sunscreen, along with a local weather update. The study found that those who received the reminders applied sunscreen an additional 26 percent of the time, according to the news source.

Applying sunscreen is important to overall health, and experts hope that the method could be applied to other habits as well. Who wouldn't benefit from daily reminders to take your vitamins or floss daily?

Perhaps this approach could be applied to eye health as well. For example, the American Optometric Association recommends that Americans wear sunglasses with 99 percent UV protection before heading outside on sunny day. The lenses can help protect your eyes from the harmful rays of the sun, and reduce your chances of developing vision problems later in life.

If you can't find a friend willing to send you daily text messages about sunglasses, consider putting a note up by your door or mirror to remind yourself.