HeartShield Module Recommendation Algorithm

Understanding how our app personalizes lifestyle interventions for hypertension management

Our Evidence-Based Approach

At HeartShield, we use clinical evidence to guide our module recommendations. Our approach is based on the latest research in hypertension management, including guidance from the International Society of Hypertension position paper1.

Our intelligent algorithm considers your individual health needs, prior activity in the app, and specific health conditions to recommend the most beneficial lifestyle interventions for managing your blood pressure.

Available Modules

Salt Reduction

This is our primary recommended intervention for most users. Research shows that reducing salt intake to below 5g per day can lower systolic blood pressure by 5-10 mmHg1.

Priority: High - especially recommended if your estimated daily intake is above 6 grams of salt.

Salt Reduction: Advanced

Building on the foundations of the first Salt Reduction module, this advanced module offers deeper strategies for long-term salt intake management.

Prerequisite: Completion of the initial Salt Reduction module.

Potassium Intake

Increasing dietary potassium can help counterbalance the effects of sodium and improve blood pressure control. A potassium-rich diet may reduce systolic blood pressure by 3-5 mmHg1.

Note: Not recommended for users with kidney issues, as increased potassium intake can be harmful in these cases.

Sleep Improvement

Quality sleep is essential for blood pressure regulation. This module helps establish healthy sleep patterns to support overall cardiovascular health.

Prerequisites: Completion of Salt Reduction module and (for users without kidney issues) the Potassium Intake module.

Alcohol Reduction

Reducing alcohol consumption can significantly improve blood pressure. Research indicates that reducing heavy drinking can lower systolic blood pressure by approximately 4 mmHg1.

Priority: Variable based on current alcohol consumption levels.

How Our Recommendation Algorithm Works

Our algorithm takes a personalized approach to recommending modules based on your health profile and progress through the app:

Key Principles:

  1. Previously completed modules are never recommended again
  2. Special health conditions (like kidney issues) alter available recommendations
  3. Some modules require prerequisites to ensure proper progression
  4. Salt reduction is prioritized for users with daily intake above 6 grams

// Key decision points in our algorithm:

1. First, we exclude any modules you've already completed

2. For users with kidney issues:
   - The Potassium Intake module is excluded
   - The Sleep module becomes available after completing Salt Reduction
   
3. For users without kidney issues:
   - The Sleep module becomes available after completing both 
     Salt Reduction and Potassium Intake modules
   
4. Salt Reduction Advanced only becomes available after 
   completing the first Salt Reduction module

5. Salt Reduction is prioritized if daily intake exceeds 6 grams

References

1. Sharman JE, et al. Lifestyle management of hypertension: International Society of Hypertension position paper endorsed by the World Hypertension League and European Society of Hypertension. J Hypertens. 2023 Dec;41(12):2065-2080. doi: 10.1097/HJH.0000000000003712. PMID: 37712135.