This study was performed to investigate and analyze users’ needs for m-health based prevention and
intervention programs that are intended to improve the awareness of metabolic syndrome and promote
health behaviors of college students. A questionnaire survey was conducted to 200 college students of 2
university in D city. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, chi-square test with the SPSS
Version 20.0. The result showed that users wanted customization of prescriptions and accurate measurement
of health applications, and provided a positive feedback on information exchange between those who
manage their health. The most preferred content was proper exercise methods, and the preferred
gamification factors were goal-setting, compensation, and competition. The optimal price for wearable
devices was between 10,000 to 50,000 won, and calorie consumption function was also preferred. Although
users with experiences of wearable devices and health apps had a higher knowledge score pertaining to
metabolic syndrome, there was no significant difference in the overall score. Concerning the health
behaviors associated with lifestyles, individuals without the experiences of wearable devices and health apps
showed a remarkably lower score. The research has a significance that it investigated and analyzed the
contents needed for the development of effective moblie health based prevention and intervention programs
targeting the population in their early adulthood. Therefore, based on the findings, we propose a rich and
concrete follow-up study on the needs and characteristics of different user types by collecting a population
with experiences of wearable devices, and a development of differentiated mobile health based prevention
and intervention programs.