Evidence-Based Approaches to Healthier Lives

The Lifestyles Lab

ll logo
Learn More

About the lab

The Lifestyles Lab at The Ohio State University integrates behavioral science, human-centered design, and digital health technology to create and test scalable lifestyle interventions.

Our goal is to make evidence-based wellness practices—such as movement, nutrition, and stress management—more accessible, personalized, and sustainable for all.


Our current projects combine behavioral science and technology to promote healthy living across cancer survivorship and prevention.

Our Current Research

woman using smartphone with daily physical activity tracking app, creative collage
Ownership and Use of Fitness Trackers and mHealth Apps in Cancer Survivors

We are studying how cancer survivors use fitness trackers and other mobile health tools in their daily lives. This project explores patterns of use, motivations, and barriers to engagement, with the goal of designing digital health interventions that are more personalized, supportive, and sustainable during survivorship.

mhealthy buckeyes
mHealthy Buckeyes: Healthy Eating and Activity in Colorectal Cancer Survivors

We are co-designing and evaluating a digital wellness program with colorectal cancer survivors and their caregivers. This study aims to develop a supportive, evidence-based tool to promote physical activity, healthy eating, and stress management during survivorship.

fitbit validation
Validation of the Fitbit Activity Tracker in Lung Cancer Study

We are evaluating the accuracy of the Fitbit Charge 6 for measuring physical activity and sedentary behavior in lung cancer survivors. This study compares Fitbit data to gold-standard research devices in both laboratory and real-world settings to ensure wearable technology can be used reliably in cancer survivorship research and care.

athena
GAME Pilot Study (Athena App)

We are testing a mobile-friendly app called Athena, designed to help cancer patients track their symptoms during treatment. This study explores how gamified features and wearable sensors can make symptom monitoring more engaging, empowering patients to better understand and manage their health in real time.

mhealthy hearts
mHealthy Hearts

We are developing a digital program to promote cardiovascular health in prostate cancer survivors undergoing treatment. This study uses mobile and wearable technology to help participants track heart-related symptoms and physical activity, supporting early detection of cardiovascular changes and healthier recovery during and after therapy.

animations2
Animation Study

We are studying how short, animated educational videos can improve knowledge and engagement among cancer survivors and caregivers. This project compares animations with traditional reading materials to explore how visual learning can make evidence-based lifestyle information more accessible, engaging, and effective for diverse audiences.

collab2

Collaborate with The Lifestyles Lab

We collaborate with researchers, clinicians, designers, and students to create human-centered digital solutions for lifestyle medicine and survivorship care.