Efficacy of a virtual assistance-based lifestyle intervention in reducing risk factors for Type 2 diabetes in young employees in the information technology industry in India: LIMIT, a randomized controlled trial

Digital Health Interventions to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Digital health interventions (DHIs) have rapidly evolved and significantly revolutionized the health care system. The quadruple aims of health care (improving population health, enhancing consumer experience, enhancing health care provider [HCP] experience, and decreasing health costs) serve as a strategic guiding framework for DHIs. It is unknown how DHIs can impact the burden of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), as measured by the quadruple aims.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to systematically review the effects of DHIs on improving the burden of T2DM, as measured by the quadruple aims.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched for studies published from January 2014 to March 2024. Primary outcomes were the development of T2DM, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) change, and blood glucose change (dysglycemia changes). Secondary outcomes were consumer experience, HCP experience, and health care costs. Outcomes were mapped to the quadruple aims. DHIs were categorized using the World Health Organization's DHI classification. For each study, DHI categories were assessed for their effects on each outcome, categorizing the effects as positive, negative, or neutral. The overall effects of each DHI category were determined by synthesizing all reported positive, neutral, or negative effects regardless of the number of studies supporting each effect. The Cochrane risk-of-bias version 2 (RoB 2) tool for randomized trials was used to assess the quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), while the ROBINS-I (risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions) tool was applied for nonrandomized studies.

RESULTS

In total, 53 papers were included. For the T2DM development outcome, the effects of DHIs were positive in 1 (1.9%) study and neutral in 9 (17%) studies, and there were insufficient data to assess in 4 (7.5%) studies. For the dysglycemia outcome, the effects were positive in 23 (43.4%) studies and neutral in 24 (45.3%) studies, and there were insufficient data in 6 (11.3%) studies. There were mixed effects on consumer experience (n=13, 24.5%) and a lack of studies reporting HCP experience (n=1, 1.9%) and health care costs (n=3, 5.7%). All studies that reported positive population health outcomes used a minimum of 2 distinct categories of DHIs. Among these successful studies, the one that reported delaying the development of T2DM and 16 (69.6%) of those reporting improvements in dysglycemia involved HCP interaction. Targeted communication with persons (TCP), personal health tracking (PHT), and telemedicine (TM) showed some evidence as a potentially useful tool for T2DM prevention and dysglycemia.

CONCLUSIONS

The effects of DHIs on T2DM prevention, as measured by the quadruple aims, have not been comprehensively assessed, with proven benefits for population health, mixed results for consumer experience, and insufficient studies on HCP experience and health care costs. To maximize their effectiveness in preventing T2DM and managing dysglycemia, DHIs should be used in combination and strategically integrated with in-person or remote HCP interaction.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42024512690; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024512690.

Digital health interventions for non-older individuals at risk of frailty: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

Frailty is a significant health problem that results in adverse outcomes, reduced quality of life, and increased medical and nursing care costs. This study aimed to review the effect of digital health interventions on improving physical activity, physical function, and social function in non-older individuals at risk of frailty.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials of digital health interventions reporting frailty-related outcomes on physical activity, physical function, and social function in non-older individuals at risk of frailty were collected. The literature was reviewed, and the risk of bias was assessed. Meta-analyses were conducted for each outcome, and the certainty of evidence was assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation.

Results

The review included a total of 63 records. The meta-analysis showed that digital health interventions positively affected the volume of physical activity, daily steps, walking test, walking speed, VO2peak, dynamic gait index, timed up and go test, and MOS 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey Social Functioning. However, no significant effect on the time of physical activity was found. Despite the absence of fatal bias, the overall certainty of the evidence was not high because of the small number of studies and participants included in the analysis.

Conclusions

Digital health interventions can improve physical activity, physical function, and social function in non-older individuals at risk of frailty. However, the evidence had limited certainty, and the evidence supporting the effect of digital health intervention is insufficient. Thus, more studies are needed to clarify the effects of these interventions.

Identification of Intervention Characteristics Within Diabetes Prevention Programs Using the Template for Intervention Description and Replication: A Scoping Review

OBJECTIVES

Diabetes prevention programs (DPPs) targeting dietary and physical activity behaviour change have been shown to decrease the incidence of type 2 diabetes; however, a more thorough reporting of intervention characteristics is needed to expedite the translation of such programs into different communities. In this scoping review, we aim to synthesize how DPPs are being reported and implemented.

METHODS

A scoping review using Arkey and O'Malley methods was conducted in accordance with the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis. MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and SPORTDiscus were searched for studies relating to diabetes prevention and diet/exercise interventions. Only studies delivering a diet/exercise intervention for adults identified as "at risk" for developing type 2 diabetes were included. The Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) was used to guide data extraction, and each DPP was scored on a scale from 0 to 2 for how thoroughly it reported each of the items (0 = did not report, 2 = reported in full; total score out of 26).

RESULTS

Of the 25,110 publications screened, 351 (based on 220 programs) met the inclusion criteria and were included for data extraction. No studies comprehensively reported on all TIDieR domains (mean TIDieR score: 15.7 of 26; range 7 to 25). Reporting was particularly poor among domains related to "modifications," "tailoring," and "how well (planned/actual)." "How well (planned)" assesses the intended delivery of an intervention, detailing the initial strategies and components as per the original design, whereas "how well (actual)" evaluates the extent to which the intervention was executed as planned during the study, including any deviations or modifications made in practice.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there is evidence to suggest that DPPs are efficacious, a more thorough reporting of program content and delivery is needed to improve the ability for effective programs to be implemented or translated into different communities.

Cost effectiveness of nonpharmacological prevention programs for diabetes: A systematic review of trial-based studies

Trial-based economic value of prevention programs for diabetes is inexplicit. We aimed to review the cost-effectiveness of nonpharmacological interventions to prevent type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) for high-risk people. Six electronic databases were searched up to March 2022. Studies assessing both the cost and health outcomes of nonpharmacological interventions for people at high-risk of T2DM were included. The quality of the study was assessed by the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards 2022 checklist. The primary outcome for synthesis was incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) for quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and costs were standardized in 2022 US dollars. Narrative synthesis was performed, considering different types and delivery methods of interventions. Sixteen studies included five based on the US diabetes prevention program (DPP), six on non-DPP-based lifestyle interventions, four on health education, and one on screening plus lifestyle intervention. Compared with usual care, lifestyle interventions showed higher potential of cost-effectiveness than educational interventions. Among lifestyle interventions, DPP-based programs were less cost-effective (median of ICERs: $27,077/QALY) than non-DPP-based programs (median of ICERs: $1395/QALY) from healthcare perspectives, but with larger decreases in diabetes incidence. Besides, the cost-effectiveness of interventions was more possibly realized through the combination of different delivery methods. Different interventions to prevent T2DM in high-risk populations are both cost-effective and feasible in various settings. Nevertheless, economic evidence from low- and middle-income countries is still lacking, and interventions delivered by trained laypersons and combined with peer support sessions or mobile technologies could be potentially a cost-effective solution in such settings with limited resources.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on behavioral changes and glycemic control and a survey of telemedicine in patients with diabetes: A multicenter retrospective observational study

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

To investigate whether the COVID-19 pandemic affected behavioral changes and glycemic control in patients with diabetes and to conduct a survey of telemedicine during the pandemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, a total of 2,348 patients were included from 15 medical facilities. Patients were surveyed about their lifestyle changes and attitudes toward telemedicine. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels were compared among before (from June 1 to August 31, 2019) and in the first (from June 1 to August 31, 2020) and in the second (from June 1 to August 31, 2021) year of the pandemic. A survey of physician attitudes toward telemedicine was also conducted.

RESULTS

The HbA1c levels were comparable between 2019 (7.27 ± 0.97%), 2020 (7.28 ± 0.92%), and 2021 (7.25 ± 0.94%) without statistical difference between each of those 3 years. Prescriptions for diabetes medications increased during the period. The frequency of eating out was drastically reduced (51.7% in 2019; 30.1% in 2020), and physical activity decreased during the pandemic (48.1% in 2019; 41.4% in 2020; 43.3% in 2021). Both patients and physicians cited increased convenience and reduced risk of infection as their expectations for telemedicine, while the lack of physician-patient interaction and the impossibility of consultation and examination were cited as sources of concern.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that glycemic control did not deteriorate during the COVID-19 pandemic with appropriate intensification of diabetes treatment in patients with diabetes who continued to attend specialized diabetes care facilities, and that patients and physicians shared the same expectations and concerns about telemedicine.

A scoping review of digital workplace wellness interventions in low- and middle-income countries

INTRODUCTION

Digital technology-based interventions have gained popularity over the last two decades, due to the ease with which they are scalable and low in implementation cost. Multicomponent health promotion programmes, with significant digital components, are increasingly being deployed in the workplace to assess and promote employees' health behaviours and reduce risk of chronic diseases. However, little is known about workplace digital health interventions in low- and middle- income countries (LMICs).

METHODS

Various combinations of keywords related to "digital health", "intervention", "workplace" and "developing country" were applied in Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus, PsycINFO, Scopus and Cochrane Library for peer-reviewed articles in English language. Manual searches were performed to supplement the database search. The screening process was conducted in two phases and a narrative synthesis to summarise the data. The review protocol was written prior to undertaking the review (OSF Registry:10.17605/OSF.IO/QPR9J).

RESULTS

The search strategy identified 10,298 publications, of which 24 were included. Included studies employed the following study designs: randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) (n = 12), quasi-experimental (n = 4), pilot studies (n = 4), pre-post studies (n = 2) and cohort studies (n = 2). Most of the studies reported positive feedback of the use of digital wellness interventions in workplace settings.

CONCLUSIONS

This review is the first to map and describe the impact of digital wellness interventions in the workplace in LMICs. Only a small number of studies met the inclusion criteria. Modest evidence was found that digital workplace wellness interventions were feasible, cost-effective, and acceptable. However, long-term, and consistent effects were not found, and further studies are needed to provide more evidence. This scoping review identified multiple digital health interventions in LMIC workplace settings and highlighted a few important research gaps.

The effectiveness of lifestyle interventions on type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes incidence and cardiometabolic outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of evidence from low- and middle-income countries

BACKGROUND

As lifestyle modification offers a unique strategy to prevent diabetes, we evaluated the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions in the prevention of type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

METHODS

We did a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for randomised controlled trials published in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese between 1 January 2000 and 15 June 2022, evaluating multi-target and multi-component lifestyle interventions in at-risk populations conducted in LMICs. The main outcomes were incidence of type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes, and indicators of glycaemic control. We assessed the methodological quality of the studies using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Inverse-variance random-effects meta-analyses estimated the overall effect sizes. Sources of heterogeneity and study bias were evaluated. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021279174).

FINDINGS

From 14 330 abstracts, 48 (0·3%) studies with 50 interventions were eligible of which 56% were conducted in lower-middle-income countries, 44% in upper-middle, and none in low-income. 54% of the studies were assessed as moderate risk of bias and 14% as high risk. A median of 246 (IQR 137-511) individuals participated in the interventions with a median duration of 6 (3-12) months. Lifestyle interventions decreased the incidence risk ratio of type 2 diabetes by 25% (0·75 [95% CI 0·61 to 0·91]), and reduced the levels of HbA1c by 0·15% [-0·25 to -0·05], fasting plasma glucose by 3·44 mg/dL [-4·72 to -2·17], and 2-hr glucose tolerance by 4·18 mg/dL [-7·35 to -1·02]. No publication bias was suggested for these outcomes. High levels of heterogeneity (I²≥ 81%) were found in most meta-analyses. Exploration using meta-regressions could not identify any explanatory variable, except for fasting glucose for which the quality score of the articles seems to be an effect modifier decreasing slightly the heterogeneity (72%) in the low risk of bias pooled estimate. The effect on gestational diabetes could not be evaluated due to the scarcity of available studies.

INTERPRETATION

Comprehensive lifestyle interventions are effective strategies to prevent type 2 diabetes among at-risk populations in LMICs. The heterogeneity identified in our results should be considered when using these interventions to address the onset of type 2 diabetes.

FUNDING

None.

Reversing Type 2 Diabetes in a Primary Care-Anchored eHealth Lifestyle Coaching Programme in Denmark: A Randomised Controlled Trial

The goal of this trial was to investigate whether an eHealth lifestyle coaching programme led to significant weight loss and decreased Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in patients with type 2 diabetes. In an RCT, 170 patients were enrolled from 2018 to 2019 for intervention or control. Inclusion criteria were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, BMI 30−45 kg/m2, and aged 18−70 years. Exclusion criteria were lacks internet access, pregnant or planning a pregnancy, or has a serious disease. Primary and secondary outcomes were a reduction in body weight and HbA1c. At six months, 75 (75%) patients in the intervention group and 53 (76%) patients in the control group remained in the trial. The mean body weight loss was 4.2 kg (95% CI, −5.49; −2.98) in the intervention group and 1.5 kg (95% CI, −2.57; −0.48) in the control group (p = 0.005). In the intervention group, 24 out of 62 patients with elevated HbA1c at baseline (39%) had a normalized HbA1c < 6.5% at six months, compared to 8 out of 40 patients with elevated HbA1c at baseline (20%) in the control group (p = 0.047). The eHealth lifestyle coaching programme can lead to significant weight loss and decreased HbA1c among patients with type 2 diabetes, compared to standard care.

Assessment of food environment at work and its association with cardiometabolic health among employed adults in Delhi, India

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Unhealthy food environment at work is believed to be playing a role in the burgeoning obesity, cardiometabolic risk, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in India. Therefore, food environment assessment at work is crucial to understand the effect of food environment and to find its association with cardiometabolic risk among adults in Delhi, India.

METHODOLOGY

Mix-methods study to find association between worksite food environment on the food choices, dietary behavior, and cardio-metabolic health of 455 apparently healthy adults (both males and females) aged 25-55 years was done in urban India.

RESULTS

Unhealthy food environment, poor eating pattern and sedentary lifestyle at work resulted in clustering of CMR factors among the study participants. Work environment assessment revealed that worksites with canteens had higher overall CHEW score for all its domains (Physical, nutritional, and information environment), in comparison to worksites without or no canteens. Four out of ten apparently healthy adults had metabolic syndrome indicating poor cardiometabolic health. The odds of CMR in subjects with access to canteen (unhealthy food) were estimated to be 0.74 (CI: 0.51 to 1.07; p = 0.11) times the odds of CMR in subjects without canteen (limited access to food). Females (β:0.34; 95% CI:0.23, 0.44; p = 0.00) had high CMR factors in comparison to males. Overall cardiometabolic risk factors increased with age (β:0.01; 95% CI:0.01,0.01; p = 0.00).

CONCLUSION

Findings of the present study urge the need for dietary and lifestyle intervention along with longitudinal studies to further disentangle the association of the food and work environment on the prevalence of CMR among adults.

mHealth prompts within diabetes prevention programs: a scoping review

Background

Mobile health (mHealth) prompts (e.g., text messaging, push notifications) are a commonly used technique within behaviour change interventions to prompt or cue a specific behaviour. Such prompts are being increasingly integrated into diabetes prevention programs (DPPs). While mHealth prompts provide a convenient and cost-effective way to reinforce behaviour change, no reviews to date have examined mHealth prompt use within DPPs. This scoping review aims to: (I) understand how mHealth prompts are being used within behaviour change interventions for individuals at risk for developing type 2 diabetes (T2D); and (II) provide recommendations for future mHealth prompt research, design, and application.

Methods

The scoping review methodology outlined by Arksey and O'Malley were followed. Medline, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Web of Science, and SportDiscus were searched. The search strategy combined keywords relating to T2D risk and mHealth prompts in conjunction with database-controlled vocabulary when available (e.g., MeSH for Medline).

Results

Of the 4,325 publications screened, 44 publications (based on 33 studies) met the inclusion criteria and were included for data extraction. Text messaging was the most widely used mHealth prompt (73%) followed by push notifications (21%). Only 30% of studies discussed the theoretical basis for prompt content and time of day messages were sent, and only 27% provided justification for prompt timing and frequency. Fourteen studies assessed participant satisfaction with mHealth prompts of which only two reported dissatisfaction due to either prompting frequency (hourly) or message content (solely focused on weight). Nine studies assessed behavioural outcomes including weight loss, physical activity, and diabetes incidence, and found mixed effects overall.

Conclusions

While mHealth prompts were well-received by participants, there are mixed effects on the influence of mHealth prompts on behavioural outcomes and diabetes incidence. More thorough reporting of prompt content development and delivery is needed, and more experimental research is needed to identify optimal content, delivery characteristics, and impact on behavioural and clinical outcomes.

Clinical and patient-centered implementation outcomes of mHealth interventions for type 2 diabetes in low-and-middle income countries: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes is rising in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), affecting all age categories and resulting in huge socioeconomic implications. Mobile health (mHealth) is a potential high-impact approach to improve clinical and patient-centered outcomes despite the barriers of cost, language, literacy, and internet connectivity. Therefore, it is valuable to examine the clinical and implementation outcomes of mHealth interventions for Type 2 Diabetes in LMICs.

METHODS

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were applied in framing and reporting the review criteria. A systematic search of Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Ovid databases was performed through a combination of search terms. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and cohort studies published in English between January 2010 and August 2021 were included. Risk of bias for missing results in the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2). Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to synthesize the results.

RESULTS

The search identified a total of 1161 articles. Thirty studies from 14 LMICs met the eligibility criteria. On clinical outcomes, 12 and 9 studies reported on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c )and fasting blood glucose (FBG) respectively. Text messages was the most commonly applied mHealth approach, used in 19 out of the 30 studies. Ten out of the 12 studies (83.3%) that reported on HbA1c had a percentage difference of <0.3% between the mHealth intervention and the comparison group. Additionally, studies with longer intervention periods had higher effect size and percentage difference on HbA1c (1.52 to 2.92%). Patient-centred implementation outcomes were reported variedly, where feasibility was reported in all studies. Acceptability was reported in nine studies, appropriateness in six studies and cost in four studies. mHealth evidence reporting and assessment (mERA) guidelines were not applied in all the studies in this review.   CONCLUSION: mHealth interventions in LMICs are associated with clinically significant effectiveness on HbA1 but have low effectiveness on FBG. The application of mERA guidelines may standardize reporting of patient-centered implementation outcomes in LMICs.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO: Registration ID 154209.

Ethnic differences in response to lifestyle intervention for the prevention of type 2 diabetes in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) varies by ethnicity, but ethnic differences in response to diabetes prevention interventions remain unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed ethnic differences in the effects of lifestyle interventions on T2DM incidence, glycemic outcomes (fasting glucose, 2-h glucose, HbA_1c ), anthropometric measures (weight, BMI, waist circumference), and lifestyle behaviors (physical activity, energy intake, energy from fat, fiber intake). MEDLINE, EMBASE, and other databases were searched (to June 15, 2020) for randomized and non-randomized controlled trials on lifestyle interventions (diet and/or physical activity) in adults at risk of T2DM. Ethnicity was categorized into European, South Asian, East and Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American, and African groups. Forty-four studies were included in meta-analyses. Overall, lifestyle interventions resulted in significant improvement in T2DM incidence, glycemic outcomes, anthropometric measures, physical activity, and energy intake (all P < 0.01). Significant subgroup differences by ethnicity were found for 2-h glucose, weight, BMI, and waist circumference (all P < 0.05) but not for T2DM incidence, fasting glucose, HbA_1c , and physical activity (all P > 0.05). Few studies in non-European groups reported dietary intake. Lifestyle interventions in different ethnic groups may have similar effects in reducing incidence of T2DM although this needs to be confirmed in further studies.

Evaluation of the effects of the national diabetes control and prevention program on a sample of iranian people with type 2 diabetes

Diabetes prevention programs have been developed in the different countries and it is therefore necessary to gain a better understanding of factors affecting the effectiveness of these programs for each society. Accordingly, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the National Diabetes Control and Prevention Program (NDCPP) on the biochemical and anthropometric indices among a sample of Iranian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A total of 384 patients with T2DM from the primary health care system of Tehran and Tabriz cities during January to June 2020, were included in the study. A two-part questionnaire consisting of items related to socio-economic and demographic characteristics was used and biochemical and anthropometric indices were measured at the beginning and the end of the 3-month intervention period. There was a significant difference in fasting blood sugar (FBS), hemoglobin glycosides (HbA1 C), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and weight before and after the NDCPP (P <  0.001). Also, there was significant improvement in carbohydrate (P = 0.015) and protein intake (P = 0.027) after the NDCPP compared to before the study. No significant difference was observed in waist circumference (WC) (P = 0.689), body mass index (P = 0.784), diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.647), and other dietary nutrient intake before and after the NDCPP. Repeated measure ANOVA revealed a significant decrease in FBS (Time effect P = 0.019) and weight (Time effect P = 0.006) after the NDCPP. Also, residing in different cities had a significant effect on FBS (time×city effect P <  0.001), HbA1 C (time×city effect P <  0.001), and SBP (time×city effect P = 0.037) after the NDCPP. The NDCPP resulted in weight loss, improved HbA1 C, and FBS. These findings suggested that NDCPP had a positive effect on controlling T2DM among Iranian population and can be considered as a way to prevent complications of T2DM.

The Effect of Lifestyle Intervention on Diabetes Prevention by Ethnicity: A Systematic Review of Intervention Characteristics Using the TIDieR Framework

Lifestyle intervention is effective in preventing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but the efficacy of intervention components across different ethnic groups is less clear. This systematic review examined the effects of intervention characteristics of lifestyle interventions on diabetes incidence and weight loss by ethnicity using the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) framework. MEDLINE, EMBASE and other databases were searched for randomized and non-randomized controlled trials on lifestyle interventions (diet and/or physical activity) in adults at risk of T2DM. Ethnicity was categorized into European, South Asian, East and Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American and African groups. Forty-five studies (18,789 participants) were included in the systematic review and 41 studies in meta-analysis. Meta-analysis showed a high number of intervention sessions was significantly associated with a greater reduction in diabetes incidence (P = 0.043) and weight (P = 0.015), while other intervention characteristics including intervention provider and delivery format did not alter the outcomes (all P > 0.05). Additionally, narrative synthesis showed long-term interventions (≥12 months) were associated with significant diabetes risk reduction for all ethnic groups, while short-term interventions (<12 months) were more effective in weight loss in most ethnic groups. There may be ethnic preferences for the optimal number of intervention sessions.

Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes

The global diabetes burden is staggering, and prevention efforts are needed to reduce the impact on individuals and populations. There is strong evidence from efficacy trials showing that lifestyle interventions promoting increased physical activity, improvements in diet, and/or weight loss significantly reduce diabetes incidence and improve cardiometabolic risk factors. Implementation research assessing the feasibility, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of delivering these proven programs at the community level has shown success, but more research is needed to overcome barriers to implementation in different settings globally. New avenues of research should be considered to combat this public health issue.

Effectiveness of workplace wellness programmes for dietary habits, overweight, and cardiometabolic health: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The workplace offers a unique opportunity for effective health promotion. We aimed to comprehensively study the effectiveness of multicomponent worksite wellness programmes for improving diet and cardiometabolic risk factors.

Methods

We did a systematic literature review and meta-analysis, following PRISMA guidelines. We searched PubMed-MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Education Resources Information Center, from Jan 1, 1990, to June 30, 2020, for studies with controlled evaluation designs that assessed multicomponent workplace wellness programmes. Investigators independently appraised the evidence and extracted the data. Outcomes were dietary factors, anthropometric measures, and cardiometabolic risk factors. Pooled effects were calculated by inverse-variance random-effects meta-analysis. Potential sources of heterogeneity and study biases were evaluated.

Findings

From 10 169 abstracts reviewed, 121 studies (82 [68%] randomised controlled trials and 39 [32%] quasi-experimental interventions) met the eligibility criteria. Most studies were done in North America (57 [47%]), and Europe, Australia, or New Zealand (36 [30%]). The median number of participants was 413·0 (IQR 124·0–904·0), and median duration of intervention was 9·0 months (4·5–18·0). Workplace wellness programmes improved fruit and vegetable consumption (0·27 servings per day [95% CI 0·16 to 0·37]), fruit consumption (0·20 servings per day [0·11 to 0·28]), body-mass index (−0·22 kg/m² [−0·28 to −0·17]), waist circumference (−1·47 cm [−1·96 to −0·98]), systolic blood pressure (−2·03 mm Hg [−3·16 to −0·89]), and LDL cholesterol (−5·18 mg/dL [−7·83 to −2·53]), and to a lesser extent improved total fat intake (−1·18% of daily energy intake [−1·78 to −0·58]), saturated fat intake (−0·70% of daily energy [−1·22 to −0·18]), bodyweight (−0·92 kg [−1·11 to −0·72]), diastolic blood pressure (−1·11 mm Hg [−1·78 to −0·44]), fasting blood glucose (−1·81 mg/dL [−3·33 to −0·28]), HDL cholesterol (1·11 mg/dL [0·48 to 1·74]), and triglycerides (−5·38 mg/dL [−9·18 to −1·59]). No significant benefits were observed for intake of vegetables (0·03 servings per day [95% CI −0·04 to 0·10]), fibre (0·26 g per day [−0·15 to 0·67]), polyunsaturated fat (−0·23% of daily energy [−0·59 to 0·13]), or for body fat (−0·80% [−1·80 to 0·21]), waist-to-hip ratio (−0·00 ratio [−0·01 to 0·00]), or lean mass (1·01 kg [−0·82 to 2·83]). Heterogeneity values ranged from 46·9% to 91·5%. Between-study differences in outcomes were not significantly explained by study design, location, population, or similar factors in heterogeneity analyses.

Interpretation

Workplace wellness programmes are associated with improvements in specific dietary, anthropometric, and cardiometabolic risk indicators. The heterogeneity identified in study designs and results should be considered when using these programmes as strategies to improve cardiometabolic health.

Workplace interventions that aim to improve employee health and well-being in male-dominated industries: a systematic review

The published evidence on whether workplace health and well-being interventions are as effective in male-dominated industries compared with mixed-gender environments has not been synthesised. We performed a systematic review of workplace interventions aimed at improving employee health and well-being in male-dominated industries. We searched Web of Knowledge, PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Database and Web of Science for articles describing workplace interventions in male-dominated industries that address employee health and well-being. The primary outcome was to determine the effectiveness of the intervention and the process evaluation (intervention delivery and adherence). To assess the quality of evidence, Cochrane Collaboration’s Risk of Bias Tool was used. Due to the heterogeneity of reported outcomes, meta-analysis was performed for only some outcomes and a narrative synthesis with albatross plots was presented. After full-text screening, 35 studies met the eligibility criteria. Thirty-two studies delivered the intervention face-to-face, while two were delivered via internet and one using postal mail. Intervention adherence ranged from 50% to 97%, dependent on mode of delivery and industry. 17 studies were considered low risk of bias. Albatross plots indicated some evidence of positive associations, particularly for interventions focusing on musculoskeletal disorders. There was little evidence of intervention effect on body mass index and systolic or diastolic blood pressure. Limited to moderate evidence of beneficial effects was found for workplace health and well-being interventions conducted within male-dominated industries. Such interventions in the workplace can be effective, despite a different culture in male-dominated compared with mixed industries, but are dependent on delivery, industry and outcome. CRD42019161283.

Economic evaluation of workplace health promotion interventions focused on Lifestyle: Systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To identify and evaluate randomized clinical trials focusing on economic evaluation of workplace health promotion (WHP) interventions based on healthy lifestyles, physical activity and nutrition.

DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out between March and May 2019, following the PRISMA statement.

DATA SOURCES

The literature search was conducted on Cochrane Library, Scopus, WOS and Medline databases.

REVIEW METHODS

The quality appraisal included the overall risk of bias (Cochrane Collaboration tool), the quality of the evidence (GRADEpro) and the quality of the health economic analysis (QHES instrument).

RESULTS

Of the 15 studies selected, 3 were interventions based on nutrition, 11 were focused on lifestyle and only one on physical activity. Given the heterogeneity of included studies, it was decided to do a subgroup analysis. For the weight loss (n = 5 studies), a general increase of 0.56 Kg (95% CI = 0.76, 0.84) I²  = 99.41%, and for the Quality-adjusted Life Years achieved (n = 5 studies) a very small increase of 0.003 (95% CI = 0.002, 0.004) I²  = 99.25%, were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The implementation of lifestyle interventions in the workplace has proven to be cost-effective for both employers and society.

IMPACT

What problem did the study address? There are few studies aimed at evaluating the efficiency of WHP interventions. However, those that identify and assessing interventions related to lifestyle are particularly scarce, despite the evidence showing that these researchers improve the quality of care of occupational health. What were the main findings? This systematic review demonstrates the effectiveness of the WHP interventions, and in some cases, the efficiency of these interventions for both employers and society. Additional research in this area is necessary as well as the assessment of the cost-effectiveness of such interventions. Where and on whom will the research have an impact? To know the cost-benefit of different WHP interventions allows more efficient management of resources, which helps to make political and business decisions, becoming healthier and safer workplaces.

Telemedicine to deliver diabetes care in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

To determine the effectiveness of telemedicine in the delivery of diabetes care in low- and middle-income countries.

Methods

We searched seven databases up to July 2020 for randomized controlled trials investigating the effectiveness of telemedicine in the delivery of diabetes care in low- and middle-income countries. We extracted data on the study characteristics, primary end-points and effect sizes of outcomes. Using random effects analyses, we ran a series of meta-analyses for both biochemical outcomes and related patient properties.

Findings

We included 31 interventions in our meta-analysis. We observed significant standardized mean differences of −0.38 for glycated haemoglobin (95% confidence interval, CI: −0.52 to −0.23; I² = 86.70%), −0.20 for fasting blood sugar (95% CI: −0.32 to −0.08; I² = 64.28%), 0.81 for adherence to treatment (95% CI: 0.19 to 1.42; I² = 93.75%), 0.55 for diabetes knowledge (95% CI: −0.10 to 1.20; I² = 92.65%) and 1.68 for self-efficacy (95% CI: 1.06 to 2.30; I² = 97.15%). We observed no significant treatment effects for other outcomes, with standardized mean differences of −0.04 for body mass index (95% CI: −0.13 to 0.05; I² = 35.94%), −0.06 for total cholesterol (95% CI: −0.16 to 0.04; I² = 59.93%) and −0.02 for triglycerides (95% CI: −0.12 to 0.09; I² = 0%). Interventions via telephone and short message service yielded the highest treatment effects compared with services based on telemetry and smartphone applications.

Conclusion

Although we determined that telemedicine is effective in improving several diabetes-related outcomes, the certainty of evidence was very low due to substantial heterogeneity and risk of bias.

The Challenges in the Development of Diabetes Prevention and Care Models in Low-Income Settings

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes is rapidly rising, overpassing the existing burden of communicable diseases. Patients with diabetes living in low-income communities face unique challenges related to lack of awareness, difficulty in accessing health care systems and medications, and consequently failure in achieving optimal diabetes management and preventing complications. Effective diabetes prevention and care models could help reduce the rising burden by standardizing guidelines for prevention and management, improving access to care, engaging community and peers, improving the training of professionals and patients and using the newest technology in the management of the disease. In this article, we review the latest research and evidence on effective models of diabetes prevention and diabetes care delivery in low- income settings. We also provide existing evidence relating to the effectiveness of these models in low-resource contexts, with the aim to highlight characteristics and strengths that make their implementation successful and long-lasting.

Evaluation of the Clinical and Economic Effects of a Primary Care Anchored, Collaborative, Electronic Health Lifestyle Coaching Program in Denmark: Protocol for a Two-Year Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Obesity is linked to a number of chronic health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, and weight loss interventions are often expensive. Recent systematic reviews concluded that app and web-based interventions can improve lifestyle behaviors and weight loss at a reasonable cost, but long-term sustainability needs to be demonstrated.

OBJECTIVE

This study protocol is for a 2-year randomized controlled trial that aims to evaluate the clinical and economic effects of a primary care, anchored, collaborative, electronic health (eHealth) lifestyle coaching program (long-term Lifestyle change InterVention and eHealth Application [LIVA] 2.0) in obese participants with and without type 2 diabetes. The program's primary outcome is weight loss. Its secondary outcome is the hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level, and its tertiary outcomes are retention rate, quality of life (QOL), and cost effectiveness. Analytically, the focus is on associations of participant characteristics with outcomes and sustainability.

METHODS

We conduct a multicenter trial with a 1-year intervention and 1-year retention. LIVA 2.0 is implemented in municipalities within administrative regions in Denmark, specifically eight municipalities located within the Region of Southern Denmark and two municipalities located within the Capital Region of Denmark. The participants are assessed at baseline and at 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-ups. Individual data from the LIVA 2.0 platform are combined with clinical measurements, questionnaires, and participants' usage of municipality and health care services. The participants have a BMI ≥30 but ≤45 kg/m2, and 50% of the participants have type 2 diabetes. The participants are randomized in an approximately 60:40 manner, and based on sample size calculations on weight loss and intention-to-treat statistics, 200 participants are randomized to an intervention group and 140 are randomized to a control group. The control group is offered the conventional preventive program of the municipality, and it is compared to the intervention group, which follows the LIVA 2.0 in addition to the conventional preventive program.

RESULTS

The first baseline assessments have been carried out in March 2018, and the 2-year follow-up will be carried out between March 2020 and April 2021. The hypothesis is that the trial results will demonstrate decreased body weight and that the number of patients who show normalization of their HbA1c levels in the intervention group will be much higher than that in the control group. The participants in the intervention group are also expected to show a greater decrease in their use of glucose-lowering medication and a greater improvement in their QOL when compared with the control group. Operational costs are expected to be lower than standard care, and the intervention is expected to be cost-effective.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first time that an app and web-based eHealth lifestyle coaching program implemented in Danish municipalities will be clinically and economically evaluated. If the LIVA 2.0 eHealth lifestyle coaching program is proven to be effective, there is great potential for decreasing the rates of obesity, diabetes, and related chronic diseases.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03788915; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03788915.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/19172.

A systematic review of the behaviour change techniques and digital features in technology-driven type 2 diabetes prevention interventions

Objectives

Our aim was to conduct a systematic review to determine which technology-driven diabetes prevention interventions were effective in producing clinically significant weight loss, and to identify the behaviour change techniques and digital features frequently used in effective interventions.

Methods

We searched five databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, and Pubmed) from inception to September 2018 and reviewed 19 experimental and non-experimental studies of 21 technology-driven diet plus physical activity interventions for adults (≥18 years) at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Behaviour change techniques were coded using the BCT taxonomy v1, and digital features were identified via thematic analysis of intervention descriptions.

Results

Sixty-three per cent of interventions were effective in the short term (achieving ≥3% weight loss at ≤6 months), using an average of 5.6 more behaviour change techniques than non-effective interventions, and 33% were effective in the long term (achieving ≥5% weight loss at ≥12 months), using 3.7 more behaviour change techniques than non-effective interventions. The techniques of social support (unspecified), goal setting (outcome/behaviour), feedback on behaviour, and self-monitoring of outcome(s) of behaviour were identified in over 90% of effective interventions. Interventions containing digital features that facilitated health and lifestyle education, behaviour/outcome tracking, and/or online health coaching were most effective.

Conclusion

The integration of specific behaviour change techniques and digital features may optimise digital diabetes prevention interventions to achieve clinically significant weight loss. Additional research is needed to identify the mechanisms in which behaviour change techniques and digital features directly influence physical activity, dietary behaviours, and intervention engagement.

Obtaining evidence base for the development of Feel4Diabetes intervention to prevent type 2 diabetes - a narrative literature review

BACKGROUND

Feel4Diabetes was a school and community based intervention aiming to promote healthy lifestyle and tackle obesity for the prevention of type 2 diabetes among families in 6 European countries. We conducted this literature review in order to guide the development of evidence-based implementation of the Feel4Diabetes intervention. We focused on type 2 diabetes prevention strategies, including all the phases from risk identification to implementation and maintenance. Special focus was given to prevention among vulnerable groups and people under 45 years.

METHODS

Scientific and grey literature published between January 2000 and January 2015 was searched for relevant studies using electronic databases. To present the literature review findings in a systematic way, we used the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework. A complementary literature search from February 2015 to December 2018 was also conducted.

RESULTS

The initial review included 27 studies with a follow-up ≥12 months and 9 studies with a follow-up ≥6 months and with a participant mean age < 45 years. We found out that interventions should be targeted at people at risk to improve recruiting and intervention effectiveness. Screening questionnaires (primarily Finnish Diabetes Risk Score FINDRISC) and blood glucose measurement can both be used for screening; the method does not appear to affect intervention effectiveness. Screening and recruitment is time-consuming, especially when targeting lower socioeconomic status and age under 45 years. The intervention intensity is more important for effectiveness than the mode of delivery. Moderate changes in several lifestyle habits lead to good intervention results. A minimum of 3-year follow-up seemed to be required to show a reduction in diabetes risk in high-risk individuals. In participants < 45 years, the achieved results in outcomes were less pronounced. The complementary review included 12 studies, with similar results regarding intervention targets and delivery modes, as well as clinical significance.

CONCLUSION

This narrative review highlighted several important aspects that subsequently guided the development of the Feel4Diabetes high-risk intervention. Research on diabetes prevention interventions targeted at younger adults or vulnerable population groups is still relatively scarce. Feel4Diabetes is a good example of a project aiming to fill this research gap.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov NCT02393872, registered 20th March 2015.

Effect of workplace physical activity interventions on the cardio-metabolic health of working adults: systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Adults in urban areas spend almost 77% of their waking time being inactive at workplaces, which leaves little time for physical activity. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to synthesize evidence for the effect of workplace physical activity interventions on the cardio-metabolic health markers (body weight, waist circumference, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, lipids and blood glucose) among working adults.

Methods

All experimental studies up to March 2018, reporting cardio-metabolic worksite intervention outcomes among adult employees were identified from PUBMED, EMBASE, COCHRANE CENTRAL, CINAHL and PsycINFO. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used to assess bias in studies. All studies were assessed qualitatively and meta-analysis was done where possible. Forest plots were generated for pooled estimates of each study outcome.

Results

A total of 33 studies met the eligibility criteria and 24 were included in the meta-analysis. Multi-component workplace interventions significantly reduced body weight (16 studies; mean diff: − 2.61 kg, 95% CI: − 3.89 to − 1.33) BMI (19 studies, mean diff: − 0.42 kg/m², 95% CI: − 0.69 to − 0.15) and waist circumference (13 studies; mean diff: − 1.92 cm, 95% CI: − 3.25 to − 0.60). Reduction in blood pressure, lipids and blood glucose was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Workplace interventions significantly reduced body weight, BMI and waist circumference. Non-significant results for biochemical markers could be due to them being secondary outcomes in most studies. Intervention acceptability and adherence, follow-up duration and exploring non-RCT designs are factors that need attention in future research.

Prospero registration number: CRD42018094436.

Interventions for the prevention of risk factors and incidence of type 2 diabetes in the work environment: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions aimed at the prevention of risk factors and incidence of type 2 diabetes in the workers population.

METHODS

Systematic review of interventions aimed at adult workers at risk of type 2 diabetes published in Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Central Cochrane Registry of Controlled Trials, and Lilacs. Randomized trials, quasi-experimental research and cohort studies were selected; in English, Spanish and Portuguese; published from 2000 to 2017. Intervention effectiveness was evaluated concerning the incidence of type 2 diabetes and a significant reduction in body weight, or another anthropometric or metabolic parameter.

RESULTS

3,024 articles were generated, of which 2,825 that did not answer the research question were eliminated, as well as 130 that did not evaluate original interventions, 57 carried out outside the workplace and two reviews; so that 10 selected items remained. Interventions based on structured programs previously evaluated and integrated into the workplace had a favorable impact on the reduction of body weight and other risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The effectiveness of lifestyle interventions for the prevention of type 2 diabetes should be based on structured programs with proven effectiveness and adapted to the workplace, with employer participation in the provision of schedules and work environments.

Smart Phone APP to Restore Optimal Weight (SPAROW): protocol for a randomised controlled trial for women with recent gestational diabetes

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a known risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and women with a history of GDM have a 7-fold increased risk of developing the disease. Achieving a healthy weight post-delivery is key in reducing the risk of future diabetes in these women. The aim of this trial is to investigate the use of an interactive smartphone application (APP) to restore women to optimal weight following delivery.

METHODS

This will be an open-label randomized controlled trial. Two hundred women with gestational diabetes will be randomized to receive the intervention or standard care following delivery. Participants will be reviewed at 6 weeks and 4 months post-delivery. The intervention is an APP serving as a platform for weight, diet and physical activity tracking. The APP provides 3-5 min educational videos suggesting suitable lifestyle adjustments relevant to postnatal period such as breast feeding, diet and exercise. Lastly, the APP will allow real-time interaction between users and the team of dietitians, physiotherapists and occupational therapists to encourage restoration of optimal weight. Women in the control arm will be informed about the increased risk of developing T2DM and advised to maintain a healthy weight. Primary outcome measure is the restoration of participants' booking weight if booking BMI ≤ 23, or weight loss of at least 5% from booking weight if booking BMI > 23 over the 4 month period. Secondary outcome measures will assess serum metabolic and inflammatory markers, quality of life via questionnaires and cost-effectiveness of the intervention at each follow-up visit.

DISCUSSION

This will be the first randomised controlled trial investigating the use of a smartphone application for postpartum weight loss in women with gestational diabetes. The major ethnic groups in our study population represent the majority of ethnic groups in Asia, amongst which the prevalence of diabetes is high. If shown to be effective, this APP may be used in wider clinical settings to improve postpartum weight loss and reduce the risk of developing T2DM in these women.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was registered on clintrials.gov on the 30th of October 2017, under the trial registration number: NCT03324737 .

The effects of mobile health interventions on lipid profiles among patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

The current systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to summarize the effect of mobile health (m-health) interventions on lipid profiles among patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders.

METHODS

Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were searched to indentify the relevant randomized clinical trials published up April 30th, 2018. Two reviewers examined study eligibility, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias of included clinical trials, individually. Heterogeneity was measured using I-square (I2) statistic and Cochran's Q test. Data were pooled the standardized mean difference (SMD) effect size by the random-effect model.

RESULTS

18 trials of 1681 citations were identified to be appropriate for the current meta-analysis. Findings random-effects model indicated that m-health interventions significantly decreased total- (SMD -0.54; 95% CI, -1.05, -0.03) and LDL-cholesterol levels (SMD -0.66; 95% CI, -1.18, -0.15). M-health interventions had no significant effect on triglycerides (SMD -0.14; 95% CI, -0.56, 0.28) and HDL-cholesterol levels (SMD -0.35; 95% CI, -0.81, 0.11).

CONCLUSION

Overall, the current meta-analysis demonstrated that m-health interventions resulted in an improvement in total- and LDL-cholesterol, but did not affect triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol levels.

Electronic Health Lifestyle Coaching Among Diabetes Patients in a Real-Life Municipality Setting: Observational Study

Background

Internet and mobile interventions aiming to promote healthy lifestyle have attracted much attention because of their scalability and accessibility, low costs, privacy and user control, potential for use in real-life settings, as well as opportunities for real-time modifications and interactive advices. A real-life electronic health (eHealth) lifestyle coaching intervention was implemented in 8 Danish municipalities between summer 2016 and summer 2018.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the effects associated with the eHealth intervention among diabetes patients in a real-life municipal setting. The eHealth intervention is based on an initial meeting, establishing a strong empathic relationship, followed by digital lifestyle coaching and collaboration supported by a Web-based community among patients.

Methods

We conducted an observational study examining the effect of an eHealth intervention on self-reported weight change among 103 obese diabetes patients in a real-life municipal setting. The patients in the study participated in the eHealth intervention between 3 and 12 months. A weight change was observed at 6, 9, and 12 months. We used regression methods to estimate the impacts of the intervention on weight change.

Results

We found that the eHealth intervention significantly reduced weight among diabetes patients, on average 4.3% of the initial body mass, which corresponds to 4.8 kg over a mean period of 7.3 months. Patients who were in intervention for more than 9 months achieved a weight reduction of 6.3% or 6.8 kg.

Conclusions

This study brings forward evidence of a positive effect of a real-life eHealth lifestyle intervention on diabetes patients’ lifestyle in a municipal setting. Future research is needed to show if the effect is sustainable from a long-term perspective.

The effect of community-based programs on diabetes prevention in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) can have a substantial impact in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Community-based programs addressing diet, physical activity, and health behaviors have shown significant benefits on the prevention and management of T2DM, mainly in high-income countries. However, their effects on preventing T2DM in the at-risk population of LMICs have not been thoroughly evaluated.

METHODS

The Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE and two clinical trial registries were searched to identify eligible studies. We applied a 10 years limit (from 01 Jan 2008 to 06 Mar 2018) on English language literature. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with programs focused on lifestyle changes such as weight loss and/or physical activity increase, without pharmacological treatments, which aimed to alter incidence of diabetes or one of the T2DM risk factors, of at least 6 months duration based on follow-up, conducted in LMICs.

RESULTS

Six RCTs randomizing 2574 people were included. The risk of developing diabetes in the intervention groups reduced more than 40%, RR (0.57 [0.30, 1.06]), for 1921 participants (moderate quality evidence), though it was not statistically significant. Significant differences were observed in weight, body mass index, and waist circumference change in favor of community-based programs from baseline, (MD [95% CI]; - 2.30 [- 3.40, - 1.19], p < 0.01, I2 = 87%), (MD [95% CI]; - 1.27 [- 2.10, - 0.44], p < 0.01, I2 = 96%), and (MD [95% CI]; - 1.66 [- 3.17, - 0.15], p = 0.03, I2 = 95%), respectively. The pooled effect showed a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose and HbA1C measurements in favor of the intervention (MD [95% CI]; - 4.94 [- 8.33, - 1.55], p < 0.01, I2 = 62%), (MD [95% CI]; - 1.17 [- 1.51, - 0.82], p < 0.01, I2 = 46%), respectively. No significant difference was observed in 2-h blood glucose values, systolic or diastolic blood pressure change between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Based on available literature, evidence suggests that community-based interventions may reduce the incidence rate of T2DM and may positively affect anthropometric indices and HbA1C. Due to the heterogeneity observed between trials we recommend more well-designed RCTs with longer follow-up durations be executed, to confirm whether community-based interventions lead to reduced T2DM events in the at-risk population of LMIC settings.

Current Status and Future Directions of mHealth Interventions for Health System Strengthening in India: Systematic Review

Background

With the exponential increase in mobile phone users in India, a large number of public health initiatives are leveraging information technology and mobile devices for health care delivery. Given the considerable financial and human resources being invested in these initiatives, it is important to ascertain their role in strengthening health care systems.

Objective

We undertook this review to identify the published mobile health (mHealth) or telemedicine initiatives in India in terms of their current role in health systems strengthening. The review classifies these initiatives based on the disease areas, geographical distribution, and target users and assesses the quality of the available literature.

Methods

A search of the literature was done to identify mHealth or telemedicine articles published between January 1997 and June 2017 from India. The electronic bibliographic databases and registries searched included MEDLINE, EMBASE, Joanna Briggs Institute Database, and Clinical Trial Registry of India. The World Health Organization health system building block framework was used to categorize the published initiatives as per their role in the health system. Quality assessment of the selected articles was done using the Cochrane risk of bias assessment and National Institutes of Health, US tools.

Results

The combined search strategies yielded 2150 citations out of which 318 articles were included (primary research articles=125; reviews and system architectural, case studies, and opinion articles=193). A sharp increase was seen after 2012, driven primarily by noncommunicable disease–focused articles. Majority of the primary studies had their sites in the south Indian states, with no published articles from Jammu and Kashmir and north-eastern parts of India. Service delivery was the primary focus of 57.6% (72/125) of the selected articles. A majority of these articles had their focus on 1 (36.0%, 45/125) or 2 (45.6%, 57/125) domains of health system, most frequently service delivery and health workforce. Initiatives commonly used client education as a tool for improving the health system. More than 91.2% (114/125) of the studies, which lacked a sample size justification, had used convenience sampling. Methodological rigor of the selected trials (n=11) was assessed to be poor as majority of the studies had a high risk for bias in at least 2 categories.

Conclusions

In conclusion, mHealth initiatives are being increasingly tested to improve health care delivery in India. Our review highlights the poor quality of the current evidence base and an urgent need for focused research aimed at generating high-quality evidence on the efficacy, user acceptability, and cost-effectiveness of mHealth interventions aimed toward health systems strengthening. A pragmatic approach would be to include an implementation research component into the existing and proposed digital health initiatives to support the generation of evidence for health systems strengthening on strategically important outcomes.

Exploring app features with outcomes in mHealth studies involving chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, and hypertension: a targeted exploration of the literature

Objectives

Limited data are available on the correlation of mHealth features and statistically significant outcomes. We sought to identify and analyze: types and categories of features; frequency and number of features; and relationship of statistically significant outcomes by type, frequency, and number of features.

Materials and Methods

This search included primary articles focused on app-based interventions in managing chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, and hypertension. The initial search yielded 3622 studies with 70 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. We used thematic analysis to identify 9 features within the studies.

Results

Employing existing terminology, we classified the 9 features as passive or interactive. Passive features included: 1) one-way communication; 2) mobile diary; 3) Bluetooth technology; and 4) reminders. Interactive features included: 1) interactive prompts; 2) upload of biometric measurements; 3) action treatment plan/personalized health goals; 4) 2-way communication; and 5) clinical decision support system.

Discussion

Each feature was included in only one-third of the studies with a mean of 2.6 mHealth features per study. Studies with statistically significant outcomes used a higher combination of passive and interactive features (69%). In contrast, studies without statistically significant outcomes exclusively used a higher frequency of passive features (46%). Inclusion of behavior change features (ie, plan/goals and mobile diary) were correlated with a higher incident of statistically significant outcomes (100%, 77%).

Conclusion

This exploration is the first step in identifying how types and categories of features impact outcomes. While the findings are inconclusive due to lack of homogeneity, this provides a foundation for future feature analysis.