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Zhang L, Dai S, Chen Y, Jin T, Li W, Wang W, Pu J, Jia P, Zhao L, Sun X. Scoping review of obesity interventions: Research frontiers and publication status. iScience 2024; 27:109240. [PMID: 38495822 PMCID: PMC10940913 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity and overweight are significant global health issues, and numerous obesity intervention studies have been conducted. Summarizing current knowledge of interventions aims to inform researchers and policymakers to keep up-to-date with the latest scientific advancements and trends. In this review, we comprehensively retrieved and screened 4,541 studies on obesity intervention published between 2018 and 2022 in the Web of Science Core Collection, and objectively presented research frontiers using bibliometric analysis. The research frontiers of intervention are mainly focused on dietary, exercise, pharmacological interventions, bariatric surgery, environmental, and cognitive interventions. Time-restricted eating is the hottest research topic, followed by probiotics and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Gut microbiota is located in the "Basic and transversal themes" quadrant with a high centrality and low density, which has great development potentiality. Obesity intervention is becoming increasingly common,and we advocate for researchers to undertake more focused research endeavors that consider the specific characteristics of diverse populations or patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longhao Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Chinese Evidence-Based Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Medical Discipline Construction, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuang Dai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yufei Chen
- Core Facilities, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Tingting Jin
- Department of Health Policy and Management, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Medical Discipline Construction, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wen Wang
- Chinese Evidence-Based Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jian Pu
- Chinese Evidence-Based Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Peng Jia
- School of Resource and Environmental Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- International Institute of Spatial Lifecourse Health (ISLE), Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Department of Health Policy and Management, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Sun
- Chinese Evidence-Based Medicine Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Moghbeli F, Setoodefar M, Mazaheri Habibi MR, Abbaszadeh Z, Keikhay Moghadam H, Salari S, Gholamhosseini L, Fallahnezhad M, Fatemi Aghda SA. Using mobile health in primiparous women: effect on awareness, attitude and choice of delivery type, semi-experimental. Reprod Health 2024; 21:49. [PMID: 38594731 PMCID: PMC11005256 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-024-01785-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the reasons for the increase in cesarean section is the lack of knowledge of mothers in choosing the type of delivery. The present study aimed to determine the effect of education through pregnancy application during pregnancy on awareness and attitude and choice of delivery type in primiparous women at Shahid Alavi Specialized Medical Center clinic in Mashhad. METHODS This study was a semi-experimental type. Seventy primiparous pregnant women who had no restrictions for birth was selected. Sampling was randomized and purpose-based. The data collection tool was a questionnaire. The starting time of the training was considered from the end of the 27th week of pregnancy and continued with regular intervals until the end of the pregnancy. The questionnaires were completed once before the training and once after the training as a pre-test and post-test by the research units. SPSS software (version 26) and MacNemar test and descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. RESULTS According to the results of the MacNemar test, a significant statistical difference was seen between women's knowledge and attitude after the training compared to before (p-value < 0.01). Choosing the type of birth was preferred before and after the training. But following the performance of women showed that only 62.86% of them chose natural birth. In fact, before the training, 40% and after 72.86% of women had chosen birth. CONCLUSION Pregnancy education and application during pregnancy is effective in reducing the choice of cesarean section, so this application with the topic of birth and cesarean section has improved the level of attitude and also the positive attitude of pregnant women towards birth. Creation of facilities and promotion of different methods of painless childbirth and training of maternity staff to perform birth is expected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Moghbeli
- Department of Health Information Technology, Varastegan Institute for Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Masood Setoodefar
- Department of Health Information Technology, Varastegan Institute for Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Computer Sciences, School of Engineering, Khayyam University, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Zohreh Abbaszadeh
- Department of Health Information Technology, Varastegan Institute for Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Student research committee, Varastegan Institute for Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Sajedeh Salari
- Department of Health Information Technology, Varastegan Institute for Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Student research committee, Varastegan Institute for Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Leila Gholamhosseini
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Paramedical Sciences, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Fallahnezhad
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Fatemi Aghda
- Research Center for Health Technology Assessment and Medical Informatics, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
- Student Research Committee, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Schaafsma HN, Jantzi HA, Seabrook JA, McEachern LW, Burke SM, Irwin JD, Gilliland JA. The impact of smartphone app-based interventions on adolescents' dietary intake: a systematic review and evaluation of equity factor reporting in intervention studies. Nutr Rev 2024; 82:467-486. [PMID: 37330675 PMCID: PMC10925905 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuad058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Adolescence is a critical stage for improving nutrition. The popularity of smartphones makes them an ideal platform for administering interventions to adolescents. A systematic review has yet to assess the impact of smartphone app-based interventions exclusively on adolescents' dietary intake. Furthermore, despite the impact of equity factors on dietary intake and the claim for mobile health of increased accessibility, there is minimal research on the reporting of equity factors in the evaluation of smartphone app-based nutrition-intervention research. OBJECTIVES This systematic review examines the effectiveness of smartphone app-based interventions on adolescents' dietary intake and the frequency with which equity factors and statistical analyses specific to equity factors are reported in these intervention studies. DATA SOURCES Databases (ie, Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, ERIC, and Cochrane Central Register for Randomized Control Trials) were searched for studies published from January 2008 to October 2022. Smartphone app-based intervention studies that were nutrition focused, evaluated at least 1 dietary intake variable, and included participants with a mean age between 10 and 19 years were included. All geographic locations were included. DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS Study characteristics, intervention results, and reported equity factors were extracted. Because of the heterogeneity of dietary outcomes, findings were reported as a narrative synthesis. CONCLUSION In total, 3087 studies were retrieved, 14 of which met the inclusion criteria. Eleven studies reported a statistically significant improvement in at least 1 dietary outcome because of the intervention. Reporting of at least 1 equity factor across articles' Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion sections was minimal (n = 5), and statistical analyses specific to equity factors were rare, occurring in only 4 of the 14 included studies. Future interventions should include a measurement of intervention adherence and report the impact of equity factors on the effectiveness and applicability of interventions for equity-deserving groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly N Schaafsma
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heather A Jantzi
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College at Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Louise W McEachern
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shauna M Burke
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer D Irwin
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Sequí-Domínguez I, Cavero-Redondo I, Álvarez-Bueno C, López-Gil JF, Martínez-Vizcaíno V, Pascual-Morena C. Effectiveness of eHealth Interventions Promoting Physical Activity in Children and Adolescents: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e41649. [PMID: 38381490 PMCID: PMC10918549 DOI: 10.2196/41649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND eHealth interventions have been postulated as a feasible, acceptable, and possibly effective tool to promote physical activity (PA) among children and adolescents; however, a comprehensive quantitative analysis of the effects of eHealth interventions promoting PA is lacking. OBJECTIVE This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis on experimental studies reporting the effects of eHealth interventions aimed at promoting PA on PA parameters and sedentary behavior parameters in children and adolescents. METHODS The CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched from inception to February 2022 for randomized controlled trials that analyzed the effects of eHealth interventions aimed at promoting PA on PA and sedentary parameters in children and adolescents. The Hartung-Knapp-Sidik-Jonkman random effects method was used to determine the mean differences (MDs) with their respective 95% CIs. The risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias 2 (RoB2; Cochrane) tool and its extension for cluster randomized controlled trials. The certainty of evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) tool. RESULTS A total of 20 trials reporting the effects of different eHealth interventions aimed at promoting PA were included. Results for each parameter were as follows: counts per minute (MD -16.11 counts, 95% CI -122.76 to 90.53; k=3; n=402; I2=69%; favoring control), steps per day (MD 593.46 steps, 95% CI -2102.27 to 3289.19; k=2; n=152; I2=0%; favoring intervention [FI]), moderate to vigorous PA (MD -1.99 min/d, 95% CI -8.95 to 4.96; k=14; n=2336; I2=86%; favoring control), light PA (MD 3.28 min/d, 95% CI -15.48 to 22.04; k=5; n=355; I2=67%; FI), screen time (MD -31.48 min/d, 95% CI -68.62 to 5.65; k=5; n=904; I2=0%; FI), and sedentary time (MD -33.12 min/d, 95% CI -57.27 to -8.97; k=8; n=819; I2=75%; FI). Our results should be interpreted cautiously because of important limitations such as the scarcity of evidence, overall risk of bias, and low to very low certainty of evidence. CONCLUSIONS We did not find conclusive evidence regarding the impact of PA-targeted eHealth interventions on PA parameters, but the very low certainty of evidence suggests that eHealth interventions may reduce sedentary time in children and adolescents. Our results may have important scientific implications as they highlight that the rapid development of eHealth interventions to promote PA lacks robust supporting evidence. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42020211020; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=211020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Sequí-Domínguez
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Research Network on Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion, Cuenca, Spain
- Facultad de Enfermería de Albacete, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Iván Cavero-Redondo
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca, Chile
| | - Celia Álvarez-Bueno
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Universidad Politécnica y Artística del Paraguay, Asunción, Paraguay
| | | | - Vicente Martínez-Vizcaíno
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Talca, Chile
| | - Carlos Pascual-Morena
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Facultad de Enfermería de Albacete, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
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Metzendorf MI, Wieland LS, Richter B. Mobile health (m-health) smartphone interventions for adolescents and adults with overweight or obesity. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 2:CD013591. [PMID: 38375882 PMCID: PMC10877670 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013591.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is considered to be a risk factor for various diseases, and its incidence has tripled worldwide since 1975. In addition to potentially being at risk for adverse health outcomes, people with overweight or obesity are often stigmatised. Behaviour change interventions are increasingly delivered as mobile health (m-health) interventions, using smartphone apps and wearables. They are believed to support healthy behaviours at the individual level in a low-threshold manner. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of integrated smartphone applications for adolescents and adults with overweight or obesity. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and LILACS, as well as the trials registers ClinicalTrials.gov and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform on 2 October 2023 (date of last search for all databases). We placed no restrictions on the language of publication. SELECTION CRITERIA Participants were adolescents and adults with overweight or obesity. Eligible interventions were integrated smartphone apps using at least two behaviour change techniques. The intervention could target physical activity, cardiorespiratory fitness, weight loss, healthy diet, or self-efficacy. Comparators included no or minimal intervention (NMI), a different smartphone app, personal coaching, or usual care. Eligible studies were randomised controlled trials of any duration with a follow-up of at least three months. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard Cochrane methodology and the RoB 2 tool. Important outcomes were physical activity, body mass index (BMI) and weight, health-related quality of life, self-efficacy, well-being, change in dietary behaviour, and adverse events. We focused on presenting studies with medium- (6 to < 12 months) and long-term (≥ 12 months) outcomes in our summary of findings table, following recommendations in the core outcome set for behavioural weight management interventions. MAIN RESULTS We included 18 studies with 2703 participants. Interventions lasted from 2 to 24 months. The mean BMI in adults ranged from 27 to 50, and the median BMI z-score in adolescents ranged from 2.2 to 2.5. Smartphone app versus no or minimal intervention Thirteen studies compared a smartphone app versus NMI in adults; no studies were available for adolescents. The comparator comprised minimal health advice, handouts, food diaries, smartphone apps unrelated to weight loss, and waiting list. Measures of physical activity: at 12 months' follow-up, a smartphone app compared to NMI probably reduces moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) slightly (mean difference (MD) -28.9 min/week (95% confidence interval (CI) -85.9 to 28; 1 study, 650 participants; moderate-certainty evidence)). We are very uncertain about the results of estimated energy expenditure and cardiorespiratory fitness at eight months' follow-up. A smartphone app compared with NMI probably results in little to no difference in changes in total activity time at 12 months' follow-up and leisure time physical activity at 24 months' follow-up. Anthropometric measures: a smartphone app compared with NMI may reduce BMI (MD of BMI change -2.6 kg/m2, 95% CI -6 to 0.8; 2 studies, 146 participants; very low-certainty evidence) at six to eight months' follow-up, but the evidence is very uncertain. At 12 months' follow-up, a smartphone app probably resulted in little to no difference in BMI change (MD -0.1 kg/m2, 95% CI -0.4 to 0.3; 1 study; 650 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). A smartphone app compared with NMI may result in little to no difference in body weight change (MD -2.5 kg, 95% CI -6.8 to 1.7; 3 studies, 1044 participants; low-certainty evidence) at 12 months' follow-up. At 24 months' follow-up, a smartphone app probably resulted in little to no difference in body weight change (MD 0.7 kg, 95% CI -1.2 to 2.6; 1 study, 245 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). A smartphone app compared with NMI may result in little to no difference in self-efficacy for a physical activity score at eight months' follow-up, but the results are very uncertain. A smartphone app probably results in little to no difference in quality of life and well-being at 12 months (moderate-certainty evidence) and in little to no difference in various measures used to inform dietary behaviour at 12 and 24 months' follow-up. We are very uncertain about adverse events, which were only reported narratively in two studies (very low-certainty evidence). Smartphone app versus another smartphone app Two studies compared different versions of the same app in adults, showing no or minimal differences in outcomes. One study in adults compared two different apps (calorie counting versus ketogenic diet) and suggested a slight reduction in body weight at six months in favour of the ketogenic diet app. No studies were available for adolescents. Smartphone app versus personal coaching Only one study compared a smartphone app with personal coaching in adults, presenting data at three months. Two studies compared these interventions in adolescents. A smartphone app resulted in little to no difference in BMI z-score compared to personal coaching at six months' follow-up (MD 0, 95% CI -0.2 to 0.2; 1 study; 107 participants). Smartphone app versus usual care Only one study compared an app with usual care in adults but only reported data at three months on participant satisfaction. No studies were available for adolescents. We identified 34 ongoing studies. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The available evidence is limited and does not demonstrate a clear benefit of smartphone applications as interventions for adolescents or adults with overweight or obesity. While the number of studies is growing, the evidence remains incomplete due to the high variability of the apps' features, content and components, which complicates direct comparisons and assessment of their effectiveness. Comparisons with either no or minimal intervention or personal coaching show minor effects, which are mostly not clinically significant. Minimal data for adolescents also warrants further research. Evidence is also scarce for low- and middle-income countries as well as for people with different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. The 34 ongoing studies suggest sustained interest in the topic, with new evidence expected to emerge within the next two years. In practice, clinicians and healthcare practitioners should carefully consider the potential benefits, limitations, and evolving research when recommending smartphone apps to adolescents and adults with overweight or obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Inti Metzendorf
- Institute of General Practice, Medical Faculty of the Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - L Susan Wieland
- Center for Integrative Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Bernd Richter
- Institute of General Practice, Medical Faculty of the Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Nadjarzadeh A, Fallahzadeh A, Abasi A, Poornematy MM, Farahzadi HR, Fatemi Aghda SA. Determining the content and needs assessment a mobile-based self-care program in infertile men. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2023; 23:258. [PMID: 37957627 PMCID: PMC10644630 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-023-02366-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is a public health problem in the world, using new technology, such as mobile phones, is increasing in the field of health. This study aimed to determine the Necessity of self-care training contents by performing a needs analysis among men with infertility problems to design a mobile phone-based application. METHODS Followed by reviewing the related literature, a questionnaire including 40 educational items and seven software features was designed in three general sections and distributed among 30 specialists in nutrition (n = 18) and infertility (n = 12). The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by a panel of experts in nutrition, infertility, and medical informatics. The questionnaire's reliability was also corroborated by Cronbach's alpha of 86.4. RESULTS All items related to the software features and most items in the questionnaire were deemed necessary by participants. However, the items: "Occupation and history of chronic diseases" in the demographic information section and "Effects of infertility and food allergy" in the educational section were not confirmed. CONCLUSION The present findings could not only highlight the patients' roles in managing their disease but also increase the healthcare workers' awareness in designing the hospital information system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Nadjarzadeh
- Nutrition and Food Security Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Alireza Fallahzadeh
- Research Center for Health Technology Assessment and Medical Informatics, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Arezoo Abasi
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Poornematy
- Research Center for Health Technology Assessment and Medical Informatics, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Farahzadi
- Research Center for Health Technology Assessment and Medical Informatics, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Fatemi Aghda
- Research Center for Health Technology Assessment and Medical Informatics, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Pedersen K, Schlichter BR. Improving Predictability and Effectiveness in Preventive Digital Health Interventions: Scoping Review. Interact J Med Res 2023; 12:e40205. [PMID: 37471129 PMCID: PMC10401197 DOI: 10.2196/40205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lifestyle-related diseases caused by inadequate diet and physical activity cause premature death, loss of healthy life years, and increased health care costs. Randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies indicate that preventive digital health interventions (P-DHIs) can be effective in preventing these health problems, but the results of these studies are mixed. Adoption studies have identified multiple factors related to individuals and the context in which they live that complicate the transfer of positive results from RCT studies to practical use. Implementation studies have revealed barriers to the large-scale implementation of mobile health (mHealth) solutions in general. Consequently, there is no clear path to delivering predictable outcomes from P-DHIs and achieving effectiveness when scaling up interventions to reduce health problems in society. OBJECTIVE This research aimed to expand our understanding of how to increase the outcome predictability of P-DHIs by focusing on physical activity and diet behaviors and amplify our understanding of how to improve effectiveness in large-scale implementations. METHODS The research objective was pursued through a multidisciplinary scoping review. This scoping review used the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) as a guide. A comprehensive search of Web of Science and PubMed limited to English-language journal articles published before January 2022 was conducted. Google Scholar was used for hand searches. Information systems theory was used to identify key constructs influencing outcomes of IT in general. Public health and mHealth literature were used to identify factors influencing the adoption of, outcomes from, and implementation of P-DHIs. Finally, the P-DHI investment model was developed based on information systems constructs and factors from the public health and mHealth literature. RESULTS In total, 203 articles met the eligibility criteria. The included studies used a variety of methodologies, including literature reviews, interviews, surveys, and RCT studies. The P-DHI investment model suggests which constructs and related factors should be emphasized to increase the predictability of P-DHI outcomes and improve the effectiveness of large-scale implementations. CONCLUSIONS The research suggests that outcome predictability could be improved by including descriptions of the constructs and factors in the P-DHI investment model when reporting from empirical studies. Doing so would increase our understanding of when and why P-DHIs succeed or fail. The effectiveness of large-scale implementations may be improved by using the P-DHI investment model to evaluate potential difficulties and possibilities in implementing P-DHIs to create better environments for their use before investing in them and when designing and implementing them. The cost-effectiveness of large-scale implementations is unknown; implementations are far more complicated than just downloading and using apps, and there is uncertainty accompanying implementations given the lack of coordinated control over the constructs and factors that influence the outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keld Pedersen
- Information Systems, Department of Management, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
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McDermott KT, Noake C, Wolff R, Bauld L, Espina C, Foucaud J, Steindorf K, Thorat MA, Weijenberg MP, Schüz J, Kleijnen J. Digital interventions to moderate physical inactivity and/or nutrition in young people: a Cancer Prevention Europe overview of systematic reviews. Front Digit Health 2023; 5:1185586. [PMID: 37534029 PMCID: PMC10393256 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2023.1185586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Strategies to increase physical activity (PA) and improve nutrition would contribute to substantial health benefits in the population, including reducing the risk of several types of cancers. The increasing accessibility of digital technologies mean that these tools could potentially facilitate the improvement of health behaviours among young people. Objective We conducted a review of systematic reviews to assess the available evidence on digital interventions aimed at increasing physical activity and good nutrition in sub-populations of young people (school-aged children, college/university students, young adults only (over 18 years) and both adolescent and young adults (<25 years)). Methods Searches for systematic reviews were conducted across relevant databases including KSR Evidence (www.ksrevidence.com), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) and Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE; CRD). Records were independently screened by title and abstract by two reviewers and those deemed eligible were obtained for full text screening. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed with the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Systematic Reviews (ROBIS) tool. We employed a narrative analysis and developed evidence gap maps. Results Twenty-four reviews were included with at least one for each sub-population and employing a range of digital interventions. The quality of evidence was limited with only one of the 24 of reviews overall judged as low RoB. Definitions of "digital intervention" greatly varied across systematic reviews with some reported interventions fitting into more than one category (i.e., an internet intervention could also be a mobile phone or computer intervention), however definitions as reported in the relevant reviews were used. No reviews reported cancer incidence or related outcomes. Available evidence was limited both by sub-population and type of intervention, but evidence was most pronounced in school-aged children. In school-aged children eHealth interventions, defined as school-based programmes delivered by the internet, computers, tablets, mobile technology, or tele-health methods, improved outcomes. Accelerometer-measured (Standardised Mean Difference [SMD] 0.33, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.05 to 0.61) and self-reported (SMD: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.23) PA increased, as did fruit and vegetable intake (SMD: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.19) (review rated as low RoB, minimal to considerable heterogeneity across results). No difference was reported for consumption of fat post-intervention (SMD: -0.06, 95% CI: -0.15 to 0.03) or sugar sweetened beverages(SSB) and snack consumption combined post-intervention (SMD: -0.02, 95% CI:-0.10 to 0.06),or at the follow up (studies reported 2 weeks to 36 months follow-up) after the intervention (SMD:-0.06, 95% CI: -0.15 to 0.03) (review rated low ROB, minimal to substantial heterogeneity across results). Smartphone based interventions utilising Short Messaging Service (SMS), app or combined approaches also improved PA measured using objective and subjective methods (SMD: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.77) when compared to controls, with increases in total PA [weighted mean difference (WMD) 32.35 min per day, 95% CI: 10.36 to 54.33] and in daily steps (WMD: 1,185, 95% CI: 303 to 2,068) (review rated as high RoB, moderate to substantial heterogeneity across results). For all results, interpretation has limitations in terms of RoB and presence of unexplained heterogeneity. Conclusions This review of reviews has identified limited evidence that suggests some potential for digital interventions to increase PA and, to lesser extent, improve nutrition in school-aged children. However, effects can be small and based on less robust evidence. The body of evidence is characterised by a considerable level of heterogeneity, unclear/overlapping populations and intervention definitions, and a low methodological quality of systematic reviews. The heterogeneity across studies is further complicated when the age (older vs. more recent), interactivity (feedback/survey vs. no/less feedback/surveys), and accessibility (type of device) of the digital intervention is considered. This underscores the difficulty in synthesising evidence in a field with rapidly evolving technology and the resulting challenges in recommending the use of digital technology in public health. There is an urgent need for further research using contemporary technology and appropriate methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caro Noake
- Kleijnen Systematic Reviews Ltd., York, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Wolff
- Kleijnen Systematic Reviews Ltd., York, United Kingdom
| | - Linda Bauld
- Usher Institute and SPECTRUM Consortium, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Carolina Espina
- Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO), Lyon, France
| | - Jérôme Foucaud
- Institut National du Cancer (INCa), Boulogne-Billancourt, France
- Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Laboratoire Éducations et Pratiques de Santé (UR 3412), Bobigny, France
| | - Karen Steindorf
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mangesh A. Thorat
- Breast Services, Guy's Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, Great Maze Pond, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Cancer Prevention, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matty P. Weijenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Joachim Schüz
- Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO), Lyon, France
| | - Jos Kleijnen
- Kleijnen Systematic Reviews Ltd., York, United Kingdom
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9
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Francis L, Spaulding EM, Bloom I, Patel A, Perrin N. A systematic appraisal of the information, engagement, aesthetic and functional quality of nutrition-related smartphone apps for children and adolescents. Public Health Nutr 2023; 26:1368-1379. [PMID: 36912110 PMCID: PMC10346071 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980023000526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nutrition-related smartphone applications (apps) could improve children's nutrition knowledge and skills. However, little is known about the quality of nutrition-related apps for children. This study aimed to identify and evaluate the quality of nutrition-related smartphone apps designed for children ages 4-17. DESIGN This systematic appraisal is guided by the Protocol for App Store Systematic Reviews. SETTING Using Google's Advanced Search, we identified 1814 apps/1184 additional apps in an updated search on iOS, of which twenty-four were eligible. The apps' objective and subjective quality were evaluated using the twenty-three-item, five-point Mobile App Rating Scale. The objective quality scale consists of four subscales: engagement, functionality, aesthetics and information. RESULTS Most of the apps (75 %) focussed solely on promoting nutrition skills, such as making food dishes, rather than nutrition knowledge. Of the twenty-four apps, 83 % targeted children 4-8 years old. The app objective quality mean score was 3·60 ± 0·41. The subscale mean scores were 3·20 ± 0·41 for engagement, 4·24 ± 0·47 for functionality, 4·03 ± 0·51 for aesthetics and 2·94 ± 0·62 for information. The app subjective quality mean score was 2·10 ± 0·90. CONCLUSIONS More robust approaches to app development leveraging co-design approaches, including involving a multidisciplinary team of experts to provide evidence-based nutrition information, are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucine Francis
- Center for Community Programs, Innovation, and Scholarship, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD21205, USA
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD21205, USA
| | - Erin M Spaulding
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD21205, USA
- Digital Health Innovation Laboratory, Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, The Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD21205, USA
| | - India Bloom
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD21205, USA
| | - Alisha Patel
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD21205, USA
| | - Nancy Perrin
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD21205, USA
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10
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McDermott KT, Noake C, Wolff R, Espina C, Foucaud J, Steindorf K, Schüz J, Thorat MA, Weijenberg M, Bauld L, Kleijnen J. Digital interventions to moderate alcohol consumption in young people: a Cancer Prevention Europe overview of systematic reviews. Front Digit Health 2023; 5:1178407. [PMID: 37288171 PMCID: PMC10243367 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2023.1178407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Strategies to reduce alcohol consumption would contribute to substantial health benefits in the population, including reducing cancer risk. The increasing accessibility and applicability of digital technologies make these powerful tools suitable to facilitate changes in behaviour in young people which could then translate into both immediate and long-term improvements to public health. Objective We conducted a review of systematic reviews to assess the available evidence on digital interventions aimed at reducing alcohol consumption in sub-populations of young people [school-aged children, college/university students, young adults only (over 18 years) and both adolescent and young adults (<25 years)]. Methods Searches were conducted across relevant databases including KSR Evidence, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) and Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE). Records were independently screened by title and abstract and those that met inclusion criteria were obtained for full text screening by two reviewers. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed with the ROBIS checklist. We employed a narrative analysis. Results Twenty-seven systematic reviews were included that addressed relevant interventions in one or more of the sub-populations, but those reviews were mostly assessed as low quality. Definitions of "digital intervention" greatly varied across systematic reviews. Available evidence was limited both by sub-population and type of intervention. No reviews reported cancer incidence or influence on cancer related outcomes. In school-aged children eHealth multiple health behaviour change interventions delivered through a variety of digital methods were not effective in preventing or reducing alcohol consumption with no effect on the prevalence of alcohol use [Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.13, 95% CI: 0.95-1.36, review rated low RoB, minimal heterogeneity]. While in adolescents and/or young adults who were identified as risky drinkers, the use of computer or mobile device-based interventions resulted in reduced alcohol consumption when comparing the digital intervention with no/minimal intervention (-13.4 g/week, 95% CI: -19.3 to -7.6, review rated low RoB, moderate to substantial heterogeneity).In University/College students, a range of E-interventions reduced the number of drinks consumed per week compared to assessment only controls although the overall effect was small [standardised mean difference (SMD): -0.15, 95% CI: -0.21 to -0.09]. Web-based personalised feedback interventions demonstrated a small to medium effect on alcohol consumption (SMD: -0.19, 95% CI: -0.27 to -0.11) (review rated high RoB, minimal heterogeneity). In risky drinkers, stand-alone Computerized interventions reduced short (SMD: -0.17, 95% CI: -0.27 to -0.08) and long term (SMD: -0.17, 95% CI: -0.30 to -0.04) alcohol consumption compared to no intervention, while a small effect (SMD: -0.15, 95% CI: -0.25 to -0.06) in favour of computerised assessment and feedback vs. assessment only was observed. No short-term (SMD: -0.10, 95% CI: -0.30 to 0.11) or long-term effect (SMD: -0.11, 95% CI: -0.53 to 0.32) was demonstrated for computerised brief interventions when compared to counsellor based interventions (review rated low RoB, minimal to considerable heterogeneity). In young adults and adolescents, SMS-based interventions did not significantly reduce the quantity of drinks per occasion from baseline (SMD: 0.28, 95% CI: -0.02 to 0.58) or the average number of standard glasses per week (SMD: -0.05, 95% CI: -0.15 to 0.05) but increased the risk of binge drinking episodes (OR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.32-4.53, review rated high RoB; minimal to substantial heterogeneity). For all results, interpretation has limitations in terms of risk of bias and heterogeneity. Conclusions Limited evidence suggests some potential for digital interventions, particularly those with feedback, in reducing alcohol consumption in certain sub-populations of younger people. However, this effect is often small, inconsistent or diminishes when only methodologically robust evidence is considered. There is no systematic review evidence that digital interventions reduce cancer incidence through alcohol moderation in young people. To reduce alcohol consumption, a major cancer risk factor, further methodologically robust research is warranted to explore the full potential of digital interventions and to form the basis of evidence based public health initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caro Noake
- Kleijnen Systematic Reviews Ltd., York, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Wolff
- Kleijnen Systematic Reviews Ltd., York, United Kingdom
| | - Carolina Espina
- Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organisation (IARC/WHO), Lyon, France
| | - Jérôme Foucaud
- Institut National du Cancer (INCa), Boulogne-Billancourt, France
- Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Laboratoire Éducations et Pratiques de Santé (UR 3412), France
| | - Karen Steindorf
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joachim Schüz
- Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organisation (IARC/WHO), Lyon, France
| | - Mangesh A. Thorat
- Breast Services, Guy's Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, Great Maze Pond, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Cancer Prevention, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matty Weijenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Linda Bauld
- Usher Institute and SPECTRUM Consortium, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jos Kleijnen
- Kleijnen Systematic Reviews Ltd., York, United Kingdom
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11
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Charneca S, Gomes AI, Branco D, Guerreiro T, Barros L, Sousa J. Intake of added sugar, fruits, vegetables, and legumes of Portuguese preschool children: Baseline data from SmartFeeding4Kids randomized controlled trial participants. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1150627. [PMID: 37063316 PMCID: PMC10090424 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1150627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThe SmartFeeding4Kids (SF4K) program is an online self-guided intervention for parents with the propose of changing parental feeding practices and children’s dietary intake, focusing on the intake of added sugars, fruit, vegetables, and legumes. This paper aims to describe children’s dietary pattern at baseline through a 24-h food recall, the SmartKidsDiet24.MethodsOverall, 89 participants recorded at least one meal of the 3-day food recall. Mean age was 36.22 ± 6.05 years and 53.09 ± 15.42 months old for parents and children, respectively. Of these, 22 participants were considered to have 2 days of near complete 24-h food recalls. Children’s dietary intake are reported for these 22 participants based on parents reports and, thus, represent estimations only, as it remains unknown whether children consumed other non-reported foods.ResultsFruit was the group with the highest daily intake among children (mean 1.77 ± 1.10 portions/day), followed by added sugar foods (mean 1.48 ± 0.89 portions/day), vegetables [median 1.27 (1.64) portions/day] and legumes [median 0.12 (0.39) portions/day]. Fruit intake was positively correlated with vegetable intake (p = 0.008). Regarding Dietary Reference Values accomplishment, 13.6% of children exceeded the daily safe and adequate intake of sodium, 77.3% did not meet potassium and fiber recommendations, and 31.8% did not meet vitamin C recommendations.DiscussionAll children did not meet calcium, vitamin B12 and vitamin D intake recommendations. Our findings further justify the need for dietary interventions in this field, to improve young children’s diets.Clinical trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT04591496.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Charneca
- Laboratório de Nutrição, Faculdade de Medicina, Centro Académico de Medicina de Lisboa, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Isabel Gomes
- Research Center for Psychological Science (CICPSI), Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Diogo Branco
- LASIGE, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Tiago Guerreiro
- LASIGE, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luísa Barros
- Research Center for Psychological Science (CICPSI), Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joana Sousa
- Laboratório de Nutrição, Faculdade de Medicina, Centro Académico de Medicina de Lisboa, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto de Saúde Ambiental (ISAMB), Faculdade de Medicina, Centro Académico de Medicina de Lisboa, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Joana Sousa,
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12
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Vidmar AP, Salvy SJ, Wee CP, Pretlow R, Fox DS, Yee JK, Garell C, Glasner S, Mittelman SD. An addiction-based digital weight loss intervention: A multi-centre randomized controlled trial. Pediatr Obes 2023; 18:e12990. [PMID: 36484235 PMCID: PMC9905275 DOI: 10.1111/ijpo.12990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This randomized clinical trial tested the effectiveness of an addiction-based digital weight-loss intervention, focusing on withdrawal/abstinence from self-identified problem foods, snacking and excessive amounts at meals, and discomfort displacement, with and without coaching, compared to an in-person, multi-disciplinary, care model among adolescents with obesity. We hypothesized that the digital intervention with coaching would yield greater weight loss and lower delivery burden than the standard clinical arm, and greater participant engagement than the digital arm without coaching. METHODS Adolescents were randomized to app intervention, with or without coaching, or in-person multidisciplinary obesity intervention for 6 months. The primary outcome was change in %BMIp95 at weeks 12 and 24. A mixed-effects linear regression model was used to assess the association between change in %BMIp95 and intervention arm. We were also interested in assessing delivery burden, participant engagement and evaluating the relationships between weight change and demographic characteristics, mood, executive function and eating behaviours. RESULTS All adolescents (n = 161; BMI ≥95th%, age 16 ± 2.5 year; 47% Hispanic, 65% female, 59% publicly insured) lost weight over 24-weeks (-1.29%, [-1.82, -0.76], p < 0.0001), with no significant weight loss difference between groups (p = 0.3). Girls lost more weight than boys, whereas binge eating behaviour at baseline was associated with increase in %BMIp95 when controlling for other covariates. There was no association between ethnicity, mood, timing of intervention in relation to the pandemic, or executive function and change in %BMIp95 . CONCLUSIONS Contrary with our hypothesis, our results showed no difference in the change in BMI status between treatment arms. Since efficacy of this digital intervention was not inferior to in-person, multi-disciplinary care, this could offer a reasonable weight management option for clinicians, based on youth and family specific characteristics, such as accessibility, resources, and communication styles. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT035008353.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaina P. Vidmar
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sarah J. Salvy
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Research Center for Health Equity Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Choo Phei Wee
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Southern California Clinical Science Institute, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - D. Steven Fox
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Economics, School of Pharmacy of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jennifer K. Yee
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States
| | - Cambria Garell
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of General Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Suzette Glasner
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Steven D. Mittelman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of General Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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13
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Lin CA, Vosburgh KL, Roy D, Duffy VB. Usability Testing an mHealth Program with Tailored Motivational Messages for Early Adolescents. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15030574. [PMID: 36771281 PMCID: PMC9921541 DOI: 10.3390/nu15030574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity among children is a rising concern throughout the world. In the U.S., rates of childhood obesity are the highest among children from diverse and economically disadvantaged households. Obesity in adolescence increases the risk of negative physical and psychological health consequences. Mobile-app-based health interventions have been found to be an effective tool to encourage children to adopt a healthier living style. A novel mobile app prototype was developed for early adolescents to communicate with and engage them interactively about healthy eating and active living. To test the app's usability, students from a U.S. middle school, with a majority of children from low-income families, were recruited to use the app and report their feedback. The usability testing results confirmed that the app was equally well received by participants of different genders, normal weight versus overweight/obesity, and amounts of screen time. Study participants also provided overwhelming positive feedback for the embedded and tailored motivational messages that encourage healthy eating and active living. The conceptualization of the app prototype was guided by the self-determination theory, social cognitive theory, and priming theory, in addition to incorporating evidence-based obesity prevention principles. This prototype, hence, provides a valid platform for building theory-based behavioral interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn A. Lin
- Department of Communication, University of CT, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1+860-486-3984
| | - Kayla L. Vosburgh
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of CT, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Deya Roy
- Department of Communication, California State University San Marcos, 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos, CA 92096, USA
| | - Valerie B. Duffy
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of CT, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
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14
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Applying the COM-B model to understand wearable activity tracker use in children and adolescents. J Public Health (Oxf) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10389-022-01763-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Aim
Wearable activity trackers (wearables) are increasingly popular intervention tools for increasing child and adolescent physical activity (PA) levels. However, the large-scale habitual use of wearables in children and adolescents is unknown. This study investigated the prevalence of wearable use in children and adolescents, and what factors impact their use.
Subjects and methods
This study utilised a cross-sectional survey and the ‘Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behaviour’ (COM-B) model was applied to explore what child/adolescent and parental characteristics impact wearable use. Parents/guardians of 5- to 17-year-olds were invited to complete the survey. The survey was open internationally, and consisted of between 19 and 23 questions, depending on child/adolescent wearable use. Multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore variables impacting wearable use, in children (5 to 9 years) and adolescents (10 to 17 years).
Results
The survey was completed by 652 parents, representing 831 children/adolescents. Most children/adolescents had never used a wearable (n = 429; 51.6%), and 252 (30.3%) and 150 (18.1%) currently or had previously used a wearable, respectively. Child age and sex, capability, opportunity and motivation for PA were associated with wearable use, and differences were present between child (5 to 9 years) and adolescent (10 to 17 years) wearable use.
Conclusions
This study offers a novel contribution to the understanding of child and adolescent habitual wearable use, and what impacts wearable use in these age groups.
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15
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Nievas Soriano BJ, Uribe-Toril J, Ruiz-Real JL, Parrón-Carreño T. Pediatric apps: what are they for? A scoping review. Eur J Pediatr 2022; 181:1321-1327. [PMID: 35048178 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-021-04351-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a surge in the development of mHealth apps. Nevertheless, there are no scoping reviews that analyze the scientific peer-reviewed articles of these tools. This research systematically reviews the scientific literature published on health apps targeting children in peer-reviewed journals. It aims to answer four questions: what is the primary purpose of these apps; for what medical specialties and main topics were they developed; whom do they target; and how they were analyzed. The study followed PRISMA methodology, and the search process used the Web of Science Core Collection. The selected terms for the search were "pediatr*" and "app." The initial search resulted in 303 papers which, after applying filters, excluded 187 papers. In the end, 116 articles were deemed appropriate for addressing our research questions and were thoroughly reviewed. The primary purpose of pediatric health apps is to support clinical decision-making, patient education, and patient self-management. The most frequent topics covered are cancer, obesity, and asthma. Hematological oncology and endocrinology are the most frequent medical specialties addressed. The apps mainly target children, their caregivers, or both groups. Most of the apps were analyzed using observational studies, predominantly conducted in the USA, with an average participant sample size of 842. No analyses of development costs were found. These findings can be helpful for the development of future pediatric health apps. What is Known: • Health care has become increasingly digital due to digital health technologies, which have helped to expand the scope of health care. • Digital health technology can be used to improve the health of children. • The increasing availability of smartphones for children and families may enable the use of apps to deliver, promote, and sustain interventions which could lead to long-term improvements in health. What is New: • The most frequent topics covered were cancer, obesity, and asthma. Hematology-oncology and endocrinology were the most frequent medical specialties addressed. • The principal aims of the pediatric health apps were to facilitate clinical decision support, patient education, and patient self-management. • The apps mainly targeted children, their caregivers, or both groups. • Most of them had been analyzed using observational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juan Uribe-Toril
- Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Almeria, 04120, Almería, Spain.
| | - José Luis Ruiz-Real
- Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Almeria, 04120, Almería, Spain
| | - Tesifón Parrón-Carreño
- Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine Department, University of Almería, 04120, Almería, Spain
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16
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Arthurs N, Tully L, O’Malley G, Browne S. Usability and Engagement Testing of mHealth Apps in Paediatric Obesity: A Narrative Review of Current Literature. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031453. [PMID: 35162470 PMCID: PMC8834793 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Mobile health (mHealth) platforms have become increasingly popular for delivering health interventions in recent years and particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Childhood obesity treatment is an area where mHealth interventions may be useful due to the multidisciplinary nature of interventions and the need for long-term care. Many mHealth apps targeting youth exist but the evidence base underpinning the methods for assessing technical usability, user engagement and user satisfaction of such apps with target end-users or among clinical populations is unclear, including for those aimed at paediatric overweight and obesity management. This review aims to examine the current literature and provide an overview of the scientific methods employed to test usability and engagement with mHealth apps in children and adolescents with obesity. A narrative literature review was undertaken following a systematic search. Four academic databases were searched. Inclusion criteria were studies describing the usability of mHealth interventions for childhood obesity treatment. Following the application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, fifty-nine articles were included for full-text review, and seven studies met the criteria for usability and engagement in a clinical paediatric population with obesity. Six apps were tested for usability and one for engagement in childhood obesity treatment. Sample sizes ranged from 6–1120 participants. The included studies reported several heterogenous measurement instruments, data collection approaches, and outcomes. Recommendations for future research include the standardization and validation of instruments to measure usability and engagement within mHealth studies in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niamh Arthurs
- W82GO Child and Adolescent Obesity Service, Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street, D01 XD99 Dublin, Ireland;
- School Public Health, Physiotherapy & Sports Science, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland;
- Correspondence:
| | - Louise Tully
- School of Physiotherapy, Division of Population Health Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Grace O’Malley
- W82GO Child and Adolescent Obesity Service, Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street, D01 XD99 Dublin, Ireland;
- School of Physiotherapy, Division of Population Health Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Sarah Browne
- School Public Health, Physiotherapy & Sports Science, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland;
- School of Physiotherapy, Division of Population Health Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland;
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Kustiawan TC, Nadhiroh SR, Ramli R, Butryee C. Use of mobile app to monitoring growth outcome of children: A systematic literature review. Digit Health 2022; 8:20552076221138641. [PMID: 36386243 PMCID: PMC9663617 DOI: 10.1177/20552076221138641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in knowledge and technology have created opportunities to help monitor child growth. Thus, we conducted a systematic review to determine if the use of mobile apps resulted in improved growth outcomes for children. We include articles published related to children's growth with poor nutritional status. The relevant articles were searched from PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, ProQuest, and Google Scholar. Twelve studies were identified, which is the use of the mobile app to monitor growth in undernutrition and obesity in children. Six studies found that the use of mobile apps improved undernutrition child growth and improved parents' and/or front health workers' knowledge to prevent, treat, and monitor children with undernutrition. Six studies stated that the use of mobile app helps overweight/obese children lose weight and motivate them to achieve ideal body weight. Mobile apps for monitoring the growth of children with various standards are likely a promising means for early detection of growth failure and guiding overweight/obese children in gaining normal weight. Studies with large sample sizes and long-term interventions and follow-ups are needed to help assess the effectiveness of mobile app intervention programs and their impact on multiple growth outcomes more comprehensively and accurately.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Siti Rahayu Nadhiroh
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Roziana Ramli
- Department of Computer System and Technology, Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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