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Ang G, Tan CS, Lim N, Tan J, Müller-Riemenschneider F, Cook AR, Chen C. Hourly step recommendations to achieve daily goals for working and older adults. COMMUNICATIONS MEDICINE 2024; 4:132. [PMID: 38971929 PMCID: PMC11227519 DOI: 10.1038/s43856-024-00537-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The widespread use of physical activity trackers enables the collection of high-resolution health data, such as hourly step counts, to evaluate health promotion programmes. We aim to investigate how participants meet their daily step goals. METHODS We used 24-h steps data from the National Steps ChallengeTM Season 3, wherein participants were rewarded with vouchers when achieving specified goals of 5000, 7500, and 10,000 steps per day. We extracted data from 3075 participants' including a total of 52,346 participant-days. We modelled the hourly step counts using a two-part model, in which the distribution for step counts was allowed to depend on the sum of step counts up to the previous hour and participant demographics. RESULTS Participants have a mean age of 44.2 years (standard deviation = 13.9), and 40.4% are males. We show that on weekdays, the hourly mean step counts among participants aged 60 and above are higher than participants aged 30 to 59 from the start of the day till 6 p.m. We also find that participants who accumulate at least 7000 steps by 7 p.m. are associated with higher success of achieving 10,000 steps. CONCLUSIONS We provide recommendations on the hourly targets to achieve daily goals, based on different participants' characteristics. Future studies could experimentally test if prompts and nudges at the recommended times of day could promote reaching step goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Ang
- Department of Statistics and Data Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chuen Seng Tan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Nicole Lim
- Health Promotion Board, Ministry of Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jeremy Tan
- Health Promotion Board, Ministry of Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Falk Müller-Riemenschneider
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Digital Health Center, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alex R Cook
- Department of Statistics and Data Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cynthia Chen
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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Chew HSJ, Chew NW, Loong SSE, Lim SL, Tam WSW, Chin YH, Chao AM, Dimitriadis GK, Gao Y, So JBY, Shabbir A, Ngiam KY. Effectiveness of an Artificial Intelligence-Assisted App for Improving Eating Behaviors: Mixed Methods Evaluation. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e46036. [PMID: 38713909 PMCID: PMC11109864 DOI: 10.2196/46036] [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: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A plethora of weight management apps are available, but many individuals, especially those living with overweight and obesity, still struggle to achieve adequate weight loss. An emerging area in weight management is the support for one's self-regulation over momentary eating impulses. OBJECTIVE This study aims to examine the feasibility and effectiveness of a novel artificial intelligence-assisted weight management app in improving eating behaviors in a Southeast Asian cohort. METHODS A single-group pretest-posttest study was conducted. Participants completed the 1-week run-in period of a 12-week app-based weight management program called the Eating Trigger-Response Inhibition Program (eTRIP). This self-monitoring system was built upon 3 main components, namely, (1) chatbot-based check-ins on eating lapse triggers, (2) food-based computer vision image recognition (system built based on local food items), and (3) automated time-based nudges and meal stopwatch. At every mealtime, participants were prompted to take a picture of their food items, which were identified by a computer vision image recognition technology, thereby triggering a set of chatbot-initiated questions on eating triggers such as who the users were eating with. Paired 2-sided t tests were used to compare the differences in the psychobehavioral constructs before and after the 7-day program, including overeating habits, snacking habits, consideration of future consequences, self-regulation of eating behaviors, anxiety, depression, and physical activity. Qualitative feedback were analyzed by content analysis according to 4 steps, namely, decontextualization, recontextualization, categorization, and compilation. RESULTS The mean age, self-reported BMI, and waist circumference of the participants were 31.25 (SD 9.98) years, 28.86 (SD 7.02) kg/m2, and 92.60 (SD 18.24) cm, respectively. There were significant improvements in all the 7 psychobehavioral constructs, except for anxiety. After adjusting for multiple comparisons, statistically significant improvements were found for overeating habits (mean -0.32, SD 1.16; P<.001), snacking habits (mean -0.22, SD 1.12; P<.002), self-regulation of eating behavior (mean 0.08, SD 0.49; P=.007), depression (mean -0.12, SD 0.74; P=.007), and physical activity (mean 1288.60, SD 3055.20 metabolic equivalent task-min/day; P<.001). Forty-one participants reported skipping at least 1 meal (ie, breakfast, lunch, or dinner), summing to 578 (67.1%) of the 862 meals skipped. Of the 230 participants, 80 (34.8%) provided textual feedback that indicated satisfactory user experience with eTRIP. Four themes emerged, namely, (1) becoming more mindful of self-monitoring, (2) personalized reminders with prompts and chatbot, (3) food logging with image recognition, and (4) engaging with a simple, easy, and appealing user interface. The attrition rate was 8.4% (21/251). CONCLUSIONS eTRIP is a feasible and effective weight management program to be tested in a larger population for its effectiveness and sustainability as a personalized weight management program for people with overweight and obesity. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04833803; https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04833803.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Shi Jocelyn Chew
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Nicholas Ws Chew
- Department of Cardiology, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shaun Seh Ern Loong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Su Lin Lim
- Department of Dietetics, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wai San Wilson Tam
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yip Han Chin
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ariana M Chao
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Georgios K Dimitriadis
- Department of Endocrinology ASO/EASO COM, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yujia Gao
- Division of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jimmy Bok Yan So
- Division of General Surgery (Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery), Department of Surgery, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Asim Shabbir
- Division of General Surgery (Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery), Department of Surgery, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kee Yuan Ngiam
- Division of Thyroid & Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
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Finkelstein EA, Chow MTN, Gandhi M. Are cash incentives always king? A randomized controlled trial evaluating hedonic versus cash incentives (TEH-C). Front Public Health 2024; 12:1354814. [PMID: 38745998 PMCID: PMC11091446 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1354814] [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: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Physical inactivity is a risk factor for obesity and non-communicable diseases. Despite myriad health and non-health benefits resulting from physical activity (PA), most individuals do not meet PA recommendations. Providing an incentive for meeting activity goals may increase activity levels. Classical economists argue that cash is the best incentive. Behavioral economists have posited that hedonic (pleasurable) incentives (e.g., massages, restaurant meals) may be superior to cash when incentives are offered over multiple time periods. To date, no studies have directly compared the effectiveness of cash versus hedonic incentives in promoting PA across multiple time periods. Methods We conducted a two-arm, parallel, 4-month randomized controlled trial with healthy adults in Singapore where participants were randomized to either cash or hedonic incentives. Participants could earn up to SGD50 (≈USD37) in cash or hedonic incentives each month they met the study's step target of 10,000 steps daily on at least 20/25 days out of the first 28 days of a month. The primary objective was to compare the mean proportion of months that participants met the step target between the two arms. Results By month 4, participants in the cash (N = 154) and hedonic incentive (N = 156) arms increased their mean daily steps by 870 (p < 0.001) and 1,000 steps (p < 0.001), respectively. The mean proportion of months the step target was achieved was 90.53 and 88.34 for participants in the cash and hedonic incentive arms respectively, but differences across arms were small and not statistically significant for this or any outcome assessed. Conclusion Our findings suggest that both cash and hedonic incentives are effective at promoting physical activity but that neither strategy is clearly superior.Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04618757 registered on November 6, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle Tian Nee Chow
- Health Services & Systems Research Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mihir Gandhi
- Centre for Quantitative Medicine, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biostatistics, Singapore Clinical Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
- Tampere Center for Child, Adolescent, and Maternal Health Research: Global Health Group, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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Kwah LK, Doshi K, De Silva DA, Ng WM, Thilarajah S. What influences stroke survivors with physical disabilities to be physically active? A qualitative study informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0292442. [PMID: 38547110 PMCID: PMC10977677 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the benefits of regular physical activity (PA) after stroke are well established, many stroke survivors do not achieve recommended PA levels. To date, studies exploring determinants to PA have not used a behaviour change theory and focused on stroke survivors with physical disabilities. As a precursor to an intervention development study, we aimed to use the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to identify factors influencing PA in stroke survivors with physical disabilities in Singapore. METHODS Between November 2021 and January 2022, we conducted interviews with 19 community-dwelling stroke survivors with a weak arm and/or leg. An interview guide based on the TDF was developed. We analysed the data deductively by coding interview transcripts into the theoretical domains of the TDF, and then inductively by generating themes and belief statements. To identify relevant TDF domains, we prioritised the domains based on the frequencies of the belief statements, presence of conflicting belief statements and evidence of strong belief statements. RESULTS Eight of the 14 TDF domains were relevant, and included environmental context and resources, knowledge, social influences, emotion, reinforcement, behavioural regulation, skills and beliefs about capabilities. The lack of access, suitable equipment and skilled help often limited PA participation at public fitness spaces such as parks, gyms and swimming pools (environmental context and resources). While a few stroke survivors expressed that they had the skills to engage in regular PA, most expressed not knowing how much and how hard to work, which exercises to do, which equipment to use and how to adapt exercises and equipment (knowledge and skills). This often left them feeling afraid to try new activities or venture out to new places for fear of the unknown or adverse events (e.g., falls) (emotion). For some, doing the activities in a group encourage them to get out and engage in PA (social influences). CONCLUSIONS In stroke survivors with physical disabilities, environmental context and resources had a significant influence on PA participation, and this often had a spill over effect into other domains. Our results inform a complex behaviour change intervention to improve PA after stroke, and has implications for intervention design for people with physical disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. K. Kwah
- Health and Social Sciences Cluster, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore, Singapore
| | - K. Doshi
- Department of Psychology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - D. A. De Silva
- National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore General Hospital Campus, Singapore, Singapore
| | - W. M. Ng
- Department of Nursing, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - S. Thilarajah
- Physiotherapy Department, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
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Goh CE, Zheng K, Chua WY, Nguyen T, Liu C, Koh CK, Lee GKY, Tay CM, Ooi BC, Wong ML. Development of a dental diet-tracking mobile app for improved caries-related dietary behaviours: Key features and pilot evaluation of quality. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241228433. [PMID: 38303969 PMCID: PMC10832442 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241228433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Diet significantly contributes to dental decay (caries) yet monitoring and modifying patients' diets is a challenge for many dental practitioners. While many oral health and diet-tracking mHealth apps are available, few focus on the dietary risk factors for caries. This study aims to present the development and key features of a dental-specific mobile app for diet monitoring and dietary behaviour change to prevent caries, and pilot data from initial user evaluation. Methods A mobile app incorporating a novel photo recognition algorithm and a localised database of 208,718 images for food item identification was developed. The design and development process were iterative and incorporated several behaviour change techniques commonly used in mHealth. Pilot evaluation of app quality was assessed using the end-user version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale (uMARS). Results User feedback from the beta-testing of the prototype app spurred the improvement of the photo recognition algorithm and addition of more user-centric features. Other key features of the final app include real-time prompts to drive actionable behaviour change, goal setting, comprehensive oral health education modules, and visual metrics for caries-related dietary factors (sugar intake, meal frequency, etc.). The final app scored an overall mean (standard deviation) of 3.6 (0.5) out of 5 on the uMARS scale. Conclusion We developed a novel diet-tracking mobile app tailored for oral health, addressing a gap in the mHealth landscape. Pilot user evaluations indicated good app quality, suggesting its potential as a useful clinical tool for dentists and empowering patients for self-monitoring and behavioural management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kaiping Zheng
- School of Computing, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wen Yong Chua
- School of Computing, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Thao Nguyen
- School of Computing, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Changshuo Liu
- School of Computing, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chun Keat Koh
- Smart Systems Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Chong Meng Tay
- Division of Advanced General Dental Practice, National University Centre for Oral Health Singapore, Singapore
| | - Beng Chin Ooi
- School of Computing, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mun Loke Wong
- Faculty of Dentistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Spilsbury S, Wilk P, Taylor C, Prapavessis H, Mitchell M. Reduction of Financial Health Incentives and Changes in Physical Activity. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2342663. [PMID: 37938843 PMCID: PMC10632955 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.42663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Governments and others continue to use financial incentives to influence citizen health behaviors like physical activity. However, when delivered on a population scale they can be prohibitively costly, suggesting more sustainable models are needed. Objectives To evaluate the association of incomplete financial incentive withdrawal ("schedule thinning") with physical activity after more than a year of incentive intervention and to explore whether participant characteristics (eg, app engagement and physical activity) are associated with withdrawal outcomes. Design, Setting, and Participants This case-control study with a pre-post quasi-experimental design included users of a government-funded health app focused on financial incentives. Eligible participants were residents in 3 Canadian provinces over 25 weeks in 2018 and 2019. Data were analyzed from July 2021 to December 2022. Exposure Due to fiscal constraints, financial incentives for daily physical activity goals were withdrawn in Ontario in December 2018 (case)-representing a 90% reduction in incentive earnings-but not in British Columbia or Newfoundland and Labrador (controls). Main Outcome and Measures The primary outcome was objectively assessed weekly mean daily step count. Linear regression models were used to compare pre-post changes in daily step counts between provinces (a difference-in-differences approach). Separate models were developed to examine factors associated with changes in daily step count (eg, app engagement and physical activity). Clinically meaningful initial effect sizes were previously reported (approximately 900 steps/d overall and 1800 steps/d among the physically inactive). Results In total there were 584 760 study participants (mean [SD] age, 34.3 [15.5] years; 220 388 women [63.5%]), including 438 731 from Ontario, 124 101 from British Columbia, and 21 928 from Newfoundland and Labrador. Significant physical activity declines were observed when comparing pre-post changes in Ontario to British Columbia (-198 steps/d; 95% CI, -224 to -172 steps/d) and Newfoundland and Labrador (-274 steps/d; 95% CI, -323 to -225 steps/d). The decrease was most pronounced for highly engaged Ontario users (-328 steps/d; 95% CI, -343 to -313 steps/d). Among physically inactive Ontario users, physical activity did not decline following withdrawal (107 steps/d; 95% CI, 90 to 124 steps/d). Conclusions and Relevance In this case-control study of incomplete financial incentive withdrawal, statistically significant daily step count reductions were observed in Ontario; however, these declines were modest and not clinically meaningful. Amidst substantial program savings, the physical activity reductions observed here may be acceptable to decision-makers working within finite budgets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Spilsbury
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Piotr Wilk
- Schulich School of Medicine, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carolyn Taylor
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Harry Prapavessis
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marc Mitchell
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Edney S, Goh CM, Chua XH, Low A, Chia J, S Koek D, Cheong K, van Dam R, Tan CS, Müller-Riemenschneider F. Evaluating the Effects of Rewards and Schedule Length on Response Rates to Ecological Momentary Assessment Surveys: Randomized Controlled Trials. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e45764. [PMID: 37856188 PMCID: PMC10623229 DOI: 10.2196/45764] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) are short, repeated surveys designed to collect information on experiences in real-time, real-life contexts. Embedding periodic bursts of EMAs within cohort studies enables the study of experiences on multiple timescales and could greatly enhance the accuracy of self-reported information. However, the burden on participants may be high and should be minimized to optimize EMA response rates. OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the effects of study design features on EMA response rates. METHODS Embedded within an ongoing cohort study (Health@NUS), 3 bursts of EMAs were implemented over a 7-month period (April to October 2021). The response rate (percentage of completed EMA surveys from all sent EMA surveys; 30-42 individual EMA surveys sent/burst) for each burst was examined. Following a low response rate in burst 1, changes were made to the subsequent implementation strategy (SMS text message announcements instead of emails). In addition, 2 consecutive randomized controlled trials were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of 4 different reward structures (with fixed and bonus components) and 2 different schedule lengths (7 or 14 d) on changes to the EMA response rate. Analyses were conducted from 2021 to 2022 using ANOVA and analysis of covariance to examine group differences and mixed models to assess changes across all 3 bursts. RESULTS Participants (N=384) were university students (n=232, 60.4% female; mean age 23, SD 1.3 y) in Singapore. Changing the reward structure did not significantly change the response rate (F3,380=1.75; P=.16). Changing the schedule length did significantly change the response rate (F1,382=6.23; P=.01); the response rate was higher for the longer schedule (14 d; mean 48.34%, SD 33.17%) than the shorter schedule (7 d; mean 38.52%, SD 33.44%). The average response rate was higher in burst 2 and burst 3 (mean 50.56, SD 33.61 and mean 48.34, SD 33.17, respectively) than in burst 1 (mean 25.78, SD 30.12), and the difference was statistically significant (F2,766=93.83; P<.001). CONCLUSIONS Small changes to the implementation strategy (SMS text messages instead of emails) may have contributed to increasing the response rate over time. Changing the available rewards did not lead to a significant difference in the response rate, whereas changing the schedule length did lead to a significant difference in the response rate. Our study provides novel insights on how to implement EMA surveys in ongoing cohort studies. This knowledge is essential for conducting high-quality studies using EMA surveys. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05154227; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05154227.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Edney
- Physical Activity and Nutrition Determinants in Asia Programme, Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Claire Marie Goh
- Physical Activity and Nutrition Determinants in Asia Programme, Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xin Hui Chua
- Physical Activity and Nutrition Determinants in Asia Programme, Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Alicia Low
- Singapore Health Promotion Board, Singapore Government, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Janelle Chia
- Singapore Health Promotion Board, Singapore Government, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Daphne S Koek
- Singapore Health Promotion Board, Singapore Government, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Karen Cheong
- Singapore Health Promotion Board, Singapore Government, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rob van Dam
- Physical Activity and Nutrition Determinants in Asia Programme, Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences and Epidemiology, Milken Institute of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington DC, VA, United States
| | - Chuen Seng Tan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Falk Müller-Riemenschneider
- Physical Activity and Nutrition Determinants in Asia Programme, Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Digital Health Center, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Castro O, Mair JL, Salamanca-Sanabria A, Alattas A, Keller R, Zheng S, Jabir A, Lin X, Frese BF, Lim CS, Santhanam P, van Dam RM, Car J, Lee J, Tai ES, Fleisch E, von Wangenheim F, Tudor Car L, Müller-Riemenschneider F, Kowatsch T. Development of "LvL UP 1.0": a smartphone-based, conversational agent-delivered holistic lifestyle intervention for the prevention of non-communicable diseases and common mental disorders. Front Digit Health 2023; 5:1039171. [PMID: 37234382 PMCID: PMC10207359 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2023.1039171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and common mental disorders (CMDs) are the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Lifestyle interventions via mobile apps and conversational agents present themselves as low-cost, scalable solutions to prevent these conditions. This paper describes the rationale for, and development of, "LvL UP 1.0″, a smartphone-based lifestyle intervention aimed at preventing NCDs and CMDs. Materials and Methods A multidisciplinary team led the intervention design process of LvL UP 1.0, involving four phases: (i) preliminary research (stakeholder consultations, systematic market reviews), (ii) selecting intervention components and developing the conceptual model, (iii) whiteboarding and prototype design, and (iv) testing and refinement. The Multiphase Optimization Strategy and the UK Medical Research Council framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions were used to guide the intervention development. Results Preliminary research highlighted the importance of targeting holistic wellbeing (i.e., both physical and mental health). Accordingly, the first version of LvL UP features a scalable, smartphone-based, and conversational agent-delivered holistic lifestyle intervention built around three pillars: Move More (physical activity), Eat Well (nutrition and healthy eating), and Stress Less (emotional regulation and wellbeing). Intervention components include health literacy and psychoeducational coaching sessions, daily "Life Hacks" (healthy activity suggestions), breathing exercises, and journaling. In addition to the intervention components, formative research also stressed the need to introduce engagement-specific components to maximise uptake and long-term use. LvL UP includes a motivational interviewing and storytelling approach to deliver the coaching sessions, as well as progress feedback and gamification. Offline materials are also offered to allow users access to essential intervention content without needing a mobile device. Conclusions The development process of LvL UP 1.0 led to an evidence-based and user-informed smartphone-based intervention aimed at preventing NCDs and CMDs. LvL UP is designed to be a scalable, engaging, prevention-oriented, holistic intervention for adults at risk of NCDs and CMDs. A feasibility study, and subsequent optimisation and randomised-controlled trials are planned to further refine the intervention and establish effectiveness. The development process described here may prove helpful to other intervention developers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Castro
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jacqueline Louise Mair
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Alicia Salamanca-Sanabria
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Aishah Alattas
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Roman Keller
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shenglin Zheng
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ahmad Jabir
- Neuroscience and Mental Health, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiaowen Lin
- Neuroscience and Mental Health, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Bea Franziska Frese
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions,Institute of Technology Management, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Chang Siang Lim
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Prabhakaran Santhanam
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rob M. van Dam
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington DC, DC, United States
| | - Josip Car
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, LKCMedicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jimmy Lee
- Neuroscience and Mental Health, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
- North Region & Department of Psychosis, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - E Shyong Tai
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Elgar Fleisch
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions,Institute of Technology Management, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Florian von Wangenheim
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lorainne Tudor Car
- Neuroscience and Mental Health, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Falk Müller-Riemenschneider
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Digital Health Center, Berlin Institute of Health, Charite University Medical Centre Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tobias Kowatsch
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- School of Medicine, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
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9
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Mair JL, Castro O, Salamanca-Sanabria A, Frese BF, von Wangenheim F, Tai ES, Kowatsch T, Müller-Riemenschneider F. Exploring the potential of mobile health interventions to address behavioural risk factors for the prevention of non-communicable diseases in Asian populations: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:753. [PMID: 37095486 PMCID: PMC10123969 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15598-8] [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: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Changing lifestyle patterns over the last decades have seen growing numbers of people in Asia affected by non-communicable diseases and common mental health disorders, including diabetes, cancer, and/or depression. Interventions targeting healthy lifestyle behaviours through mobile technologies, including new approaches such as chatbots, may be an effective, low-cost approach to prevent these conditions. To ensure uptake and engagement with mobile health interventions, however, it is essential to understand the end-users' perspectives on using such interventions. The aim of this study was to explore perceptions, barriers, and facilitators to the use of mobile health interventions for lifestyle behaviour change in Singapore. METHODS Six virtual focus group discussions were conducted with a total of 34 participants (mean ± SD; aged 45 ± 3.6 years; 64.7% females). Focus group recordings were transcribed verbatim and analysed using an inductive thematic analysis approach, followed by deductive mapping according to perceptions, barriers, facilitators, mixed factors, or strategies. RESULTS Five themes were identified: (i) holistic wellbeing is central to healthy living (i.e., the importance of both physical and mental health); (ii) encouraging uptake of a mobile health intervention is influenced by factors such as incentives and government backing; (iii) trying out a mobile health intervention is one thing, sticking to it long term is another and there are key factors, such as personalisation and ease of use that influence sustained engagement with mobile health interventions; (iv) perceptions of chatbots as a tool to support healthy lifestyle behaviour are influenced by previous negative experiences with chatbots, which might hamper uptake; and (v) sharing health-related data is OK, but with conditions such as clarity on who will have access to the data, how it will be stored, and for what purpose it will be used. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight several factors that are relevant for the development and implementation of mobile health interventions in Singapore and other Asian countries. Recommendations include: (i) targeting holistic wellbeing, (ii) tailoring content to address environment-specific barriers, (iii) partnering with government and/or local (non-profit) institutions in the development and/or promotion of mobile health interventions, (iv) managing expectations regarding the use of incentives, and (iv) identifying potential alternatives or complementary approaches to the use of chatbots, particularly for mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Louise Mair
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore.
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Oscar Castro
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Alicia Salamanca-Sanabria
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Bea Franziska Frese
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Florian von Wangenheim
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - E Shyong Tai
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tobias Kowatsch
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- School of Medicine, University of St.Gallen, St.Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Falk Müller-Riemenschneider
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Digital Health Center, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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10
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Chew HSJ, Lim SL, Kim G, Kayambu G, So BYJ, Shabbir A, Gao Y. Essential elements of weight loss apps for a multi-ethnic population with high BMI: a qualitative study with practical recommendations. Transl Behav Med 2023; 13:140-148. [PMID: 36689306 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibac090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Smartphone weight loss apps are constantly being developed but the essential elements needed by a multi-ethnic population with overweight and obesity remains unclear. Purpose: To explore the perceptions of an Asian multi-ethnic population with overweight and obesity on the essential elements of weight loss apps. Twenty two participants were purposively sampled from a specialist weight management clinic in Singapore from 13 April to 30 April 2021. Recorded interviews were conducted using face-to-face and videoconferencing modalities. Data saturation was reached at the 18th participant. Data analysis was performed using inductive content analysis with constant comparison between and within transcripts. Findings: Three themes and eight subthemes on the essential app components emerged-(a) comprehensive and flexible calorie counters; (b) holistic, gradual and individualized behavior change recommendations tailored for people with overweight and obesity, and (c) just-in-time reminders of future consequences. There was a need to incorporate flexible options for food logging; break down general recommendations into small steps towards sustainable changes; tailor app contents for people with overweight and obesity; and evoke one's considerations of future consequences. Future weight loss apps should be designed to meet the needs of those with overweight and obesity, the very population that needs assistance with weight loss. Future apps could consider leveraging the capacity of artificial intelligence to provide personalized weight management in terms of sustaining self-regulation behaviors, optimizing goal-setting and providing personalized and timely recommendations for weight loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Shi Jocelyn Chew
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Dr, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Su Lin Lim
- Dietetics Department, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Guowei Kim
- Department of Surgery, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Geetha Kayambu
- Rehabilitation Department, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Bok Yan Jimmy So
- Department of Surgery, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Asim Shabbir
- Department of Surgery, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119074, Singapore
| | - Yujia Gao
- Department of Surgery, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119074, Singapore
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11
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Anand VV, Goh RSJ, Nah B, Koh SWC, Lim J, Neo NWS, Chew J, Lee YY, Chin YH, Chong B, Kong G, Tan B, Low Z, Khoo CM, Goh LH, Loh PH, Chai P, Dalakoti M, Chan M, Foo R, Muthiah M, Chew NWS. General Public's knowledge, awareness, and perception of Cardiometabolic diseases: data from a Singapore study population. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1193829. [PMID: 37168269 PMCID: PMC10165106 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1193829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Health literacy and illness perception play crucial roles in tackling the cardiometabolic disease epidemic. We aim to compare the attitudes, knowledge, self-perceived risks and actions taken, between individuals with and without metabolic risk factors (MFs). Methods From 5 June to 5 October 2022, participants of the general public were invited to complete a self-administered questionnaire. MF status was defined as the presence of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus and/or current/previous smoking. Participants were assessed based on four categories (knowledge-based, attitude-based, perceived risk, and action-based) of questions pertaining to four cardiometabolic diseases - diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Results A total of 345 participants were enrolled, of whom 34.5% had at least one MF. Compared to those without MFs, participants with MFs had lower knowledge scores, but higher perceived risk scores across all cardiometabolic diseases. The largest knowledge gap pertained to hypertension-related questions. After adjustment, linear regression demonstrated that the presence of MFs (β:2.752, 95%CI: 0.772-4.733, p = 0.007) and higher knowledge scores (β:0.418, 95%CI: 0.236-0.600, p < 0.001) were associated with higher perceived risk. Despite increased perceived risk in those with MFs, this translated to only few increased self-reported preventive actions, when compared to those without MFs, namely the reduction in red meat/processed food consumption (p = 0.045) and increase in fruits/vegetables consumption (p = 0.009). Conclusion This study identified a vulnerable subpopulation living with MFs, with high perceived risks, and discordant levels of knowledge and preventive actions taken. Nationwide efforts should be channeled into addressing the knowledge-to-action gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vickram Vijay Anand
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rachel Sze Jen Goh
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Benjamin Nah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sky Wei Chee Koh
- National University Polyclinics, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Family Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jieyu Lim
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Nicholas W. S. Neo
- Nursing Department, National University Heart Centre, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jocelyn Chew
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yuan Ying Lee
- Nursing Department, National University Heart Centre, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yip Han Chin
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Bryan Chong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gwyneth Kong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Bryan Tan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zhiwen Low
- Faculty of Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Chin Meng Khoo
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Endocrinology, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lay Hoon Goh
- National University Polyclinics, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Family Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Poay Huan Loh
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ping Chai
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mayank Dalakoti
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mark Chan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Roger Foo
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mark Muthiah
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- National University Centre for Organ Transplantation, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Nicholas W. S. Chew
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- *Correspondence: Nicholas W. S. Chew,
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12
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Anand VV, Zhe ELC, Chin YH, Lim WH, Goh RSJ, Lin C, Ng CH, Kong G, Tay PWL, Devi K, Muthiah M, Singh V, Chu DT, Khoo CM, Chan MY, Dimitriadis GK, Foo R, Chew NWS. Barriers and Facilitators to Engagement With a Weight Management Intervention in Asian Patients With Overweight or Obesity: A Systematic Review. Endocr Pract 2022; 29:398-407. [PMID: 36396016 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2022.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The obesity epidemic is a global health concern with Asian countries facing one of the most rapid rises in obesity rates. However, given the underwhelming long-term efficacy of weight loss strategies, especially in Asia, this review aimed to explore barriers and facilitators to weight management of patients with overweight and obesity in Asia. METHODS Medline, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science were searched for articles discussing barriers and facilitators of treatment to obesity from the perspectives of both health care professionals (HCPs) and patients. Qualitative and mixed method studies from Asia were included. Key quotes were extracted, coded, and thematically analyzed according to the methodology of Thomas and Harden. RESULTS A total of 26 articles were included in this review. From patient perspectives, 3 main themes were identified: factors influencing poor eating behavior, inhibiting lifestyle modifications, and facilitating lifestyle modifications. Patients highlighted several barriers including the lack of social support, physiologic limitations to exercise, and low health literacy. Rigid sociocultural norms and lack of accessible health care services, exercise facilities, and healthy food exacerbated the barriers. Facilitators to lifestyle modifications consisted of strong support systems and high health literacy. HCPs agreed that low health literacy, lack of social support, and patient motivation impeded patients' weight loss attempts but were unaware of the other barriers they faced. CONCLUSION There are discrepancies between ideas of barriers and facilitators of HCPs and patients. A mixture of population level, primary care, and personal interventions are required to address this disparity, and enhanced health literacy can improve weight loss outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vickram Vijay Anand
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Ethan Lee Cheng Zhe
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Yip Han Chin
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Wen Hui Lim
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rachel Sze Jen Goh
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chaoxing Lin
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cheng Han Ng
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gwyneth Kong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Phoebe Wen Lin Tay
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kamala Devi
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mark Muthiah
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore; Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore; National University Centre for Organ Transplantation, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Vijai Singh
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Indrashil University, Rajpur, Mehsana, Gujarat, India
| | - Dinh-Toi Chu
- Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Department of Natural Science and Technology, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Chin Meng Khoo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; Department of Endocrinology, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Mark Y Chan
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore; Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Georgios K Dimitriadis
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Life Course Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Endocrinology ASO/EASO COM, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Roger Foo
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Singapore, Singapore; Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Nicholas W S Chew
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore.
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13
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Li X, You K. Real-time tracking and detection of patient conditions in the intelligent m-Health monitoring system. Front Public Health 2022; 10:922718. [PMID: 36299750 PMCID: PMC9589418 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.922718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In order to help patients monitor their personal health in real time, this paper proposes an intelligent mobile health monitoring system and establishes a corresponding health network to track and process patients' physical activity and other health-related factors in real time. Performance was analyzed. The experimental results show that after comparing the accuracy, delay time, error range, efficiency, and energy utilization of Im-HMS and existing UCD systems, it is found that the accuracy of Im-HMS is mostly between 98 and 100%, while the accuracy of UCD is mostly between 98 and 100%. Most of the systems are between 91 and 97%; in terms of delay comparison, the delay of the Im-HMS system is between 18 and 39 ms, which is far lower than the lowest value of the UCD system of 84 ms, and the Im-HMS is significantly better than the existing UCD system; the error range of Im-HMS is mainly between 0.2 and 1.4, while the error range of UCD system is mainly between -2 and 14; and in terms of efficiency and energy utilization, Im-HMS values are higher than those of UCD system. In general, the Im-HMS system proposed in this study is more accurate than UCD system and has lower delay, smaller error, and higher efficiency, and energy utilization is more efficient than UCD system, which is of great significance for mobile health monitoring in practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Physical Education, Jinzhong University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Kangwon You
- Department of Physical Education, Jeonju University, Jeonju, South Korea,*Correspondence: Kangwon You
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14
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Hashim J, Smith HE, Tai ES, Yi H. Lay perceptions of diabetes mellitus and prevention costs and benefits among adults undiagnosed with the condition in Singapore: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1582. [PMID: 35987615 PMCID: PMC9392359 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14020-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Therapeutic lifestyle changes can reduce individual risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) by up to 58%. In Singapore, rates of preventive practices were low, despite a high level of knowledge and awareness of T2D risk and prevention. The study explored the context of the discrepancy between knowledge and practices in T2D prevention among adults undiagnosed with the condition.
Methods
In-depth interviews with 41 adults explored lay beliefs of T2D and the sources of these perceptions, subjective interpretation of how T2D may impact lives, and perceived costs and benefits of practising preventative behaviours. Purposive sampling was used to maximise the variability of participants in demographic characteristics. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify themes related to the domains of inquiry.
Results
Participants’ risk perceptions were influenced by familial, social, and cultural contexts of the representation and management of T2D conditions. The adverse effects of T2D were often narrated in food culture. The cost of adopting a healthy diet was perceived at a high cost of life pleasure derived from food consumption and social interactions. Inconveniences, loss of social functions, dependency and distress were the themes related to T2D management. Participants’ motivation to preventive practices, such as exercise and weight loss, were influenced by short-term observable benefits.
Conclusions
T2D risk communication needs to be addressed in emotionally impactful and interpersonally salient ways to increase the urgency to adopt preventative behaviours. Shifting perceived benefits from long-term disease prevention to short-term observable wellbeing could reduce the response cost of healthy eating.
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15
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Yao J, Lim N, Tan J, Matthias Müller A, Martinus van Dam R, Chen C, Tan CS, Müller-Riemenschneider F. Evaluation of a Population-Wide Mobile Health Physical Activity Program in 696 907 Adults in Singapore. J Am Heart Assoc 2022; 11:e022508. [PMID: 35699174 PMCID: PMC9238668 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.121.022508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background Evidence of scaled‐up physical activity interventions is scarce. This study evaluates the uptake, engagement, and effectiveness of one such intervention program. Methods and Results The program was open to individuals aged ≥17 years in Singapore. The main intervention components comprised device‐based daily physical activity recording paired with step count goals and financial rewards. According to the different reward opportunities, we divided the evaluation period (August 2017 to June 2018) into the baseline monitoring phase, the main challenge phase, and the maintenance phase. Uptake was assessed by the number of individuals registered, and engagement by the step recording duration after registration. The effectiveness was defined as changes in mean daily step count from baseline to the main challenge phase and the maintenance phase. A total of 696 907 participants registered, including more Singapore citizens (versus noncitizens), women, and younger (aged 17–39 years) individuals. The evaluation of engagement and effectiveness included 421 388 (60.5%) participants who provided plausible characteristic information and step count data. The median duration of engagement was 74 (IQR, 14–149) days. Compared with the baseline of 7509 (SD, 3467) steps, mean daily step count increased by 1579 (95% CI, 1564–1594) steps during the main challenge phase and 934 (95% CI, 916–952) steps during the maintenance phase. Greater engagement and activity increase were found in participants who are citizens, women, aged ≥40 years, non‐obese, and using separate wearables (versus smartphones). Conclusions Mobile health physical activity interventions can successfully reach a large population and be effective in increasing physical activity, despite declining program engagement over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Yao
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health National University of Singapore Singapore
| | - Nicole Lim
- Policy, Research and Surveillance Division Health Promotion Board Singapore
| | - Jeremy Tan
- Policy, Research and Surveillance Division Health Promotion Board Singapore
| | | | - Rob Martinus van Dam
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health National University of Singapore Singapore
| | - Cynthia Chen
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health National University of Singapore Singapore
| | - Chuen Seng Tan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health National University of Singapore Singapore
| | - Falk Müller-Riemenschneider
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health National University of Singapore Singapore.,Berlin Institute of HealthCharite University Medical Centre Berlin Germany
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16
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Koh YS, Asharani PV, Devi F, Roystonn K, Wang P, Vaingankar JA, Abdin E, Sum CF, Lee ES, Müller-Riemenschneider F, Chong SA, Subramaniam M. A cross-sectional study on the perceived barriers to physical activity and their associations with domain-specific physical activity and sedentary behaviour. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1051. [PMID: 35614402 PMCID: PMC9132675 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13431-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour have detrimental consequences to the individual and the economy. Our study examined the prevalence of perceived barriers to physical activity in Singapore’s adult population and their associations with physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Methods This cross-sectional analysis utilised data from a nationwide survey in Singapore. Participants (n = 2867) were recruited from February 2019 to March 2020. The independent variables were internal (e.g. fatigue, age) and external (e.g. weather, cost) perceived barriers to physical activity. The outcomes were domain-specific physical activity (work, transport and leisure) and sedentary behaviour, all of which were assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. The associations were examined using zero-inflated negative binomial regressions for physical activity and linear regression for sedentary behaviour. Results The median (Interquartile range) for work-related, transport-related and leisure-related physical activity were 0 (0 – 1440), 600 (160 – 1120) and 360 (0 – 1080) MET (metabolic equivalent)-minutes per week. The median sedentary behaviour (IQR) was 360 (240 – 540) minutes per day. The top three barriers were lack of time (65.3%), fatigue (64.7%) and pollution (56.1%). After adjustment, the level of transport-related physical activity was lower for respondents who cited lacking pavement or parks as a barrier, but higher for those who indicated cost and safety concerns. Respondents who reported pollution as a barrier were more likely to engage in transport-related physical activity. The level of leisure-related physical activity was lower for respondents indicating weather, lack of time and age as barriers, but higher for those reporting safety concerns. The odds of engaging in leisure-related physical activity was lower for those citing age, cost and fatigue as barriers, but higher for those indicating the weather. Sedentary behaviour was positively associated with work and limited accessibility to exercise facilities, but negatively with safety concerns. Conclusion Individuals can be motivated to overcome internal barriers (fatigue, lack of time, cost and age) through social support and emphasis on exercise benefits. External barriers (weather and lack of pavements or parks) can be reduced by raising awareness of existing infrastructure. Sedentary behaviour can be improved by implementing workplace measures, such as reducing the time spent sitting. Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13431-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen Sin Koh
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - P V Asharani
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Fiona Devi
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Peizhi Wang
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Edimansyah Abdin
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chee Fang Sum
- Admiralty Medical Centre, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Eng Sing Lee
- Clinical Research Unit, National Healthcare Group Polyclinics, Singapore, Singapore.,Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Falk Müller-Riemenschneider
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Siow Ann Chong
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mythily Subramaniam
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore.,Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Gorny AW, Chee WCD, Müller-Riemenschneider F. Active Use and Engagement in an mHealth Initiative Among Young Men With Obesity: Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e33798. [PMID: 35076399 PMCID: PMC8826145 DOI: 10.2196/33798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The effectiveness of mobile health (mHealth) approaches that employ wearable technology to promote physical activity have been the subject of concern due to the declining active use observed in trial settings. Objective To better contextualize active use, this study aimed to identify the barriers and enablers to engagement in a tracker-based mHealth initiative among young men who had recently completed a 19-week residential weight loss program. Methods A mixed methods study was conducted among 167 young men who had voluntarily enrolled in the national steps challenge (NSC), an mHealth physical activity promotion initiative, following a residential weight loss intervention. A subsample of 29 enrollees with a body mass index of 29.6 (SD 3.1) participated in semistructured interviews and additional follow-up assessments. Quantitative systems data on daily step count rates were used to describe active use. Qualitative data were coded and analyzed to elicit barriers and enablers to microlevel engagement in relation to the NSC, focusing on tracker and smartphone use. We further elicited barriers and enablers to macrolevel engagement by exploring attitudes and behaviors toward the NSC. Using triangulation, we examined how qualitative engagement in the NSC could account for quantitative findings on active use. Using integration of findings, we discussed how the mHealth intervention might have changed physical activity behavior. Results Among the 167 original enrollees, active use declined from 72 (47%) in week 1 to 27 (17%) in week 21. Mean daily step counts peaked in week 1 at 10,576 steps per day and were variable throughout the NSC. Barriers to engagement had occurred in the form of technical issues leading to abandonment, device switching, and offline tracking. Passive attitudes toward step counting and disinterest in the rewards had also prevented deeper engagement. Enablers of engagement included self-monitoring and coaching features, while system targets and the implicit prospect of reward had fostered new physical activity behaviors. Conclusions Our study showed that as the NSC is implemented in this population, more emphasis should be placed on technical support and personalized activity targets to promote lasting behavior change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Wilhelm Gorny
- Centre of Excellence for Soldier Performance, Singapore Armed Forces, Singapore, Singapore.,Headquarters Medical Corps, Singapore Armed Forces, Singapore, Singapore.,Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wei Chian Douglas Chee
- Centre of Excellence for Soldier Performance, Singapore Armed Forces, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Falk Müller-Riemenschneider
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Digital Health Center, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
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18
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Li C, Chen X, Bi X. Wearable activity trackers for promoting physical activity: A systematic meta-analytic review. Int J Med Inform 2021; 152:104487. [PMID: 34020170 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2021.104487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although wearable activity trackers hold a promise of nudging people toward a more active lifestyle, current research reveals inconsistent findings regarding the effectiveness of them. The objectives of this paper are two-fold: (1) to synthesize evidence on the effects of wearable activity trackers for improving physical activities, and (2) to identify potential moderators of effect size. METHODS A systematic meta-analytic review was conducted. Forty-eight eligible papers based on forty-four distinct trials were identified through a systematic literature search process. Two authors independently extracted information from each study based on predefined data fields. Random-effects meta-analysis, subgroup analysis, and meta-regression analysis were employed. RESULTS First, interventions with wearable activity trackers significantly increased daily steps and weekly moderate-to-vigorous physical activity but had no impact on light physical activity or sedentary behavior. Second, daily steps and weekly moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were associated with participants' characteristics (i.e., gender, age, medical condition, and baseline physical activity level) and intervention features (i.e., sensors, modes of expert support, and intervention duration). The identified factors explained 53 % of the total variance for weekly moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. CONCLUSIONS The use of wearable activity trackers effectively improves conscious exercise behavior, including daily steps and weekly moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, but not effective for modifying habitual behavior, such as light physical activity and sedentary behavior. We also explicitly show that the extent to which the interventions with wearable activity trackers help users is contingent on the type of users and the design and delivery of interventions. Future studies are called to validate the findings and to offer theoretical explanations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caining Li
- School of Management, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaoyu Chen
- Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
| | - Xinhua Bi
- School of Management, Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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19
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Yao J, Tan CS, Lim N, Tan J, Chen C, Müller-Riemenschneider F. Number of daily measurements needed to estimate habitual step count levels using wrist-worn trackers and smartphones in 212,048 adults. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9633. [PMID: 33953288 PMCID: PMC8100112 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89141-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Daily step count is a readily accessible physical activity measure inversely related to many important health outcomes. However, its day-to-day variability is not clear, especially when measured by recent mobile devices. This study investigates number of measurement days required to reliably estimate the weekly and monthly levels of daily step count in adults using wrist-worn fitness trackers and smartphones. Data were from a 5-month physical activity program in Singapore. The 5-month period was divided into 22 weekly and 5 monthly time windows. For each time window, we leveraged data sampling procedures and estimated the minimum number of measurement days needed to achieve reliable mean daily step count with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) above 80%. The ICCs were derived using linear mixed effect models. We examined both simple random and random consecutive measurement days and conducted subgroup analysis by participant characteristics and tracking devices. Analysis of weekly and monthly step count included 212,048 and 112,865 adults, respectively. Fewer simple random measurement days are needed than random consecutive days for weekly time windows (mean 2.5, SD 0.5 vs mean 2.7, SD 0.5; p-value = 0.025). Similarly, monthly time windows require fewer measurements of simple random days than random consecutive days (mean 3.4, SD 0.5 vs mean 4.4, SD 0.5; p-value = 0.025). Younger participants and those tracking steps via smartphones consistently required more days. Being obese was associated with more measurement days for weekly time windows. In sum, to obtain reliable daily step count level, we recommend at least 3 measurement days for weekly and 5 days for monthly time window in adults. Fewer days could be considered for adults age 60+ years, while more days are required when tracking daily step via smartphones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Yao
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Tahir Foundation Building (Block MD1), 12 Science Drive 2, #09-01v, Singapore, 117549, Singapore
| | - Chuen Seng Tan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Tahir Foundation Building (Block MD1), 12 Science Drive 2, #09-01v, Singapore, 117549, Singapore
| | - Nicole Lim
- Policy, Research and Surveillance Division, Health Promotion Board, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jeremy Tan
- Policy, Research and Surveillance Division, Health Promotion Board, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cynthia Chen
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Tahir Foundation Building (Block MD1), 12 Science Drive 2, #09-01v, Singapore, 117549, Singapore
| | - Falk Müller-Riemenschneider
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Tahir Foundation Building (Block MD1), 12 Science Drive 2, #09-01v, Singapore, 117549, Singapore.
- Berlin Institute of Health, Charite University Medical Centre, Berlin, Germany.
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20
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Mönninghoff A, Kramer JN, Hess AJ, Ismailova K, Teepe GW, Tudor Car L, Müller-Riemenschneider F, Kowatsch T. Long-term Effectiveness of mHealth Physical Activity Interventions: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e26699. [PMID: 33811021 PMCID: PMC8122296 DOI: 10.2196/26699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile health (mHealth) interventions can increase physical activity (PA); however, their long-term impact is not well understood. OBJECTIVE The primary aim of this study is to understand the immediate and long-term effects of mHealth interventions on PA. The secondary aim is to explore potential effect moderators. METHODS We performed this study according to the Cochrane and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We searched PubMed, the Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, and PsycINFO in July 2020. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials of mHealth interventions targeting PA as a primary outcome in adults. Eligible outcome measures were walking, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), total physical activity (TPA), and energy expenditure. Where reported, we extracted data for 3 time points (ie, end of intervention, follow-up ≤6 months, and follow-up >6 months). To explore effect moderators, we performed subgroup analyses by population, intervention design, and control group type. Results were summarized using random effects meta-analysis. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. RESULTS Of the 2828 identified studies, 117 were included. These studies reported on 21,118 participants with a mean age of 52.03 (SD 14.14) years, of whom 58.99% (n=12,459) were female. mHealth interventions significantly increased PA across all the 4 outcome measures at the end of intervention (walking standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.46, 95% CI 0.36-0.55; P<.001; MVPA SMD 0.28, 95% CI 0.21-0.35; P<.001; TPA SMD 0.34, 95% CI 0.20-0.47; P<.001; energy expenditure SMD 0.44, 95% CI 0.13-0.75; P=.01). Only 33 studies reported short-term follow-up measurements, and 8 studies reported long-term follow-up measurements in addition to end-of-intervention results. In the short term, effects were sustained for walking (SMD 0.26, 95% CI 0.09-0.42; P=.002), MVPA (SMD 0.20, 95% CI 0.05-0.35; P=.008), and TPA (SMD 0.53, 95% CI 0.13-0.93; P=.009). In the long term, effects were also sustained for walking (SMD 0.25, 95% CI 0.10-0.39; P=.001) and MVPA (SMD 0.19, 95% CI 0.11-0.27; P<.001). We found the study population to be an effect moderator, with higher effect scores in sick and at-risk populations. PA was increased both in scalable and nonscalable mHealth intervention designs and regardless of the control group type. The risk of bias was rated high in 80.3% (94/117) of the studies. Heterogeneity was significant, resulting in low to very low quality of evidence. CONCLUSIONS mHealth interventions can foster small to moderate increases in PA. The effects are maintained long term; however, the effect size decreases over time. The results encourage using mHealth interventions in at-risk and sick populations and support the use of scalable mHealth intervention designs to affordably reach large populations. However, given the low evidence quality, further methodologically rigorous studies are warranted to evaluate the long-term effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Mönninghoff
- Institute for Customer Insight, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Institute for Mobility, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Jan Niklas Kramer
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Institute of Technology Management, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
- CSS Insurance, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Jan Hess
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Institute of Technology Management, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Translational Neuromodeling Unit, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kamila Ismailova
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Institute of Technology Management, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Gisbert W Teepe
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lorainne Tudor Car
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- School of Public Health, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Tobias Kowatsch
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Institute of Technology Management, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Future Health Technologies Programme, Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE), Singapore-ETH Centre, Singapore, Singapore
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21
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Gorny AW, Low MC, Sayampanathan AA, Shiraz F, Müller-Riemenschneider F. Motivations to exercise in young men following a residential weight loss programme conducted in National Service - a mixed methods study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:370. [PMID: 33596886 PMCID: PMC7890904 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10373-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Physical activity is a critical component of lifestyle interventions to reduce body weight and maintain weight loss. The goal of this study was to examine the motivations to exercise in young men following a 5-month residential weight loss programme conducted in the Singapore military as part of National Service. Methods We conducted a sequential mixed methods study starting with three focus groups comprising 21 programme instructors. Fifteen former programme participants aged 20.8 years (±1.4) with an average body mass index (BMI) of 29.3 kg/m2 (±4.6) were interviewed in-depth over a total duration of 9 h. Another 487 current programme participants aged 20.8 years (±1.1), BMI 27.1 kg/m2 (±2.6), completed a survey on weight loss, physical fitness, and motivations to exercise using the Behaviours Regulating Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-3). Qualitative data was coded thematically using the six constructs of exercise motivation described by self-determination theory: amotivation, external, introjected, identified and integrated regulation and intrinsic motivation. Quotes from interviewees were cross-tabulated according to their weight maintenance trajectories. BREQ-3 responses were analysed according to initial body mass index (BMI), percentage weight loss and fitness. Results Over the course of the residential programme interview and survey participants experienced an average weight loss of 15.6 kg (±6.5) and 13.0 kg (±5.4) respectively. Among the fifteen interviewees seven had gained no more than 34% of initial weight loss 6 months after completing the programme while another eight had gained more than 51%. We elicited three key themes from the data: (1) Barriers to exercise; (2) diminishing extrinsic motivation; and (3) unidentified exercise benefits. The integration of findings uncovered reinforcing motivational patterns in the areas of health, fitness, camaraderie and identified regulation. Narratives of self-acceptance and shift-work environments gave rise to potentially deleterious motivational patterns. Our findings suggest that successful transition from a residential programme to independent weight management requires a more deliberate pivot from predominantly extrinsic to intrinsic motivational approaches. Conclusion Residential programmes such as the one investigated here, should develop a deliberate transition strategy, replace weight loss targets with physical performance goals and promote sports that are appropriate for young men affected by overweight and obesity. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-10373-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Wilhelm Gorny
- Centre of Excellence for Soldier Performance, Singapore Armed Forces, 1 Selarang Ring Road, Block 2 #02-02, Singapore, 507087, Republic of Singapore. .,Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, Singapore, 117549, Republic of Singapore.
| | - Mui Cheng Low
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, Singapore, 117549, Republic of Singapore
| | - Andrew Arjun Sayampanathan
- Centre of Excellence for Soldier Performance, Singapore Armed Forces, 1 Selarang Ring Road, Block 2 #02-02, Singapore, 507087, Republic of Singapore
| | - Farah Shiraz
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, Singapore, 117549, Republic of Singapore
| | - Falk Müller-Riemenschneider
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, Singapore, 117549, Republic of Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117597, Republic of Singapore.,Digital Health Center, Berlin Institute of Health, Anna-Louisa-Karsch-Straße 2, D-10178, Berlin, Germany
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22
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Daily Step Counts from the First Thailand National Steps Challenge in 2020: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17228433. [PMID: 33202581 PMCID: PMC7697080 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Thailand’s first national steps challenge has been implemented in 2020 with the goal to raise the level of physical activity nationwide by monitoring achievements through a smartphone application. This study examined the daily step counts of participants in the first national steps challenge. Six data points from 186,653 valid participants were retrieved and analyzed in five periods using Poisson regression. The mean daily steps peaked at 3196 in Period 1, and steadily dropped to 1205 in Period 5. The daily steps per period were analyzed using the participants’ characteristics, such as the type of participant, sex, age, body mass index, and area of residence. The overall mean daily steps of the participants meant physical activity was far below the recommended level and tended to drop in later periods. The general population achieved significantly higher mean daily steps than public health officers or village health volunteers (24.0% by multivariate analysis). Participants who were female, younger (<45 years), obese (body mass index > 30), and living in rural areas had fewer mean daily steps (13.8%, 44.3%, 12.7%, and 14.7% by multivariate analysis, respectively), with statistical significance. In the future, the national steps challenge should be continuously implemented by counting all steps throughout a day, using more strategies to draw attention and raise motivation, advocating for more participants, as well as reporting the whole day step counts instead of distance.
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