Engagement and weight loss: results from the Mobile Health and Diabetes Trial

Abstract

Background: Prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing worldwide. Identifying and targeting individuals at high risk, is essential for preventing T2D. Several studies point to mobile health initiatives delivered through personal smart devices being a promising approach to diabetes prevention, through weight loss. The aim of the mobile health and diabetes (mDiab) trial was twofold: to achieve 5% weight loss and to look at the association of weight loss with degree of engagement with the mDiab app. Methods: The mDiab randomized control trial was carried out among smartphone users who are at high risk for T2D mellitus in three cities—Chennai, Bengaluru, and New Delhi in India. The intervention was delivered through a mobile phone application along with weekly coach calls for 12 weeks. While individuals in the intervention group individuals received the app, which enabled tracking their weight, physical activity, and diet along with 12 weekly video lessons on T2D prevention and coach calls, the control group received usual care. Results: The intervention group experienced a significant 1 kg weight loss while the control group lost 0.3 kg ( P < 0.05). More individuals in the intervention group ( n = 139, 15%) met the 5% weight loss target than in the control group ( n = 131, 9%). In the intervention group those who viewed the videos experienced greater weight loss (2.4 kg) than those who only attended coach calls (0.9 kg) ( P < 0.01). Conclusions: An mHealth intervention helped to achieve moderate weight loss. Future studies should explore the sustainability of this weight loss.