Digital Health Solutions for Weight Loss and Obesity: A Narrative Review

Irvin, Liam; Madden, Leigh A.; Marshall, Phil; Vince, Rebecca V.

doi:10.3390/nu15081858

Cited by 34Mobile Health and mHealth ApplicationsDigital Mental Health InterventionsObesity, Physical Activity, Diet

Digital Health Solutions for Weight Loss and Obesity: A Narrative Review

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Irvin, Liam, Madden, Leigh A., Marshall, Phil, Vince, Rebecca V.·2023·Nutrients

DOI 10.3390/nu15081858PMC PMC10145832

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Abstract

Personal exercise programmes have long been used and prescribed for weight loss and the improvement of quality of life in obese patients. While individualised programmes are usually the preferred option, they can be more costly and challenging to deliver in person. A move to digital programmes with a wider reach has commenced, and demand has increased due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In this review, we evaluate the current status of digital exercise programme delivery and its evolution over the past decade, with a focus on personalisation. We used specific keywords to search for articles that met our predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria in order to provide valuable evidence and insights for future research. We identified 55 studies in total in four key areas of focus, from the more recent development of apps and personal digital assistants to web-based programmes and text or phone call interventions. In summary, we observed that apps may be useful for a low-intensity approach and can improve adherence to programmes through self-monitoring, but they are not always developed in an evidence-based manner. Engagement and adherence are important determinants of weight loss and subsequent weight maintenance. Generally, professional support is required to achieve weight loss goals.

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Multicomponent interventions potentially enhance the effectiveness of pharmacological treatments through ongoing support and education using real-time microlearning approaches to promote individual self-care capability.
“This approach potentially enhances the effectiveness of pharmacological treatments through ongoing support and education using real-time microlearning approaches to promote individual self-care capability [18], as well as through supporting the adoption of health-seeking self-care behaviors using nudges and personalized insights delivered using an accessible digital platform [19,20].”
From Impact of Digital Engagement on Weight Loss Outcomes in Obesity Management Among Individuals Using GLP-1 and Dual GLP-1/GIP Receptor Agonist Therapy: Retrospective Cohort Service Evaluation Study (2025) · cites this paper as [19]
The Results (section 3.1) describe personalized text messages providing education and motivation, and the Discussion (section 4) describes text and call support as useful for maintaining motivation during weight-loss interventions. Our copy does not establish that this support enhances pharmacological treatments, or describe it as real-time microlearning that promotes individual self-care capability. (LLM, conf=0.82)
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Method
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Background
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Background
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BackgroundMethodInfluential
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Background
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Method
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Background
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Background
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Background
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Background
Does self‐monitoring diet and physical activity behaviors using digital technology support adults with obesity or overweight to lose weight? A systematic literature review with meta‐analysis
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Background
Technology- and Phone-Based Weight Loss Intervention
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BackgroundMethodInfluential
Text Message Support for Weight Loss in Patients With Prediabetes: A Randomized Clinical Trial
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“[47] utilised the Vida Health coaching programme and compared it to (pre-trial) historic weight data control.”
Accuracy of Nutrient Calculations Using the Consumer-Focused Online App MyFitnessPal: Validation Study
Evenepoel, C., Clevers, E., Deroover, L., Loo, W. V., Matthys, C., & Verbeke, K. (2020) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/18237 · Cited by 76 · cited 1× · see citing works
“should be used more informatively while considering the security risks and safety measures of mobile health apps [99], while others have indicated the app provides precise values for elements of nutrition [100,101].”
Background
Telemedicine-Based Health Coaching Is Effective for Inducing Weight Loss and Improving Metabolic Markers
Johnson, K., Alencar, M., Coakley, K., Swift, D., Cole, N., Mermier, C., Kravitz, L., Amorim, F., & Gibson, A. (2019) · Telemedicine journal and e-health · doi:10.1089/tmj.2018.0002 · Cited by 73 · cited 18× · see citing works
“[30] tested the impact of in-person (IP) vs.”
BackgroundMethodInfluential
The Promotion of Eating Behaviour Change through Digital Interventions
Chen, Y., Pérez-Cueto, F. J. A., Giboreau, A., Mavridis, I. K., & Hartwell, H. J. (2020) · International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · doi:10.3390/ijerph17207488 · Cited by 73 · see citing works
Activity-related pain in patients with chronic musculoskeletal disorders
Damsgård, E., Thrane, G., Anke, A., Fors, T., & Røe, C. (2010) · Disability and Rehabilitation · doi:10.3109/09638280903567877 · Cited by 72 · cited 1× · see citing works
“This increase in sedentary behaviour has led to reduced levels of PA [13], which in turn can contribute to the development of obesity.”
Background
Nutrition, Behavior Change and Physical Activity Outcomes From the PEARS RCT—An mHealth-Supported, Lifestyle Intervention Among Pregnant Women With Overweight and Obesity
Ainscough, K. M., O'Brien, E. C., Lindsay, K. L., Kennelly, M. A., O'Sullivan, E. J., O'Brien, O. A., McCarthy, M., De Vito, G., & McAuliffe, F. M. (2020) · Frontiers in Endocrinology · doi:10.3389/fendo.2019.00938 · Cited by 71 · cited 3× · see citing works
“[28] looked at dietary and PA interventions for overweight/obese pregnant women.”
Background
Combining Web-Based Gamification and Physical Nudges With an App (MoveMore) to Promote Walking Breaks and Reduce Sedentary Behavior of Office Workers: Field Study
Mamede, A., Noordzij, G., Jongerling, J., Snijders, M., Schop-Etman, A., & Denktaş, S. (2021) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/19875 · Cited by 71 · cited 4× · see citing works
“Several studies did not explore weight loss as an outcome measure; for instance, [46,56] used step count as their measure of PA.”
BackgroundMethodInfluential
“Stay-at-Home” Lifestyle Effect on Weight Gain during the COVID-19 Outbreak Confinement in China
Zhu, Q., Li, M., Ji, Y., Shi, Y., Zhou, J., Li, Q., Qin, R., & Zhuang, X. (2021) · International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · doi:10.3390/ijerph18041813 · Cited by 70 · cited 1× · see citing works
“, [6,28]), while others utilised readily available apps, such as MFP [29,30] and WW apps [31,32].”
Background
Effectiveness of mobile electronic devices in weight loss among overweight and obese populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Khokhar, B. A., Jones, J., Ronksley, P. E., Armstrong, M. J., Caird, J. K., & Rabi, D. M. (2014) · BMC Obesity · doi:10.1186/s40608-014-0022-4 · Cited by 69 · see citing works
Face-to-Face Versus Mobile Versus Blended Weight Loss Program: Randomized Clinical Trial
Hurkmans, E. J., Matthys, C., Bogaerts, A., Scheys, L., Devloo, K., & Seghers, J. (2018) · JMIR mhealth and uhealth · doi:10.2196/mhealth.7713 · Cited by 69 · cited 2× · see citing works
“2018 [39] n = 81 aged 18–65 years; BMI > 29 kg/m2 69% female Conventional—face-to-face weight loss programme Mobile weight loss app (b-SLIM app)—digital advice for dietary pattern, PA, behavioural, monitoring, information, and support elements Partial conventional or partial mobile weight loss programme (Combi group)—…”
Self-Monitoring as a Mediator of Weight Loss in the SMART Randomized Clinical Trial
Turk, M. W., Elci, O. U., Wang, J., Sereika, S. M., Ewing, L. J., Acharya, S. D., Glanz, K., & Burke, L. E. (2013) · International Journal of Behavioral Medicine · doi:10.1007/s12529-012-9259-9 · Cited by 66 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[58] demonstrated that no daily feedback (PR and PDA) resulted in significantly less weight loss compared to feedback (PR + PDA −5.”
Background
Personalized Web-Based Weight Loss Behavior Change Program With and Without Dietitian Online Coaching for Adults With Overweight and Obesity: Randomized Controlled Trial
Beleigoli, A. M. R., Andrade, A. Q. D., Diniz, M. D. F. H. S., & Ribeiro, A. L. P. (2020) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/17494 · Cited by 65 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[67] investigated two interventions a web-based behaviour-change platform with tailored feedback vs.”
Background
A systematic review with meta‐analyses of text message‐delivered behaviour change interventions for weight loss and weight loss maintenance
Skinner, R., Gonet, V., Currie, S., Hoddinott, P., & Dombrowski, S. U. (2020) · Obesity Reviews · doi:10.1111/obr.12999 · Cited by 63 · see citing works
Efficacy of a Multi-component m-Health Weight-loss Intervention in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Duncan, M., Fenton, S., Brown, W., Collins, C., Glozier, N., Kolt, G., Holliday, E., Morgan, P., Murawski, B., Plotnikoff, R., et al. (2020) · International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · doi:10.3390/ijerph17176200 · Cited by 62 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[35] found no difference between a behaviour change app and an enhanced version and wait-list control in average body weight for the pooled intervention vs.”
Background
Reasons for participating and not participating in a e-health workplace physical activity intervention: A qualitative analysis
Bardus, M., Blake, H., Lloyd, S., & Suzanne Suggs, L. (2014) · International Journal of Workplace Health Management · doi:10.1108/ijwhm-11-2013-0040 · Cited by 54 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Moreover, there is a desire from individuals to take advantage of these technologies if they are recognised as helpful and easy to use [20], and friends/family recommend them [21,22].”
Background
Feasibility and potential efficacy of commercial mHealth/eHealth tools for weight loss in African American breast cancer survivors: pilot randomized controlled trial
Ferrante, J. M., Devine, K. A., Bator, A., Rodgers, A., Ohman‐Strickland, P., Bandera, E. V., & Hwang, K. O. (2018) · Translational Behavioral Medicine · doi:10.1093/tbm/iby124 · Cited by 54 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Conversely, weight loss was higher in the control group (Fitbit only) in [69] at six months −2.”
Background
The HealtheSteps™ lifestyle prescription program to improve physical activity and modifiable risk factors for chronic disease: a pragmatic randomized controlled trial
Gill, D. P., Blunt, W. M., Silva, N. C. B. S., Stiller-Moldovan, C., Zou, G., & Petrella, R. J. (2019) · BMC Public Health · doi:10.1186/s12889-019-7141-2 · Cited by 52 · see citing works
Title, abstract and keyword searching resulted in poor recovery of articles in systematic reviews of epidemiologic practice.
de Vries, B. B. L. P., van Smeden, M., Rosendaal, F., & Groenwold, R. (2020) · Journal of Clinical Epidemiology · doi:10.1016/j.jclinepi.2020.01.009 · Cited by 50 · see citing works
Push Notifications From a Mobile App to Improve the Body Composition of Overweight or Obese Women: Randomized Controlled Trial
Hernández-Reyes, A., Cámara‐Martos, F., Molina‐Recio, G., Molina‐Luque, R., Romero‐Saldaña, M., & Rojas, R. M. (2019) · JMIR mhealth and uhealth · doi:10.2196/13747 · Cited by 46 · see citing works
Effectiveness of an mHealth Intervention Combining a Smartphone App and Smart Band on Body Composition in an Overweight and Obese Population: Randomized Controlled Trial (EVIDENT 3 Study)
Lugones-Sánchez, C., Sánchez-Calavera, M. A., Repiso-Gento, I., Adalia, E. G., Ramírez-Manent, J. I., Agudo-Conde, C., Rodríguez-Sánchez, E., Gómez-Marcos, M., Recio-Rodríguez, J., & García-Ortíz, L. (2020) · JMIR mHealth and uHealth · doi:10.2196/21771 · Cited by 44 · see citing works
The Association Between Engagement and Weight Loss Through Personal Coaching and Cell Phone Interventions in Young Adults: Randomized Controlled Trial
Lin, P., Grambow, S., Intille, S., Gallis, J., Lazenka, T., Bosworth, H., Voils, C., Bennett, G., Batch, B., Allen, J., et al. (2018) · JMIR mHealth and uHealth · doi:10.2196/10471 · Cited by 43 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[44] found engagement measures were significant for weight loss at six months and personal coaching at 12 months, with no difference between groups for weight loss >5% at 24 months and large variability in weight loss in each arm.”
Background
The Effect of Different Types of Monitoring Strategies on Weight Loss: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Jospe, M., Roy, M., Brown, R., Williams, S., Osborne, H., Meredith-Jones, K., McArthur, J., Fleming, E. A., & Taylor, R. (2017) · Obesity · doi:10.1002/oby.21898 · Cited by 43 · cited 1× · see citing works
“2017 [41] n = 250 aged >18 years; BMI ≥ 27 kg/m2 62% female 5 groups: (1) Daily weighing—self-weighing at the same time every day, monthly personalised feedback and encouragement (2) MFP group—track dietary intake every day for the first month using the app or website; one week every month during months 2–12 (3) Brief…”
Method
Effectiveness of 6 Months of Tailored Text Message Reminders for Obese Male Participants in a Worksite Weight Loss Program: Randomized Controlled Trial
Kim, J.-Y., Oh, S., Steinhubl, S., Kim, S., Bae, W., Han, J.-S., Kim, J.-H., Lee, K., & Kim, M. J. (2015) · JMIR mHealth and uHealth · doi:10.2196/mhealth.3949 · Cited by 43 · cited 2× · see citing works
“[79] compared the effect of personalised text messaging to provide education and motivation, alongside additional offline education and counselling as a worksite weight management programme in comparison with standard care.”
Background
A Targeted and Tailored eHealth Weight Loss Program for Young Women: The Be Positive Be Healthe Randomized Controlled Trial
Hutchesson, M., Callister, R., Morgan, P., Pranata, I., Clarke, E., Skinner, G., Ashton, L., Whatnall, M. C., Jones, M., Oldmeadow, C., et al. (2018) · Healthcare · doi:10.3390/healthcare6020039 · Cited by 42 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[40] found differences for a targeted/tailored programme vs.”
Background
Use of Technology-Based Interventions in the Treatment of Patients with Overweight and Obesity: A Systematic Review
Rumbo-Rodríguez, L., Sánchez‐SanSegundo, M., Ruiz‐Robledillo, N., Albaladejo-Blázquez, N., Ferrer‐Cascales, R., & Zaragoza-Martí, A. (2020) · Nutrients · doi:10.3390/nu12123634 · Cited by 41 · cited 1× · see citing works
“This suggests that certain technologies can be effective to increase weight loss in patients with obesity while improving treatment adherence through selfmonitoring [103].”
Background
Effectiveness of extended contact interventions for weight management delivered via text messaging: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Job, J. R., Fjeldsoe, B. S., Eakin, E. G., & Reeves, M. M. (2018) · Obesity Reviews · doi:10.1111/obr.12648 · Cited by 41 · see citing works
Telehealth-Based Health Coaching Increases m-Health Device Adherence and Rate of Weight Loss in Obese Participants
Alencar, M., Johnson, K., Gray, V., Mullur, R., Gutierrez, E., & Dionico, P. (2020) · Telemedicine journal and e-health · doi:10.1089/tmj.2019.0017 · Cited by 40 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[64] found weekly video calls (30 min) increased the healthy rate of weight loss significantly (−0.”
Background
Evaluating the Maintenance of Lifestyle Changes in a Randomized Controlled Trial of the ‘Get Healthy, Stay Healthy’ Program
Fjeldsoe, B., Goode, A. D., Phongsavan, P., Bauman, A., Maher, G., Winkler, E., & Eakin, E. G. (2016) · JMIR mHealth and uHealth · doi:10.2196/mhealth.5280 · Cited by 39 · see citing works
The Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of an eHealth Lifestyle Program in Women with Recent Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Pilot Study
Rollo, M. E., Baldwin, J., Hutchesson, M., Aguiar, E. J., Wynne, K., Young, A. M., Callister, R., Haslam, R. L., & Collins, C. E. (2020) · International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · doi:10.3390/ijerph17197115 · Cited by 39 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[73], overweight/obese women with recent gestational diabetes enrolled in a web-based programme with either high personalisation, including video calls with a dietitian and exercise physiologist, or low personalisation with normal access to the programme, or wait-list control.”
Background
A smartphone based attentive eating intervention for energy intake and weight loss: results from a randomised controlled trial
Whitelock, V., Kersbergen, I., Higgs, S., Aveyard, P., Halford, J., & Robinson, E. (2019) · BMC Public Health · doi:10.1186/s12889-019-6923-x · Cited by 35 · cited 2× · see citing works
“2019 [55] n = 107 Intervention aged 42.”
Background
Financial incentive strategies for maintenance of weight loss: results from an internet-based randomized controlled trial
Yancy, W. S., Shaw, P., Wesby, L., Hilbert, V., Yang, L., Zhu, J., Troxel, A., Huffman, D., Foster, G., Wojtanowski, A., et al. (2018) · Nutrition & Diabetes · doi:10.1038/s41387-018-0036-y · Cited by 35 · see citing works
A Review and Comparative Analysis of Security Risks and Safety Measures of Mobile Health Apps
Scott, K. M., Richards, D., & Adhikari, R. (2015) · Australasian Journal of Information Systems · doi:10.3127/ajis.v19i0.1210 · Cited by 35 · cited 2× · see citing works
“The increase in digital platforms also needs to be considered more from the privacy and security of consumers’ personal and health information [99].”
Background
A pedometer-based walking intervention with and without email counseling in general practice: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Větrovský, T., Cupka, J., Dudek, M., Kuthanova, B., Vetrovska, K., Čapek, V., & Bunc, V. (2018) · BMC Public Health · doi:10.1186/s12889-018-5520-8 · Cited by 31 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Equally, another study indicated that the addition of counselling via email increased PA compared to using a sole pedometer [98].”
Background
Effect of tailoring on weight loss among young adults receiving digital interventions: an 18 month randomized controlled trial
Napolitano, M. A., Whiteley, J. A., Mavredes, M. N., Tjaden, A. H., Simmens, S. J., Hayman, L. L., Faro, J. M., Winston, G. J., Malin, S. K., & DiPietro, L. (2021) · Translational Behavioral Medicine · doi:10.1093/tbm/ibab017 · Cited by 29 · cited 2× · see citing works
“04), although between-group differences disappeared by 8 months [80].”
Background
Development of Society under the Modern Technology- A Review
Naikoo, A. A., Thakur, S., Guroo, T., & Lone, A. A. (2018) · doi:10.19085/journal.sijbpg050101 · Cited by 27
Patient’s Intention to Use Mobile Health App
Yee, T. S., Lim, C. S., & Chin, W. S. (2019) · Journal of Management Research · doi:10.5296/jmr.v11i3.14776 · Cited by 26 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Moreover, there is a desire from individuals to take advantage of these technologies if they are recognised as helpful and easy to use [20], and friends/family recommend them [21,22].”
Background
Change in cardiometabolic risk factors among Asian Indian adults recruited in a mHealth-based diabetes prevention trial
Muralidharan, S., Ranjani, H., Anjana, R. M., Gupta, Y., Ambekar, S., Koppikar, V., Jagannathan, N., Jena, S., Tandon, N., Allender, S., et al. (2021) · DIGITAL HEALTH · doi:10.1177/20552076211039032 · Cited by 22 · cited 2× · see citing works
“[49] examined the impact of usual care and one nutritionist meeting versus an app and weekly calls.”
Background
Web-based intervention to promote weight-loss maintenance using an activity monitor: A randomized controlled trial
Nakata, Y., Sasai, H., Tsujimoto, T., Hashimoto, K., & Kobayashi, H. (2019) · Preventive medicine reports · doi:10.1016/j.pmedr.2019.100839 · Cited by 20 · see citing works
Obesity paradigm and web-based weight loss programs: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Jahangiry, L., & Farhangi, M. A. (2021) · Journal of Health Population and Nutrition · doi:10.1186/s41043-021-00240-3 · Cited by 20 · see citing works
Web-based exercise versus supervised exercise for decreasing visceral adipose tissue in older adults with central obesity: a randomized controlled trial
Ballin, M., Hult, A., Björk, S., Lundberg, E., Nordström, P., & Nordström, A. (2020) · BMC Geriatrics · doi:10.1186/s12877-020-01577-w · Cited by 19 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[66] investigated a web-based training programme (WE) compared to the same programme but in supervised groups at a clinic (SE), with the primary outcome being change in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in a 50:50 male/female cohort.”
Method
Evaluating differences in the clinical impact of a free online weight loss programme, a resource-intensive commercial weight loss programme and an active control condition: a parallel randomised controlled trial
Innes, A. Q., Thomson, G., Cotter, M., King, J. A., Vollaard, N. B. J., & Kelly, B. M. (2019) · BMC Public Health · doi:10.1186/s12889-019-8061-x · Cited by 19 · cited 2× · see citing works
“2019 [70] n = 76 aged 18–50 years; BMI 30–45 kg/m2 66% female Healthy Weight Programme ((HWP) 12-week programme; 10 × 1-h nutrition coaching sessions (mix of one-to-one and group classes) and 20 supervised exercise sessions with additional access to pool/gym/classes, both with 2 × progress evaluations) NHS interventio…”
Background
Web‐based virtual reality to enhance behavioural skills training and weight loss in a commercial online weight management programme: The Experience Success randomized trial
Thomas, J. G., Goldstein, C. M., Bond, D., Hadley, W., & Tuerk, P. W. (2020) · Obesity Science & Practice · doi:10.1002/osp4.451 · Cited by 18 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[75] investigated WW or WW plus additional behavioural training sessions.”
Background
Enhancing group‐based internet obesity treatment: A pilot RCT comparing video and text‐based chat
West, D., Stansbury, M., Krukowski, R., & Harvey, J. (2019) · Obesity Science & Practice · doi:10.1002/osp4.371 · Cited by 17 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[54] investigated group-based weight loss via video and text conditions using MFP (−5.”
Method
Participant perspectives of a telehealth trial investigating the use of telephone and text message support in obesity management: a qualitative evaluation
Lewis, E., Hassmén, P., & Pumpa, K. L. (2021) · BMC Health Services Research · doi:10.1186/s12913-021-06689-6 · Cited by 15 · see citing works
Incorporating a Static Versus Supportive Mobile Phone App Into a Partial Meal Replacement Program With Face-to-Face Support: Randomized Controlled Trial
Brindal, E., Hendrie, G. A., Freyne, J., & Noakes, M. (2018) · JMIR mhealth and uhealth · doi:10.2196/mhealth.7796 · Cited by 15 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[34] used an app with features including food intake recording, rewards, and prompts, but this was not a significant predictor of”
Method
Sitting Time, Type, and Context Among Long-Term Weight-Loss Maintainers
Roake, J., Phelan, S., Alarcon, N., Keadle, S. K., Rethorst, C. D., & Foster, G. D. (2021) · Obesity · doi:10.1002/oby.23148 · Cited by 12 · cited 2× · see citing works
“2021 [32] n = 5603 Intervention aged 53.”
Background
Feasibility and efficacy of a novel technology‐based approach to harness social networks for weight loss: the NETworks pilot randomized controlled trial
Monroe, C. M., Geraci, M., Larsen, C. A., & West, D. S. (2019) · Obesity Science & Practice · doi:10.1002/osp4.352 · Cited by 9 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[48] reported on participants’ self-monitoring using MFP and showed that weight loss did not significantly differ between groups (standard behavioural treatment, 5.”
Background
Pilot randomised controlled trial of Weight Watchers® referral with or without dietitian-led group support for weight loss in women treated for breast cancer: the BRIGHT (BReast cancer weIGHT loss) trial
Newlands, R. S. N., Ntessalen, M., Clark, J., Fielding, S., Hoddinott, P., Heys, S. D., McNeill, G., & Craig, L. C. A. (2019) · Pilot and Feasibility Studies · doi:10.1186/s40814-019-0405-x · Cited by 7 · see citing works
A Primer for the Evaluation and Integration of Dietary Intake and Physical Activity Digital Measurement Tools into Nutrition and Dietetics Practice
McClung, H., Raynor, H., Volpe, S., Dwyer, J., & Papoutsakis, C. (2021) · Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics · doi:10.1016/j.jand.2021.02.028 · Cited by 4 · cited 1× · see citing works
“In modern society, there is a requirement to use digital interventions to assist with health [16].”
Background
Testing the short‐term effectiveness of primary care referral to online weight loss programmes: A randomised controlled trial
Noreik, M., Madigan, C., Astbury, N., Edwards, R., Galal, U., Mollison, J., Ghebretinsea, F., & Jebb, S. (2021) · Clinical Obesity · doi:10.1111/cob.12482 · Cited by 3 · cited 2× · see citing works
“Another study [51] used three intervention groups and control, whereby the NHS weight loss plan and Slimming World did not significantly decrease weight loss compared to the control (−0.”
Background

Flagged first, then by citations

9 of the 117 references couldn’t be matched to a known paper.

Research works printed but not linked: 5

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Sorted by citations

Integrating Precision Medicine and Digital Health in Personalized Weight Management: The Central Role of Nutrition
Liu, X., Xu, M., Wang, H., & Zhu, L. (2025) · Nutrients · doi:10.3390/nu17162695 · Cited by 34 · see citing works
“Precision medicine enables the personalization of interventions by leveraging multi-omics data (e.g., genomics, metabolomics, and microbiome profiling) [7], while digital health platforms allow for continuous monitoring and dynamic feedback [8].”
Impact of Digital Engagement on Weight Loss Outcomes in Obesity Management Among Individuals Using GLP-1 and Dual GLP-1/GIP Receptor Agonist Therapy: Retrospective Cohort Service Evaluation Study
Johnson, H., Huang, D., Liu, V., Ammouri, M. A., Jacobs, C., & El-Osta, A. (2025) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/69466 · Cited by 24 · see citing works
“…ongoing support and education using real-time microlearning approaches to promote individual self-care capability [18], as well as through supporting the adoption of health-seeking self-care behaviors using nudges and personalized insights delivered using an accessible digital platform [19,20].”
Can digital technologies be useful for weight loss in individuals with overweight or obesity? A systematic review
Protano, C., De Giorgi, A., Valeriani, F., Mazzeo, E., Zanni, S., Cofone, L., D’Ancona, G., Hasnaoui, A., Pindinello, I., Sabato, M., et al. (2024) · Healthcare · doi:10.3390/healthcare12060670 · Cited by 21 · see citing works
“In line with this, the review by Irvin et al., which was aimed at examining the status of digital exercise program delivery, found that apps may be useful for a low-intensity approach and can improve adherence to programs through self-monitoring [70].”
BackgroundResultInfluential
Treat to target in weight management with semaglutide: Real‐world evidence from an <scp>eHealth</scp> clinic
Seier, S., Stamp‐Larsen, K., Jensen, S. B. K., Torekov, S. S., & Gudbergsen, H. (2025) · Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism · doi:10.1111/dom.70096 · Cited by 15 · see citing works
“Time was modelled using splines with inner knots placed at weeks 12, 26, 39, and 52 and outer knots weeks 1 and 64.”
Exploring the Relationship Between Obesity, Weight Loss and Health‐Related Quality of Life: An Updated Systematic Review of Reviews
Flølo, T., Liu, H.-H., Andersen, J. R., & Kolotkin, R. (2025) · Clinical Obesity · doi:10.1111/cob.70049 · Cited by 14 · see citing works
“Since 2017, the therapeutic landscape in obesity management has evolved, with advancements in pharmacotherapy and surgical techniques [5–7], as well as emerging digital health interventions [8].”
Role of physical activity in obesity treatment and cardiometabolic health: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association
Swift, D. L., Ross, L. M., Laddu, D. R., Conroy, M. B., German, C. A., Evangelista, L. S., Marvel, F. A., Jerome, G. J., on behalf the American Heart Association Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health, Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing, et al. (2026) · Circulation · doi:10.1161/cir.0000000000001441 · Cited by 13 · see citing works
Effectiveness and care continuity in an app‐based, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist‐supported weight‐loss service for women with overweight and obesity in the <scp>UK</scp> : A real‐world retrospective cohort analysis
Talay, L., & Vickers, M. (2024) · Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism · doi:10.1111/dom.15607 · Cited by 12 · see citing works
Why People with Overweight and Obesity Are Seeking Care Through Digital Obesity Services: A Qualitative Analysis of Patients from Australia’s Largest Digital Obesity Provider
Talay, L., Vickers, M., & Loftus, S. (2024) · Telemedicine Reports · doi:10.1089/tmr.2024.0031 · Cited by 11 · see citing works
Patient Adherence to a Real-World Digital, Asynchronous Weight Loss Program in Australia That Combines Behavioural and GLP-1 RA Therapy: A Mixed Methods Study
Talay, L., & Vickers, M. (2024) · Behavioral Science · doi:10.3390/bs14060480 · Cited by 10 · see citing works
“A plausible reason for this trend is the perception among patients that digital modalities improve their access to care without compromising quality and safety, which an emerging body of research is starting to corroborate [4,5].”
Background
Patient Adherence to a Digital Real-World GLP-1 RA-Supported Weight-Loss Program in the UK: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Talay, L., & Vickers, M. (2024) · Journal of Community Medicine & Public Health · doi:10.29011/2577-2228.100422 · Cited by 8 · see citing works
“To access these medications in real-world settings, a growing number of people are using digital weight-loss services (DWLSs) [5].”
Background
Effectiveness and adherence in a tirzepatide‐supported digital weight‐loss programme in Australia: A real‐world observational study
Talay, L. A., Hom, J., Scott, T., & Ahuja, N. K. (2026) · Diabetes Obesity and Metabolism · doi:10.1111/dom.70462 · Cited by 4 · see citing works
The “Futile Labour” Paradox: occupational physical activity fails to offset diabetes burden and is associated with microvascular stress signals in rural older adults
Zhang, K., Liu, X., Ma, C., Zhao, Y.-H., Xi, X.-F., Hou, G.-X., Liu, L.-M., Gao, Y., & Zhang, D.-H. (2026) · Frontiers in Public Health · doi:10.3389/fpubh.2026.1790766 · Cited by 5 · see citing works
“This study is strengthened by the comprehensive definition of total diabetes burden, mechanistic integration of TyG, and coherent findings across multiple analytically independent regression models and sensitivity analyses (41–44).”
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Thomas, J. G., Goldstein, C. M., Bond, D., Lillis, J., Hekler, E. B., Goldstein, S. P., Butryn, M., Cao, Z.-H., & Wing, R. (2025) · Obesity · doi:10.1002/oby.70039 · Cited by 5 · see citing works
“These results align with prior efficacy trials [8–11] and other online BOT programs [12, 13] but remain below the mean 7%–10% seen in face- to-face BOT, and weight loss maintenance remains challenging [2].”
Exploring successes, barriers, and enablers in the one-year digital Healthy Weight Coaching
Joki, A., Ahola, A. J., Suojanen, L.-U., & Pietiläinen, K. H. (2024) · BMC Health Services Research · doi:10.1186/s12913-024-11876-2 · Cited by 5 · see citing works
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“While a variety of digital tools, including wearables, sensors, smart-scales and smart-phone applications, have been used to complement and/or augment existing treatment strategies in SO [63], the diagnostic potential of such tools is less explored.”
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Talay, L., Vickers, M., & Wu, S. (2024) · Telemedicine Reports · doi:10.1089/tmr.2024.0023 · Cited by 4 · see citing works
Why People Seek Obesity Care Through Digital Rather Than In-Person Services: A Quantitative Multinational Analysis of Patients From a Large Unsubsidized Digital Obesity Provider
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“In recent years, digital weight-loss services (DWLSs) have emerged as a potential solution to the obesity care access problem [10].”
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“Both overweight and obesity may affect the structure and function of human organs, increasing the risk of morbidity and mortality [3-4] .”
Background
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Digital Mental Health Interventions in Obesity Management: A Systematic Review and Evidence-Based Recommendations
Marchesi, G., Rapelli, G., Semonella, M., Bruzzese, A., Molinaro, M., Andersson, G., Castelnuovo, G., & Pietrabissa, G. (2026) · Current Obesity Reports · doi:10.1007/s13679-026-00735-2 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
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Zhang, Q., Huang, J., Mao, F., Wang, Y., Liu, W., & Peng, Y. (2026) · Frontiers in Medicine · doi:10.3389/fmed.2026.1875769 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
“…predominantly concentrated within the initial 3 to 6 months; thereafter, these effects gradually attenuate and are frequently accompanied by exceptionally high attrition rates, suggesting that long-term engagement has become the core bottleneck limiting the efficacy of digital therapeutics (22).”
Addition of Phentermine‐Topiramate to a Digitally Enhanced Lifestyle Intervention: A Double‐Blind Randomized Clinical Trial
Campos, A., Ghusn, W., Cifuentes, L., Sacoto, D., Sima, F., Añazco, D., Ricardo-Silgado, M. L., Hashem, A., Schaefer, M., Harmsen, W., et al. (2026) · Obesity · doi:10.1002/oby.70108 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
“These findings are consistent with other studies comparing digital and traditional interventions [39, 40].”
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“[81,82] A recent qualitative survey in Singapore found that participants viewed virtual consults as convenient and safe but deemed the absence of physical examination, digital health illiteracy and additional expenses as challenges.”
Digital Health Interventions for Weight Management in Older Adults with Overweight or Obesity: A Scoping Review
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“Although previous reviews 12–15 have systematically synthesized the application and effectiveness of DHIs in weight management among adults with overweight or obesity, most of these evidence syntheses have focused on the general adult population.”
Rethinking Global Obesity Guidelines: Integrating Evidence, Equity and Precision (2014–2026)
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Domain-informed weight forecasting: leveraging behavioral and physiological sequences from wearables
Cheng, L., Wang, L., Wang, G., Lu, B., Wu, B., Xiao, Y., & Huang, Q. (2026) · Frontiers in Public Health · doi:10.3389/fpubh.2026.1810381
“…in parity plots; (ii) residuals are centered near zero with no prominent skewness, indicating limited systematic bias; and (iii) predicted trajectories are visually plausible and stable, consistent with the goal of stable short-horizon forecasting within a digital health monitoring framework (7).”
Real‐World Effectiveness and 12‐Month Persistence of a Semaglutide‐Supported Digital Weight‐Loss Service: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Germany
Talay, L., Hom, J., Tan, M., & Ahuja, N. (2026) · Diabetes, obesity and metabolism · doi:10.1111/dom.70916
The Digital Competences of Exercise Therapists in Obesity Care: A Step Towards Digital Sovereignty Assessed with the DigCompThExO Questionnaire
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ZENIA: Development of an AI‐driven nutrition app to support immune health: An EAACI task force report
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Patient Outcomes Under Varying Engagement Patterns on Real-World Lifestyle-Supported Pharmacological Weight-Loss Therapy
Talay, L., Petrel, G., Ahuja, N., & Tiroshi, A. (2026) · Obesities · doi:10.3390/obesities6010002
“Research has also found that patients are more comfortable discussing their overweight and obesity in digital settings [11,12].”
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INCRETIN-BASED THERAPIES FOR OBESITY MANAGEMENT: THE IMPACT OF PATIENT EDUCATION AND LIFESTYLE MODIFICATION ON LONG-TERM TREATMENT OUTCOMES
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Authors: Irvin, L., Madden, L. A., Marshall, P., & Vince, R. V.
Affiliations: University of Hull (GB)
Corresponding author: Vince, Rebecca V.
ORCID: Madden, Leigh A.
Marshall, Phil
Vince, Rebecca V.
Venue: Nutrients
Publisher: MDPI AG
Published: 2023-04-12
Volume: 15
Issue: 8
Pages: 1858
ISSN: 2072-6643 (ISSN-L)
DOI: 10.3390/nu15081858
PMC: PMC10145832
OpenAlex: W4365448803
Cited by: 34
References: 117
Citations by year: 2026: 13 · 2025: 10 · 2024: 11
FWCI: 1.72
Type: journal article
Language: en
Open access: gold
doi.org
Licence: cc-by
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ (vor)
Locations: Nutrients (publishedVersion, cc-by)
PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
PubMed (publishedVersion)
Repository@Hull (Worktribe) (University of Hull) (publishedVersion, other-oa)
Repository@Hull (Worktribe) (University of Hull) (submittedVersion, cc-by)
Funders: University of Hull-funded internship
Topics: Health Sciences › Health Professions › General Health Professions › Mobile Health and mHealth Applications
Social Sciences › Psychology › Applied Psychology › Digital Mental Health Interventions
Health Sciences › Medicine › Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health › Obesity, Physical Activity, Diet
Keywords: digital health interventions, weight loss, obesity, exercise programmes, mobile health apps, personalization, self-monitoring, program adherence, weight maintenance, professional support, COVID-19 pandemic
MeSH terms: COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, Humans, Obesity, Quality of Life, Weight Loss

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