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Effect of Web-based lifestyle modification on weight control: a meta-analysis
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Tsukuba Institute of Clinical Medicine, Mito, Ibaraki, Japan.
International Journal of Obesity (2005)
|June 23, 2011
Summary
Web-based interventions offer a modest weight loss effect in obesity treatment. Effectiveness varies based on how the internet is used and for how long, with adjunct use being more beneficial than substitution.
Area of Science:
- Obesity treatment
- Digital health interventions
- Weight management
Background:
- Web-based programs are cost-effective for widespread reach in primary care.
- Obesity treatment programs increasingly incorporate digital components.
- Understanding the efficacy of internet-based interventions is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the weight loss or maintenance effects of internet components in obesity treatment.
- To evaluate the impact of web-based individualized advice on lifestyle modification for weight loss.
Main Methods:
- Conducted systematic literature searches of MEDLINE and EMBASE.
- Included randomized controlled trials comparing web-user experimental and non-web user control groups.
- Pooled weight changes using a random-effects model.
Main Results:
- 23 studies with 8697 participants were analyzed.
- Internet use showed a modest additional weight loss (-0.68 kg, P=0.03) compared to controls.
- Adjunct internet use was effective (-1.00 kg, P<0.001), while substitution was unfavorable (+1.27 kg, P=0.01).
- Effectiveness diminished with longer educational periods (≥12 months).
Conclusions:
- Internet components in obesity treatment yield modest weight control effects.
- Efficacy is inconsistent, depending on usage type (adjunct vs. substitute) and duration.
- Web-based interventions are most effective as adjuncts to traditional care for initial weight loss.
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