Electronic communication based interventions for hazardous young drinkers: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Previous reviews focused on computer or internet-based interventions for hazardous young drinkers.
• No systematic review specifically addressed electronic communication-based interventions for this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the effectiveness of electronic communication-based interventions for hazardous young drinkers.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of 3298 citations, including 11 studies meeting inclusion criteria.
• Interventions delivered via Web, text messaging, mobile apps, and social networking sites.
• Effectiveness assessed using behavioral outcomes related to alcohol consumption.

Main Results:

• Personalized electronic feedback significantly reduced alcohol consumption, binge drinking frequency, and non-risky drinking behaviors.
• Intervention length did not impact overall effectiveness.
• Text messaging and Social Network Sites (SNS) enhanced intervention accessibility, engagement, appeal, and acceptability.

Conclusions:

• Electronic communication interventions are effective for reducing hazardous drinking in young adults.
• Personalized feedback is a key component for successful interventions.
• Text messaging and SNS offer promising avenues for engaging young adults in alcohol reduction programs.