A Personalized Mobile Health Program for Type 2 Diabetes During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Single-Group Pre-Post Study

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Endocrinology
• Diabetes Management

Background:

• Rising type 2 diabetes prevalence necessitates effective management strategies.
• Mobile health (mHealth) interventions show promise for improving diabetes outcomes.
• Advancements in wearable sensors enhance mHealth accessibility and personalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of a personalized mHealth-anchored intervention for type 2 diabetes.
• To assess the program's impact on glycemic control and patient care experience.
• To study mHealth utility for chronic disease management during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Methods:

• A 3-month intervention program was provided to patients with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.
• The program included dietitian/doctor consultations, continuous glucose monitoring, and an mHealth app for tracking and communication.
• Glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), weight, and height were measured at baseline and program completion.

Main Results:

• 21 patients completed the study, reporting high satisfaction (mean 9.0/10) and program benefit.
• Mean HbA1c decreased from 7.6% to 7.0% (P=.004).
• Mean body weight decreased by 3.5% (P<.001) and BMI by 1.1 kg/m² (P<.001).

Conclusions:

• The personalized mHealth program was feasible and acceptable for type 2 diabetes management.
• The intervention led to significant reductions in HbA1c and body weight.
• mHealth programs can effectively manage chronic diseases amidst healthcare access challenges, such as those during COVID-19.