Web-Based TangPlan and WeChat Combination to Support Self-management for Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Endocrinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) poses a significant global health challenge, particularly in China.
• Poor blood glucose control in T2DM patients is often linked to insufficient self-management knowledge and low adoption rates of existing digital tools.
• Existing diabetes management applications often suffer from low usage and operational complexity, limiting their effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a novel web-based T2DM management software, TangPlan, integrated with WeChat.
• To assess the impact of this combined intervention on key metabolic markers over a 6-month period.
• To determine if TangPlan and WeChat improve glycemic control, body weight, blood pressure, and lipid profiles in T2DM patients.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving patients with T2DM.
• Intervention group received guidance via TangPlan and WeChat, focusing on self-monitoring, diet, exercise, medication adherence, and education.
• Control group received standard care; intervention group recorded and shared self-management data for timely feedback.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements observed in the TangPlan and WeChat group compared to the control group.
• Key improvements included lower fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and serum LDL and total cholesterol.
• Serum HDL cholesterol levels were notably higher in the intervention group.

Conclusions:

• The combination of TangPlan and WeChat is an effective strategy for managing T2DM.
• This digital health intervention significantly enhances glycemic control and improves lipid profiles.
• The approach offers a promising method for improving self-management and health outcomes in T2DM patients.