Randomised Controlled Trial of a Customised Text Messaging and Activity Monitor Program for Lifestyle Improvement...

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Public Health
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) increases long-term diabetes risk for women.
• Lifestyle interventions are crucial for managing post-GDM health.
• The impact of digital health interventions during global health crises requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a text-messaging lifestyle support program's effectiveness in improving diabetes risk factors after GDM.
• To assess the influence of COVID-19 restrictions on intervention outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Randomized controlled trial involving 177 women post-GDM.
• Intervention group received weekly text messages and activity monitor feedback; control group received activity monitor only for 6 months.
• Primary outcome: composite of weight, physical activity, and dietary goals.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in the primary composite outcome between groups (12% intervention vs. 11% control).
• Intervention group showed increased daily step counts (p=0.03) between 3-6 months postpartum.
• Qualitative data indicated healthier choices were made but hampered by COVID-19 restrictions.

Conclusions:

• The text-messaging intervention did not significantly improve diabetes risk factors in women with GDM during COVID-19 lockdowns.
• While participants found the intervention motivational, external factors limited its overall efficacy.
• Further research is needed to optimize digital health interventions in challenging circumstances.