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A Need for Strategies to Reduce Alcohol Use After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Technology-Based Intervention and
Lisa R Miller-Matero1,2,3, Celeste Pappas2, Brittany Christopher2
1Behavioral Health, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, United States.
JMIR Research Protocols
|January 7, 2026
Summary
A new technology-based intervention, including text messages, aims to prevent alcohol use disorder after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). This pilot study will assess its feasibility and effectiveness in reducing alcohol consumption post-surgery.
Area of Science:
- Bariatric Surgery Outcomes
- Behavioral Health Interventions
- Digital Health Technologies
Background:
- Individuals undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) face an elevated risk of developing alcohol use disorder post-operation.
- Preventive strategies are crucial to mitigate this risk, with technology-based interventions showing promise in other populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel technology-based intervention designed to reduce alcohol consumption following MBS.
- To report the study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial evaluating this intervention.
Main Methods:
- The intervention involves two computerized brief sessions and three months of personalized SMS text messages that adapt to user readiness for change.
- A pilot randomized controlled trial will assess participants at baseline, 1 month, post-intervention, and 6-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- The study is funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, with 60 participants enrolled.
- Anticipated results suggest the intervention will be feasible and acceptable, hypothesizing lower alcohol use in the intervention group.
- Further exploration of hazardous alcohol use, attitudes toward drinking, and behavioral changes is planned.
Conclusions:
- A technology-based intervention presents a feasible and acceptable strategy for delivering preventive care to post-MBS patients.
- The long-term objective is to create a scalable and sustainable intervention to reduce hazardous alcohol use and alcohol use disorder after MBS.

