Mobile Health Interventions for Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes and Overweight or Obesity-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and overweight or obesity are strongly associated, with a high prevalence of these concomitant conditions contributing significantly to global healthcare costs. Given this burden, there is an urgent need for effective interventions. Mobile health (mHealth) technologies represent a promising strategy to address both conditions simultaneously. Objectives: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of mHealth-based interventions for the management of adults with T2D and overweight/obesity. Specifically, it assessed the quantitative impact of these interventions on glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases from inception to 9 July 2025. The inclusion criteria focused on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using mHealth interventions in adults with T2D and overweight/obesity, reporting HbA1c or weight as primary or secondary outcomes. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2. A total of 13 RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Results: Meta-analysis indicated significant improvements after 6-12 months of intervention in HbA1c (MD -0.23; 95% CI -0.36 to -0.10; p < 0.001; I² = 72%), body weight (MD -2.47 kg; 95% CI -3.69 to -1.24; p < 0.001; I² = 79%), total cholesterol (MD -0.23; 95% CI -0.39 to -0.07; p = 0.004; I² = 0%), and LDL (MD -0.27; 95% CI -0.42 to -0.12; p < 0.001; I² = 0%). Conclusions: mHealth interventions are effective and scalable for managing T2D and obesity, particularly when incorporating wearable technologies to improve adherence. Future research should focus on optimizing personalization, engagement strategies, and long-term implementation.