Effects of a smartphone app-based diet and physical activity program for men living with HIV who have dyslipidemia: A pilot randomized controlled trial

Aims

People living with HIV are at a high risk for cardiovascular disease owing to antiretroviral therapy use and chronic inflammation. There is limited evidence on the evaluation of serum lipid levels through lifestyle modification. This study aims to evaluate the effect of a smartphone application-based diet and exercise improvement program on men living with HIV and dyslipidemia.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled trial recruiting Japanese men living with HIV who have dyslipidemia: intervention group (n = 19) and control group (n = 19). The intervention group received a third individual guidance session during the 6-month intervention and was encouraged to record their diet on a smartphone application. An intention-to-treat analysis of the results was conducted.

Results

The intervention group showed significantly reduced change in low-density lipoprotein levels compared to the control group (−4.00 ± 20.2 mg/dL vs. 10.11 ± 21.1 mg/dL) (p = .042) from baseline to 6 months post-intervention. No significant differences were found in other serum lipid levels. Abdominal circumference decreased significantly in the intervention group (p = .048) from baseline to 6 months post-intervention. Total energy, protein, carbohydrate, fat, and salt intake, dietary and physical activity behavior change stages and social support, dietary self-efficacy, and loneliness significantly improved in the intervention group (p < .05) from baseline to 6 months post-intervention.

Conclusions

A diet and physical activity improvement program using a smartphone application based on Japanese-specific health guidance may reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in this population. Further sample expansion and examination of long-term effects are needed.