Can Mobile Health Applications, Social Media, and Telemedicine Assist with Obesity Treatment?

Purpose of review: The current review aims to summarize the rapidly evolving literature on selected technology-based interventions for obesity in adults. Research on mobile health applications, social media-based interventions, and telemedicine are discussed. Recommendations for the application of the most promising technologies and combination treatments will be reviewed.

Recent findings: Connection with healthcare professionals to facilitate self-management skills and behavioral adherence is likely to be most effective. Mobile health applications are effective for engagement with self-monitoring behaviors and may result in limited weight loss in the short term. Social media-based interventions similarly show promise, although combating misinformation remains critical. Telemedicine videoconferencing is likely to be highly effective for patients who desire this modality of treatment delivery. Evidence-based behavioral weight management interventions that may be scaled via telehealth show promise. Shifting focus from the magnitude of weight loss to the impact of technology-based interventions on gains in health and mobility may serve patients well in the long-term.