How effective is the mobile-based intervention for the self-management of type 2 diabetes mellitus?

Abstract

Abstract Aim: This structured literature review investigates the effectiveness of mobile-based interventions in self-management among adults’ type 2 diabetes mellitus. Background: Diabetes is a chronic illness caused by insensitivity to insulin made by the body or by inadequate production of insulin by the pancreas (Hamilton et al., 2007; Shaw and Cummings, 2012). In accordance with the World Health Organization (2018), this produces a high blood sugar known as hyperglycaemia. Various recommendations have been made regarding effective interventions, besides the control and management of diabetes mellitus. These recommendations involve moderate blood glucose control and support for lifestyle modification by means of mobile-based interventions (WHO, 2018). Mobile health has been increasingly used worldwide to improve the management of chronic diseases. However, the effectiveness of mobile health in glycaemic control remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to conduct a structured literature review (SLR) using available literature that indicates the effect of mobile health interventions on diabetes management. Methods: A structured literature review of randomised controlled trials was conducted to determine the best quality evidence. An extensive search was carried out on multiple databases in order to collect the available evidence on the topic. A PRISMA diagram was employed as regards reporting. Data extraction from the studies included in this review employed a data extraction form tool specifically created from the Cochrane collaboration. Result: Five studies involving a total of 606 study participants were included for quantitative synthesis and a narrative synthesis of the results was conducted. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool (CCRBT). The five included studies were of high methodological quality. Evidence from the included studies suggests that lifestyle interventions have been effective in improving blood sugar levels and improving patient self-efficacy in patients. Conclusion: This structured literature review strongly suggests mobile-based interventions are effective in controlling and managing diabetes mellitus.