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Technology and Weight Loss: A Systematic Revew
Author(s) -
Batheja Sapna
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.30.1_supplement.lb330
Subject(s) - weight loss , randomized controlled trial , intervention (counseling) , medicine , telehealth , cohort , telemedicine , multimedia , physical therapy , computer science , health care , nursing , obesity , surgery , economics , economic growth
Objective To evaluate the effects of technology on a weight‐loss program. Design Systematic review of randomized and non‐randomized controlled trials and cohort studies. Data sources PubMed Study selection 20 studies: fourteen randomized controlled trials, one retrospective cohort, one experimental control trial, one cohort study, and one semi‐randomized control trial. Two studies looked at video technology, one through video conferencing, and one through video telehealth, and one through home‐based DVDs. Five of the studies included a text messaging component as part of the intervention. Three studies used a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) as the technological intervention. Three studies used a website as part of the intervention. Two studies used social media outlets, such as Twitter or Facebook. One study used a virtual reality program for weight loss. Two studies used unique smart phone applications. One study utilized Integrated Voice Recognition software in conjunction with a weight loss program. Two studies used podcasts centered on weight loss strategies. Three studies used two types of technology components in the weight loss intervention. Main outcome measures weight loss, dietary behaviors, physical activity and quality of life Results Inclusion of a technology component to complement a traditional classroom weight loss program increased weight loss and physical activity and improved dietary behaviors. Conclusion Technology as a supplement to a face‐to‐face weight loss program is an effective and innovative strategy for maintenance of weight loss.