Assessing the Effectiveness of mHealth Interventions for Diabetes and Hypertension Management in Africa: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Abstract BackgroundMobile health (mHealth) interventions are effective in improving chronic disease management, mainly in high-income countries. However, less is known about the efficacy of mHealth interventions for the reduction of cardiovascular risk factors, including for hypertension and diabetes, which are rapidly increasing in low- and middle-income countries. ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the efficacy of mHealth interventions for diabetes and hypertension management in Africa. MethodsWe searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, African Journals Online, and Web of Science for relevant studies published from inception to July 2022. The main outcomes of interest were changes in hemoglobin A1c1cI2ZP1c ResultsThis review included 7 studies (randomized controlled trials) with a total of 2249 participants. Two studies assessed the effect of mHealth on glycemic control, and 5 studies assessed the effect of mHealth on blood pressure control. The use of mHealth interventions was not associated with significant reductions in HbA1cPPPP1c ConclusionsOur review provided no conclusive evidence for the effectiveness of mHealth interventions in reducing blood pressure and glycemic control in Africa among persons with diabetes and hypertension. To confirm these findings, larger randomized controlled trials are required.