Personalised eHealth interventions in adults with overweight and obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Given that many existing electronic health (eHealth) interventions with a general approach have limited effects, a personalised approach is necessary. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of personalised eHealth interventions in reducing body weight and identify the effective key features of such interventions. We searched seven databases for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) from inception until September 6, 2018. Of the 26,733 records identified, 15 RCTs were included. Meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction (−2.77 kg, 95% confidence interval − 3.54 to −2.00 kg) in the personalised eHealth intervention group compared with that in the control group (Z = −7.04, p < .001). The duration of the interventions ranged from 14 weeks and three trials had follow-up assessments at 6 and 12 months. Our subgroup analyses highlighted several crucial design elements of future personalised eHealth interventions by utilising a combination of tailored content and customised feedback with human feedback, usage of theoretical basis, short message service, device, reminder, self-monitoring, goal setting and synchronous communication for 12 to 14 weeks. Egger's regression asymmetry test suggested no evidence of publication bias (p = .458). Using meta-regression we found evidence that a statistically significant impact of age and year of publication on the effectiveness of intervention. The overall evidence grade of outcomes ranged from very low to low, hence future trials should use well-designed RCTs.