Digital Behavior Change Interventions to Reduce Sedentary Behavior and Promote Physical Activity in Adults with Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background Technological advancements and ease of Internet access have increased the number of digital behavior change interventions (DBCIs). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the effectiveness of DBCIs in reducing sedentary behavior (SB) and promoting physical activity (PA) in adults with diabetes. Methods A comprehensive search of seven databases—PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Sedentary Behavior Research Database—was performed. Two reviewers independently carried out the study selection, data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and quality of evidence evaluation. Meta-analyses were performed where feasible; otherwise, narrative summaries were performed. Results A total of 13 randomized controlled trials with 980 participants met the inclusion criteria. Overall, DBCIs could significantly increase steps and the number of breaks in sedentary time. The subgroup analyses exhibited significant effects in DBCIs with over 10 behavior change techniques (BCTs) in improving steps, the time spent in light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). The subgroup analyses showed a significant step increment in DBCIs of moderate and long durations, with over 4 BCT clusters, or in conjunction with a face-to-face component. The subgroup analyses also indicated significant effects in studies with ≥ 2 DBCI components in improving steps, the time spent in LPA and MVPA, and reducing sedentary time. Conclusion There is some evidence that DBCI may increase PA and reduce SB in adults with type 2 diabetes. However, more high-quality studies are required. Future studies are needed to examine the potential of DBCIs in adults with type 1 diabetes.