Using a calorie counter app for weight management (symbolic image): Digital tools have been shown to effectively help patients with high BMI, hypertension or diabetes lose weight.

News • Study on NHS programme

Digital help for weight loss proven effective

The success of a national weight management programme has been highlighted in a new study. The 12-week NHS Digital Weight Management Programme gives diet, exercise and lifestyle advice via a phone app or online, to patients referred by their GP with a high BMI plus hypertension, diabetes or both.

The study results have been published in the journal Obesity.

The 32,000 people who finished the programme in the first year saw an average weight loss of 2.2 kilos (5lbs); with those who attended more (at least 60%) of the programme losing an average of 3.9 kilos (8.5lbs).

Senior author of the study, Imperial College London’s Professor Jonathan Valabhji, also established the programme in his former role as NHS England’s National Clinical Director for Diabetes and Obesity. He said: “The key is that it was made more accessible to patients in their daily lives. It’s rewarding and encouraging to see the difference it is making.”

Source: Imperial College London

07.05.2024

News • mHealth and multiple sclerosis

Gamification to manage MS-related fatigue

A new study highlights the potential of a gamified mobile health app designed to help people with Multiple Sclerosis manage fatigue, one of the most common and debilitating symptoms of the disease.

News • Digital support

New app triples chance to quit smoking

Finnish researchers found that using a mobile application based on cognitive behavioral therapy can significantly boost success rates of people attempting to stop smoking.

News • Content quality on social media

Medical information on TikTok: Led astray by influencers?

TikTok has become a go-to platform for young people seeking answers – including health information. But how accurate are the medical ‘Toks’? A new study analyzed the quality of the content.