JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Transdermal alcohol sensors (TAS) have the potential to be used to monitor alcohol consumption objectively and continuously. These devices can provide real-time feedback to the user, researcher or health professional and measure alcohol consumption and peaks of use, addressing some of the limits of self-reported data.

Objective:

This systematic review aims to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of the currently available devices.

Methods:

A systematic search was conducted of the CINAHL, EMBASE, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed and Scopus bibliographic databases in February 2021. Two members of the study team independently screened studies for inclusion, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. The study’s methodological quality was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. The primary outcome was TAS acceptability. The second outcome was feasibility. The data is presented as a narrative synthesis.

Results:

We identified and analysed 22 studies. Study designs included: laboratory and ambulatory-based studies, mixed designs, randomised controlled trials and focus groups and the length the device was worn ranged from days to weeks. While views on TAS were generally positive with high compliance, some factors were indicated as potential barriers and suggestions to overcome these.

Conclusions:

There is a lack of research investigating the acceptability and feasibility of TAS devices as a tool to monitor alcohol consumption in clinical and non-clinical populations. While preliminary evidence suggests their potential in short-term, laboratory-based studies with volunteers, more research is needed to establish long-term, daily use with other populations, specifically clinical and within the criminal justice system.