JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Recent studies have produced conflicting conclusions regarding the effectiveness of digital health interventions in promoting changes in physical activity behavior. Furthermore, there is a relative paucity of research focused on digital health interventions targeting the college student population.

Objective:

The primary aim of this study is to examine the impact of digital health interventions on changes in physical activity behavior among college students, utilizing objective measures as outcome indicators.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was conducted in the MEDLINE ( PubMed ) and Web of Science databases to identify relevant intervention studies published up until June 6, 2023.

Results:

A total of eight studies were included in the analysis, involving 569 participants. The primary outcomes of interest encompassed light-intensity physical activity (LPA), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), sedentary time (ST), and step count. Among the included studies, three reported on LPA, five reported on MVPA, five reported on ST, and three reported on step count. The results of the meta-analysis demonstrated a significant increase in step count within the intervention group, while no significant differences were observed between the intervention and control groups in terms of LPA, MVPA, and ST (Steps: standardized mean difference 0.64; 95%CI: 0.37 to 0.92; P<0.00001; LPA: standardized mean difference -0.08; 95%CI: -0.32 to 0.16; P=0.51; MVPA: standardized mean difference 0.02; 95%CI: -0.19 to 0.22; P=0.88; ST: standardized mean difference 0.03; 95%CI: -0.18 to 0.24; P=0.78).

Conclusions:

Digital health interventions demonstrate efficacy in increasing step count among college students. However, the impact on light-intensity physical activity, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and sedentary behavior among college students may be limited.