Evaluating the Effectiveness of Mobile Health Applications in Weight Loss and Metabolic Health: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Obesity and metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension are major contributors to global health burdens. Mobile health applications (mHealth apps) offer a potential solution for managing weight and improving metabolic health through personalized tracking, behavioral modifications, and health education. This study evaluates the effectiveness of mHealth apps in promoting weight loss and improving metabolic health outcomes.
Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 300 participants (aged 18–65 years) who were overweight or obese and had at least one metabolic disorder. Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (mHealth app use) or the control group (standard care). The primary outcomes measured were weight loss (kg), body mass index (BMI), and changes in metabolic health parameters (HbA1c, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels) after 12 weeks of intervention.
Results: The intervention group showed a significant reduction in weight (5.2 kg vs. 2.1 kg in the control group, p < 0.01), BMI (from 31.5 to 29.8 vs. 31.4 to 31.1 in the control group, p < 0.01), and improvements in metabolic health, including a decrease in HbA1c (from 7.6% to 7.1%, p < 0.05) and blood pressure (systolic BP: 133.4 mmHg to 129.8 mmHg, p < 0.05).
Conclusion: mHealth apps significantly improve weight loss and metabolic health outcomes in overweight and obese individuals with metabolic disorders. These findings suggest that mHealth interventions can be an effective and accessible tool for managing weight and improving metabolic health.