Adherence
Web-based interventions targeting cardiovascular risk factors in middle-aged and older adults produce modest, statistically significant improvements in intermediate biomarkers (blood pressure, HbA1c, LDL, weight, physical activity), but these effects are smaller than those of traditional care and do not translate to a reduction in incident cardiovascular disease events.
If you are over 50 and have cardiovascular risk factors, using a web-based health program can help you lower your blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight, and get more active. However, the benefits are modest and tend to fade after a year unless you combine the online tool with regular support from a nurse or doctor. It is not a substitute for clinical care in preventing heart attacks or strokes, but it is a useful tool for managing risk factors.
A significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (mean difference –2.66 mmHg...), diastolic blood pressure... HbA1c level... LDL cholesterol level... weight... and an increase of physical activity... in the Web-based intervention group was found... No difference in incident cardiovascular disease was found between groups (6 studies).
Why this rating
Based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of 57 RCTs involving nearly 20,000 participants, providing high-level evidence for intermediate outcomes.
Source
Web-Based Interventions Targeting Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Middle-Aged and Older People: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Cathrien Beishuizen et al. · Journal of Medical Internet Research · 2016
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