Digital components and interaction types in counseling interventions for childhood and adolescent obesity: A systematic review.

The review could not combine studies in a meta-analysis because follow-up length and outcome measures differed. Study quality varied; total scores ranged from 7 to 11 out of 13, and two studies scored 3, indicating high risk of bias. Studies were not excluded for quality, so weak studies are included in the findings. Many studies did not blind participants to assessment, did not treat or report groups identically, did not measure outcomes consistently, or had inadequate design. Follow-up varied widely, from two weeks to 24 months, and one study lacked intervention and follow-up details. The interventions were multicomponent, so it is not possible to tell whether web platforms, apps, wearables, prompts, social support, staff contact, or face-to-face counseling produced any effect on its own. Nurses were involved in only two included studies, so the review gives little direct evidence about nurse-delivered digital counseling. The review did not address healthcare professionals' digital competence, and few studies compared costs or evaluated economic implications. The authors reported that differences between intervention and control groups were modest.

The authors declared no conflicts of interest and no financial or personal relationships that could inappropriately influence the work. They also reported using generative AI to improve the English language, with author review and academic proofreading.

Do not read this review as proof that any one digital tool, such as an app or wearable, causes weight loss. The studies mixed web platforms, prompts, wearables, social support, staff contact, and sometimes face-to-face counseling, and results were inconsistent.