Mixed Views on Computer/Smart Phone-based Management for Diabetes

A study focused on social networking and support groups showed the effects of these programs on blood sugar levels are short-term….

Researchers observed over 3000 participants with type 2 diabetes over 16 trials. The participants used either a computer or cell phone for one to twelve months to access a diabetes intervention program. The positive effect on the patients’ blood sugar management was short-lived and started to deteriorate after 6 months. The researchers stated that these devices have a positive impact on education and awareness of diabetes, however they do not affect changes in lifestyle such as diet and exercise.

On the other side of the spectrum, researchers from the University of Maryland found that patients who used an interactive computer software program experienced a 1.9% decrease in A1c levels over one year. These researchers believe that computer and cell phone intervention does positively affect patients in managing their type 2 diabetes.

"Computer-based diabetes self-management interventions for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus" Kingshuk Pal, Sophie V Eastwood, Susan Michie, Andrew J Farmer, Maria L Barnard, Richard Peacock, Bindie Wood, Joni D Inniss, Elizabeth MurrayThe Cochrane Library, March 2013, DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD008776.pub2