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Effectiveness of digital technologies for remote monitoring of behavioral risk factors in students

https://doi.org/10.15829/1728-8800-2025-4368

EDN: CIMILX

Abstract

Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of digital technologies for remote monitoring of modifying behavioral risk factors for excess body weight among students without chronic diseases.

Material and methods. The study included 38 Pskov State University medical students without chronic diseases with a body mass index >25 kg/m2 who underwent a preventive examination. Behavioral risk factors (unhealthy diet, insufficient exercise) were modified using the Doctor PM mobile application without the involvement of medical professionals. Questionnaires (active links in the mobile app) were used to assess the attitude and opinion of users towards the remote monitoring technology. The follow-up period was 6 months.

Results. Dietary habits were corrected in 77,7% of participants, including a decrease in the consumption of fats, simple carbohydrates, and salt, as well as an increase in the frequency of consumption of vegetables and fruits. Increased physical activity was noted by 71,4% of students. Bo­dy weight decreased in 65,8% of participants, of which 31,6% achieved target indicators. The majority (86,8%) rated positively the conveni­ence and utility of personalized recommendations in the Doctor PM application.

Conclusion. The first experience of practical application of digital pre­ventive mobile technology for remote monitoring of eating habits and physical activity, as well as support for reducing excess body weight is presented using a cohort of students without chronic diseases as an example. It is important to note that the modification of behavioral risk factors occurred without medical support. Further monitoring and indepth analysis of the results are required for scaling this technology.

About the Authors

A. M. Kalinina
National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
Russian Federation

Moscow



M. S. Kulikova
National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
Russian Federation

Moscow



V. V. Demko
National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
Russian Federation

Moscow



A. V. Moment
Pskov State University
Russian Federation

Pskov



R. N. Shepel
National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
Russian Federation

Moscow



O. M. Drapkina
National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
Russian Federation

Moscow



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Supplementary files

What is already known about the subject?

  • Overweight and obesity are key modifiable risk factors (RFs) for noncommunicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes.
  • The effectiveness of preventing noncommunicable diseases directly depends on reducing overweight and modifying behavioral RF, including nutrition and physical activity.
  • Despite the proven effectiveness of behavioral interventions, the results often remain insufficient due to low patient compliance and limited monitoring by health workers.

What might this study add?

  • This study represents the first experience of assessing changes in behavioral RFs during remote monitoring without the participation of a health professional providing in-depth preventive counseling.
  • The data obtained can contribute to the further development and adaptation of digital preventive solutions for self-monitoring of bodyweight and modification of behavioral RFs.

Review

For citations:


Kalinina A.M., Kulikova M.S., Demko V.V., Moment A.V., Shepel R.N., Drapkina O.M. Effectiveness of digital technologies for remote monitoring of behavioral risk factors in students. Cardiovascular Therapy and Prevention. 2025;24(4):4368. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.15829/1728-8800-2025-4368. EDN: CIMILX

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ISSN 1728-8800 (Print)
ISSN 2619-0125 (Online)