Advancing Type 2 Diabetes Prevention through Text-Messaging Interventions: A Narrative Review

Text-messaging interventions effectively prevent and manage numerous health conditions. This scoping review evaluates recent literature on text-messaging interventions focused on diabetes prevention, highlighting their development, associated outcomes, reach, and potential sustainability.

A total of 28 studies met eligibility criteria and were included in this review. Text-messaging was often used as a primary intervention method, focusing on promoting weight loss through physical activity and dietary changes. Studies also explored hybrid approaches integrating text-messaging with in-person sessions or other digital platforms. Intervention development involved multi-phase content creation, often leveraging established diabetes prevention curricula. Studies generally reported high feasibility and acceptability, although effectiveness was mixed. Cost-effectiveness comparisons favored text-messaging over traditional in-person programs. Implementation strategies aligned interventions with existing healthcare workflows, facilitating scalability and integration into routine care practices.

Text-messaging interventions demonstrate considerable promise but require further refinement to ensure their effectiveness, particularly in enhancing participant engagement to ensure effectiveness and sustainability. Future research should focus on refining intervention content, integrating interactive features, and expanding cost-effectiveness evaluations to support broader implementation in real-world settings.