The effectiveness of self-guided web-based physical activity interventions among patients with a chronic disease: a systematic review

J Phys Act Health. 2014 Mar;11(3):665-77. doi: 10.1123/jpah.2012-0152. Epub 2013 Mar 14.

Abstract

Background: Despite well-documented health benefits, adults with a physical chronic condition do not meet the recommended physical activity (PA) guidelines. Therefore, secondary prevention programs focusing on PA are needed. Web-based interventions have shown promise in the promotion of PA behavior change. We conducted a systematic review to summarize the evidence about the effectiveness of web-based PA interventions in adults with chronic disease.

Methods: Articles were included if they evaluated a web-based PA intervention and used a randomized design. Moreover, studies were eligible for inclusion if they used a non- or minimal-treatment control group and if PA outcomes measures were applied. Seven articles were included.

Results: Three high-quality studies were statistically significant to the control group, whereas 2 high- and 2 low-quality studies reported nonsignificant findings.

Conclusion: Our best evidence synthesis revealed that there is conflicting evidence on the effectiveness of web-based PA interventions in patients with a chronic disease.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chronic Disease / therapy
  • Exercise Therapy
  • Female
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Humans
  • Internet*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motor Activity*
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Self Care*