Improving the effectiveness of care programs for overweight patients is extremely important due to the prevalence of this condition. The use of mobile patient support technologies at the group level can help in weight loss by modifying the lifestyle of patients.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of weight loss among users of the Telegram channel in a group program to reduce overweight.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included patients of the health center aged 18-65 years with a body mass index of 25.0-34.9 kg/m², who signed an informed voluntary consent. At the first visit, all study participants received a personalized preventive consultation and access to a personal account. Patients were required to report data on body weight, the number of steps taken 3 times a week and fill out a food diary. By randomization, 2 intervention groups were formed: the eHealth group (20 people) and the Telegram group (18 people). Members of the eHealth group received access to the personal account and information resources of the specialized portal Doctor PM, as well as weekly support from the consultant, who sent the member comments on the results of the past week through the personal account. Members of the Telegram group independently monitored the dynamics of body weight parameters and the number of steps taken. In addition, participants received access to a specially created channel and chat in Telegram.

RESULTS

A slight decrease in body weight and waist circumference was noted in patients of both groups. The proportion of eHealth group members whose body weight decreased by 5% or more was 33.3%, and that of Telegram group members was 7.7%. These results are associated with insufficient change in eating habits.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained indicate a weak effect of the influence on the parameters of weight loss of the preventive intervention associated with group support.