Assessing the Impact of Digital Programmes and Applications on Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: An Updated Meta-analysis

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex condition associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. Digital programmes and applications (apps) have emerged as the potential tools for managing MetS through lifestyle modifications and health behaviour interventions. This meta-analysis aims to assess the impact of digital programmes and applications on patients with MetS, focusing on key outcomes related to metabolic parameters, cardiovascular risk factors and patient engagement. Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases was conducted to identify the relevant studies published between 2012 and 2024. Studies evaluating the effectiveness of digital programmes and applications in patients with MetS were included. Quality assessment was done using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised controlled trials, the JBI tool for one quasi-experimental study and the NIH tool for observational studies. Results: A total of 15 studies were included in this study, comprising 1879 participants with MetS. The pooled analysis demonstrated significant improvements in body mass index (mean difference [MD] −0.56 kg/m 2 , 95% confidence interval [CI] [−0.88, −0.25], P = 0.0004), systolic blood pressure (MD − 3.07 mmHg, 95% CI [−5.21, −0.94], P = 0.005), diastolic blood pressure (MD −1.37 mmHg, 95% CI [−4.88, 2.15], P = 0.45), lipid profile (e.g., total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and fasting blood glucose levels (MD − 2.09 mg/dL, 95% CI [−4.77, 0.60], P = 0.13). Conclusion: Digital programmes and applications demonstrate significant beneficial effects on metabolic parameters, cardiovascular risk factors, medication adherence and patient engagement in individuals with MetS. These findings support the integration of digital health interventions as the adjunctive tools in the management of MetS and underscore the potential for personalised and technology-driven approaches to improve patient outcomes and promote healthy lifestyles.