Evaluation of Digital Interventions for Reducing Alcohol Consumption: A Meta-Analysis Study

Abstract Introduction As technology develops rapidly, social structures and individuals’ needs for health services also change. In line with this change, digitalization stands out as an important step in the delivery of health services. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of digital interventions designed to mitigate alcohol use relative to non-digital interventions. Methods This meta-analysis includes RCTs published between 2014 and 2023, systematic searches in Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science. Studies related to comorbid or additional diseases were excluded. No restrictions were placed on the type of digital intervention employed. Only studies that reported an intention-to-treat analysis were included. Outcome measures included changes in alcohol consumption, problematic drinking, and scores on the AUDIT. A total of 22 eligible studies were included and analyzed using STATA. The authors declare no competing interests. Results The analysis spans 12 countries, featuring one multicenter study. Internet-based interventions were the most frequently employed (54.5%). The weighted effect size for studies assessing overall alcohol consumption was 0.21 (95% CI: 0.13-0.29) favoring digital interventions. For problematic drinking, the effect size was 0.30 (95% CI: 0.11-0.49). The effect sizes were statistically significant yet slightly lower in young adults (0.13 and 0.11, respectively). Furthermore, the change in AUDIT scores revealed an effect size of 0.23 (95% CI: 0.16-0.30). Conclusions Although their effectiveness is modest, digital interventions represent a valuable asset in reducing alcohol consumption and serve as a complementary approach to traditional public health methods. With growing integration of technology in healthcare, digital strategies are expected to play an increasingly vital role in addiction prevention and treatment. Public health stakeholders should consider incorporating these interventions into alcohol reduction policies and programs. Key messages • Digital interventions offer a modest but significant reduction in alcohol consumption, making them a valuable complement to traditional methods in public health strategies for alcohol harm reduction. • As technology advances, integrating digital interventions into healthcare systems can enhance alcohol prevention and treatment efforts.