The effectiveness of peer support on self-efficacy and quality of life in adults with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

Peer support has been suggested as a promising approach for diabetes management. No conclusive evidence exists on the effects of peer support on self-efficacy and quality of life in adults with type 2 diabetes.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effectiveness of peer support on self-efficacy and the quality of life in adults with type 2 diabetes.

DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies.

DATA SOURCES

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Allied Health Literature database guide for relevant literatures from inception to 30 September 2017.

REVIEW METHODS

The review was conducted according to the guidelines of Cochrane Collaboration. The outcomes were self-efficacy and quality of life. The standardized mean difference and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for pooled results.

RESULTS

A total of 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled results revealed that peer support did not significantly improve self-efficacy and quality of life in adults with type 2 diabetes, but significantly improved self-efficacy and quality of life in studies with intervention duration ≤6 months. There was no evidence of publication bias.

CONCLUSION

Peer support intervention did not lead to better effects on the improvement in self-efficacy and quality of life among adults with type 2 diabetes. However, peer support with intervention duration not more than 6 months had positive effects on self-efficacy and quality of life. More high-quality studies with large sample size are needed to support or counter the results.