Effectiveness of Game-Based Self-Management Interventions for Individuals with Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Self-management is essential for individuals with diabetes. However, traditional self-management interventions may be hard to follow for other patients. Although games can stimulate extrinsic motivations, its application on self-management remains unclear. This review aims to evaluate the effects of game-based self-management interventions on health outcomes. We utilize PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Central, EMBASE, ProQuest Dissertation and Theses, PsycINFO, and Scopus from their inception until January 20, 2020. Meta-analyses are performed using Comprehensive Meta-analysis 3.0 software. The overall effect is measured using Hedges' and determined using -statistics at significance level of  < 0.05. Heterogeneity is assessed using and statistics. The risk of bias tool and the grades of recommendation, assessment, development, and evaluation system are used to assess individual and overall quality of evidence, respectively. A total of 2150 records are identified, and 13 randomized controlled trials are selected. Meta-analyses revealed that game-based self-management interventions significantly improved patients' change in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level ( = 0.18,  = 0.02), adherence to physical activities ( = 0.59,  < 0.001), balance ( = 0.94-1.14,  < 0.001), and fall efficacy ( = 1.01,  < 0.001). Significant results were only found for the three-trial meta-analysis for HbA1c changes, but not for the two other HbA1c meta-analyses that included more trials. Furthermore, negligible improvements were observed in glycated hemoglobin at postintervention and follow-up assessments, diabetes knowledge, and self-efficacy. Game-based self-management can consider a supplementary intervention. Overall evidence is ranging from very low to low. Future studies can consider a large sample size with high-quality design according to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement criteria.