M14. The Effectiveness of Telemedicine Approach for Treating Patients with Hypertension: a meta-analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background Hypertension has become one of the major global burdens with high morbidity even in developed countries. Telemedicine intervention may be able to monitor and provide better blood pressure management in patients with hypertension. Aims This study evaluated the effects of telemedicine intervention on blood pressure management in patients with hypertension. Methods We conducted a literature search in PubMed and Cochrane Library, published up to 22 July 2021. All RCT that evaluated telemedicine intervention were included. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to assess the quality of the studies. The primary outcomes were systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) changes. Results Sixteen RCTs were included in this analysis. Our pooled analysis showed that telemedicine was associated with reduction in SBP and DBP compared to usual care ([MD -4.21; 95% CI -5.56 to -2.85; p < 0.001] and [MD -2.13; 95% CI -2.69 to -1.56; p < 0,001], respectively). A subgroup analysis showed that telemedicine intervention with a period of more than six months was associated with a better reduction in SBP (MD -5.29; 95% CI -7.34 to -3.25; p < 0.001). Conclusion Telemedicine intervention may improve the effectiveness of blood pressure in patients with hypertension.