Abstract
BackgroundTXT2BFiT was one of the first few innovative mHealth programs designed for young adults (18–35 years) with demonstrated efficacy in weight management. However, research is lacking to understand intervention effectiveness, especially in complex, multi-component mHealth programs. This paper investigates participant perceptions of and engagement with the mHealth program components in the TXT2BFiT to understand program effects.MethodsProcess evaluation data were collected continuously for the study duration. The TXT2BFiT program was a multi-component lifestyle program delivered intensively for 3-month followed by a 6-month maintenance phase. Program components included personalised coaching calls, text messages, emails, smartphone apps and website access. Process evaluation measures included frequency of use of components and frequency for number of components used (online survey data); dose delivered and engagement with program components (researcher logs and web platform reports); frequency, timing and difficulties experienced with program components (online survey data) and overall perceptions of program components (online survey data and semi-structured telephone interviews). Qualitative data analysis was performed using NVivo10.ResultsOver 80 % of participants completed post-intervention (3-months, intervention, n = 110, control n = 104) and follow-up surveys (9-months, intervention, n = 96, control n = 104). Thirty intervention participants completed semi-structured telephone interviews. Participants reported high use of coaching calls, text messages and emails and no issues in content delivery from these components. These components were described as helping them to achieve their goals. Website and app use and engagement was low for the duration of the program. Participants would prefer incorporation of the self-monitoring apps and website resources into one smartphone application that can be individualised by entry of their personal data.ConclusionsOur process evaluation has allowed a comprehensive understanding of use and preference for different program components. The high value placed on the coaching calls is consistent with a desire for personalisation of the mHealth program and even further tailoring of text messages and emails. The findings of this study will be used to revise TXT2BFiT for future users.Trial registrationThe trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12612000924853).
Highlights
TXT2BFiT was one of the first few innovative mHealth programs designed for young adults (18–35 years) with demonstrated efficacy in weight management
Young adults aged 18–35 years are highly susceptible to weight gain [1,2,3], with the highest incidence of overweight and obesity compared to other age groups [4]
Not surprisingly we discovered the desire for personalised intervention, evident by the high value placed on the behavioural coaching calls with a dietitian and text messages and summarising emails tailored to their personal nutrition and physical activity goals
Summary
TXT2BFiT was one of the first few innovative mHealth programs designed for young adults (18–35 years) with demonstrated efficacy in weight management. Young adults aged 18–35 years are highly susceptible to weight gain [1,2,3], with the highest incidence of overweight and obesity compared to other age groups [4]. This is believed to be driven by their interactions with the obesogenic environment leading to unhealthy lifestyle behaviours such as poor dietary behaviours [5, 6] and sedentary lifestyles [7, 8], often associated with influence of digital technology [9]. Smartphone intervention delivery, or mobile-health (mHealth) [13], could potentially provide a cost-effective intervention channel that allows real-time delivery of health information and serves as an effective tool for behaviour change to a wide ranging population [14]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
