Can Dementia Risk be lowered by Mobile Health Coaching

Recent findings published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity highlight the potential of a coach-supported mobile health (mHealth) intervention to reduce dementia risk factors in underserved populations. In the multinational PRODEMOS trial, researchers investigated whether this innovative approach could impact dementia risk scores by addressing modifiable factors such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and smoking.

The trial, conducted in the UK and China, included 1,488 participants aged 55-75 with at least two risk factors of this neurological condition. Participants were randomized into an intervention group, receiving self-management tools and remote coaching via a mobile app, and a control group, receiving generic health information.

Over a 12-18 month period, results revealed a modest yet statistically significant improvement in the CAIDE (Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging, and Dementia Study) dementia risk score in the intervention group compared to the control group (-0.16 points, p=0.02). Although there were no significant changes in systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, or BMI, the intervention group showed reductions in physical inactivity, smoking, and uncontrolled risk factors. High adherence was observed, with 79% of interventions fully executed as per protocol.

The intervention’s appropriateness and acceptability were positively rated at 85% and 81%, respectively. Despite the logistical challenges, the intervention was cost-effective and feasible to implement. However, the study noted limitations such as low response rates, potential technological inequalities, and the reliance on self-reported data.

Researchers concluded that while the intervention showed modest effectiveness in reducing the risk of dementia, larger and longer-term studies are needed to confirm whether such reductions will translate to actual dementia prevention. The study underscores the importance of combining individual-level interventions with broader systemic changes to have a significant impact on risk reduction for this neurological condition.

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For more information: Van Charante et al. (2024) Prevention of dementia using mobile phone applications (PRODEMOS): a multinational, randomized, controlled effectiveness–implementation trial, The Lancet Healthy Longevity. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/S2666-7568(24)00068-0.