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original image
Figuras y tablas -
Figure 1

Comparison 1 IHCA vs Control. Knowledge scores., Outcome 1 Knowledge [net effect size].
Figuras y tablas -
Analysis 1.1

Comparison 1 IHCA vs Control. Knowledge scores., Outcome 1 Knowledge [net effect size].

Comparison 1 IHCA vs Control. Knowledge scores., Outcome 2 Knowledge (excluding Hazzard 2002) [net effect size].
Figuras y tablas -
Analysis 1.2

Comparison 1 IHCA vs Control. Knowledge scores., Outcome 2 Knowledge (excluding Hazzard 2002) [net effect size].

Comparison 2 IHCA vs Control. Social Support., Outcome 1 Social support [net effect size].
Figuras y tablas -
Analysis 2.1

Comparison 2 IHCA vs Control. Social Support., Outcome 1 Social support [net effect size].

Comparison 2 IHCA vs Control. Social Support., Outcome 2 Social support (excluding Hazzard 2002) [net effect size].
Figuras y tablas -
Analysis 2.2

Comparison 2 IHCA vs Control. Social Support., Outcome 2 Social support (excluding Hazzard 2002) [net effect size].

Comparison 3 IHCA vs Control. Self ‐efficacy., Outcome 1 Self‐efficacy [net effect size].
Figuras y tablas -
Analysis 3.1

Comparison 3 IHCA vs Control. Self ‐efficacy., Outcome 1 Self‐efficacy [net effect size].

Comparison 4 IHCA vs Control. Behavioural outcomes., Outcome 1 Behavioural outcomes [net effect size].
Figuras y tablas -
Analysis 4.1

Comparison 4 IHCA vs Control. Behavioural outcomes., Outcome 1 Behavioural outcomes [net effect size].

Comparison 5 IHCA vs Control. Clinical outcomes., Outcome 1 Clinical outcomes [net effect size].
Figuras y tablas -
Analysis 5.1

Comparison 5 IHCA vs Control. Clinical outcomes., Outcome 1 Clinical outcomes [net effect size].

Table 1. Contact with authors of included studies

Study

Contact

Date

Correspondence

'Missing' Data Req.

Response

Andrewes 1996

email

28/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

No response from author to date.

Barrera 2002

letter

30/04/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

Authors responded: no additional included studies identified.

Bartholomew 2000

email

01/04/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

Authors responded: no additional included studies identified.

Brennan 1995

email

29/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

No response from author to date.

Brennan 1998

email

29/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

No response from author to date .

Brown 1997

email

28/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

Author responded: no additional included studies identified.

Dragone 2002

email

28/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

Author responded: no additional included studies identified, ongoing study reported.

Glasgow 2003

letter

01/04/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

Authors responded: no additional included studies identified, ongoing study reported.

Gorman 1995

letter

17/02/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

Yes

No response from author to date.

Guendelman 2002

email

28/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

Author on sabbatical: no response from author to date.

Gustafson 1999

email

16/02/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

Yes

Author responded: no additional included studies identifed, data provided.

Gustafson 2001

email

16/02/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

Yes

Author responded: no additional included studies identifed, data provided.

Hazzard 2002

email

28/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

No response from author to date.

Holden 2000

letter

30/04/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

No response from author to date.

Homer 2000

email

28/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

Yes

Author responded: data unavailable.

Horan 1990

email

29/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

No response from author to date.

Huss 2003

letter

10/05/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

No response from author to date.

Krishna 2003

email

28/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

Authors responded: no additional included studies identified.

Lehmann 2001

email

29/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

Authors responded: no additional included studies identified.

Mahoney 2002

email

18/02/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

Yes

Authors responded: no additional included studies identified, data provided.

Payton 1998

email

29/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

No response from author to date.

Ritterband 2003

email

11/12/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

Author responded: no additional included studies identifed.

Shegog 2001

email

28/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

Author responded: no additional included studies identifed.

Smith 2000

email

29/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

Author responded: no additional included studies identifed, awaiting data.

Turnin 1992

email

29/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

No response from author to date.

Turnin 2001

email

29/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

No response from author to date.

Wydra 2001

email

28/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

Yes

Author responded: no additional included studies identifed, awaiting data.

Wylie‐ Rosett 2001

email

29/03/04

Informed of inclusion of study in SR, details of relevant ongoing studies or ' in press' publications requested.

No

No response from author to date.

Figuras y tablas -
Table 1. Contact with authors of included studies
Table 2. Further Details of Included Studies

Author

Cond/ IHCA

Country

Methods

PPT Characteristics

F/UP

Intervention Details

Intervention Group

Control Group

Outcome Measures

Andrewes 1996

Eating Disorder / DIET

Australia

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

54 patients with DSM‐III‐R diagnosed eating disorders: 14 with anorexia, 9 with bulimia, 4 with both in each group. Mean age 22 years.

54/54 = 100%

A computer based psycho‐educaton programme containing 11 educational modules about eating disorders.

Completed the DIET programme twice in a healthcare setting with an interval of 7 days between the 1st and 2nd sesssions.

Non‐directional computer based counselling programme

Eating Disorders Attitude Questionnaire, EATING DISORDERS KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONNAIRE, evaluation of computer programme

Barrera 2002

Diabetes / DNet 2002

USA

RCT, 4 arms (control; coach; social support; social support + coach)
For the purpose of systematic review the comparison used = control (information only) vs. information + social support.

160 patients with Type 2 DM. 47% male, mean age 59 years, mean education = high school graduate; 40 in each arm.

123 / 160 = 77%. Dropouts divided equally among the four arms.

A computer system giving in home access via a provided Internet connection to electronic information on diabetes. Additional modules contained social support and dietary advice from a on‐line personal coach.

Received information + e‐mail forum (Diabetes Support Conference ‐ peer led but professionally mediated) and some e‐mail focus forums.

Completed non‐directional computer based counselling programme(CARL) twice in a health care setting with an interval of 7 days between the 1st and 2nd sessions.

Interpersonal support evaluation list (isel); DIABETES SUPPORT SCALE

Bartholomew 2000

Asthma / WDTA

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

171 children with asthma and their primary caregivers, recruited from inner‐city asthma clinics. 112 males, 59 females; mean age 10.9 years (range 6 to 17 years); 42% Hispanic, 53% African‐American.

133 / 171 = 78%. No information about distribution of dropouts.

An interactive multimedia computer game delivered via CD‐ROM, provides intensive, tailored, self‐management for children with asthma. Text, graphics, animation, sound, video clips. Data input = child's personal asthma symptoms, environmental triggers, medications, PEFR.

Played the game during scheduled visits to asthma or community pediatric clinics. Participation time in the study was from 4 to 15.6 months, mean = 7.6 months.

Received no intervention.

CHILD KNOWLEGE OF ASTHMA, CHILD SELF EFFICACY, symptoms, FUNCTIONAL STATUS and hospitalisation / ER visits

Brennan 1995

Alzhemier's disease / ComputerLink

USA

Randomised field trial, 2 arms: intervention vs control

102 caregivers with primary responsibility for a person with Alzheimer's disease. Intervention group = 51; 67% female; 72% white participants; median age = 68 years; education = completed high school.

96 / 102 = 94%. 4 dropouts in intervention group, 2 in comparison group.

A specialised computer network ‐ ComputerLink. ComputerLink provides information, an electronic encyclopaedia, online discussion groups and decision support to caregivers of AD.

Received in‐home access to ComputerLink via a provided computer link for for 12 months.

Received a monthly telephone call.

Decision confidence, decision‐making skill, social isolation

Brennan 1998

AIDS & HIV / ComputerLink

USA

Randomised field trial, 2 arms: intervention vs control

57 people living with AIDS; 31 in intervention group. Mean age = 33 years; 93% male; 61% white participants; 34% working; mean years of education = 13.5

48 / 57 = 84%. 6 drop outs from intervention group, 3 from control group.

A specialised computer network ‐ ComputerLink ComputerLink provides information, an electronic encyclopaedia, online discussion groups and decision support to PLWA.

Received in‐home access to ComputerLink via a provided computer terminal for 6 months.

Received printed brochures and a monthly telephone call to maintain contact with research staff.

Decision making skill, decision making confidence, SOCIAL ISOLATION , PATIENT HEALTH STATUS

Brown 1997

Diabetes / Packy and Marlon

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

59 children with DM, aged 8 to 16, recruited from two paediatric endocrinology outpatient clinics. 31 in intervention group.

Not stated specifically; results tables suggest 100% follow up.

Interactive computer programme in video game format. 2 adolescent elephant friends at diabetes summer camp. Players must save camp from rats and mice. Help monitor blood glucose, take insulin, review diabetes logbook, find correct foods, self care, social situations.

Received in‐home access to a video game system and the video game Packy and Marlon to play on it for a period of 6 months.

Received in‐home access to a video game system and an entertainment video game to play on it for a period of 6 months.

Enjoyment of game scale, SELF EFFICACY MEASURE, SOCIAL SUPPORT ( VIA PARENTAL RECALL OF CHILD INITIATED DISCUSSIONS ON DIABETES CARE AND EMOTIONS RELATED TO HAVING DIABETES), KNOWLEDGE SCORE, DIABETES SELF‐CARE RATING SCALE (PARENTAL RESPONSES TO CHILD'S MOTIVATION TO MANAGE DIABETES), HBA1C

Dragone 2002

Cancer / Kidz with Leukemia

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

41 children aged 4 to 11 with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia or acute myeloid leukaemia in first remission. 41 children recruited, 31 completed study, (14 x 4 to 6 year olds; 17 x 7 to 11 year olds); 25/31 white, 3/31 Latino; 1/31 African American; 1 / 31 Asian; 1/31 Other.

31/41 = 76%

An interactive CD‐ROM, delivered via computer, to educate children with leukaemia covering areas such as treatment, helping yourself, tests, blood cells, anatomy and physiology, and miscellaneous topics including sibling view of leukaemia, living with leukaemia.

Received CDROM to use for a 3 month period. Participants could access the CDROM only if they already had a computer at home or had access to one at school or elsewhere .

Received conventional leukaemia information in book format.

Health locus of control ‐ (lchcl); leukaemia event knowledge interview ; satisfaction and use questionnaires (children and parents).

Glasgow 2003

Diabetes / D‐ NET 2003

USA

RCT, 4 arms (control; coach; social support; social support + coach)
For the purpose of systematic review the comparison used = control (information only) vs information + social support.

320 adults with Type 2 DM. 47% male; mean age 59 (SD 9.2 years); 83% had no or very limited Internet experience; mean time since diagnosis 8 years.

82%; data not given for follow up by group, but reported as no significant difference between group.

A computer system giving in home access via a provided Internet connection to electronic information on diabetes. Additional modules contained social support and dietary advice from a online personal coach.

Received information + e‐mail forum (Diabetes Support Conference ‐ peer led but professionally mediated) and some e‐mail focus forums.

Recieved computer access to electronic articles providing information only about medical, nutritional and lifestyle aspects of DM.

Kristal ffb scale, grams daily fat, AVERAGE MINUTES PER DAY OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, Centre for Epidemiologic Studies depression scale , DIABETES SUPPORT SCALE, lipid ratio, HBA1C

Gorman 1995

Urinary Incontinence / UICS

USA

RCT, 3 arms: UICS vs booklet (AHCPR patient guideline with handout) vs. control. For purposes of systematic review, UICS is compared with control.

60 ambulatory, alert community dwelling women with urinary incontinence defned as accidental urine loss at least twice a week. Mean age = 55, Intervention = 22

60 / 60 = 100%

Computer based expert system containing information about urinary incontinence, bladder training and pelvic muscle exercises.

Used the expert system at a single session arranged by research staff.

Watched a general health video.

Bladder diary recording episodes of urinary incontinence, Incontinence Impact on Life Questionnaire.

Guendelman 2002

Asthma / Health Buddy

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

134 children with asthma, recruited from primary care clinic; aged 8 to 16 years, 57% male; 76% African‐American; 93% public insurance. Intervention group = 66

128 / 134 = 96% at 6 weeks; 120 / 134 = 90% at 12 weeks. Dropouts equally distributed between groups.

A personal, interactive computer programme, linked to a secure web site, giving information and advice on asthma self‐management.

Accessed the programme at home via a provided telecommunications device for a period of 90 days.

Used a standard asthma diary.

Limitation in activity; pefr ‐ 80% of personal best or < 50%; experienced coughing or wheezing, trouble sleeping, missed days at school in last 6 weeks , urgent calls to doctor, visits to ER, hositalisation, takes asthma medicine without reminder, reminded to use Health Buddy.

Gustafson 1999

AIDS&HIV / CHESS

USA

RCT, 2 arms: CHESS vs control

204 HIV‐positive patients; 90% male; 84% white participants; 65% experiencing HIV‐related symptoms; average education = some college.

Raw data not given; overall study completion rate given as 90% (89% for intervention group and 90% for control group) at 9 months

A computer based health support system which provides HIV‐positive patients with information, decision support and connections to on‐line "ask the Expert" facilities and on‐line discussion groups with other patients.

Received in‐home access to CHESS via a provided PC for either 6 (1st cohort) or 3 months (2nd and 3rd cohorts).

Received usual care only.

Cognitive function, negative emotions, depression, PHYSICAL FUNCTION, active life, energy, SOCIAL SUPPORT, PARTICIPATION IN HEALTH CARE,and frequency and duration of use of medical services ‐ use of ambulatory care servcies, incidences of hospitalisation

Gustafson 2001

Cancer / CHESS

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

295 women with newly diagnosed breast cancer, under age 60. Mean age 44.4 years; 74% white participants; 85% private insurance. Intervention = 147.

246 / 295 = 83%. (84% in control group; 82% in intervention group).

A computer‐based health support system providing information, social support (discussion groups, personal stories) and, decision support (health charts, decision aids, action plan).

Received in‐home access to CHESS via a provided PC for 6 months.

Received a copy of Dr Susan Love's Breast Book.

SOCIAL SUPPORT , information competence, unmet information needs, PARTICIPATION ‐ BEHAVIOURAL INVOLVEMENT IN HEALTH CARE, participation level of confidence, confidence in doctors, social /family wellbeing, breast cancer concerns

Hazzard 2002

Sickle Cell & Asthma / STBW

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

47 children hospitalised for more than 3 days with sickle cell disease. 58% male; 98% African‐ American. "Children" defined as 8 to 12 years; "teens" as 13 to 18 years.

63 children with asthma, hospitalised for at least 3 days, aged 8 to 18 years; 58% male; 98% African‐American; mean age 11.7 years (SD 2.71 years). "Children" defined as 8 to 12 years; "teens" as 13 to 18 years.

Only those who completed the follow up were considered to have participated in the study. 111 children were eligible for the study but excluded from the final sample because they were hospitalised for <3 days (n = 22), discharged before completing the posttest measures (n = 47), too ill to complete study activities (n = 4), did not provide informed consent (n = 22) or who did not complete at least one session with Starbright world (n = 16).

A private computer system for hospitalised children. Contains health education information, game shows, video conferencing, chatrooms, e‐mail, and recreational activitities.

Used the Starbright World system over 3 days while in hospital. The system could be accessed either on the ward or in the recreational therapy playroom.

Traditional hospital educational and recreational activites.

SCD KNOWLEDGE SCALE, PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT, kidcope (coping strategies)

ASTHMA KNOWLEDGE SCALE PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT , kidcope (coping strategies)

Holden 2002

Pediatric Pain & Anxiety / STBW2

USA

RCT: Single subject design n‐of‐1 RCT

51 children between the ages of 7 to 17 years (mean 10.9 years) hospitalised on one of the following pediatric services: gastroenterology, hematology/oncology, nephrology, cardiology or pulmonary. Females 59.1%,

44 /51 = 86%

A private computer system for hospitalised children. Contains health education information, game shows, video conferencing, chatrooms, e‐mail, and recreational activitities.

All children received Starbright World 2 and served as their own controls

All children received Starbright World 2 and served as their own controls

Pain intensiveness, pain aversion and anxiety using visual analogue scales

Homer 2000

Asthma / Asthma Control

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

137 children aged 3 to 12, with physician diagnosed asthma, recruited from hospital (118) and community clinic (19).
Mean age 7.4 years; 30.7% female; 60.5% African‐American, 5.3% Hispanic. Intervention = 76, control = 61.

106 / 137 = 77% (80% of control group and 75% of intervention group).

An interactive educational computer program in game format. Children help a superhero complete all 6 levels of game while keeping his asthma under control vs control = age appropriate asthma educational book + non‐educational computer game.

Used the programme over 3 sessions at either a primary care clinic or a neighbourhood health center. The average time to complete the game for a first time player was 45 to 60 minutes.

Received an asthma education book and played a non educational computer game

Total number of ED and acute office visits during study period.
Child's average asthma specific symtpom severity. Functional status. Satisfaction,
pefr, use of pefr monitoring
number of common triggers and allergens in home environment
knowledge.

Horan et al 1990

Diabetes / DISC

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

20 adolescents aged 12 to 19 with Type 1 DM for > 1 year. 30% male; 80% white participants. Recruited from paediatric endocrinologists in private practice and from customers at a store for people with diabetes.

20/20 = 100%

A microcomputer based system giving in home access via a provided computer terminal. DISC contains 3 components: data management and review component; factual and applied diabetes education; problem solving and goal setting.

Used the computer at home for a period of 15 weeks spending 7 weeks on the diabetes education model and focusing on the goal‐setting and problem solving module for the last 8 weeks.

Received conventional diabetes education via a education booklet.

HbA1c, blood glucose levels, frequency of smbg, diabetes applied knowledge score, behaviour change ‐ smbg, diet, insulin, exercise, emotional stress, physical stress, weight, hormones, alcohol and drugs.

Huss et al 2003

Asthma / Wee Willie Wheezie

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

148 children, recruited from hospital discharge records and local pediatric allergy and asthma clinics. Mean age 9.6 y , 44% male, 21% non‐Hispanic White, 78% non‐Hispanic Black.

101 / 148 = 68%. Intervention group = 56 / 78 = 72%; control group = 45 / 70 = 64%.

An interactive computer programme in game format where children negotiate Wee Willie through various home like environments and hazards.

Received conventional education (written asthma materials and a non asthma related computer programme) and the computer based instructional asthma game ‐ Wee Willie Wheezie. Children played the asthma game for 20 minutes during a scheduled home visit.

Received conventional education ‐ written asthma materials and a non asthma related computer programme.

Spirometry was used to measure pulmonary function, Asthma severity was measured using the NAEPP criteria, Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life, Asthma Knowledge Test, Air control questionnaire.

Krishna et al 2003

Asthma / Impact

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

246 children (under 18 years) with asthma attending a pediatric pulmonary clinic. 65% male; 86% white participants. Intervention group = 119; control = 127. Only children in the age group 7 to 17 yearsused the programme independently of carers.

228 / 249 = 92%. (intervention group = 107/119 = 90%; control group = 121 / 127 = 95%).

An Internet‐enabled, interactive multimedia asthma education programm incorporating principles of self‐management and presenting behavioural objectives.

Received conventional asthma education and used IMPACT during 3 routine visits to an asthma clinic. The program takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to complete.

Received conventional asthma education including verbal and written asthma information on the disease and concepts related to its control

PEDIATRIC ASTHMA CARE KNOWLEDGE SURVEY FOR CHILDREN (7‐17), caregivers 0‐6, caregivers 7‐17, DAYS WITH ASTHMA SYMPTOMS, days of activity limitation, days of sleep disturbance,school days missed urgent visits to the physican, ER visits , hospitalisations days of stay in hospital , days of quick relief medicine , use of inhaled steroids.

Lehmann 2001

Diabetes / AIDA

Italy

RCT, 2 arms intervention vs control. Partial cross‐over design.

24 adults with Type 1 DM, 12 in each group. 50% male.

24 / 24 = 100%

An interactive computer programme accessible via the world wide web. It contains education, self‐management and decision support

Received 6 sessions using AIDA. Sessions lasted an average of 104 minutes. Participants did not interact directly with the computer but via a 'facilitator' as the programme software was written in English.

Received 6 sessions of conventional education (slides) on the same topics. After completing post test questionnaires they crossed over to receive 6 sessions on AIDA.

Knowledge score, social and emotional impact of diabetes on lifestyle, self‐monitoring of blood glucose, forward thinking, well‐being and self‐confidence, hypos, HbA1C, empowerment. No data reported as yet, although pilot results available on website.

Mahoney 2002

Alzheimer's disease / Memory Loss CD

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

113 adults concerned about memory loss in a family member; intervention = 56

113 / 113 = 100%

A computer programme, delivered via a multi‐media CDROM, containing information distinguishing normal forgetfulness from dementia; procedures for clinical diagnosis; resources available; family responses.

Used the programme on a project laptop during a home interview with research staff.

Received no intervention and were offered the opportunity to view the CD‐ROM at the end of the research project.

Knowledge about memory loss; user satisfaction with the programme; contacts with clinicians.

Payton 1995

Alzheimer's disease /ComputerLink

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

102 caregivers with primary responsibility for a person with Alzheimer's disease who took part in the Brennan 1995 study. Intervention group = 51; 67% female; 72% white participants; median age = 68 years; education = completed high school.

follow up data not reported; presumably same as Brennan 1995 as this is the same study.

A specialised computer network ‐ ComputerLink ComputerLink provides information, an electronic encyclopaedia, online discussion groups and decision support to caregivers of AD.

Given in‐ home access to ComputerLink via a provided computer link for for 12 months.

Received a monthly telephone call

Cost analysis ‐ nursing home visits, physican visits, social services, medical items, connection costs, access costs,implementation costs.

Ritterband 2003

Encopresis / U Can Poop Too

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

24 encopretic children, 19 boys, mean age 8.46 years (SD 1.81 years).

24 / 24 = 100%

A computer programme delivered via the internet containing 3 core modules with information on anatomy and physiology; treatment of encopresis; and behavioural treatments based on enhanced toilet training.

Received in home access to the programme via a provided computer and internet connection. They received the programme for 3 weeks and accessed the website an average of 14 times per participant during that time.

Received phone calls only from research staff.

Bowel habits ( child information form) ; encopresis knowledge questionnaire (EKQ);VECAT (assesses bowel‐specific problems related to encopresis.); NUMBER OF BOWEL ACCIDENTS PER WEEK, use of internet programm

Shegog 2001

Asthma / WDTA

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

76 children recruited from clinics and schools. Mean age 10.7 years; 47.9% white, non‐Hispanic participants, 40.8% African‐American participants, 11.3% Hispanic participants; 46 boys, 25 girls.

71 / 76 = 93%; distribution of dropouts between groups not given.

An interactive multimedia computer game delivered via CDROM, provides intensive, tailored, self‐management for children with asthma. Text, graphics, animation, sound, video clips. Data input = child's personal asthma symptoms, environmental triggers, medications, PEFR.

Participants in the intervention group played the game during a session organised at a university linked medical centre.

Received no intervention

KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONNAIRE ON ASTHMA MANAGEMENT, SELF‐EFFICACY FOR ASTHMA MANAGEMENT, causal attributions, attribution classification, demographic and health information, computer experience, motivation, attitude toward CAL, process of use.

Smith & Weinert 2000

Diabetes / WTW

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

30 women aged 35 to 60 years, with diabetes (Type 1 or 2), with a telephone and living at least 25 miles outside the 6 major cities of Montana.

Follow up rate not stated.

A computer programme accessed via a PC with modem connection. The software contained 4 components: conversation (on‐line support group); mailbox (private e‐mail correspondence between group members); HealthChat (formal diabetes education); and Resource Rack (bulletin board).

Received in‐home access to the programme via a provided laptop for 5 months. They also received a notebook of health information regarding womens health in general and specific diabetes information.

Received paper copies of all the information materials that the intervention group received that is, health information notebook and hard copies of computer generated information.

HbA1c, health status, sources of support, Personal Resource Questionnaire, Quality of Life Index, Social Readjustment Rating Scale, Psychosocial Adaptation to Illness Scale, usage of computer programme.

Turnin 1992

Diabetes / Diabeto

France

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control. Crossover design.

105 patients with diabetes. 59% male; 72% Type 1 DM; 74% working; mean age 45 years. Intervention group = 54.

Follow up rate not stated.

Interactive dietary information and individualised counselling delivered via a Minitel videotex terminal. Contains information on energy requirements, meal analysis, menus, recipes, e‐mail.

Received in‐home access to Diabeto for 6 months.

No intervention for 6 months then crossed over into the intervention arm.

DIETIC KNOWLEDGE, SCORES ,eating habits ‐ caloric excess, % of carbohydrate, carbohydrate deficit, % OF FAT , fat excess, changes in body weight, HBA1C

Turnin 2001

Obesity / Nutri‐Expert

France

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

557 obese patients: BMI > or equal to 27kg / m2. Mean age 41.2 y, 92.3% female, alaried workers 36.5%, unenmployed or retired 23.1% teaching or health care professions 14.1%

341 / 557 = 61%. Dropouts equally distributed between intervention and control group (88 from control group and 91 from intervention group)

Nutrition education software programme on obesity delivered via a Minitel videotex terminal containing information about diet, individualised help in meal analysis and composition, evaluates calorific requirements, records meals eaten during the day and provides suggestions for balance, recipes, discussion and Q & A fora.

Received usual care (7 medical/dietetic visits) plus in‐ home access to the software programme via a provided terminal for 12 months.

Received usual care ( 7 medical/dietetic visits).

BMI, Waist circumference, weight, DIETIC KNOWLEDGE SCORES, dietary intake (CALORIFIC INTAKE, carbohydrate, sugar, protein and fat intake), fasting plasma insulin and lipids ‐ CHOLESTEROL.

Wydra 2001

Cancer / Coping with Cancer

USA

RCT, 2 arms: intervention vs control

174 patients with cancer; 51% male; 81% white participants, age range = 21 ‐to 82 years. Intervention group = 86.

160 / 174 = 92%; distribution of dropouts between groups not given.

Interactive Video Disc delivered via a video disc player containing 5 modules on: using the computer; fatigue; saving maintaining and restoring energy; managing stress; sleeping better. Information and skill training.

Participants in the intervention group used the video disc at a single session in a cancer treatment centre.

Received usual care.

Saving energy, controlling stress, sleeping better, maintaining energy, restoring energy, amount of fatigue, impact of fatigue on physical activity; daily work; social activities, current compensatory changes; quality of life.

Wylie‐Rosett 2001

Obesity / CDROM

USA

RCT, 3 arms: workbook only vs workbook + computer programme vs workbook + computer programme + staff counselling. For purposes of systematic review, intervention = computer programme + workbook; control = workbook only.

588 people w BMI > 25 kg / m2; recruited from a managed care organisation.

Raw data not given; overall study completion rate given as 81% with dropout rates of 16% (n = 19), 22% (n = 53) and 17% for the least, intermediate and most intensive intervention groups respectively.

A multi‐media computer programme containing nutrition, fitness and psychobehavioural content with information, guidance, interactive quizzes, video clips.

Participants in the intervention group accessed the programme via touchscreens in kiosks situated within a medical waiting room over a 12 month period. During the first 3 months participants were asked to log on to the computer system at least once a week and therafter at least once a month.

Received a workbook containing 20 sections with self‐help sheets.

K/CAL PER DAY , % Kcal from fat, blocks walked daily, minutes walked continuously, weight, BMI, waist circumference, % of body fat, cholesterols, triglicerides, glucose, blood pressure, cost analysis, BMI, diabetes and cardiovascular risk, medication usage and evaluation of computer programme.

* Measures IN CAPITALS were extracted for data synthesis

Figuras y tablas -
Table 2. Further Details of Included Studies
Table 3. Knowledge Outcomes

Study

Measurement

No in each group

Outcome Timescale

Net Effect Size

Andrewes 1996

Eating Disorders Knowledge Questionnaire

Control = 27, Intervention = 27, Total = 54

1 week

1.429 (Large) Intervention

Bartholomew 2000

Knowledge Score

Control = 62, Intervention = 70, Total = 132

7.9 months (mean)

0.193 (Small) Intervention

Brown 1997

Knowledge Score

Control = 28, Intervention = 31, Total = 59

6 months

0.094 (Small) Intervention

Hazzard 2000A

Knowledge Score of SCD Children

Control = 13, Intervention = 15, Total = 28

3 days to 1 Week

0.066 (Small) Intervention

Hazzard 2000B

Knowledge Score of SCD 'Teens'

Control = 16, Intervention = 3, Total = 19

3 days to 1 Week

0.285 (Small) Intervention

Hazzard 2000C

Knowledge Score of Asthma Children

Control = 21, Intervention = 24, Total = 45

3 days to 1 Week

0.125 (Small) Intervention

Hazzard 2000D

Knowledge Score of Asthma 'Teens'

Control = 10, Intervention = 8, Total = 18

3 days to 1 Week

0.616 (Medium) Intervention

Krishna 2003

Paed. Asthma Knowledge Care Survey (Children aged 7 to 17)

Control = 52, Intervention = 45, Total = 97

12 months

0.912 (Large) Intervention

Shegog 2001

Knowledge Questionnaire

Control = 33, Intervention = 38, Total = 71

3 weeks

0.073 (Small) Intervention

Turnin 1992

Dietic Knowledge

Control= 51, Intervention = 54, Total = 105

6 months

0.860 (Large) Intervention

Turnin 2001

Dietic Knowledge Test

Control = 105, Intervention = 94, Total =199

12 months

0.100 (Small) Intervention

Figuras y tablas -
Table 3. Knowledge Outcomes
Table 4. Social Support Outcomes

Study

Measurement

No in each Group

Outcome Timescale

Net Effect Size

Brennan 1998

Social Isolation

Control = 26, Intervention = 29, Total = 55

6 months

0.102(Small) Intervention

Brown 1997

Social Support

Control = 28, Intervention = 31, Total = 59

6 months

0.689 (Large) Intervention

Glasgow 2003

Diabetes Support Scale

Control = 80, Intervention = 80, Total = 160

10 months

0.547(Large) Intervention

Gustafson 1999

Social Support

Control = 74 , Intervention = 66, Total = 140

5 months

0.319 (Small) Intervention

Gustafson 2001

Social Support

Control = 125, Intervention = 121, Total = 246

5 months

0.371(Medium) Interventin

Hazzard 2002A

Perceived Social Support ‐ Friends SCD Children

Control = 13 , Intervention = 15, Total = 28

3 days to 1 week

0.485 (Medium) Intervention

Hazzard 20002B

Perceived Social Support ‐ Friends SCD 'Teens'

Control = 16, Intervention = 3, Total = 19

3 days to 1 week

‐0.270 (Small) Control

Hazzard 2002C

Perceived Social Support ‐ Friends Asthma Children

Control = 21, Intervention = 24, Total = 45

3 days to 1 week

0.144 (Small) Intervention

Hazzard 2002D

Perceived Social Support ‐ Friends Asthma 'Teens'

Control = 10, Intervention = 8, Total = 18

3 days to 1 week

0.264 (Small) Intervention

Figuras y tablas -
Table 4. Social Support Outcomes
Table 5. Self‐efficacy Outcomes

Study

Measurement

No in Each Group

Outcome Timescale

Net Effect Size

Bartholomew 2000

Self‐efficacy

Control = 69 , Intervention = 70, Total = 139

7.6 months (mean)

‐0.054 (Small) Control

Brown 1997

Self‐efficacy

Control = 28, Intervention = 31, Total =59

6 months

0.352 (Medium) Intervention

Shegog 2001

Self‐ efficacy

Control = 32, Intervention = 38, Total = 70

3 weeks

0.326 (Small) Intervention

Figuras y tablas -
Table 5. Self‐efficacy Outcomes
Table 6. Behavioural Outcomes

Study

Measurement

No in Each Group

Outcome Timescale

Net Effect Size

Bartholomew 2000

Child self‐ management

Control = 63, Intervention = 69, Total = 132

7.9 months (mean)

0.336 (Medium) Intervention

Brown 1997

Diabetes self‐care rating scale

Control = 28, Intervention = 31, Total = 59

6 months

0.584 (Large) Intervention

Glasgow 2003

Physical activity (mins. per day)

Control = 80, Intervention = 80, Total = 160

10 months

‐0.030 (Small) Control

Gustafson 1999

Participation in health care

Control = 76, Intervention = 67, Total = 143

5 months

0.459 (Medium) Intervention

Gustafson 2001

Behaviourial involvement in health care

Control = 125, Intervention = 119, Total = 244

5 months

‐0.183 (Small) Control

Turnin 1992

3 day dietary investigation (fat)

Control = 46, Intervention = 43, Total = 89

6 months

‐2.198 (Large) Control

Turnin 2001

Caloric intake

Control = 97, Intervention = 89, Total = 156

12 months

‐0.034 (Small) Control

Wylie‐ Rosett 2001

Dietary intake

Control = 116, Intervention = 236, Total = 352

12 months

0.152 (Small) Intervention

Figuras y tablas -
Table 6. Behavioural Outcomes
Table 7. Clinical Outcomes

Study

Measurement

No in Each Group

Outcome Timescale

Net Effect Size

Bartholomew 2000

Functional Status

Control = 55, Intervention = 58 , Total = 113

7.9 months (mean)

0.069 (Small) Intervention

Brennan 1998

Health Status

Control = 26, Intervention = 29, Total = 55

6 months

‐0.064( Small) Control

Brown 1997

HbA1c

Control = 28, Intervention = 31 , Total = 59

6 months

0.112(Small) Intervention

Glasgow 2003

HbA1c

Control = 80, Intervention = 80, Total = 160

10 months

‐0.276 ( Small) Control

Gustafson 1999

Physical Function

Control = 75, Intervention = 67, Total = 142

5 months

0.015 (Small) Intervention

Krishna 2003

Days with Asthma Symptoms

Control = 105, Intervention = 119 , Total = 224

12 months

‐0.276 (Small) Control

Lehmann 2003

HbA1c

Control = 12 , Intervention = 12, Total = 24

6 weeks

‐0.691 (Large) Control

Ritterband 2003

Bowel Accidents per Week

Control = 12, Intervention = 12 , Total = 24

3 weeks

‐0.792 (Large) Control

Turnin 1992

HbA1c

Control = 51, Intervention = 54 , Total = 105

6 months

‐1.984 (Large) Control

Turnin 2001

Cholesterol

Control = 104, Intervention = 93, Total = 197

12 months

0.037 (Small) Intervention

Wylie‐ Rosett 2001

BMI

Control = 116 , Intervention = 236, Total = 352

12 months

‐0.062 (Small) Control

Figuras y tablas -
Table 7. Clinical Outcomes
Comparison 1. IHCA vs Control. Knowledge scores.

Outcome or subgroup title

No. of studies

No. of participants

Statistical method

Effect size

1 Knowledge [net effect size] Show forest plot

8

708

Std. Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.44 [0.13, 0.76]

2 Knowledge (excluding Hazzard 2002) [net effect size] Show forest plot

7

663

Std. Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.49 [0.14, 0.84]

Figuras y tablas -
Comparison 1. IHCA vs Control. Knowledge scores.
Comparison 2. IHCA vs Control. Social Support.

Outcome or subgroup title

No. of studies

No. of participants

Statistical method

Effect size

1 Social support [net effect size] Show forest plot

7

747

Std. Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.44 [0.26, 0.63]

2 Social support (excluding Hazzard 2002) [net effect size] Show forest plot

6

702

Std. Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.47 [0.28, 0.66]

Figuras y tablas -
Comparison 2. IHCA vs Control. Social Support.
Comparison 3. IHCA vs Control. Self ‐efficacy.

Outcome or subgroup title

No. of studies

No. of participants

Statistical method

Effect size

1 Self‐efficacy [net effect size] Show forest plot

3

268

Std. Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

0.15 [‐0.13, 0.43]

Figuras y tablas -
Comparison 3. IHCA vs Control. Self ‐efficacy.
Comparison 4. IHCA vs Control. Behavioural outcomes.

Outcome or subgroup title

No. of studies

No. of participants

Statistical method

Effect size

1 Behavioural outcomes [net effect size] Show forest plot

8

1281

Std. Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐0.09 [‐0.49, 0.32]

Figuras y tablas -
Comparison 4. IHCA vs Control. Behavioural outcomes.
Comparison 5. IHCA vs Control. Clinical outcomes.

Outcome or subgroup title

No. of studies

No. of participants

Statistical method

Effect size

1 Clinical outcomes [net effect size] Show forest plot

11

1209

Std. Mean Difference (IV, Random, 95% CI)

‐0.32 [‐0.63, ‐0.02]

Figuras y tablas -
Comparison 5. IHCA vs Control. Clinical outcomes.