Effetti di un intervento sullo stile di vita basato su messaggi di testo sull'HbA1c e sui comportamenti di salute negli anziani con prediabete

Background/Objectives: Prediabetes (PD) does not always progress to type 2 diabetes; however, lifestyle modification and weight loss are recommended to prevent disease progression. This study aimed to determine whether a text message-based intervention for older adults with PD in South Korea could reduce glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and promote healthy habits. Methods: A randomized controlled trial with two parallel groups was conducted and approved by the Institutional Review Board of Wonju Severance Christian Hospital (IRB No: CR321379 ). A text message intervention was provided only to the intervention group for six months, while the control group was advised to maintain their usual daily routines. The text messages covered the following categories: nutrition, exercise, medical knowledge, lifestyle, and self-reflective thoughts. Results: A total of 96 participants aged 50 years and older underwent clinical measurements, completed the Korean Health Habits Questionnaire, and were assessed for quality of life at baseline and after the intervention. HbA1c, waist circumference, and fasting blood glucose decreased significantly in both groups ( p < 0.05). The intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in body mass index, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, and milk consumption. In contrast, instant food consumption increased significantly in the control group, resulting in significant between-group differences ( p < 0.05). In addition, the frequency of late-night eating increased significantly within the control group ( p < 0.05). Conclusions: Text message-based interventions may serve as an effective adjunctive self-management strategy to improve HbA1c levels and promote healthy habits in older adults with prediabetes.