The effectiveness of a Digital Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support Program empowered by coaching in Vietnamese Individuals with type 2 diabetes

Background: Diabetes mellitus remains a global public health challenge. Mobile applications and digital platforms offer innovative solutions for enhancing diabetes management. Aim: This study evaluated the impact of a digital diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) program on clinical outcomes and diabetes-related knowledge in individuals with diabetes. Methods: A comparative study was conducted with 163 individuals with diabetes, divided into an intervention group (n=81) and a control group (n=82). Clinical outcomes, including fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c, lipid profiles, weight, BMI, waist circumference, and diabetes knowledge (Michigan University Diabetes Knowledge Test – MDKT score), were measured before and after the intervention. The intervention group participated in a ten-week educational program delivered via the DiaB app and other digital platforms, based on the DSMES framework recommended by the American Diabetes Association. This program included online group-based educational video calls led by doctors, nutritionists, and health coaches. The control group received standard care. Results: For participants with baseline BMI ≥25 kg/m², the intervention group experienced a median weight reduction of-1.5 kg compared to 0 kg in the control group (P=.02). The intervention group showed a significant decrease in median FBG from 7.5 to 6.7 mmol/L (P<.001) and a greater reduction than the control group (P=.004). Median HbA1c in the intervention group decreased from 7.8% to 7.3% (P<.001), while no significant change was observed in the control group. The intervention group had a significant increase in MDKT score (+3 vs.-1, P<.001). Improvements in lipid profiles were also greater in the intervention group (P<.001) Conclusion: The digital DSMES program significantly improved glycemic control, and diabetes knowledge. Incorporating this digital program into traditional diabetes management could enhance clinical outcomes and patient education.