Mobile apps to promote behavioural change in occupational settings: a systematic review and meta-analysis - BMC Digital Health
Background Existing research presents mixed findings regarding the effect of mobile apps for promoting behavioural change in occupational settings. This systematic literature review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of mobile apps in promoting behavioural change, such as increasing physical activity, among employed adults. A literature search was performed across four databases: PubMed, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, and Web of Science, between 2008 and 2026. The systematic review included 20 studies, with 2 meta-analyses of 12 studies, based on predefined criteria and an assessment of bias. Effect sizes were calculated using both a random and a fixed effects model with 95% confidence intervals. The study was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and was pre-registered (PROSPERO ID: CRD42025646349). Results The papers reviewed included over 39,000 participants across multiple countries. Meta-analyses were performed on the reported changes in physical activity among working populations following implementation of various mobile apps, and found significant improvements compared to control groups or baseline levels of activity prior to using the mobile apps. The calculated overall mean effect size for studies with a between-participant design yielded a small to medium, significant effect size of 0.259 (95% CI, [0.102, 0.415], Z = 3.245, p = 0.001). For the within-participant design studies a large significant effect-size of 1.506 (95% CI, [0.764, 2.248], Z = 3.979, p < 0.001) was calculated across all interventions that aimed to increase physical activity. Conclusions Findings suggest that mobile applications can facilitate behavioural change in the working population, particularly in physical activity, highlighting their potential for workplace health promotion.
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