Effect of a digitally augmented general health promotion intervention on abstinence from health-risk behaviors among emergency department discharge patients: A randomized controlled trial

Noncommunicable diseases claim the most lives worldwide, often due to behaviors that can be changed, like smoking, excessive drinking, poor diet, and lack of exercise. Emergency department (ED) visits provide a prime chance to encourage these changes, leading researchers to investigate a new approach. This study, published in ClinicalTrials.gov (Registration No: NCT06077565), compared a digitally enhanced health promotion method to standard care in a major Hong Kong hospital ED.

The intervention involved a short phone call using the AWARD-model (Ask, Warn, Advise, Refer, and Do-it-again) and weekly digital messages for six months. Out of 2,134 patients screened, 572 were selected (286 for each group) and their behavior changes monitored over six and twelve months. After six months, participation in the new program resulted in a 30.1% abstinence rate from health risk behaviors, compared to 19.9% in the control group.

The intervention also boosted the likelihood of fewer risky behaviors and a notable reduction in physical inactivity at both six and twelve months. However, the beneficial effects did not last beyond six months, indicating the need for continued support to maintain these improvements. While this trial shows promise, further research is needed to assess long-term effectiveness across different settings.