Theory‐based self‐management educational interventions on patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials

Aim To synthesize the effects of theory‐based self‐management educational interventions on patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in randomized controlled trials. Background Type 2 diabetes is a common chronic disease causing complications that put a heavy burden on society and reduce the quality of life of patients. Good self‐management of diabetes can prevent complications and improve the quality of life of T2DM patients. Design Systematic review with meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials following Cochrane methods. Data resources A literature search was carried out in the MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PSYCINFO, and Web of Science databases (1980–April 2015). Review methods The risk of bias of these eligible studies was assessed independently by two authors using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool. The Publication bias of the main outcomes was examined. Statistical heterogeneity and random‐effects model were used for meta‐analysis. Results Twenty studies with 5802 participants met the inclusion criteria. The interventions in the studies were based on one or more theories which mostly belong to mid‐range theories. The pooled main outcomes by random‐effects model showed significant improvements in HbA1c, self‐efficacy, and diabetes knowledge, but not in BMI. As for quality of life, no conclusions can be drawn as the pooled outcome became the opposite with reduced heterogeneity after one study was excluded. No significant publication bias was found in the main outcomes. Conclusion To get theory‐based interventions to produce more effects, the role of patients should be more involved and stronger and the education team should be trained beyond the primary preparation for the self‐management education program.