Does mHealth contribute to improved care for people with non-communicable diseases in developing countries?

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mHealth involves using mobile phones for healthcare and public health, with a notable shift in developing countries from communicable to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This review assesses the health impacts of mHealth on NCDs in low- and middle-income countries (LAMICs) and offers recommendations for further development. A systematic literature search across three major databases identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of mHealth interventions, which were analyzed for their effects on health-related outcomes. The search yielded 733 titles, with 6 RCTs involving 1850 participants included in the review. Findings indicated that mHealth positively influenced clinical outcomes, compliance rates, and quality of life, while also reducing patient anxiety and enhancing trust in physicians. Tailored interventions using a single communication method, such as SMS, demonstrated the most significant benefits. However, limitations included the small number of RCTs, variability in outcome measures, and the fact that all studies were conducted in middle-income urban areas. Despite being in its early stages, mHealth shows potential as a vital tool against NCDs in LAMICs. Continued support from governmental institutions is essential for developing necessary tools and conducting further research, particularly in low-income settings, to evaluate the long-term effects of mHealth.