Discussion
obesity, anxiety, chronic disease, depression, hypertension, diabetes
OBESITY, CHRONIC ILLNESSES, POSITIVE, HYPERTENSION, DISEASE, CHRONIC DISEASES, CHRONIC DISEASE, TYPE 2 DIABETES, COMPLICATIONS, DIABETES
Education as a public health service is of vital importance. Specifically when prevention and treatment are part of a strategy to control chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes or obesity. Therapeutic patient education [WHO] is considered of primary importance so that patients can first understand the nature of their disease and then be empowered with knowledge and skills to manage their symptoms, especially in chronic conditions [Health promotion interventions are considered effective in preventing and improving the overall health of the target population. However, their range could be made more effective through internet-based programs from authorized agencies, taking into account users’ actual needs and expectations [Evidence for the impact of these applications on users’ lifestyles is compelling, according to a 2019 Xinghan et al. meta-analysis of more than 23 studies [These applications could improve health promotion by facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration, better doctor and patient communication, exchange of ideas between patients and targeted information [The aim of this study was to provide targeted and personalized information to participants according to their knowledge deficiencies. Participants answered a series of questions through interactive games and depending on the wrong answers they received the corresponding information. Using this model, a significant improvement in their knowledge scales was recorded compared to the traditional model of health promotion used in the control group. In Garrett et al. published a randomized study in people with diabetes using a The importance of the interactive educational process that takes place through these applications is great and is highlighted by research such as a systematic review of Norris et al., in 2001. This study focused on diabetes self-management education through patients collaborating with others in the same group [The development of various applications that are used daily by millions of users enables direct communication between people of different age groups but who have something in common, such as a health condition. Indeed, a meta-analysis by Laranjo et al. in 2015 showed that, with widespread social media such as Twitter and Facebook, the effect on behavior modification was greater since these networks make it easier to communicate in private groups [Positive attitudes towards chronic illnesses can help to alleviate anxiety and depression, which are major factors influencing quality of life. [Providing information and encouraging optimism in patients with chronic diseases, such as diabetes, also helps to change their attitudes and beliefs and consequently to improve the compliance with the treatment. In giving patients more control over their treatment, we can reduce potential complications from the disease [In 2004, Wassenberg et al. showed that positive attitudes in people with hypertension towards their chronic disease resulted in better regulation of the disease, as participants had more consistent monitoring of blood pressure [Another study by Baranowski et al. in 2016, in collaboration with many organizations, identified the most beneficial features for health education games: that they be interactive, have feedback, allow for agency and control, identity, and immersion [In the present research these elements were included in the development of the two online knowledge games. Greater knowledge resulting in behavior modification was observed since the participants received direct information about their performance (score) as well as customized information depending on their incorrect answers. Indeed, the value of this approach can also be seen in publications such as a study by Espinosa-Curiel et al. in 2020, which developed an online knowledge game aimed at changing children’s eating habits. In just 6 weeks there was an improvement in the level of knowledge as well as a more positive attitude towards a healthier diet. The children’s parents agreed that the game had a positive effect on them as they could now recognize more than 10 unhealthy foods [Like most studies performed with questionaries, the present study has some limitations that should be considered. Apart from the limited sample size, limited depth of information, and possible misunderstandings or interpretation errors from the participants, mainly due to language barriers. The main limitation is the self-report bias. Questionnaires rely on self-reported data, and sometimes the participants may not always be honest or accurate in their responses. In addition, they may be influenced by social desirability bias or other factors affecting their answers, so researchers have limited control over variables that could affect the results. While questionnaires can provide valuable insights into participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs, they are not without limitations, and their findings should always be considered in the context of their limitations.