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. 2025 Apr 23;4(4):e0000684.
doi: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000684. eCollection 2025 Apr.

Effectiveness of unguided internet-based computer self-help platforms for eating disorders (with or without an associated app): A systematic review

Alessandra Diana Gentile  1 , Yosua Yan Kristian  2 , Erica Cini  1   2   3
Affiliations

Effectiveness of unguided internet-based computer self-help platforms for eating disorders (with or without an associated app): A systematic review

Alessandra Diana Gentile et al. PLOS Digit Health. .

Abstract

Background: Following the COVID-19 pandemic, internet-based computer self-help platforms for eating disorders (EDs) became increasingly prevalent as a tool to effectively prevent and treat ED symptoms and related behaviours. This systematic review explored the effectiveness of unguided internet-based computer self-help platforms for EDs.

Methods: From inception to the 31st of May 2024, a systematic search of Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, and APA PsycInfo was conducted. This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Outcome quality assessments were conducted according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE).

Results: 12 RCTs, with a total of 3400 participants, were included. 2 studies explored the effectiveness as primary prevention, 7 as secondary prevention, and 3 as tertiary intervention. The gathered literature demonstrated unguided internet-based computer self-help platforms as effective in reducing ED core symptoms and related behaviours, with psychoeducation, cognitive behavioural, and dissonance-based approaches being the most prevalent approaches.

Conclusions: Unguided internet-based computer self-help platforms are effective in the short-term reduction of ED symptoms and associated behaviours and should be implemented in the early stages of a tiered healthcare system for ED treatments.

Trial registration: Prospero (CRD42024520866).

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Figures

Fig 1
Fig 1. PRISMA flow chart of study selection.
Fig 2
Fig 2. Risk of bias assessment.
Fig 3
Fig 3. Percentage of the risk of bias assessment.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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