Student peer support trial found modest BMI and social benefits
A WeChat program improved body mass index, activity, self-esteem and loneliness scores; anxiety and depression differences were not statistically significant.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
The digital peer support program produced modest improvements in BMI, physical activity, self-esteem and loneliness compared with the control groups. It did not show statistically significant advantages for anxiety or depression. The results therefore support a narrower claim about weight and selected psychosocial outcomes, rather than a broad mental health benefit.
This abstract-based account covers students with preobesity over the study period. It does not establish whether changes persisted afterward or whether the program would have similar effects in other populations.
What researchers found
Change in body mass index
Peer support versus wellness control at 6 months; reported 95% CI for the between-group difference: -0.89 to -0.04 kg/m².
What participants received
The peer program combined an online workshop with moderated WeChat discussions, daily tasks, group challenges and digital badges. Because these elements were delivered together, the trial does not isolate which element produced the changes.
Why the controls matter
The wellness group followed a matching schedule and format with general wellness content. The waitlist group completed assessments without an intervention. These comparisons help distinguish the peer program's results from simply taking part in scheduled activities.
The original publication
Efficacy of a Digital Peer Support Program on Weight Management and Mental Health in University Students With Preobesity: Randomized Controlled Trial.
Liu X, Liu T, Chen T et al.
JMIR Mhealth Uhealth · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41564335
- Record checked
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