Can technology be effective in interventions targeting sexual health and substance use in young people; a systematic review

Technology is increasingly used as a method to engage young people in health issues. This review aimed to assess the effectiveness of technology interventions in preventing and reducing substance use and risky sexual health behaviours in young people. The following databases were searched via Ovid: Psychinfo, Medline, Embase. Studies were systematically screened by title, abstract and 2 reviewers assessed the full papers and discrepancies discussed. Inclusion criteria: young people (aged 12–25 years) that constituted at least 50 % of the population; any technological component including telecommunication, computer and internet that constituted at least 50 % of the intervention; any sexual health or substance use outcome; studies meeting evidence level one-four. 1603 papers were identified by the original search. Of these, 30 were included in the review. The majority of studies showed positive intervention effects, however, most targeted educated young people, such as university students. Additionally, the outcome measures were often psychological determinants of behaviour rather than actual behaviours. Technology has a significant role to play in this field. The review identifies components of effective interventions for young people. However more research is required to target vulnerable populations in order reduce inequalities. Studies are required that involve a wider variety of participants with behavioural outcomes.