Effects of community-based educational video interventions on nutrition, health, and use of health services in low- and middle-income countries: systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Abstract Context Health education using videos has been promoted for its potential to enhance community health by improving social and behavior change communication. Objective To provide stakeholders in maternal and child health with evidence that can inform policies and strategies integrating video education to improve maternal, newborn, and child health. Data sources Five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and CENTRAL) were searched on January 28, 2022, and November 10, 2022 (updated search). Quantitative and qualitative studies conducted in low- and middle-income countries on the effects of video-based interventions on nutrition, health, and health service use were eligible. There was no restriction on time or language. Study selection was done in 2 stages and in duplicate. Data extraction A total of 13 710 records were imported to EndNote. Of these, 8226 records were screened by title and abstract using Rayyan, and 76 records were included for full-text evaluation. Results Twenty-nine articles (n = 12 084 participants) were included in this systematic review, and 7 were included in the meta-analysis. Video interventions improved knowledge about newborn care (n = 234; odds ratio [OR], 1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04–1.40), colostrum feeding (n = 990; OR, 60.38; 95%CI, 18.25–199.78), continued breastfeeding (BF; n = 1914; OR, 3.79; 95%CI, 1.14–12.64), intention to use family planning (FP) (n = 814; OR, 1.57; 95%CI, 1.10–2.23), and use of FP (n = 864; OR, 6.55; 95%CI, 2.30–18.70). Video interventions did not result in reduced prelacteal feeding or improvement in early initiation of BF. The qualitative studies showed that video interventions were acceptable and feasible, with perceived impacts on communities. Conclusion This systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that video interventions improved knowledge of newborn care, colostrum feeding, and continuing BF, and the intention to use FP. Given the high levels of heterogeneity and inconsistency in reporting, more research with stronger designs is recommended. Systematic review registration PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022292190.