Receiving medical coaching via  mobile devices can help patients with type 2 diabetes manage better their disease and reduce their risk of suffering complications, according to a study carried out by the University of York in Canada.

The study consisted of developing and testing an application for smartphone assisted-intervention to improve behavioral management of diabetes in low income patients with little or no access to health care services.

According to researchers, 12 of 21 patients who participated in the study saw their levels of blood sugar drop after changing their habits during the time period of the study.

Researchers conclude that as mobile technology improves, smartphone assisted health couching may emerge as a viable and effective means of managing chronic conditions among the lower economic strata population.

Diabetes is among the major causes of disability, illness and death.

For more details about this study, visit the Journal of Medical Internet Research website.