# Trends and Perspectives of mHealth in Obesity Control
## 1 Introduction  
Obesity, a multifaceted global health challenge, continues to escalate at an alarming rate, presenting significant public health, economic, and social implications [1, 2, 3, 4]. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), global obesity rates nearly tripled between 1975 and 2016 [5]. Obesity has reached epidemic proportions worldwide, leading to at least 2.8 million deaths annually due to overweight- or obesity-related causes [5]. The World Obesity Atlas 2023 report predicts that, without improved prevention, treatment, and support for obesity, more than half of the global population will be living with overweight or obesity within the next 12 years [4]. This alarming trajectory underscores the pervasive nature of the obesity epidemic across continents, irrespective of socioeconomic status or geographic location [1, 4, 6]. While obesity is a global phenomenon, notable regional disparities exist in its prevalence [1, 4]. For instance, the highest obesity rates are observed in regions such as North America, Europe, and parts of the Middle East, where dietary patterns, sedentary lifestyles, urbanization, and other socio-cultural factors contribute to elevated obesity levels [1, 4]. However, emerging economies and low- and middle-income countries are also experiencing a surge in obesity rates, juxtaposed with persistent undernutrition challenges, creating a dual burden of malnutrition [1, 6]. Traditional approaches to combat this epidemic, including dietary interventions, physical activity promotion, and pharmacotherapy, have demonstrated limited long-term efficacy. This underscores the urgent need for innovative, scalable, andpersonalized solutions [1, 4, 7]. Addressing the complexities of obesity requires comprehensive, evidence-based strategies encompassing prevention, management, policy, advocacy, research, and societal engagement. Collaborative initiatives, innovative interventions, and supportive environments are crucial to mitigating the obesity epidemic and enhancing global health outcomes [1, 4, 5, 8]. Among obesity control methods [9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18], mobile health (mHealth) technologies have significantly advanced over the years, leveraging progress in mobile devices, wireless connectivity, and health monitoring tools [19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24]. In the early 2000s, mobile phones began incorporating basic health-related features such as calorie trackers and fitness apps. Text message-based interventions emerged, providing personalized support, reminders, and motivation for weight management. Basic pedometer apps were introduced to track daily steps and encourage physical activity [25, 26]. The 2010s marked a period of proliferation for health and fitness apps. The rise of smartphones led to a wide array of tools offering features like calorie counting, meal tracking, and workout planning. Wearable fitness trackers became popular, enabling users to monitor their activity levels, sleep patterns, and calorie expenditure in real time. Integration with social media platforms allowed users to share progress, compete with friends, and access virtual support communities. Gamification techniques, including rewards, challenges, and virtual badges, enhanced user engagement and adherence to weight-loss goals [27, 28, 29, 30]. From the late 2010s to the present, advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have driven the development of more personalized mHealth solutions for weight control [17]. These solutions leverage AI algorithms within apps and wearable devices to analyze user data, offer personalized recommendations, and adapt interventions based on individual preferences and goals [20, 21]. Moreover, integration with health metrics like heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels provides a comprehensive approach to weight management [31, 32]. Virtual assistants and chatbots play a crucial role by offering real-time coaching, guidance, and behavioral support, enhancing motivation and adherence to healthy habits [21].