Application of digital health technologies to substance use reduction among students in higher education institutions: A scoping review

Abstract

Substance use among college and university students is associated with significant health issues, academic struggles, and premature death. This scoping review explores the potential of digital health interventions, including internet-based and mobile platforms, to reduce substance use. A comprehensive search across databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Google Scholar identified 11 eligible studies conducted across seven countries between 2013 and 2025. These studies focused primarily on alcohol use and included digital health tools like instant messaging, Telegram applications, text messaging, and web-based interventions. The results suggest that digital health technologies can effectively motivate college students in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to reduce or abstain from psychoactive substance use. However, there is a notable research gap in evaluating the effectiveness and feasibility of these tools, especially mobile text messaging, which remains one of the most widely used methods in LMICs. The review highlights the need for further research, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, to better understand the impact of digital health interventions on substance use reduction and to develop evidence-based programs for behavior change.