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Effectiveness of a worksite‐based weight loss randomized controlled trial: The worksite study
Author(s) -
Almeida Fabio A.,
You Wen,
Harden Samantha M.,
Blackman Kacie C.A.,
Davy Brenda M.,
Glasgow Russell E.,
Hill Jennie L.,
Linnan Laura A.,
Wall Sarah S.,
Yenerall Jackie,
Zoellner Jamie M.,
Estabrooks Paul A.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
obesity
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.438
H-Index - 199
eISSN - 1930-739X
pISSN - 1930-7381
DOI - 10.1002/oby.20899
Subject(s) - weight loss , overweight , medicine , randomized controlled trial , obesity , intervention (counseling) , physical therapy , gerontology , nursing
Objective To determine the effectiveness of an individually targeted Internet‐based intervention with monetary incentives (INCENT) at reducing weight of overweight and obese employees when compared with a less‐intensive intervention (Livin' My Weigh [LMW]) 6 months after program initiation. Methods Twenty‐eight worksites were randomly assigned to either INCENT or LMW conditions. Both programs used evidence‐based strategies to support weight loss. INCENT was delivered via daily e‐mails over 12 months while LMW was delivered quarterly via both newsletters and on‐site educational sessions. Generalized linear mixed models were conducted for weight change from baseline to 6 months post‐program and using an intention‐to‐treat analysis to include all participants with baseline weight measurements. Results Across 28 worksites, 1,790 employees ( M = 47 years of age; 79% Caucasian; 74% women) participated. Participants lost an average of 2.27 lbs ( P < 0.001) with a BMI decrease of 0.36 kg/m 2 ( P < 0.001) and 1.30 lbs ( P < 0.01) with a BMI decrease of 0.20 kg/m 2 ( P < 0.01) in INCENT and LMW, respectively. The differences between INCENT and LMW in weight loss and BMI reduction were not statistically significant. Conclusions This study suggests that INCENT and a minimal intervention alternative may be effective approaches to help decrease the overall obesity burden within worksites.