Objectives: An Academic medical center employees, noting the prevalence of overweight and obesity among fellow employees, created a health promotion work-site weight reduction/exercise program. The goal of the program is to promote health and wellness to a richly diverse employee population by providing information that underscores the need to maintain an appropriate energy balance through healthy food consumption and physical exercise. The objectives were to have participants make some behavioral changes and lose 10-20 pounds over a 1-year period. Method: A three-strategy approach included initiatives on nutrition, an on-site exercise program, and employee peer-led support groups. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire examining changes in nutrition and exercise activity, and perception of which aspects of the program fostered weight loss and overall health. Results: An initial assessment of employees who remained after the first two months, 79% (n=85) revealed participants lost an average of 2.7 lbs (range: 13.5 lbs lost – 7.0 lbs gained). Those with a BMI of <25 averaged 2.2 lbs weight loss; those with BMI 25-28 averaged 1.1 lbs weight loss; those with a BMI > 29 averaged 3.7 lbs weight loss. Participation in all aspects of the program was associated with a greater amount of weight loss Conclusion: Initial assessment of the program suggests that it is proceeding according to the original plan. However, further action is required: a more in-depth evaluation of different aspects of the program as well as an investigation into the reasons for employee non-compliance and dropout.
Learning Objectives: At the end of the session, participants will be able to: 1. create an employee led health promotion and weight loss program by applying "The Healthy Downstate Model". 2. The participants will be able to assess their worksite resources such as personnel, available space for meetings and exercise classes, funding, and peer leadership.
Keywords: Worksite, Health Promotion
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: State University of New York Downstate Medical Center
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Campus Grant: Office of the President