Live Healthy America: A web-based health promotion program

Live Healthy America (LHA) is the nationwide expansion of the successful web-based Lighten Up Iowa. The purpose of LHA is to prevent overweight, obesity, and obesity-related health conditions and to improve overall health. The team-focused program provides the tools, resources, and technology to assist individuals, organizations, and corporations in creating a culture of wellness. Participants form teams and are supplied with a variety of support and education materials to encourage healthy lifestyles, which include nutrition, fitness, and weight- loss tips. The teams can participate in one of three divisions of LHA: weight loss, physical activity, or a combination. This online program has been incorporated and championed by communities, businesses and organizations nationwide. In 2007, approximately 36,000 people participated in the program. Nearly 60,000 people are participating in Live Healthy America programs in 2008. Previously, program evaluation of health outcomes has been limited to group total weight loss and participant miles. Outcome data collected for the 2008 Live Healthy America program include body mass index (BMI), health-related quality of life, health conditions, physical activity and eating habits pre-, immediately post-, and 6 months post- program. The additional data will improve evaluation of the long-term effects of this program and help guide program development.