Effectiveness of a weight management intervention in rural worksite settings in Upstate New York

Background and Objective: Obesity has become a national epidemic with rates increasing steadily every year. The health care issues and costs associated with obesity are vast. Rural populations, compared to the general population, have a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity. Typical rural characteristics such as higher age and lower socio-economic status are likely contributors. Researchers adapted NHLBI's Aim For a Healthy Weight (AFHW) program used in the clinical setting, for use in small rural worksite settings. A three month pilot study was conducted in 2004 and results included a trend toward a healthier BMI class and a decrease in body fat. Researchers further adapted the program and developed materials for an eighteen month intervention. Researchers will assess the effectiveness by evaluating changes in attitude and behavioral intent, in addition to changes in physical measures. Methods: Test modified program in eight randomly selected intervention worksites, stratified by industry type and size, and compare results to eight control sites that were given minimal intervention. Intervention program is 18 months in duration with a 6 month weight loss phase (5-10% of current weight), 6 month weight maintenance phase, and 6 month long-term weight maintenance phase. Results: Preliminary analysis of physical measures among active participants in four intervention worksites show an average 1.2 unit decrease in BMI (SD 2.0), average 1.7 inch decrease in waist circumference (SD 2.2), and an average 1.07 percent decrease in body fat (SD 3.6). Conclusion: Future analysis will determine the effectiveness of the program.