Impact of a pharmacist led workforce health promotion designed to improve exercise habits, blood pressure, and weight

BACKGROUND: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) obesity is a significant public health problem in the U.S. Physical activity can help reduce weight and weight related health issues such as blood pressure. Furthermore, workforce health promotions (WHP) can have positive impacts on employee health. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the impact of a WHP coordinated and led by community pharmacists on walking habits, body mass index (BMI), and blood pressure. METHODS: Employees of a private university, 18 years and older were recruited via flyers, emails, and university news articles for the 12-week program. The program consisted of pharmacist led educational sessions regarding diet and exercise. Participants were also educated on pedometer use and instructed on keeping a walking journal. Participants formed teams for the purposes of peer support. Pharmacists documented weight, blood pressure, and pedometer readings throughout the intervention. RESULTS: A total of 198 participants (150 (75.758%) females and 48 (24.242%) males) completed the study. The mean age of the participants was 45.215 years. Participants showed significant decreases in weight (t=3.713, df=145, p<=.000), BMI (t=3.700, df=101, p<=.000), systolic blood pressure (t=4.082, df=146, p<=.000), and diastolic blood pressure (t=2.366, df=146, p=0.019). Participants were walking an average of 9429.97 steps daily by the end of the program which represents a significant increase (t=8.062, df=110, p<=0.000). CONCLUSIONS: A WHP, coordinated and led by pharmacists can have a significant positive impact on exercise habits, blood pressure, and BMI of adults.