Effects of a community based weight loss intervention in rural New York: A pilot study

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this longitudinal study is to evaluate the outcomes of a weight loss intervention in a rural community wellness center.METHODS: This six month (Oct'13‐ April'14) community based weight loss program was coordinated by the Plattsburgh City Recreation Department and SUNY Plattsburgh. Nineteen overweight adults (18 female, 1 male) aged 18 to 60 years (43.7 ± 12.2 years) residing in Clinton County, NY were recruited through local advertisements. Participants were charged a one time @100 fee. The program comprised twice‐weekly group exercise and bi‐monthly nutrition education classes. Paired samples t‐test and McNemer tests were performed to examine the pre‐post program outcomes.RESULTS: Individuals completing the program averaged a weight loss of 29.2 ± 22.5 pounds and inches loss of 22.04 ± 12.2. Significant reduction in BMI (3.4 ± 2.2, p < 0.001), % body fat (3.4 ± 2.3, p < 0.001), systolic blood pressure (11.3 ± 13.6, p < 0.05), diastolic blood pressure (7.75 ± 8.3, p < 0.05) and total cholesterol (20.33 ± 33.1, p < 0.10) were observed at 6 months. Prevalence of prehypertension and hypertension reduced from 80% to 46% (n =11, McNemar test: NS). Although not statistically significant, fasting lipids and blood glucose improved regardless of age. While there was no significant change in diet, consumption of roots and tubers decreased significantly.CONCLUSIONOur program results indicate that participants who complete a self‐paid, structured rural community‐based weight loss program can achieve significant weight loss with improvement in cardiovascular risk factors regardless of age.Funding: Presidential Research Award, SUNY Plattsburgh