Predictors of outcome in a risk factor intervention trial using behavior modification

Abstract

To evaluate factors related to successful completion of a behavior modification program aimed primarily at eating habits, 100 volunteers, 82 women and 18 men, 40 ± 1 ( x ± SEM ) years in age took part in a 20-week program in groups of 12–14 subjects. In the 65 subjects who completed the program, significant ( P < 0.05) decreases in weight, skinfold thickness, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total serum cholesterol, and uric acid were observed. Changes in HDL cholesterol and triglycerides were not significant. In both univariate and multivariate analysis, attrition was significantly associated with factors identified at entry—cigarette smoking, higher body weight, larger desired weight loss, and psychiatric history. Actual weight loss in subjects who completed the program was significantly greater in those with a modest weight loss goal, and in married subjects perceiving their spouse as supportive or overweight. Decreases in total serum cholesterol were significantly smaller in subjects with a family history of cardiovascular disease. Thus factors that predict the outcome of a behavior modification intervention program for cardiovascular risk factor reduction can be identified at entry. Other strategies should be developed for poor responders; this strategy may be encouraged for use in potentially good responders.