Participation In Lifestyle Intervention Research Articles

Camp-style lifestyle modification program (CAMP) for diabetes prevention among rural women with prior GDM: study protocol for a three-arm cluster hybrid type 2 randomized controlled trial

BackgroundIntensive lifestyle interventions were effective to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) for women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) history. However, reaching these mothers and maintaining participation in lifestyle interventions is suboptimal in real-world settings. Effective, feasible and sustainable new lifestyle interventions are needed. The objectives of this three-arm trial are to (1) compare diabetes risk outcomes of an evidence-based intensive lifestyle modification (ILSM) intervention, a camp-style lifestyle modification program (CAMP) intervention, and usual care among women with GDM history; and (2) evaluate the comparative efficacy of the CAMP versus ILSM intervention on implementation outcomes.MethodsA three-arm cluster randomized clinical trial (RCT) using a hybrid type 2 implementation design will be conducted in two counties in Hunan province in China. Six towns from each county will be randomly selected and assigned to CAMP, ILSM, and the usual care group (25 women from each of 12 towns, 100 women in each arm). The ILSM includes six biweekly in-person sessions and 3-month telephone health consultations, while the CAMP consists of a 2-day camp-based session and 3-month health consultations via a popular social media platform. Both interventions share the same session content, including six lifestyle skills. Efficacy (T2DM risk score and behavioral, anthropometric, psychosocial, and glycemic variables) and implementation outcomes (recruitment, acceptability, feasibility, fidelity, and cost-effectiveness) will be collected at baseline, 6-month, and 12-month. Pre-planned ANOVA F-test and generalized estimating equations will be included to test time-by-arm interactions.DiscussionThe CAMP intervention is expected to have better reach, better attendance, and comparable effectiveness in reducing the risk of T2DM, thus improving postpartum care for GDM in China. The delivery of a concentrated format supplemented with technology-based support may provide an efficient and effective delivery model for implementing maternal health promotion programs in primary care settings.Trial registrationRegistered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2200058150) on 31st March 2022.

Participation in a multicomponent lifestyle intervention for people with obesity improves glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).

Obesity is associated with compromised glucose metabolism. Hence, it is of interest to investigate if the lifestyle interventions used in the LIBRA-cohort, which aimed at not only weight loss, but also patient well-being, could also help obese patients improve glucose metabolism by evidence of reduced HbA1c. The aim of the study was to retrospectively investigate if patients who were referred to a lifestyle intervention for obesity, were able to alter HbA1c. Patients with a BMI≥30 undergoing a 6-month lifestyle intervention, who also completed physical and mental health surveys and whose baseline and 6-month blood samples were available, were included in the analysis. For changes in HbA1c and body weight a clinically relevant change of 5≥mmom/mol and 5%≥, respectively, was chosen. Participants were divided into groups according to their baseline HbA1c level: "Diabetes": HbA1c of ≥6.5% (≥48 mmol/mol), "Prediabetes": HbA1c of 5.7% to 6.4% (39-47.99 mmol/mol) or "Normal" HbA1c <5.7% (<39 mmol/mol). 180 patients met the stated inclusion criteria and these patients were divided into groups (median age (25th;75th quartile): Diabetes: n=47, age 54 (43;60), 51% women, Prediabetes: n=68, age 60 (50;66), 71% women and Normal: n=65, median age 61 (50;66), 85% women. Significant reductions were found in all three groups and specifically in the diabetes group HbA1c was reduced (mean [95%CI]) -5[-8;-2] mmol/mol from baseline to the end of the intervention. Furthermore, 35% of patients with prediabetes normalized their HbA1c (<39) and 30% patients with diabetes reduced their HbA1c <48. All groups had clinically relevant (≥5%) reductions in body weight (p<0.01). There was an association between body weight reduction and HbA1c reduction in the diabetes group (p<0.01). All groups reported improvements in physical health (p<0.01). In this retrospective cohort study, all patients achieved clinically relevant weight loss after participation in the lifestyle intervention and obese patients with diabetes achieved clinically relevant reductions in HbA1c after 6-months. More than 1/3 of patients with prediabetes normalized their HbA1c.

Mixed-method approach to informing a lifestyle intervention to improve the survivorship of patients with endometrial cancer

ObjectivesTo identify endometrial cancer survivors' (ECS) barriers and facilitators for participation in lifestyle interventions to improve their dietary and exercise behaviors. Our secondary objective is to determine baseline information: physical activity level, quality of life (QoL), and impact of COVID-19 on exercise, diet, and mental health. MethodsObese, early-stage ECS participated in 2-part mixed-methods data collection; Part 1: survey gathering sample characteristics, QoL, exercise, and basic endometrial cancer- related knowledge. Part 2: virtual focus group or individual interviews using a brainwriting premortem protocol. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS (version 8.3). Qualitative data were analyzed using deductive thematic coding guided by the RE-AIM framework. ResultsTwenty percent (70/358) of ECS from a survivorship database and clinic recruitment completed the survey; 16 ECS provided qualitative feedback. Common barriers to intervention participation included time and resource costs, meeting frequency, and pessimism about weight loss maintenance. Facilitators included an opportunity to connect with other survivors and a focus on health rather than weight loss. Most ECS could not identify exercise guidelines (60%) and 83% were not meeting these guidelines. Higher BMI was correlated with a lower confidence in completing in moderate physical activity (p-value = 0.0206). Post-COVID-19 pandemic, physical activity, nutritional decisions, and/or mental health worsened for 67% of ECS. ConclusionECS are a disparate population, with worsening behaviors and mental health following the pandemic. The identified ECS-specific barriers and facilitators to behavioral intervention participation are being used to simultaneously improve the reach of and adherence to a lifestyle intervention aimed at improving their health and QoL.

Perspectives of mental health clinicians on physical health of young people with early psychosis.

The aim of this study is to explore the views and understanding of youth mental health clinicians with regard to the physical health of young people with early psychosis and their perspectives on lifestyle interventions improving the health and well-being of young people with early psychosis. Physical health disparities leading to premature mortality among people with mental illness are well evident in the literature. Mental health and physical health are directly correlated. The risk of poor physical health often begins before the onset of mental ill health. Young people with early psychosis are highly susceptible to poor physical health. A co-designed integrated approach focusing on early prevention and intervention in overall well-being and health is imminent for this targeted population to prevent poor physical health trajectory across the lifespan. Ten clinicians were recruited and participated in this study through semi-structured interviews. Five themes were identified: (i) Impact of early psychosis, (ii) Focus of care, (iii) Conversations around physical health, (iv) Co-location of specialist roles and (v) Health literacy. The findings of this study confirm the dimensional impact of early psychosis on the well-being and health of young people through the vicious cycle of early psychosis. Promotion of health literacy along with social connectedness and elements of self-determination, as well as having a prime focus on the individuals' experience in the journey of health promotion through participation in lifestyle interventions, has been identified as critically prominent.

Psychosocial determinants for adherence to a healthy lifestyle and intervention participation in the FINGER trial: an exploratory analysis of a randomised clinical trial

Background and aimsPsychosocial factors may affect adherence to lifestyle interventions and lifestyle changes. The role of psychosocial factors in dementia prevention needs more research. We aimed at clarify the issue in the Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER).MethodsThe population included 1260 participants aged 60–77 years at risk for cognitive decline, randomised to a multidomain lifestyle intervention or regular health advice for 2 years. Adherence was evaluated as participation in the provided activities and actual lifestyle changes, separately for each domain (diet, exercise, social/cognitive activity, vascular risk management) and combined into multidomain. Psychosocial factors were measured at trial baseline (depressive symptoms; study perception; health-related quality of life, HRQoL) and earlier life (hopelessness; satisfaction with family life, achievements, and financial situation).ResultsDepressive symptoms, hopelessness, and nonpositive study perception were negatively and HRQoL positively associated with participation in the multidomain intervention. Depressive symptoms, lower HRQoL, hopelessness and dissatisfaction with financial situation were associated with unhealthier lifestyles at baseline. Baseline depressive symptoms and lower HRQoL predicted less improvement in lifestyle, but did not modify the intervention effect on lifestyle change.Discussion and conclusionsSeveral psychosocial factors were associated with participation in lifestyle intervention, while fewer of them contributed to lifestyle changes. Although the intervention was beneficial for lifestyle changes independent of psychosocial factors, those most in need of lifestyle improvement were less likely to be active. Tailoring lifestyle-modifying strategies based on the need for psychosocial support may add efficacy in future trials.Trial RegistryClinicalTrials.gov NCT01041989 2010-01-05

The influence of partners on successful lifestyle modification in patients with coronary artery disease

BackgroundMarital status is associated with prognosis in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the influence of partners on successful modification of lifestyle-related risk factors (LRFs) in secondary CVD prevention is unclear. Therefore, we studied the association between the presence of a partner, partner participation in lifestyle interventions and LRF modification in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). MethodsIn a secondary analysis of the RESPONSE-2 trial (n = 711), which compared nurse-coordinated referral to community-based lifestyle programs (smoking cessation, weight reduction and/or physical activity) to usual care in patients with CAD, we investigated the association between the presence of a partner and the level of partner participation on improvement in >1 LRF (urinary cotinine <200 ng/l, ≥5% weight reduction, ≥10% increased 6-min walking distance) without deterioration in other LRFs at 12 months follow-up. ResultsThe proportion of patients with a partner was 80% (571/711); 19% women (108/571). In the intervention group, 48% (141/293) had a participating partner in ≥1 lifestyle program. Overall, the presence of a partner was associated with patients' successful LRF modification (adjusted risk ratio (aRR) 1.93, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.40–2.51). A participating partner was associated with successful weight reduction (aRR 1.73, 95% CI 1.15–2.35). ConclusionThe presence of a partner is associated with LRF improvement in patients with CAD. Moreover, patients with partners participating in lifestyle programs are more successful in reducing weight. Involving partners of CAD patients in weight reduction interventions should be considered in routine practice.

Development, Validation and Field Evaluation of the Singapore Longitudinal Ageing Study (SLAS) Risk Index for Prediction of Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a critical pre-dementia target for preventive interventions. There are few brief screening tools based on self-reported personal lifestyle and health-related information for predicting MCI that have been validated for their generalizability and utility in primary care and community settings. To develop and validate a MCI risk prediction index, and evaluate its field application in a pilot community intervention trial project. Two independent population-based cohorts in the Singapore Longitudinal Ageing Study (SLAS). We used SLAS1 as a development cohort to construct the risk assessment instrument, and SLA2 as a validation cohort to verify its generalizability. community-based screening and lifestyle intervention Participants: (1) SLAS1 cognitively normal (CN) aged ≥55 years with average 3 years (N=1601); (2) SLAS2 cohort (N=3051) with average 4 years of follow up. (3) 437 participants in a pilot community intervention project. The risk index indicators included age, female sex, years of schooling, hearing loss, depression, life satisfaction, number of cardio-metabolic risk factors (wide waist circumference, pre-diabetes or diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia). Weighted summed scores predicted probabilities of MCI or dementia. A self-administered questionnaire field version of the risk index was deployed in the pilot community project and evaluated using pre-intervention baseline cognitive function of participants. Risk scores were associated with increasing probabilities of progression to MCI-or-dementia in the development cohort (AUC=0.73) and with increased prevalence and incidence of MCI-or-dementia in the validation cohort (AUC=0.74). The field questionnaire risk index identified high risk individuals with strong correlation with RBANS cognitive scores in the community program (p<0.001). The SLAS risk index is accurate and replicable in predicting MCI, and is applicable in community interventions for dementia prevention.

Patient and Medical Oncologists' Perspectives on Prescribed Lifestyle Intervention-Experiences of Women with Breast Cancer and Providers.

This study explored the perspectives and experiences of breast cancer patients and medical oncologists with regards to participation in a lifestyle intervention at a tertiary cancer treatment center. A thematic approach was used to understand the context within which a lifestyle intervention was recommended and experienced, to inform future lifestyle programming and promote uptake. Twelve women with breast cancer receiving adjuvant chemotherapy and eight medical oncologists completed interviews. Findings suggest receiving a prescription for a lifestyle intervention from a trusted health professional was influential to women with breast cancer. The intervention offered physical, psychological, emotional, social, and informational benefits to the women and oncologists perceived both physiological and relational benefit to prescribing the intervention. Challenges focused on program access and tailored interventions. Lifestyle prescriptions are perceived by women with breast cancer to have numerous benefits and may promote lifestyle interventions and build rapport between oncologists and women. Oncology healthcare professionals play a pivotal role in motivating women’s participation in lifestyle interventions during breast cancer treatment. Maintenance programs that transition patients into community settings and provide on-going information and follow-up are needed.

830-P: Influence of Social Circumstances on Maintenance of Body Weight and Incident Type 2 Diabetes: Analyses from the Diabetes Prevention Program

The impact of social and environmental circumstances on success in an intensive behavioral intervention to lose weight and reduce risk of type 2 diabetes is unknown. We examined the association of social and environmental circumstances such as provisions of social relations and support, home and work environment, and adverse life events on weight loss and diabetes incidence in the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) randomized controlled trial. We included data on 650 female and 319 male adults from the DPP lifestyle intervention group with information on social circumstances and body weight at baseline and follow-up after 6 months (24 weeks of lifestyle intervention), 1, and 2 years. We applied Cox proportional hazards model to obtain hazard ratios (HRs), with social circumstances as the exposures and body weight gain (&amp;gt;7%) or development of diabetes as outcome, adjusting for baseline age, sex, marital status, and number of individuals in the home of the participant. Life style intervention participants who experienced events or changes at work during the DPP trial had a 44% higher risk of developing diabetes [HRR=1.44, 95% CI:1.02;2.04] as compared to lifestyle intervention participants who did not have such experiences at work. Adjustment of body weight gain after the intervention period explained a small component of this risk: 1.38 [95% CI:0.94;2.03]. Negative changes in the home environment [HRR=1.09, 95% CI:0.76;1.56], low provision of social relations [HRR=1.15, 95% CI:0.81;1.65] or adverse life events [HRR=1.14, 95% CI:0.81;1.62] did not increase the HR of developing diabetes. Social circumstances were not associated with &amp;gt;7% body weight increase between the end of the intervention period and 1 or year 2. Thus, our results suggest that work changes and stresses may worsen the possibility of lowering diabetes risk through intensive lifestyle interventions. Disclosure J. NIelsen: None. M.K. Ali: None. Funding National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; General Clinical Research Center; Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; National Institute on Aging; Office of Research on Women's Health; Office of Research on Minority Health; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Agreement between cystatin-C and creatinine based eGFR estimates after a 12-month exercise intervention in patients with chronic kidney disease

BackgroundEstimation of GFR (eGFR) using formulae based on serum creatinine concentrations are commonly used to assess kidney function. Physical exercise can increase creatinine turnover and lean mass; therefore, this method may not be suitable for use in exercising individuals. Cystatin-C based eGFR formulae may be a more accurate measure of kidney function when examining the impact of exercise on kidney function. The aim of this study was to assess the agreement of four creatinine and cystatin-C based estimates of GFR before and after a 12-month exercise intervention.MethodsOne hundred forty-two participants with stage 3–4 chronic kidney disease (CKD) (eGFR 25–60 mL/min/1.73 m2) were included. Subjects were randomised to either a Control group (standard nephrological care [n = 68]) or a Lifestyle Intervention group (12 months of primarily aerobic based exercise training [n = 74]). Four eGFR formulae were compared at baseline and after 12 months: 1) MDRDcr, 2) CKD-EPIcr, 3) CKD-EPIcys and 4) CKD-EPIcr-cys.ResultsControl participants were aged 63.5[9.4] years, 60.3% were male, 42.2% had diabetes, and had an eGFR of 40.5 ± 8.9 ml/min/1.73m2. Lifestyle Intervention participants were aged 60.5[14.2] years, 59.5% were male, 43.8% had diabetes, and had an eGFR of 38.9 ± 8.5 ml/min/1.73m2. There were no significant baseline differences between the two groups. Lean mass (r = 0.319, p < 0.01) and grip strength (r = 0.391, p < 0.001) were associated with serum creatinine at baseline. However, there were no significant correlations between cystatin-C and the same measures. The Lifestyle Intervention resulted in significant improvements in exercise capacity (+ 1.9 ± 1.8 METs, p < 0.001). There were no changes in lean mass in both Control and Lifestyle Intervention groups during the 12 months. CKD-EPIcys was considerably lower in both groups at both baseline and 12 months than CKD-EPIcr (Control = − 10.5 ± 9.1 and − 13.1 ± 11.8, and Lifestyle Intervention = − 7.9 ± 8.6 and − 8.4 ± 12.3 ml/min/1.73 m2), CKD-EPIcr-cys (Control = − 3.6 ± 3.7 and − 4.5 ± 4.5, and Lifestyle Intervention = − 3.6 ± 3.7 and − 2.5 ± 5.5 ml/min/1.73 m2) and MDRDcr (Control = − 9.3 ± 8.4 and − 12.0 ± 10.7, Lifestyle Intervention = − 6.4 ± 8.4 and − 6.9 ± 11.2 ml/min/1.73 m2).ConclusionsIn CKD patients participating in a primarily aerobic based exercise training, without improvements in lean mass, cystatin-C and creatinine based eGFR provided similar estimates of kidney function at both baseline and after 12 months of exercise training.Trial registrationThe trial was registered at www.anzctr.org.au (Registration Number ANZCTR12608000337370) on the 17/07/2008 (retrospectively registered).

Abstract 211: Long-Term Participant Engagement in Weight Management Programs

Lifestyle interventions must be effective at engaging participants beyond the initial intervention period in order to be successful in reducing long-term cardiovascular risks. Unfortunately, there is a lack of evidence for improvement in long-term cardiovascular outcomes following participation in lifestyle interventions. Participant engagement has been shown to wane after the first 12 months of participation. This gradual reduction in engagement may be responsible for the limited evidence for an effect on long-term cardiovascular risk. The objective of this study is to assess patient, program and community characteristics associated with better participant engagement after 2 years in a weight management program. This is an observational study of 330,522 participants enrolled in MOVE! programs within the Veterans Healthcare Administration (VHA) from 2008 to 2013. The MOVE! program is a nationwide weight management intervention integrated into primary care within the VHA and provided free to Veterans. Participant engagement is defined as the number of MOVE! program visits per year for each participant. Engagement is assessed at 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months following the first program visit. Bivariate statistics and multivariate generalized linear models were used to assess factors associated with patient engagement at each time point. At the first MOVE! visit, the average participant age was 56.3 years old (SD=12.0) with a body mass index of 36.9 [Standard Deviation (SD)=5.4). Most participants were male (87.9 and lived in an urban area (69.7%) an average of 38.6 miles from the MOVE! program (SD=48.5). Eight percent (7.5%) of participants had a Charlson Comorbidity Index of 4 or more at the time of their first visit. Engagement decreased as time from the first visit increased. Patients had a median of 4.0 visits per year at 6 months [Interquartile Range (IQR)=2.0-8.0], 2.0 visits per year at 12 months (IQR=1.0-5.0), and 1.0 visit per year at 24 months (IQR=0.5-3.0). In adjusted models of 24-month engagement, older age (beta=0.03, p&lt;0.01), greater body mass index (beta=0.06, p&lt;0.01), and female gender (beta=0.46, p&lt;0.01) were associated with better engagement. Factors predicting better engagement at each time period were similar with the exception of comorbidities. More comorbidities at the time of first visit was the only factor associated with a small improvement in 24-month engagement (beta=0.01, p=0.04) but no difference in 6-month (p=0.35) or 12-month (p=0.10) engagement. In conclusion, in this large observational study, female gender, greater BMI, older age, and more comorbidities are associated with better 24-month engagement in a weight management program. Few factors stood out as predictors of better 24-month engagement as compared to 6- and 12-month engagement.

Effectiveness of nationwide screening and lifestyle intervention for abdominal obesity and cardiometabolic risks in Japan: The metabolic syndrome and comprehensive lifestyle intervention study on nationwide database in Japan (MetS ACTION-J study).

BackgroundLifestyle interventions can substantially improve obesity and cardiometabolic risks. However, evidence of long-term benefits of national intervention is sparse. We aimed to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of a nationwide program for abdominal obesity.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was performed using a longitudinal nationwide individual data in subjects aged 40–74 years who underwent checkups in fiscal year (FY) 2008. Lifestyle interventions were provided via interview in subjects with abdominal obesity and at least one cardiometabolic risk factor. Subjects who attended the lifestyle intervention (participants) were compared to those who did not attend (non-participants). Outcomes were waist circumferences (WC) and body mass index (BMI) reduction, reversal of metabolic syndrome (MetS), and changes in cardiometabolic risks. We used a three-step process with robust analytic approaches to account for selection bias that included traditional multivariate analysis, propensity-score matching and instrumental variable (IV) analyses.ResultsOf 19,969,722 subjects, 4,370,042 were eligible for analyses; 111,779 participants and 907,909 non-participants. A higher percentage of participants had ≥5% reductions in obesity profiles at year 3, compared to non-participants (WC, 21.4% vs 16.1%; BMI, 17.6% vs 13.6%; p<0.001 each). Participants also had higher reversal for MetS (adjusted odds ratio 1.31; 95% confidence interval: 1.29–1.33; p<0.001). Greater reductions in cardiometabolic risks were observed in participants. Those results were confirmed in analyses using a propensity score-matched cohort (n = 75,777, each) and IV analyses. Limitations of this work include the use of non-randomized national data in Japan to assess the effectiveness of the nationwide preventive program.ConclusionsIn the nationwide lifestyle intervention for abdominal obesity, the at-risk population achieved significant reductions in WC, BMI, and cardiometabolic risks in 3 years. This study provides evidence that the nationwide program effectively achieved long-term improvement in abdominal obesity and cardiometabolic risks.

Joining, belonging, and re-valuing: A process of meaning-making through group participation in a mental health lifestyle intervention

Background: Balancing Everyday Life (BEL), a new group-based intervention for mental health service users, was implemented in Sweden. Mental health service users often experience group interventions as meaningful, but knowledge of the process of meaning-making in a group is lacking.Aim: To explore participants’ perceptions of the group in the Balancing Everyday Life (BEL) lifestyle intervention; specifically, personal experiences of what brings meaning when participating in a group.Methods: This qualitative Grounded Theory study included 26 interviews with 19 BEL participants.Results: A process of meaning-making in a group was constructed: Joining with others: from feeling alone to connected, A sense of belonging: mutual support and understanding, and Re-valuing Self: respect and self-worth. No longer feeling alone contributed to meaning. Peers and group leaders were considered important parts of the group, and participants appreciated feeling understood, respected, and helping others.Conclusion: The proposed process of meaning-making, as well as ‘Joining’ as a unique step, seems to be new contributions which could help practitioners when organizing groups. Overcoming fear of joining could break a cycle of isolation and lead to connecting and belonging. The value of participants finding purpose through helping others should be further explored.

Objectively Assessed Physical Activity and Weight Loss Maintenance among Individuals Enrolled in a Lifestyle Intervention.

ObjectiveTo examine the relationship between objectively-assessed moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and 4-year weight loss (WL) and WL maintenance among individuals with diabetes enrolled in the Look AHEAD trial.MethodsMVPA was measured on a subgroup of lifestyle intervention participants with accelerometry data at baseline, 1 and 4 years (n=553; age: 59.7±6.8yrs; BMI:35.5±5.9kg/m2). Minutes/week of bout-related MVPA was calculated (≥3 METs, ≥10-min bouts) and adherence to the national PA recommendation for WL maintenance (≥250 min/week) was assessed.ResultsIndependent of 1-year WL, 4-year MVPA (β=-0.003, SE=0.002, p=0.006), but not 1-year MVPA (β=0.0001, SE=0.001, p=0.50) was significantly associated with 4-year WL. Compared to ‘Non-maintainers’ (≥10% WL at Year 1, but <10% at Year 4; n=132), WL Maintainers (≥10% WL at Years 1 and 4; n=103) had higher MVPA at Year 1 (253.4±251.8 vs. 163.9±158.2 min/wk, p=0.002) and Year 4 (155.3±180.6 vs. 111.4±154.5 min/wk, p=0.046). While 38.8% and 22.3% of WL Maintainers engaged in ≥250 min/week at years 1 and 4 respectively, many engaged in <150 min/week (Year 1: 41% and Year 4: 61%).ConclusionsHigher weekly MVPA is associated with greater long-term WL and weight maintenance; however many individuals are able to maintain ≥10% WL while engaging in little MVPA.

Manawanui whai ora kaitiaki: Empowering self-management through a partnership approach

In 2014 The Ministry of Health commissioned a demonstration project for a new model of care for patients with Long Term Conditions (LTCs). The model focuses on empowering people with a chronic disease to successfully self-manage their condition and participate in shared decision–making with their primary health care team. This is based on the premise that patients more actively engaged in their self-care are more likely to experience better health outcomes. Hauraki PHO chose to partner with Health Care NZ to develop its LTC programme, known as Manawanui Whai Ora Kaitiaki (MWOK) - supporting a pathway to wellness. Building on HCNZ’s Te Whiringa Ora/Care Connections (TWO) model, the programme provides outreach support for patients living with LTCs and their whanau through a mobile nursing and kaiawhina team, based in the general practice environment and operating as an extension of the general practice team. The model of care underpinning the programme transcends across traditional health and social sector boundaries and incorporates clinical, social and environmental interventions and navigation support. At the end of the first year of implementation, an independent evaluation has highlighted the positive impact of the programme on patient activation, ability to self-manage, maintenance of wellness and participation in lifestyle interventions to improve health.

An Integrated Approach to Addressing Chronic Disease Risk Factors in Financially Disadvantaged Women in South Carolina.

We combined data from the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection (NBCCEDP) and Well-Integrated Screening and Evaluation for Women Across the Nation (WISEWOMAN) programs in South Carolina to assess whether cancer screening outcomes in NBCCEDP impacted participation in WISEWOMAN lifestyle interventions, and whether the status of WISEWOMAN baseline risk factors (obesity, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, and smoking) determined subsequent completion of lifestyle interventions. Case-control. Three WISEWOMAN implementation sites in South Carolina. The study comprised 7841 NBCCDEP participants in three WISEWOMAN program sites. The two programs serve financially disadvantaged women. Outcome measures were participation in WISEWOMAN lifestyle interventions and completion of lifestyle interventions. The main predictor measures were cancer screening outcomes and baseline chronic disease risk factors. Covariate measures included age, race, body mass index, smoking status, and education. We used multivariable logistic regression models to examine the odds of participation in and completion of WISEWOMAN lifestyle interventions. The association between cancer screening outcome and participation in WISEWOMAN lifestyle interventions among NBCCEDP participants differed significantly by education and smoking status. Among smokers or highly educated women, having an outcome of cancer or precancerous lesion through the NBCCEDP screening compared to normal screening outcomes was significantly associated with participation in lifestyle interventions, with odds ratios of 2.69 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10-6.58) for highly educated women and 1.82 (95% CI, 1.00-3.31) for smokers. Similarly, smokers or diabetics were more likely than nonsmokers or nondiabetics, respectively, to complete lifestyle interventions. Nonsmokers and women with lower education in NBCCEDP may need additional navigation to lifestyle interventions in an integrated program implementation approach to improve participation in and completion of WISEWOMAN interventions.

Brain and White Matter Hyperintensity Volumes After 10 Years of Random Assignment to Lifestyle Intervention.

OBJECTIVEType 2 diabetes increases the accumulation of brain white matter hyperintensities and loss of brain tissue. Behavioral interventions to promote weight loss through dietary changes and increased physical activity may delay these adverse consequences. We assessed whether participation in a successful 10-year lifestyle intervention was associated with better profiles of brain structure.RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODSAt enrollment in the Action for Health in Diabetes clinical trial, participants had type 2 diabetes, were overweight or obese, and were aged 45–76 years. They were randomly assigned to receive 10 years of lifestyle intervention, which included group and individual counseling, or to a control group receiving diabetes support and education through group sessions on diet, physical activity, and social support. Following this intervention, 319 participants from three sites underwent standardized structural brain magnetic resonance imaging and tests of cognitive function 10–12 years after randomization.RESULTSTotal brain and hippocampus volumes were similar between intervention groups. The mean (SE) white matter hyperintensity volume was 28% lower among lifestyle intervention participants compared with those receiving diabetes support and education: 1.59 (1.11) vs. 2.21 (1.11) cc (P = 0.02). The mean ventricle volume was 9% lower: 28.93 (1.03) vs. 31.72 (1.03) cc (P = 0.04). Assignment to lifestyle intervention was not associated with consistent differences in cognitive function compared with diabetes support and education.CONCLUSIONSLong-term weight loss intervention may reduce the adverse impact of diabetes on brain structure. Determining whether this eventually delays cognitive decline and impairment requires further research.

Individualized Comprehensive Lifestyle Intervention in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy with Curative or Palliative Intent: Who Participates?

ObjectiveKnowledge about determinants of participation in lifestyle interventions in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, particularly with palliative intent, remains poor. The objective of the present study was to identify determinants of participating in a 12 month individualized, comprehensive lifestyle intervention, focusing on diet, physical activity, mental stress and smoking cessation, in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy with curative or palliative intent. The secondary objective was to identify participation determinants 4 months into the study.MethodsNewly diagnosed cancer patients starting chemotherapy at the cancer center in Kristiansand/Norway (during a 16 month inclusion period) were screened. Demographic and medical data (age, sex, body mass index, education level, marital status, smoking status, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG), diagnosis, tumor stage and treatment intention) was analyzed for screened patients.Results100 of 161 invited patients participated. There were more females (69 vs. 48%; P = 0.004), breast cancer patients (46 vs. 25%; P = 0.007), non-smokers (87 vs. 74%; P = 0.041), younger (mean age 60 vs. 67 yrs; P < 0.001) and fitter (82 vs. 64% with EGOC 0; P = 0.036) participants vs. non-participants included. In multivariate logistic regression analyses, age (Odds Ratio 0.94, 95% Confidence Interval 0.91, 0.97) and smoking (0.42, 0.18, 0.99) were negatively associated with participation. After 4 months, 63 participants were still participating. Cancer type, smoking and age increased the probability of dropping out. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that age was the only significant determinant of 4 month participation (0.95, 0.91, 0.99). Patients aged >70 years were less likely to participate at baseline and 4 months.ConclusionIndividualized lifestyle interventions in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy appear to facilitate a high participation rate that declines with increasing age; both during the enrollment process and completing the intervention. Neither oncologic nor socioeconomic variables deterred participation.

Partial Meal Replacement Plan and Quality of the Diet at 1 Year: Action for Health in Diabetes (Look AHEAD) Trial

BackgroundLittle is known about diet quality with a reduced-energy, low-fat, partial meal replacement plan, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The Action for Health in Diabetes (Look AHEAD) trial implemented a partial meal replacement plan in the Intensive Lifestyle Intervention. ObjectiveTo compare dietary intake and percent meeting fat-related and food group dietary recommendations in Intensive Lifestyle Intervention and Diabetes Support and Education groups at 12 months. DesignA randomized controlled trial comparing Intensive Lifestyle Intervention with Diabetes Support and Education at 0 and 12 months. Participants/settingFrom 16 US sites, the first 50% of participants (aged 45 to 76 years, overweight or obese, with type 2 diabetes) were invited to complete dietary assessments. Complete 0- and 12-month dietary assessments (collected between 2001 and 2004) were available for 2,397 participants (46.6% of total participants), with 1,186 randomized to Diabetes Support and Education group and 1,211 randomized to Intensive Lifestyle Intervention group. Main outcome measuresA food frequency questionnaire assessed intake: energy; percent energy from protein, fat, carbohydrate, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and saturated fats; trans-fatty acids; cholesterol; fiber; weekly meal replacements; and daily servings from food groups from the Food Guide Pyramid. Statistical analyses performedMixed-factor analyses of covariance, using Proc MIXED with a repeated statement, with age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, and income controlled. Unadjusted χ2 tests compared percent meeting fat-related and food group recommendations at 12 months. ResultsAt 12 months, Intensive Lifestyle Intervention participants had a significantly lower fat and cholesterol intake and greater fiber intake than Diabetes Support and Education participants. Intensive Lifestyle Intervention participants consumed more servings per day of fruits; vegetables; and milk, yogurt, and cheese; and fewer servings per day of fats, oils, and sweets than Diabetes Support and Education participants. A greater percentage of Intensive Lifestyle Intervention participants than Diabetes Support and Education participants met fat-related and most food group recommendations. Within Intensive Lifestyle Intervention, a greater percentage of participants consuming two or more meal replacements per day than participants consuming less than one meal replacement per day met most fat-related and food group recommendations. ConclusionsThe partial meal replacement plan consumed by Intensive Lifestyle Intervention participants was related to superior diet quality.

Effects of behavioral treatment on long‐term weight loss: Lessons learned from the look AHEAD trial

The eight-year weight loss findings from the Look AHEAD Study (1) reported in this issue of Obesity have important implications for treatment of overweight and obesity. As the largest and longest randomized controlled trial of a behavioral intervention for weight loss, the results from Look AHEAD provide vital information about the short- and long-term effects of an intensive lifestyle intervention for weight management. Over the course of eight years, participants in Look AHEAD’s intensive lifestyle intervention achieved significantly larger mean reductions in body weight than those randomized to a diabetes support and education group. Moreover, at year 8, significantly greater percentages of lifestyle intervention participants attained weight reductions of 5% or greater and 10% or greater compared with those in the diabetes support and education condition. The ramifications of these findings with respect to lifestyle treatment of obesity are indeed notable. The Look AHEAD results demonstrate that weight losses can be achieved and, for the most part, sustained via behavioral management of diet and physical activity. At year 1, the lifestyle program produced a mean body weight reduction of 8.5%. Over the next four years, a gradual regaining of weight was observed, followed by the maintenance of losses of approximately 4-5% in subsequent years. At year 8, the lifestyle program participants sustained on average more than half (55%) of their year 1 weight losses. Moreover, the majority succeeded in achieving reductions in body weight of 5% or more. Look AHEAD’s findings stand in contrast to those of prior trials showing that participants regain the majority of lost weight within 3-5 years. The success of Look AHEAD is likely due to the intensive and comprehensive nature of the lifestyle intervention, and confidence in the study’s findings is underscored by the trial’s excellent rate of retention (i.e., more than 88% of the study’s 5,145 participants completed the year 8 assessment). The weight changes observed in Look AHEAD were accomplished in a diverse sample of participants. Thirty-seven percent were selfidentified as members of ethnic or racial minority groups, and more than 40% were men. Prior trials have been less inclusive with respect to ethnic/racial and gender representation, and it has commonly been assumed that non-white participants achieve poorer outcomes in lifestyle programs. While non-Hispanic whites in Look AHEAD had larger year 1 weight losses, subsequent assessments at years 4 and 8 showed comparable weight reductions for the four ethnic/racial groups in the study (African American, Hispanic, American Indian/ Other, and non-Hispanic white participants). The Look AHEAD findings also indicated that men and women had comparable weight loss outcomes at all assessment points. These results show that the lifestyle intervention produced long-term weight losses independent of the participant’s race, ethnicity, or gender. However, older participants (those 66-76 years at baseline) had somewhat greater weight losses than younger ones (age groups: 45-55 and 56-65 years), particularly at year 8, but it is difficult to discern whether this difference was due to the effects of aging and disease progression or to greater adherence among older participants. Relatedly, it is unknown whether the patterns of long-term weight changes observed in Look AHEAD are generalizable to younger adults (ages 21-44 years) and to individuals who do not have diabetes. The problem of poor maintenance of lost weight has been one of the greatest challenges associated with lifestyle interventions. The Look AHEAD findings demonstrate that a substantial degree of long-term weight loss is possible. However, the achievement of that outcome appears to require intensive, ongoing care, based on sound behavioral principles. It has long been recognized that the prescription of changes in diet and exercise, without clinical decision making based on behavioral theory and analysis, is unlikely to produce long-term changes in body weight. The lifestyle intervention in Look AHEAD included a comprehensive array of empirically supported behavioral treatment components, individually tailored through the use of problem-solving and “tool box” strategies, and delivered via structured programs of ongoing group and individual contacts.