Effects of workplace-based dietary and/or physical activity interventions for weight management targeting healthcare professionals: A systematic review of randomised controlled trials

Brian T. Power, Kirsty Kiezebrink, Julia L. Allan, Marion K. Campbell

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

20 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of overweight and obesity is high amongst healthcare professionals and there is growing interest in delivering weight loss interventions in the workplace. We conducted a systematic review to (i) examine the effectiveness of workplace-based diet and/or physical activity interventions aimed at healthcare professionals and to (ii) identify and describe key components of effective interventions. Seven electronic databases were systematically searched. Results: Thirteen randomised controlled trials met the inclusion criteria, of which seven had data available for meta-analysis. Where meta-analysis was possible, studies were grouped according to length of follow-up (<12 months and ≥12 months) and behavioural target (diet only, physical activity only or diet and physical activity), with outcome data pooled using a weighted random effects model. Nine studies reported statistically significant (between-group) differences. Four studies reported being informed by a behaviour change theory. Meta-analysis of all trials reporting weight data demonstrated healthcare professionals allocated to dietary and physical activity interventions lost significantly more body weight (-3.95 Kg, [95% CI -4.96 to- 2.95 Kg]) than controls up to 12 months follow up. Conclusions: Workplace diet and/or physical activity interventions targeting healthcare professionals are limited in number and are heterogeneous. To improve the evidence base, we recommend additional evaluations of theory-based interventions and adequate reporting of intervention content.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1-15
Number of pages15
JournalBMC Obesity
Volume1
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Diet
  • Health Professionals
  • Physical activity
  • Systematic review
  • Weight loss
  • Workplace

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