Sustained body weight reduction by an individual-based lifestyle intervention for workers in the construction industry at risk for cardiovascular disease: results of a randomized controlled trial.

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of a lifestyle intervention for male workers in the construction industry at risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

METHODS: In a randomized controlled trial performed in the Netherlands between 2007 and 2009, usual care was compared to 6months of individual counseling using motivational interviewing techniques, delivered face to face and by telephone. Participants aimed at improving energy balance-related behavior or smoking cessation. Linear regression analyses were performed to determine the effects.

RESULTS: Body weight had significantly decreased at 6 (beta=-1.9, 95% CI -2.6; -1.2) and 12months (beta=-1.8, 95%CI -2.8; -1.1). The intervention effects were also significant for diastolic blood pressure at 6months (beta=-1.7, 95% CI -3.3; -0.1). Among participants who had aimed at energy balance, the intervention had a significant favorable effect on body weight at 6 (beta=-2.1, 95% CI -2.9; -1.3) and 12months (beta=-2.2, 95% CI -3.1; -1.3) and at HDL cholesterol (beta=0.05, 95% CI 0.01; 0.10) and HbA1c (beta=-0.06, 95%CI -0.12; -0.001) at 12months, although there was no intervention effect on these variables over time.

CONCLUSION: Individual-based counseling resulted in significant beneficial long-term effects on body weight. This is an important finding for occupational health, considering the rising prevalence of obesity and CVD.