A Pilot Weight Control Intervention at HPHC

A Pilot Weight Control Intervention at Harvard Pilgrim Health Care (HPHC)

The purpose of this study is to examine how adults can improve their physical activity levels and eating habits using an interactive web-based weight control program and regular contact with a dietician.

• All study participants must have regular access to the Internet, however, the study will not provide this access. Participants will be randomly placed in one of two study groups (Group 1 or Group 2).
• Group 1 participants will be asked to make 3 in-person visits, each lasting 75-90 minutes. The following information will be collected: name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address. During the study visit, the following measurements will be taken: height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure and dietary patterns.
• Group 1 participants will also receive counseling around diet and physical activity from a registered dietician and be asked to use a specialized website that will allow them to track eating and physical activity patterns, learn new weight management skills, interact with the dietician, and receive support from other participants.
• Group 1 will also receive 5 telephone counseling calls with a health counselor. During the telephone calls, we will teach the participant new skills such as tracking diet and physical activity, goal-setting and staying motivated.
• Group 2 participants will be asked to make 2 in-person visits, each lasting 75-90 minutes in length. The following information will be collected: your name, mailing address, and telephone number. During the study visit, the following measurements will be taken: height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure and dietary patterns.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 25 to 65 years of age
• Body mass index between 30-40 kg/m2
• Non-smoker (quit within previous 6 months)
• Comfort reading and speaking English
• Stage 1 hypertension
• Not currently pregnant
• Regular web access from home