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Worksite intervention effects on physical health: a randomized controlled trial
Evan Atlantis1, Chin-Moi Chow, Adrienne Kirby
1School of Exercise and Sport Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sydney, Lidcombe NSW 1825, Australia. E.Atlantis@fhs.usyd.edu.au
Health Promotion International
|April 6, 2006
Summary
A worksite intervention improved waist circumference and aerobic fitness in sedentary employees, including shift workers. Overcoming adherence barriers is key for broader impact on employee physical health.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Exercise Physiology
- Public Health Interventions
Background:
- Overweight and physical inactivity contribute significantly to disease burden and healthcare costs.
- Evidence-based worksite interventions are needed to address these modifiable risk factors.
- Sedentary lifestyles and shift work are prevalent in many workforces, exacerbating health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a comprehensive exercise and lifestyle intervention program delivered at the worksite.
- To assess the impact of the intervention on physical fitness parameters, including waist circumference and aerobic capacity.
- To identify factors influencing participation and adherence to worksite health interventions.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 73 employees (51% overweight/obese, 73% shift workers) at an Australian casino.
- Participants were randomized to a 24-week intervention group or a wait-list control group.
- Intervention components included supervised exercise (aerobic and weight training) and health/dietary education.
Main Results:
- The intervention group showed significant improvements in mean waist circumference and predicted maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) compared to the control group.
- These improvements were particularly notable in study completers, even after excluding an outlier.
- Higher compliance with the intervention program correlated with greater gains in physical fitness; no significant changes in BMI were observed.
Conclusions:
- Worksite interventions can effectively improve key health indicators like waist circumference and aerobic fitness in sedentary employees, including shift workers.
- The study highlights the potential of worksite programs to combat obesity and physical inactivity.
- Significant challenges related to employee engagement and adherence must be addressed to maximize the impact and feasibility of such health initiatives.
