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Updated: Jun 18, 2026

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Published on: August 1, 2019
Using the internet to translate an evidence-based lifestyle intervention into practice
Kathleen M McTigue1, Molly B Conroy, Rachel Hess
1Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA. kmm34@pitt.edu
An online adaptation of the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) lifestyle intervention was feasible in primary care. This internet-based program facilitated weight loss and improved blood pressure in patients with obesity.
Area of Science:
- Obesity and metabolic health
- Digital health interventions
- Primary care research
Background:
- Clinical practice often lacks effective lifestyle interventions for obesity management.
- Evidence-based programs like the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) show promise but face implementation challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To adapt the DPP lifestyle curriculum for online delivery.
- To evaluate the implementation and feasibility of an internet-based lifestyle intervention in a primary care setting.
Main Methods:
- A before-and-after pilot study adapted the DPP curriculum into 16 weekly and 8 monthly online lessons.
- The program included e-mail prompts, self-monitoring tools, automated progress reports, and electronic counseling.
- Physician referral and integration with clinical care were key components.
Main Results:
- Fifty patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m² and cardiovascular risk factors were enrolled.
- Completers (n=45) achieved an average weight loss of 4.79 kg.
- Systolic blood pressure decreased by an average of 7.33 mm Hg.
Conclusions:
- An internet-based lifestyle intervention can overcome barriers to preventive counseling.
- This approach facilitates the integration of evidence-based lifestyle interventions into primary care.
- Online delivery shows potential for scalable obesity management.
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