Modifying Alcohol Consumption to Reduce Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Feasibility Study of a Complex...

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Obesity and high alcohol consumption (over 14 units/week) significantly increase men's risk of liver disease.
• A specific high-risk group (BMI > 30, >21 units/week) was identified for intervention.
• This study assessed the feasibility of a trial targeting this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of recruiting and retaining participants for a liver disease prevention trial.
• To test the engagement and acceptability of a novel intervention aimed at reducing alcohol consumption in at-risk men.
• To determine the viability of a larger trial assessing intervention effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• Recruitment of men aged 35-64 with BMI > 30 and alcohol intake >21 units/week via GP registers and community outreach.
• Delivery of a face-to-face intervention session followed by text message support by trained lay personnel.
• Follow-up for 5 months to measure weekly alcohol consumption and Body Mass Index (BMI).

Main Results:

• Recruitment exceeded the target, with 69 men randomized; 95% were at very high risk of liver disease mortality.
• The intervention was delivered with high fidelity, achieving a 98% follow-up rate.
• Process evaluation indicated high participant engagement with the behavior change strategy and study acceptability (80% would recommend).

Conclusions:

• A feasibility study successfully identified and recruited a high-risk population for liver disease.
• The findings support the potential for conducting a full trial to test the intervention's effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.
• The intervention, motivated by weight loss, was well-received and showed high participant engagement.