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Is there sufficient evidence regarding signage-based stair use interventions? A sequential meta-analysis
Adrian Bauman1, Karen Milton1,2, Maina Kariuki1,3
1Prevention Research Collaboration, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
BMJ Open
|November 30, 2017
Summary
Motivational signs effectively increase stair use, but evidence for their effectiveness has been sufficient since 2006. Further research should focus on scalability rather than repeating small-scale interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Motivational signs are frequently used to encourage stair use and increase physical activity.
- The effectiveness of these interventions has been studied extensively since 1980.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a sequential meta-analysis of studies on stair use promotional signage.
- To determine when sufficient evidence existed for population-wide dissemination of these interventions.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis of 50 studies (57 estimates) examining stair use before and after signage interventions.
- Sequential meta-analysis using z-score methods to assess cumulative evidence.
Main Results:
- Baseline stair usage was 8.1%, increasing by a median of 2.2% post-intervention.
- Participants were 52% more likely to use stairs with signage (adjusted OR 1.52).
- Sufficient evidence for stair use interventions has been available since 2006; recent studies show no additional effect size evidence.
Conclusions:
- The evidence base for stair use signage interventions has been sufficient since 2006.
- Current research often lacks connection to policy needs and population-level implementation.
- Future research should prioritize scalability, adoption, and fidelity of interventions to inform wider adoption.
