Abstract
Obesity is a national health concern and the focus of many health promotion programs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the behavioral impact of a 12-week obesity prevention program on a university campus. Participants were provided questionnaires with weights, heights, and body mass indices (BMIs) determined at the pre-phase weigh-in and post-phase weigh-out. At the weigh-in, participants received pedometers and information about upcoming educational sessions to assist them with reaching their health behavior goals. A total of 247 (38.2% of 646) individuals (79.4% women) completed the program. A mean weight loss of 1.8 kg caused a decrease in BMI from 29.3 at weigh-in to 28.7 at weigh-out (p = .002). Pre- and post-questionnaires indicated increases (p < 0.001) in physical activity; using pedometers; and intakes of fruits, vegetables, and water at the end of the program. The 6-month follow-up questionnaire (33.2% response rate) indicated healthy habits were being maintained for fruit and vegetable consumption. Further intervention development to incorporate innovative strategies for promoting healthy behaviors among students and employees on university campuses could help decrease the prevalence of obesity.
Recommended Citation
Lee, M. L.,
Tidwell, D. K.,
Briley, C. A.,
Loveless, J. C.,
Hunt, B. P.,
&
Mikel, W. B.
(2015). A Community-Based Obesity Prevention Program Decreased the Body Mass Index of University-Affiliated Participants.
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension, 3(3), 8.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54718/EKEI7238
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