Results
The Live Well, Be Well intervention trial results are published in
This community-based, translational lifestyle program to reduce diabetes risk in lower-socioeconomic status (SES) and ethnic minority adults was evaluated using a randomized controlled trial design. Community-dwelling adults at risk for diabetes were randomly assigned to individualized lifestyle counseling delivered primarily via telephone by health department counselors or a wait-list control group. Primary outcomes (6 and 12 months) were fasting glucose level, triglycerides, high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, weight, waist circumference, and systolic blood pressure. Secondary outcomes included diet, physical activity, and health-related quality of life.
Of the 230 participants, study retention was 92%. There were significant group differences at 6-months for weight and triglycerides. The intervention group lost 2 pounds more than the control group (P=.03) and had greater triglyceride reduction (difference 23 mg/dL, P=.02). The intervention group consumed 7.7 fewer grams per day of fat (P=.05) and more fruits and vegetables (P=.02) than did control participants.
Despite challenges designing effective translational interventions for lower-SES and minority communities, this program modestly improved some diabetes risk factors. Thus, individualized, telephone-based models may be a promising alternative to group-based interventions.