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Behavioral change intervention to promote healthy diet and physical activity in overweight/obese adults with diabetes in primary health care: Results from a cluster randomized control trial

Authors: Al Ghafri, T. and Al Harthi, T. and Al Jufaili, F. and Al Ghammari, A. and Al Haddabi, N. and Al Riyami, A. and Al Balushi, S. and Al Kindi, H. and Al Araimi, S. and Ambusaidi, S. and Al Kaiyumi, H. and Al Harthi, M. and Al Harthi, A. and McCallum, M.

Year: 2025 Journal: Public Health Vol/Issue: Vol. 249 Pages: 106045

Study Characteristics

Lifestyle Pillars
NutritionPhysical Activity
Study Design
RCT

Abstract

Objectives

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a multi-component intervention in promoting physical activity (PA) and healthy diet, and its impact on weight, and glycemic control among obese adults with diabetes. Other metabolic and behavioral parameters were also assessed.

Study Design

cluster randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Four health centers (HCs) received monthly motivational interviewing phone consultations combined with pedometer use, while four HCs provided usual care. The intervention targeted ≥150 min of moderate-to-vigorous PA/week and gradual caloric reduction. Participants were physically inactive, overweight/obese adults with diabetes. Primary outcomes were changes in PA (MET.min/week), BMI, and HbA1c. Secondary outcomes included blood pressure, caloric intake, lipid profile, and PA behavior stages.

Results

Of the 595 approached participants [59.5 % female, mean (SD) age 46 (6.3) years], 68.6 % completed follow-up. Increases in PA were significantly greater in the intervention group (IG) compared with controls +262.3 (95 % CI:66.5-458.2, P = 0.009). Regression analysis demonstrated that odds of meeting PA recommendations at 12 months from baseline were 3.2 times higher in the IG vs CG (95 % CI:1.4-2.6, P = 0.004). Between-group differences favored the IG for reductions in mean sitting time hours/day (P = 0.003), BMI (P = 0.042), and caloric intake/day (P < 0.001) including lower intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats (all P < 0.001). No significant changes were observed in HbA1c, blood pressure, or lipids. At 12 months from baseline, individuals in the IG had 2.5 times higher odds of being in the maintenance stage compared to controls (95 % CI:1.8-3.5).

Conclusions

Results confirm the feasibility of integrating lifestyle technology bound promotional interventions within the routine diabetes care.