A Case Study of a Worksite Weight-control Program Based on Formative Researc

Objective: To implement a worksite weight-control program based on formative research and examine the evaluation process of the program and subsequent changes in participants’ behavior and body mass index (BMI). Methods: The study was conducted among the staff (n = 317) of a courier company in Tokyo. Environmental research and interviews (n = 18) were initially conducted to provide empirical underpinnings for the program itself (Study 1). The program, based on the results of the formative research, was implemented for about 6 months. BMI, perceived self-efficacy in dealing with temptation, use of coping strategies, and knowledge about weight control were measured before and after the program for the purpose of comparison (Study 2). Results: Because the formative research indicated that participants would find it difficult to allocate time for the program, the program was provided in the form of personal feedback on the nutrition survey and information presented on posters located in break rooms. A total of 36.3% of the respondents (n = 115) answered the questionnaires both before and after the program, and 21.5% (n = 68) noted that they had used both the feedback from the nutrition survey and the informational posters. Among the latter, knowledge about weight control increased (p = 0.021), the number of participants using coping strategies for weight control increased slightly (p = 0.064), and the number of snacks consumed per day decreased (p = 0.001). Conclusions: We could not determine the effects of the program because we did not use a control group and because we analyzed only data obtained from subjects who answered the questionnaires both before and after the program. This paper introduces an advanced approach to a worksite weight-control program that is based on the subjects’ requirements