Weighing the Results: A Systematic Review of Worksite Weight Management Programs in

U.S. Based Companies

Ashley L. Arnold, MBA, MPH candidate

Advisor/Readers:

Dr. Michelle Issel, Ph.D., MSN, B.N.

Dr. Karen Hopcia, ScD, ANP-BC

Objective: Effect of weight loss through worksite health promotional programs has not been

assessed when studies in countries other than the U.S. are excluded. The aim of the current

review is two-fold; (1) assess whether participants lose weight in health programs centered on

weight loss and administered through U.S. workplace settings and (2) compare program

components between study interventions with favorable and significant results to those without.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted in the computerized search channels Cochrane

library, Health Source, PyscINFO, PubMed, Medline, and Scopus. Reference lists were also

utilized. Search terms and methods were determined based on Harris Cooper’s guide for

literature reviews (1998), the Guide to Preventive Services recommendations, and from past

systematic reviews (Anderson et al, 2009; Benedict and Arterburn, 2008; Chapman, 2003; Zaza,

2000). Studies were selected by an independent researcher and included when they were

published between 1999 and 2013, conducted in the U.S., focused on weight loss as the primary

outcome, and had treatment duration of ≥ 8 weeks.

Results: A total of 10 study arms within 7 studies were assessed. 70% of the interventions

favored workplace weight loss programs in the U.S., but only 50% of those were significant and

favorable. Across studies, behavioral treatment was consistent, but theory was inconsistently

reported. However, Social Cognitive and Theory of Planned Behavior models were indicated in

some of the interventions in which results were favorable and significant. Other variables

supporting weight loss health programs in the workplace were internal contribution to

administration or support, use of incentives, and including consultations, participants’ journaling,

physician monitoring and stress management in the treatment components.

Conclusion: On the basis of the literature, evidence in favor of workplace health interventions

centered on weight loss in U.S. based companies is inconclusive, but this may be attributable to

limited studies meeting criteria that supports treatment of overweight and obesity; behavioral

treatment, diet, and physical activity.