Objective To determine if an evidence-based, behavioral lifestyle intervention program delivered at a worksite setting is effective in improving type 2 diabetes and CVD risk factors. Methods A randomized six-month delayed control design was utilized, with two-thirds of the participants assigned to begin intervention immediately and one-third beginning six months later. The year-long program (weekly for 3 months transitioning to monthly) focused on weight loss and increasing physical activity. Results The immediate intervention group had greater mean weight loss (−10.4 lbs., 5.1%, vs. −2.3 lbs., 1%, p=0.0001) than the delayed control group at 6 months and relatively greater improvements in activity, HbA1c and other risk factors. The delayed group experienced similar improvements after completing the intervention program. Conclusions A worksite behavioral lifestyle intervention is feasible and effective in significantly improving risk factors for diabetes and CVD.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of an adapted Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) lifestyle program, DPP Group Lifestyle Balance (GLB), delivered in 3 economically diverse senior/community centers. Methods The DPP-GLB was implemented in 3 senior/community centers in Allegheny County, PA. A 6-month delayed control intervention design was used. Participants were randomized to begin the DPP-GLB immediately (immediate) or after a 6-month delay (delayed). Adults (n = 134; mean age = 62.8 years) with BMI ≥24 kg/m and prediabetes and/or the metabolic syndrome took part. Weight, physical activity (PA), and diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors were assessed at 6, 12, and 18 months from baseline. Results At 6 months, the immediate group demonstrated greater mean weight loss than the delayed control group as well as significantly greater improvements in PA, A1C, fasting insulin, and waist circumference. In pre-post analyses, both randomized groups showed similar success that was maintained at 18 months. Conclusions The DPP-GLB delivered in economically diverse community centers was effective in this group of older adults. These findings support provision of coverage for prevention programs in older adults at risk for diabetes/CVD, which is important considering the large number of individuals who will be Medicare eligible in the near future.