Effectiveness of a behavioral incentive scheme linked to goal achievement: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

BackgroundChildhood obesity is a concern in Australia and across the world. Community-based weight management programs are an important response to address childhood obesity. However, the scientific literature suggests that their effectiveness could potentially be enhanced by providing a structured incentive scheme. This proposal aims to determine the effectiveness of enhanced goal setting linked to a structured incentive scheme designed to improve the sustained health and wellbeing of overweight/obese children within the context of an existing community-based program.Methods/DesignThis study is a cluster randomized controlled trial delivered within the context of the existing NSW “Go4Fun” program with a 10-week and 6- and 12-month follow-up (n = 40 sites, 570 participants) that compares the effectiveness of small changes to the program in which children were asked to set goals (supported by text messages) and were given rewards for achieving them (intervention). This will be compared to the standard/existing program (control), which did not have the same structured incentive program. Data will be collected for all participants at baseline, end of program, and at 6 and 12 months. The primary outcome is a mean change in body mass index (BMI) z score at the 12-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes include anthropometric measures (body weight, height, and waist circumference) and behavioral measures collected via validated questionnaires. A process evaluation (comprising surveys and focus groups) to determine acceptability and sustainability and to inform downstream translation will also be conducted.DiscussionThis study will inform policy and program delivery as well as the broader evidence base regarding goal achievement and incentive schemes directed at children’s health-related behaviors and will provide evidence that is likely to be transferrable across a range of health conditions.Trial RegistrationACTRN12615000558527 registered on 29 May 2015.

What Motivates Engagement in a Community-Based Behavior Change Strategy for Overweight Children?

“…A mixed-method qualitative study nested within a cluster randomized controlled trial (cRCT) was conducted in New South Wales, Australia, between 2014 and 2016 (Redfern et al, 2016). Qualitative research was conducted between the 6- and 18-month data collection points of the cRCT.…”

“…Informed consent was obtained from all study participants, and the study was performed according to the Declaration of Helsinki. Full details of participant eligibility are detailed elsewhere (Redfern et al, 2016). Participants recruited for the qualitative research included two groups: "families" and "stakeholders."…”

Erratum to: ‘Effectiveness of a behavioral incentive scheme linked to goal achievement: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial’

“…Unfortunately, the original version of this article [ 1 ] contained an error. An author’s name was spelt incorrectly.…”

Cardiovascular health status and its associations with cardiovascular disease and ischemic heart disease prevalence in Australian adults

“…227 It has been suggested that a population-wide weight loss was associated with a marked reduction in CVD mortality in Cuba. 228 A few community-based weight loss programs have initiated in Australia; 229,230 however, there is no national-level strategies or programs to manage the weight loss. The intervention of increased physical activity and reduced sedentary time could substantially lower the CVD burden.…”