Pasos Saludables: A Pilot Randomized Intervention Study to Reduce Obesity in an Immigrant Farmworker Population

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate a workplace-based diet and physical activity intervention to reduce obesity in a Latino farmworker population.

Methods: 254 Latino farmworkers were allocated in a 1:2 control:intervention ratio to parallel groups in this randomized controlled study, [Clinical Trial ID# NCT01855282]. Intervention participants attended 10 weekly educational sessions led by promotoras. All participants had anthropometry and lifestyle habits recorded before randomization and at follow-up after 12-14 weeks.

Results: Seventy percent (n = 112 intervention and 66 control) completed the study. Intervention females (not controls) decreased the primary outcome measures of weight, BMI, and waist circumference (mean [95% CI]) of -0.7 [-1.3 to -0.1] kg, -0.3 [-0.4 to -0.2] and -0.9 [-1.7 to -0.1] cm, respectively. Intervention participants increased water consumption, fruit and vegetable servings, and moderate physical activity in a dose-dependent fashion.

Conclusions: The successful pilot workplace intervention offers a model to reach otherwise difficult-to-access Latino farmworkers.