The HealtheSteps™ lifestyle prescription program offers a promising approach to improving physical activity and modifiable risk factors for chronic disease. This pragmatic randomized controlled trial presents valuable insights that practitioners can leverage to enhance their skills and promote healthier lifestyles among their patients.
The HealtheSteps™ Program Overview
The HealtheSteps™ program was designed to increase physical activity, reduce sedentary behavior, and improve dietary habits among individuals at risk of chronic diseases. The study involved 118 participants from Southwestern Ontario, Canada, who were randomized into either the intervention group or a wait-list control group. The intervention included bi-monthly in-person coaching and access to eHealth technology supports such as the HealtheSteps app, telephone coaching, and a private social network.
Key Findings
- Increased Physical Activity: Participants in the HealtheSteps™ program increased their daily step count by an average of 3,132 steps compared to the control group after six months.
- Reduced Sedentary Time: The program effectively decreased sitting time during weekdays, with improvements maintained even after 18 months.
- Improved Dietary Habits: Participants reported better healthful eating practices, which were sustained over time.
Implications for Practitioners
The results of the HealtheSteps™ trial suggest that practitioners can significantly impact their patients' health by incorporating similar lifestyle prescription programs into their practice. Here are some ways practitioners can enhance their skills using insights from this study:
- Adopt eHealth Technology: Utilize apps and online platforms to provide continuous support and motivation for patients outside of regular consultations.
- Emphasize Goal Setting: Encourage patients to set S.M.A.R.T. goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely) for physical activity and dietary changes.
- Promote Long-term Engagement: Design programs that gradually reduce in-person support while maintaining access to digital resources to sustain behavior changes.
The Importance of Further Research
The HealtheSteps™ program demonstrates the potential for lifestyle interventions to achieve long-term health benefits. However, further research is needed to explore its application in diverse settings and populations. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in ongoing research efforts to refine these interventions and maximize their impact on chronic disease prevention.
Conclusion
The HealtheSteps™ lifestyle prescription program offers a viable model for practitioners aiming to improve patient outcomes through increased physical activity and healthier eating habits. By integrating these strategies into practice, healthcare professionals can play a pivotal role in reducing the burden of chronic diseases.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The HealtheSteps™ lifestyle prescription program to improve physical activity and modifiable risk factors for chronic disease: a pragmatic randomized controlled trial.
