Heart healthy online: an innovative approach to risk reduction in the workplace.

Abstract

To examine whether a Web-based cardiovascular health promotion program was associated with changes in self-reported behaviors, attitudes, and biometric indicators in a population of working adults. Employees (n = 210) were recruited and randomized into either an Internet-based or control condition. Participants completed pre- and postintervention self-report assessments on diet, exercise, smoking, and mental health. Pre- and postintervention biometric screenings were also obtained on blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and hip/waist circumference. The intervention was associated with significant improvements in dietary attitudes (P = 0.003; F = 8.83), dietary intentions (P = 0.031; F = 4.72), dietary self-efficacy (P = 0.015; F = 5.97), exercise self-efficacy (P = 0.002; F = 9.51), exercise habits (P = 0.016; F = 5.94), and coping with stress (P = 0.003; F = 8.85) and depression (P = 0.036; F = 4.46). The program showed promise for promoting cardiovascular risk reduction behaviors. These results are consistent with similar Web-based interventions.