The SHED-IT Community Trial: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Internet- and Paper-Based Weight Loss Programs Tailored for Overweight and Obese Men

Background There is limited evidence for effective obesity treatment programs that engage men. Purpose This study evaluated the efficacy of two gender-tailored weight loss interventions for men, which required no face-to-face contact. Methods This was a three-arm, randomized controlled trial: (1) Resources ( n = 54), gender-tailored weight loss materials (DVD, handbooks, pedometer, tape measure); (2) Online ( n = 53), Resources materials plus study website and e-feedback; and (3) Wait-list control ( n = 52). The interventions lasted 3 months and were grounded in Social Cognitive Theory. Results At 6 months, significantly greater weight loss was observed for the Online (−4.7 kg; 95 % CI −6.1, −3.2) and Resources (−3.7 kg; 95 % CI −4.9, −2.5) groups compared to the control (−0.5 kg; 95 % CI −1.4, 0.4). Additionally, both intervention groups significantly improved body mass index, percent body fat, waist circumference, blood pressure, physical activity, quality of life, alcohol risk, and portion size, compared to controls. Conclusions Men achieved significant weight loss after receiving novel, minimal-contact, gender-tailored programs, which were designed for widespread dissemination.