Effect of a tailored behaviour change programme in highly educated adults: a randomised trial

Abstract

Background. Little is known about the effectiveness and the adequate intervention dose of multi-component behaviour change programmes. The aims of our study were to examine the effects of a tailored behaviour change programme and the dose-response effect on behaviour (diet, physical activity, smoking) in a highly educated study sample. Methods. The participants were allocated at random using a 2/3 ratio to an intensive intervention group (IIG) (n=208) and a minimal intervention group (MIG) (n=106). The IIG was offered a tailored behaviour change programme with a personalised website, individual coaching (IC) by e-mail, telephone or face-to-face. Physical activity (PA) levels, dietary and smoking behaviour were reported at baseline and at 6 months. Repeated measures analysis of variances were used to examine differences between the two groups. Linear modelling was used to examine the dose-response effects. Results. Both groups significantly improved in 6 months with regard to dietary behaviour but not for PA and smoking. No significant differences between the study groups were found for diet, PA and smoking. A significant dose-response effect for diet was found (p<.05). The most effective strategy to change dietary behaviour was a combination of frequent IC by telephone and face-to-face (p<.05). Conclusions. No differences were found between the MIG and the IIG, however, significant dose-response effects were found in the IIG.