Article Text
Abstract
Introduction Noncommunicable diseases associated with obesity are relevant sources of morbidity and mortality worldwide and in Brazil. Companies, through quality of life programs, may influence workers’ lifestyle positively reducing modifiable behavioural risk factors. The objective of this study is to describe a workers´ healthy weight program in a public company in Brazil.
Methods An intervention study was carried out in a hydroelectric power plant in Brazil between June 2016 and May 2017 with workers that presented obesity or diabetes diagnostics registered in occupational health records. From 1232 workers, 294 were diagnosed and 158 were invited to participate in the first edition of the program. The program realised a regular interdisciplinary approach with medical, nutritional, nursing and physical education professional, and offered gym for practical exercises. The initial and final body composition of the participants who completed the program were compared by bioelectrical impedance analysis, considering weight, muscle mass and fat mass.
Result From 158 invitations, 142 workers accepted and 82 (57.7%) completed the program. About the workers who completed the program: 66 (80.4%) reduced their total weight, with an average of 3.56 kg and a median of 2.6 kg; 60 (73%) reduced body fat mass, with an average of 3.8 kg and a median of 2.7 kg; 21 (25.6%) gained fat mass, with an average of 1.4 kg and a median of 0.9 kg; and 48.7% maintained or increased muscle mass. Associated with the quantitative results, the health professionals involved noticed that motivation increased among the participants to achieve a healthier lifestyle.
Discussion The program contributed to weight loss and adoption of healthier habits, reducing modifiable behavioural risk factors for most participants. The quality of life programs in companies provide a friendly environment to change the workers’ habits, and also stimulate their co-workers, family and friends to adopt a healthier lifestyle.