Jean Hailes research update

A new study by the Jean Hailes research team has found community settings, such as primary schools, may be an important ally in preventing further weight gain in women with children.

Preventing unhealthy weight gain in Australian women as they move towards midlife is critical in helping them avoid chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, arthritis and many other related disorders. Eighty per cent of chronic disease as we age is lifestyle-related.

Mothers of young children are particularly prone to weight gain that can lead to health complications by the time they reach their fifties and sixties. Women aged in their twenties and thirties gain an average of six to seven kilograms per decade.

The Healthy Lifestyle Program (HeLP) found women are able to prevent weight gain within a community setting and that the connections women have within a community – such as a school – help them to establish and maintain small exercise and dietary changes that prevent gradual weight gain.

The 12-month randomised control trial involved 250 women with an average age of 39 years. The women were recruited through primary schools in Victoria and were assigned to a control group or to an intervention group. Women in the control group attended a single session and received standard information about dietary and physical activity guidelines. They were provided with a pedometer to use if they wished.

The intervention group attended three interactive sessions that focused on behaviour change. Women discussed setting goals around diet, weight and physical activity and learned how to monitor their weight. They were given advice on how to prevent relapses that sabotage a healthy lifestyle and how to overcome barriers to healthy eating and physical activity. The intervention group was also invited to take part in walking groups at the school and received monthly, personalised SMS text messages that encouraged them to stay active, to eat well, and to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Dr Cate Lombard

Women in the control group gained an average of 830 grams during the 12-month study, while the intervention group lost an average of 200 grams.

Lead researcher, Dr Cate Lombard, says the study results proved the effectiveness of ‘community strengthening ’– building on existing community connections to help women prevent weight gain.

Dr Lombard says the results from the study are significant as in another decade, the control group could be eight kilograms heavier and at greater risk of chronic disease. In the future, she would like to see the program established in other community settings in Australia to help prevent potentially harmful weight gain. “We are grateful to the many women who volunteered to be part of this important research,” says Dr Lombard. “The results will help women in the future avoid weight gain and the associated health impacts.”

The Foundation gratefully aknowledges the support of VicHealth, the William Buckland Foundation and the National Health and Medical Research Council.

Content Updated May 2010