OBJECTIVE: To update a previous systematic review on the effectiveness of worksite-based weight loss programs. DATA SOURCE: The following databases were searched: Medline, PsychlNFO, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and LexisNexis. STUDY INCLUSION AND EXCLUSION: Studies were limited to those published in English from 1995 to 2006 to which the following inclusion criteria were applied: (1) worksite intervention, (2) body weight assessed before and after intervention, and (3) study duration of at least 8 weeks. DATA EXTRACTION: Data were extracted on the following: study design; funding source; purpose of evaluation; participant and worksite characteristics; type, intensity and duration of intervention; primary and secondary outcomes; and methodological quality. DATA SYNTHESIS: Heterogeneity of study designs precluded quantitative data synthesis. RESULTS: We identified 11 randomized controlled trials, most of which focused on education and counseling to improve diet and increase physical activity. Follow-up ranged from 2 to 18 months, with 56% to 100% of subjects completing the studies. The overall methodological quality of the studies was poor. Intervention groups lost significantly more weight than controls, with the mean difference in weight loss ranging from -0.2 to -6.4 kg. CONCLUSION: Worksite-based weight loss programs can result in modest short improvements in body weight; however, long-term data on health and economic outcomes are lacking. SO WHAT: There is a need for rigorous controlled studies of worksite-based interventions that integrate educational, behavioral, environmental, and economic supports.

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