BACKGROUND: Age-adjusted rates of obesity are reported to be 35.8% among US adult women and 49% in some race/ethnicity, underserved populations. Underserved populations often have less access to weight-loss intervention options and are at high risk for obesity related problems including anovulation, infertility, pregnancy-related complications and adverse long-term health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a home exercise plan using a pedometer on weight loss, ovulation induction and pregnancy rates in our overweight and obese underserved clinic population. METHODS: Twenty one overweight (BMI >= 25 to 29.9) and obese I to II (BMI >= 30 to 39.9) 18 to 42 years old were recruited. Participants received an exercise/nutrition questionnaire at the initiation and completion and called weekly for 4 weeks. Ten participants were randomly assigned to the home exercise program (PedGp). PedGp received a pedometer, daily step-count goal, and were called to increase goal by 50% weekly. All participants then underwent clomiphene stair-step ovulation induction. All study participants were referred to the University Wellness Clinic for diet and exercise counseling. RESULTS: There were high percentages of women with co-morbidities in both groups including fatty liver, low vitamin D, hyperlipidemia, hypothyroidism, prediabetes and diabetes. Those completing the 4-week home program increased baseline steps by 21.2% weekly. Only 3/10 women reached at least one weekly goal of 50% increase. Although the goal was rarely met, participants who completed study had increased number of daily steps.2. Greater number in PedGp lost weight or stayed the same (5/10 versus 2/11). Greater number in PedGp spontaneously ovulated (4/10 versus 1/11) or became pregnant (4/10 versus 3/11). (not statistically significant due to small sample size). CONCLUSION: There are high percentages of comorbidities in this population. Although the goal was rarely met, participants who completed study had increased number of daily steps. A greater number in PedGp lost weight or stayed the same. A greater number in PedGp spontaneously ovulated or became pregnant (not statistically significant due to small sample size). Importantly, 40% of women who lost weight became pregnant. This is highly encouraging and suggests that the development of pedometer interventions may prove a cost effective option. Weight loss programs for this population hold promise and efficient hospital or community-based programs may prove beneficial.

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