Effectiveness of a Behavior Change Program on Physical Activity and Eating Habits in Patients With Hypertension: A Randomized Controlled Trial
in Journal of Physical Activity and HealthClick name to view affiliation
Background: This study aimed to analyze the effect of a behavior change program, called Vida Ativa Melhorando a Saúde (VAMOS), on physical activity, eating habits, and quality of life in patients with hypertension. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was carried out in 90 patients with hypertension (57.8 ± 9.9 y). They were randomly assigned to 2 groups: VAMOS group (n = 45) and control group (n = 45). The VAMOS group participated in a behavioral change program aimed at motivating changes in physical activity and nutrition behavior for 12 weeks. Physical activity, eating habits, quality of life, self-efficacy, and social support were evaluated at preintervention and postintervention. Results: The control group increased sedentary time (407 ± 87 vs 303 ± 100 min/d; P < .05) and sedentary bouts (434 ± 86 vs 336 ± 98 min/d; P < .05) and reduced total physical activity (553 ± 87 vs 526 ± 86 min/d; P < .05). The VAMOS group improved the general healthy eating habits score (36.9 ± 6.6 vs 43.4 ± 5.8; P < .05) and quality of life (44% vs 92%; P < .05). Conclusion: The VAMOS program was effective in improving eating habits and quality of life in patients with hypertension.
Gerage and Benedetti are with the Dept of Physical Education, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil. Ritti-Dias is with Post-graduation Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Nove de Julho University, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. dos Santos is with the Dept of Nutrition, University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil. de Souza is with the Superior School of Physical Education, University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil. Almeida is with the Dept of Health Promotion, Social & Behavioral Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE.
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