Study of Novel Approaches for Prevention (SNAP)

Project Period: 8/15/2009 - 5/31/2014
Contact: Dr. Catherine Loria

This 3-arm two-center, randomized trial will test the efficacy to prevent weight gain with two self-regulation strategies aimed at making (1) smaller, consistent lifestyle changes vs. (2) periodic, larger changes compared to a (3) usual care, control group. Young adults (n=600), ages 18-35 years with BMI 23-30 kg/m2, will be followed 24 – 48 months (mean = 3 years). The primary outcome is change in weight from baseline over time. Secondary outcomes include cardiovascular risk factor levels, such as blood pressure, lipids, and glucose.

The small, consistent changes approach (e.g., 2000 steps/day or reduction of 100 kcal/day) is being widely disseminated in programs such as Small Steps.gov and America on the Move, and should prevent weight gain of 1 to 2 pounds per year. However, this approach has never been compared to a standard weight control intervention. Given the difficulties in producing sustained weight loss later in life, preventing 1-2 pounds per year of weight gain from occurring during young adulthood is critical to curbing the obesity epidemic and may have substantial public health impact.

Last Updated March 2011