Tailored online eating disorder prevention and health promotion for women: results of a dissemination trial
Abstract
Introduction: Internet-based interventions are effective in the prevention of eating disorders (EDs) but are rarely translated from controlled study settings into practice. This study aimed to assess short- and long-term outcomes and adherence of a suite of internet-based screening and ED prevention programs.
Methods: In a 5-arm non-randomized dissemination trial, internet-based ED prevention interventions were offered to women recruited from the general population (N = 3,654). Each arm offered a different version of the ED prevention program, tailored for populations at different levels of risk. The interventions comprised 4 to 12 weekly modules based on cognitive-behavioral principles, including psychoeducation, exercises to promote body image and balanced eating, and-if applicable-to reduce ED symptoms. Primary outcome was the change in weight concerns from pre to post, using t-tests and completer data. Secondary outcomes included ED symptoms, eating habits, self-esteem and quality of life.
Results: Pre-post within-subject comparisons in the completer sample showed significant reductions in weight concerns in 4 of 5 study arms (effect sizes between d = -0.45 and d = -0.94). ED symptoms were reduced and the ability to eat intuitively was improved in all study arms, with some effects persisting up to 12 months. Assessment drop-out ranged from 60.6% to 78.1% at post, and between 18.0% and 44.0% of participants completed the whole intervention.
Discussion: The trial…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a clinical trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 3,654 participants or records.
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