A small-change approach delivered via telephone promotes weight loss in veterans: results from the ASPIRE-VA pilot study.

<bold>Objective: </bold>High rates of overweight and obesity (70%) among US veterans pose a significant threat of obesity-related chronic disease and disability. The purpose of this pilot study was to demonstrate feasibility and impact of a phone-based small-change weight loss intervention (ASPIRE-VA) with veterans.<bold>Methods: </bold>Participants received a pedometer, food log book, and treatment manual outlining the small change program. Participants then scheduled weekly phone calls with a lifestyle coach, during which they reviewed the prior week's goals and developed new goals for the following week. Primary outcome was weight loss measured at 12 weeks, compared to baseline.<bold>Results: </bold>Fourteen sedentary (4471+/-2315 steps per day), obese (37.0+/-4.2 BMI), middle aged (53.8+/-12.5) male (64%) and female (36%) participants were enrolled. At 12 weeks participants exhibited significant weight loss (-3.8+/-3.6 kg; p=.002) and increased intake of fruits and vegetables (+2.2+/-3.1 daily servings; p=.03); though no change in walking (+786+/-2288 daily steps; p=.24).<bold>Conclusion: </bold>Results suggest that a phone-based small change program is feasible and beneficial for promoting weight loss in overweight/obese veterans.<bold>Practice Implications: </bold>This telephone-based program has the potential to reduce rates of overweight and obesity among veterans and thus prevent and improve prognosis of associated chronic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]