The efficacy of Web-based and print-delivered computer-tailored interventions to reduce fat intake: results of a randomized, controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
To test and compare the efficacy of interactive- and print-delivered computer-tailored nutrition education targeting saturated fat intake reduction.


METHODS
A 3-group randomized, controlled trial (2003-2005) with posttests at 1 and 6 months post-intervention.


METHODS
Worksites and 2 neighborhoods in the urban area of Rotterdam.


METHODS
A convenience sample of healthy Dutch adults (n = 442).


METHODS
An interactive, computer-tailored intervention delivered on a CD-ROM (interactive-tailored condition); a print-delivered, computer-tailored intervention (print-tailored condition); and print-delivered, generic information.


METHODS
Total and saturated fat intake (grams/day and percentage-energy) and energy intake per day assessed with validated food frequency questionnaires at 1 and 6 months post-intervention.


METHODS
Multilevel linear regression analyses.


RESULTS
Mean total fat, saturated fat, and energy intakes were significantly lower in both tailored conditions compared to the generic condition at 1-month follow-up. These differences were still significant for the print-tailored condition at 6-months follow-up. Effects were most pronounced among participants with unfavorable fat intakes at baseline. There were no significant differences between the 2 tailoring conditions.


CONCLUSIONS
The results indicate that interactive and print-delivered computer-tailored interventions can have similar short-term effects on fat intake and that the effects of the print-delivered tailored feedback are maintained in the longer term.
Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. w.kroeze@erasmusmc.nl
Willemieke
W
Kroeze
Anke
A
Oenema
Marci
M
Campbell
Johannes
J
Brug
D000328:Adult; D016251:CD-ROM; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods; D018752:Diet, Fat-Restricted; D004041:Dietary Fats / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education / Q000379:methods*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008402:Mass Media; D009426:Netherlands; D052756:Nutritional Sciences / Q000193:education*; D014584:User-Computer Interface
D004041:Dietary Fats