title: Reducing Metabolic Syndrome Risk Using a Personalized Wellness Program.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to determine the impact of a targeted, personalized wellness program on reducing employees' future risk of metabolic syndrome.
  
  
  METHODS
  Aetna piloted a year-long program that included a limited genetic profile, a traditional psychosocial assessment, and high-intensity coaching in a randomized controlled study of Aetna employees with an increased risk for metabolic syndrome.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Sustained employee engagement of 50% over the course of 1 year; 76% of participating employees lost an average of 10 pounds (4.5 kg) (P < 0.001 vs baseline weight), and there were trends in improved clinical outcomes relative to three of five metabolic factors. Average health care costs were reduced by $122 per participant per month, resulting in a positive return on investment in the program's first year.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  At scale, such programs would be expected to lead to significant downstream reduction in major clinical events and costs.
authors.affiliation: Aetna, Hartford, CT.
authors.forename: Gregory
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Steinberg
authors.forename: Adam
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Scott
authors.forename: Joseph
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Honcz
authors.forename: Claire
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Spettell
authors.forename: Susil
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Pradhan
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003237:Connecticut; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D005260:Female; D017048:Health Care Costs / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D024821:Metabolic Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008875:Middle Aged; D016272:Occupational Health / Q000191:economics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D009786:Occupational Health Services / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010865:Pilot Projects; D015397:Program Evaluation; D018570:Risk Assessment; D040242:Risk Reduction Behavior; D055815:Young Adult