Impact of a workplace holiday weight gain prevention program.

BACKGROUND: The average worker gains 2-3 lb (0.9-1.4 kg) a year, about half of which is gained during the fall holiday season (Halloween through New Year's). AIM: The aim of the study was to conduct a pilot test of a weight gain prevention program that was implemented in a workplace setting during the fall holiday season. METHODS: 239 state government employees participated in a weight gain prevention program offered during the fall holiday season. The program was a 10-week, team-based program that consisted of self-monitoring, regular weigh-ins, a team challenge, and organizational support. Weight was measured at baseline, every two weeks during the program, and post-program. RESULTS: Participants lost a significant amount of weight (from 196.7 lb/89.2 kg to 192.3 lb/87.2 kg) during the program. Positive changes were observed in physical activity and eating behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that a weight gain prevention program during a high risk period (fall holiday season) can be effective.

Marijuana Use and Driving Under the Influence among Young Adults: A Socioecological Perspective on Risk Factors.

BACKGROUND: Given increases in marijuana use and driving under the influence (DUI), it is critical to identify those at risk in order to inform intervention efforts. OBJECTIVES: We used a socioecological framework to examine correlates of level of marijuana use and DUI in the past month among young adult marijuana users. METHODS: We recruited 1567 participants aged 18-34 years via Facebook ads targeting tobacco and marijuana users in August 2014 to complete an online survey assessing marijuana use and DUI, as well as related multilevel factors. Analyses focused on 649 participants reporting past 30-day marijuana use. RESULTS: The sample was an average age of 24.48 (SD = 5.10), 43.9% female, and 76.4% White and used marijuana an average of 17.86 (SD = 11.29) days in the past month. Notably, 48.4% reported driving after marijuana use at least once in the past month, and 74.0% were passengers. Multivariable regression indicated that greater use was associated with: being older; being male; greater symptoms of dependence; residing in a state with recreational marijuana legalized; having a medical marijuana card; having parents and more friends who use; higher coping motives; lower perceived harm to health; and less concern about driving after marijuana use (adjusted R-squared = 0.294). Correlates of driving after using marijuana in the past month included: being younger; more frequent use; having more friends who use; higher enhancement motives; and less concern about driving after using (Nagelkerke R-squared = 0.442). Conclusions/Importance: Interventions and campaigns should address social norms and risk perceptions regarding marijuana use, particularly as it relates to DUI.