Beschreibung:
<jats:p>The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an Internet‐based weight‐loss program for men in an assessor blinded randomized controlled trial. In total, 65 overweight/obese male staff and students at the University of Newcastle (mean (s.d.) age = 35.9 (11.1) years; BMI = 30.6 (2.8)) were randomly assigned to either (i) Internet group (<jats:italic>n</jats:italic> = 34) or (ii) control group (information only) (<jats:italic>n</jats:italic> = 31). Both groups received one face‐to‐face information session and a program booklet. Internet group participants used the study website to self‐monitor diet and activity with feedback provided based on participants' online entries on seven occasions over 3 months. Participants were assessed at baseline, 3‐, and 6‐month follow‐up for weight, waist circumference, BMI, blood pressure, resting heart rate, objectively measured physical activity, and self‐reported total daily kilojoules. Intention‐to‐treat analysis revealed significant weight loss of 5.3 kg (95% confidence interval (CI): −7.3, −3.3) at 6 months for the Internet group and 3.5 kg (95% CI: −5.5, −1.4) for the control group. A significant time effect was found for all outcomes but no between‐group differences. Per‐protocol analysis revealed a significant group‐by‐time interaction (<jats:italic>P</jats:italic> < 0.001), with compliers losing more weight at 6 months (−9.1 kg; 95% CI −11.8, −6.5) than noncompliers (−2.7 kg; 95% CI −5.3, −0.01) and the control group (−4.2 kg; 95% CI −6.2, −2.2). Simple weight‐loss interventions can be effective in achieving statistically and clinically significant weight loss in men. The Internet is a feasible and effective medium for weight loss in men but strategies need to be explored to improve engagement in online programs.</jats:p>