Examining an Australian physical activity and nutrition intervention useing RE-AIM

Introduction - Translating evidence-based interventions into community practice is vital to health promotion. This study used the RE-AIM framework to evaluate the larger dissemination of the ManUp intervention, an intervention which utilized interactive web-based technologies to improve the physical activity and nutrition behaviours of residents in Central Queensland, Australia. Methods - Data were collected for each RE-AIM measure (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption,17 Implementation, Maintenance) using: 1) computer assisted telephone interview survey (N=312) 18 with adults (18 yrs and over) from Central Queensland, 2) interviews with key stakeholders 19 from local organizations (n=12), and 3) examination of project-related statistics and findings. Results - In terms of Reach, 47% of participants were aware of the intervention; Effectiveness, there were no significant differences between physical activity and healthy nutrition levels in those aware and unaware; Adoption, 73 participants registered for the intervention and 25% of organizations adopted some part of the intervention; Implementation, 26% of participants initially logged onto the website, 29% and 17% started the web-based physical activity and nutrition challenges, 33% of organizations implemented the intervention, 42% considered implementation, and 25% reported difficulties; Maintenaince, an average of 0.57 logins and 1.35 entries per week during the 12 week dissemination and 0.27 logins and 0.63 entries per week during the 9 month follow-up were achieved, 22% and 0% of participants completed the web-based physical activity and nutrition challenges, and 33.3% of organizations intended to continue utilizing components of the intervention. Conclusion - While this intervention demonstrated good reach; effectiveness, adoption, and implementation warrant further investigation.