Objectives. We evaluated the effect of a weight gain prevention intervention
(ShapeProgram) on depression among socioeconomically disadvantaged over-weight and obese Black women.
Methods. Between 2009 and 2012, w e conducted a randomized trial comparing a
12-month electronic health-based w eight gain prevention intervention to usual
primary care at 5 central North Carolina community health centers. W e assessed
depression w ith th e Patient Health Q ue stionnaire (PHQ-8). W e analyzed change in
depression score from baseline to 12- and 1 8 -month fo llow -u p across groups with
mixed models. W e used generalized es tim ating equation models to analyze group
differences in th e proportion above th e clinical threshold fo r depression (PHQ-8
score > 10).
Results. At baseline, 20% of participants reported depression. Twelve-month
change in depression scores was larger for intervention participants (mean difference
= -1 .8 5 ; 95% confidence interval = -3 .0 8 , -0.61 ; P = .004). There was a significant
reduction in the proportion of intervention participants with depression at 12 months
with no change in the usual-care group (11% vs 19%; P = .035). All effects persisted
after we controlled for w eigh t change and medication use. W e saw similar findings
at 18 months.
Conclusions. The S hape P rogram, which includes no mentio n o f mood,
im p ro v ed depression am on g socioeconomically disadvantaged Black w om en .
(Am J Public Health. 2 0 1 4 ;1 04 :17 66 -177 3. doi:10 .2 10 5/AJPH.201 4.30 20 04)