[Challenges for evaluating complex interventions: The example of lifestyle].
PubMed, vol. 167
Abstract
Lifestyle interventions potentially contribute to the prevention and treatment of a number of common chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. Nobody questions the importance of a healthy lifestyle, but at the same time it is clear that the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions has often not been investigated in a randomized controlled study, whereas the randomized clinical trial (RCT) is the golden standard in clinical drug research. In this article we discuss the methodological (im)possibilities of using RCTs in evaluating the effects of lifestyle interventions. We also explore the value of other research methods, especially carefully designed non-randomized clinical trials. Under the right conditions, non-randomized 'real world' research can provide valid evidence for the effectiveness and safety of lifestyle interventions.
Authors 3
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Olaf M. Dekkers Aachen
Leiden University Medical Center
Affiliation as printed
Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum, afd. Interne Geneeskunde
Contact: Olaf M. Dekkers (o.m.dekkers@lumc.nl)
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Affiliation as printed
Voeding Leeft, Amsterdam
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Affiliation as printed
Voeding Leeft, Amsterdam