This study conducted a two-year intervention program aimed at reducing risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease among employees. It found favorable shifts in biometrics after two years for most modifiable risk factors. The pilot group had average yearly health claims costs that were $613 and $498 lower than other employees, translating to savings of over $1 million each year. The results suggest the targeted intervention programs were effective at reaching goals of reducing risk factors and healthcare costs.

1. Reduction of Risk Factors for Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease: Results from a Novel Two-year, Employee-based Intervention Program. Robert C. Lowe 1 , Debbie Zimmerman 1 , Philip Chen 2 , and Jan Bush 3 1 Polk County School Board, Winter Haven, Florida; 2 Cognoscenti Health Institute, Orlando, Florida; and 3 RobinsonBush, Orlando, Florida. Conclusion A favorable shift in all biometrics occurred at two years with the exception of HDL-C and Homocysteine. Furthermore, the pilot group had average per capita health claims costs $613 and $498 per year lower, respectively, than the remaining employees. This translated to savings of $1,075,202 and $823,692 in year one and year two, respectively. These data suggest that the targeted intervention programs reached their intended goals for most of the modifiable risk factors thus reducing health care costs. - For further information please contact: Robert Lowe, M.A., FAACVPR [email_address] Results Background Diabetes and cardiovascular diseases are the two most common chronic diseases with modifiable risk factors. The prevalence of both diseases in our population is higher than the U.S. national averages. The health care costs for these employees, retirees, and dependents are substantially higher than for the balance of the insured. Purpose The purpose of the present investigation was to initiate a two-year pilot project with the goal of reducing the health care costs related to diabetes and cardiovascular disease in a group of public school employees. Methods Multiple biometric measurements to assess diabetes and cardiovascular disease risks were collected. Baseline measures included body fat percentage, blood pressure, total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, triglycerides, fasting blood sugar, Insulin Resistance Index, and homocysteine. In addition, physical activity level, family disease history, and smoking history was collected through detailed, one-on-one interviews. All measures were repeated at one year and two years. Based on the results, individuals were prescribed various interventions. Stepwise counseling and referral programs were provided following stratification of risk factors. ABCs of Health