Improving employee health through workplace intervention: the “Watch our weight” (WOW) program – a case study

The WOW Program was implemented in multiple phases between 2015 and 2023, with multidisciplinary approach involving dietitians, medical officers, human resource personnel, and allied health professionals. Phase 1 focused on organization-wide health promotion through education, environmental modifications, and voluntary participation. Phase 2 consisted of a three-month intensive, individualized weight management intervention for employees with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²), including calorie-restricted diets, structured physical activity prescriptions, cognitive behavioural therapy, one-on-one dietetic consultations, group exercise, and digital self-monitoring tools. Phase 3 expanded enrolment and compared different dietary strategies, conventional calorie restriction, intermittent fasting, and meal replacement while maintaining standardized physical activity and behavioural support, largely delivered through virtual platforms due to pandemic-related restrictions. Phase 4 targeted specific departments using a peer-supported model, emphasizing meal replacement combined with structured nutrition education, behavioural change strategies, and regular monitoring. Across all phases, participants underwent periodic anthropometric, biochemical, physical activity, and behavioural assessments.