Sit-stand Desk for Diabetes Prevention
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
More than 84 million - or 1 out of every 3 U.S. adults - have prediabetes, a condition that if not treated often leads to type 2 diabetes within five years. Average medical expenditures among diabetics are about 2.3 times higher than expenditures for people without diabetes. Physical inactivity and elevated body mass index (BMI) are major risk factors for the disease. Sedentary behavior is becoming increasingly prevalent with the growth of a 'work from home' culture, most recently driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-sectional epidemiologic data report significant associations between high amounts of sedentary (sitting) time and prevalent cardiovascular disease and diabetes. In our pilot study of 15 subjects with sedentary office jobs, 6 months of sit-stand desk use resulted in a 23% improvement in insulin resistance, most substantial in those who decreased daily sitting by over 90 minutes/day. Additional improvements in vascular endothelial function and triglyceride levels were seen without any change in exercise activity, step counts, or body weight. These findings not only corroborate epidemiologic findings on this topic but suggest causality and warrant a randomized control trial. The investigators hypothesize that adult subjects at-risk for diabetes will improve insulin sensitivity, metabolic and vascular (endothelial) health with a sit-stand desk intervention at work (whether in the office or at home), in the context of a randomized, controlled trial. The investigators will randomize 198 sedentary office workers with a BMI≥25 at risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus in a 1:1:1 ratio of three groups: (a) sit-stand desk intervention targeting 2 hours standing per day; (b) sit-stand desk intervention targeting 3 hours standing per day; or (c) control arm over 6 months. The block randomization design will allow for important dose-response analyses. The investigators will objectively quantify standing time, sedentary time, sedentary bouts, daily steps, and exercise activity times using a compact and re-usable accelerometer that adheres to the subject's thigh. This will provide objective assessments of activity levels and sedentary times for 7 full days each at baseline, 3 and 6 months. The device is equipped with an inclinometer to classify posture (sitting verses standing).
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for this trial?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on diabetes medications or insulin, you are excluded from participating.
What data supports the idea that Sit-stand Desk for Diabetes Prevention is an effective treatment?
The available research shows that sit-stand desks can encourage more movement during the workday, which is important for preventing diabetes. For example, one study found that using computer reminders with sit-stand desks doubled the number of times people changed their desk positions each day. This increased movement can help reduce sitting time, which is linked to better health outcomes. Another study suggests that sit-stand desks can reduce sitting time in older adults with obesity, a group at higher risk for diabetes. Overall, these studies indicate that sit-stand desks can help people be more active, which is beneficial for diabetes prevention.12345
What safety data exists for sit-stand desks in diabetes prevention?
The provided research does not directly address safety data for sit-stand desks. However, it discusses the use of sit-stand desks to reduce sitting time, which is linked to health benefits such as reduced risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. The studies focus on the effectiveness of sit-stand desks in reducing sedentary behavior and improving metabolic health, but they do not specifically mention safety concerns or adverse effects.34678
Is using a sit-stand desk a promising treatment for preventing diabetes?
Yes, using a sit-stand desk is a promising treatment for preventing diabetes. Research shows that sit-stand desks can help reduce the time people spend sitting, which is linked to preventing chronic diseases like diabetes. They encourage more standing and light physical activity, which can improve energy use and promote better health.345910
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for sedentary workers at the Medical College of Wisconsin with a BMI over 25, who are at risk for type 2 diabetes due to factors like family history or prediabetes. Participants should not be currently using a standing desk, have no major cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, uncontrolled hypertension, or other specific health conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Objective assessments of activity levels and sedentary times using an accelerometer for 7 full days
Treatment
Participants are randomized into one of three groups: sit-stand desk intervention targeting 2 hours standing per day, sit-stand desk intervention targeting 3 hours standing per day, or control arm over 6 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in insulin sensitivity, metabolic and vascular health
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Sit-stand desk intervention
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Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Medical College of Wisconsin
Lead Sponsor