Kevin Masters and Team Seek Participants for ELM Study

Published: Oct. 13, 2021

The University of Colorado Anschutz Health & Wellness Center is seeking volunteers for the final cohort of the Enhanced Lifestyles for Metabolic Syndrome (ELM) study, a 2-year research study comparing two lifestyle programs with the goal to improve health and reverse the metabolic syndrome. The ELM trial, led by Psychology Professor Kevin Masters, will compare two different lifestyle programs: a Group-Based lifestyle program that requires participants to attend weekly group classes (Tuesdays from 4:30-6pm) for the first 3 months, biweekly classes for the next 3 months, and then monthly classes for 18 months OR a Self-Directed program that requires participants to read educational tip sheets and follow the instructions on their own.  Participants will be randomly assigned to either the group–based program or the self-directed program.  The ELM trial is seeking a total of 600 participants from 5 sites across the country, with 120 participants sought from the Denver/Aurora metro area. There are only 30 spots left at the University of Colorado and screening visits are being conducted now.

Both lifestyle programs aim to help people learn how to eat healthy, increase activity, and manage stress. There will be 4 study visits for the purpose of data collection over the 2-year study. Participants will receive a Fitbit activity tracker, compensation of up to $180, blood work and lab results provided, and participation in one of two lifestyle programs. The ELM study is being conducted at the Anschutz Health and Wellness Center at the Anschutz Medical Campus.

Eligible participants must be 18 years or older and meet three or more of the following conditions for metabolic syndrome:

  • Large waist size or waist circumference
  • High blood pressure or taking blood pressure medication for high blood pressure
  • High blood sugar or prediabetes (but not have diabetes)
  • High triglycerides or taking medications for high triglycerides
  • Low HDL (“good cholesterol”) or taking medication for low HDL

You can view Dr. Masters’ interview regarding the ELM Study with 9Health. To see if you might be eligible, please contact the study team at wellness.research@ucdenver.edu or 303-724-9198.

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