Publication Date
12-1-2022
Journal
Obesity (Silver Spring)
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Despite the high prevalence of obesity and associated health risks in the United States adult population, few primary care providers (PCPs) have time and training to provide weight-management counseling to their patients. This study aims to compare the effect of referral to a comprehensive automated digital weight-loss program, with or without provider email feedback, with usual care on weight loss in patients with overweight or obesity.
METHODS: A total of 550 adults (mean [SD], 51.4 [11.2] years, BMI = 35.1 [5.5] kg/m
RESULTS: Weight changes (mean [SE]) at 12 months were -0.92 (0.46), -3.68 (0.46), and -3.58 (0.48) kg in the EUC, IWL, and IWL + PCP groups, respectively. Outcomes were significantly different in EUC versus IWL and EUC versus IWL + PCP (p < 0.001), but not in IWL versus IWL + PCP.
CONCLUSIONS: Referral by PCPs to an automated weight-loss program holds promise for patients with obesity. Future research should explore ways to further promote accountability and adherence.
Keywords
Adult, Humans, Female, Male, Weight Reduction Programs, Feedback, Internet, Weight Loss, Obesity, Primary Health Care