Effects of a Web-based Binge Eating Disorder Intervention Program on Depression and Quality of Life in Overweight or Obese Females (P16-065-19)

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Web-based treatment programs have shown encouraging results in reducing symptoms in Binge Eating Disorder (BED) patients in European studies but no significant studies have been conducted with American subjects. This pilot randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the efficacy of a web-based outpatient treatment program in overweight and obese females diagnosed with BED in the United States. Methods A total of 12 overweight or obese women with BED, aged 20–73, were analyzed in this study. In face-to-face (FF) group (n = 8), participants received a total 12 one-on-one weekly counseling from either a mental health counselor or a Registered Dietitian (RD) sessions. In web-based (WB) group (n = 4), participants received the same counseling through an online telemedicine software program. Outcomes were measured at 3 months including questionnaires SCL-90R (Symptom Checklist 90 Revised), BDI-II (Beck Depression Inventory II), and IWQOL-Lite (Impact of Weight on Quality of Life – short form) assessing psychological health, and quality of life. Between group and within group differences were examined. Results In the end of study, significant improvements were observed in WB group for SCL-90R depression scale (P = 0.000), and IWQOL total score (P = 0.02). There were no significant changes in FF participants. There were no differences between two groups in the end of program neither. Conclusions Web-based treatment programs could potentially be an effective approach for binge eating disorder patients. Large scale randomized clinical trials are warranted to further assess the efficacy of web-based approaches in treating eating disorders. Funding Sources Us Women and Girls’ Health Endowed Research Professorship; Complimentary telemedicine software from Fruit Street company.