Using the Facebook Social Networking Website to Improve the Utilization of Weight Loss Programs by Community Obese Adults

Abstract

In light of the known impacts of obesity on well-being, we regularly work to promote weight loss programs in community settings. However, we found that a gap exists between the need for weight loss and the utilization of healthy weight loss programs among BMI (body mass index) ≥ 27 kg/m2adults. The low utilization of healthy weight loss programs may lower the overall benefit of these programs. We reexamined access to health services and developed an accessible weight loss program for BMI ≥ 27 kg/m2adults that would improve the overall utilization of healthy weight loss programs. A telephone survey for obese adults was conducted to explore the reasons that discouraged persons in this group to not use our weight loss programs. The main reasons identified were: program schedules did not fit with respondent's daily schedule, the unsuitable services provided, and the overly long distance to the weight loss class. The social-cognitive-theory-based 1-year weight loss program that was developed provided immediate and accurate information about weight loss, inspiring words, weight management advice, and immediate and convenient consultation services. Moreover, this program established an incentives system on a social networking platform (Facebook) and was marketed under a creative slogan. The developed weight loss program increased not only program utilization (from 54.7% to 78.1%) but also reduced the average weight of obese adult participants by 3.4 kg. Conclusions: This program adjusted existing weight loss programs and improved the utilization of weight loss programs. These results may be applied elsewhere to increase weight-loss efficacy and to maximize health.