Delivering Weight Loss Interventions Research Articles

Searching for the Scale-Able Weight Loss Intervention: Can One Size Fit All? Lessons to Be Learned from the EQUAL Trial.

Overweight and obesity affect 71.2% of adults in the United States, with cancer survivors not far behind at 70.3%. Subgroups such as those diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) face even greater challenges. The Exercise and Quality Diet after Leukemia (EQUAL) trial sought to address weight management issues among ALL survivors by implementing a remotely delivered weight loss intervention, leveraging the previously proven Practice-based Opportunities for Weight Reduction (POWER) program. Despite a strong foundation and design, the EQUAL trial yielded null results. Key differences in study populations and intervention contexts between the EQUAL and POWER trials, such as the lack of primary care physician involvement in EQUAL, contributed to these outcomes. EQUAL's failure to meet its accrual target and poor adherence among participants highlighted challenges in engaging this unique population. Contrary to EQUAL's conclusions, evidence from other studies supports the efficacy of remote interventions for weight loss among cancer survivors. The lack of qualitative assessment among ALL survivors and key integration to inform intervention adaptations undermined EQUAL's impact. However, EQUAL's impressive retention rate offers valuable insights. Lessons from EQUAL underscore the need for well-fitted, remotely delivered interventions and the importance of thoughtfully adapted and tailored approaches to specific survivor populations. See related article by Fiedmann et al., p. 1158.

Abstract P442: An Innovative, Remotely Delivered Weight Loss and Exercise Intervention to Improve Rheumatoid Arthritis Cardiovascular Risk

Introduction: Despite improvements in pharmacologic management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), patients with RA continue to have an increased risk for CVD - the leading cause of death in this population. RA CVD results from a combination of traditional risk factors - such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, physical inactivity, and obesity - and RA-related systemic inflammation. Although weight loss and physical activity are promising means for improving both traditional and inflammatory risk factors, evidence is lacking for lifestyle interventions targeting these health behaviors in RA. Hypothesis: In the SWET-RA trial, we hypothesized that, as compared to standard of care, a 16-week remotely delivered weight loss and exercise intervention would improve CVD risk factors in older persons with RA and obesity. Methods: Twenty-four patients (age 60-80 years; BMI 28-40 kg/m 2 ) were randomized to one of two groups: 1) supervised weight loss and exercise training (SWET); or 2) counseling health as treatment (CHAT). The SWET intervention - delivered via video conference, the study YouTube channel, and mobile applications - consists of a) dietitian-led caloric restriction diet (7% weight loss goal) with weekly weigh-ins and group support sessions; and b) exercise physiologist-led aerobic (150 min moderate-to-vigorous exercise) and resistance training (twice weekly). CHAT provides initial clinical counseling on healthy diets and physical activity followed by monthly check-ins. Outcomes include body mass; body composition via Air Displacement Plethysmography; peak oxygen consumption [VO 2 (mL/kg/min)] via maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing; and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP). Within-groups, paired t-tests assessed whether post- minus pre-intervention change scores (mean ± standard deviation) were significant (p<0.05). Results: To date, 13 patients (61.5% White; 84.6% female) have completed the study; 8 additional patients are expected to complete the study by February 2023. Following the intervention, the CHAT group (n=5) had mean changes in body mass, fat mass, and lean mass of -2.4 ± 4.0%, -3.3 ± 4.3 kg, and 1.0 ± 1.0 kg (all p>0.05). Those randomized to SWET (n=8) had significant improvements in body mass (-5.0 ± 2.9%; p=0.002) and fat mass (-4.3 ± 2.8 kg; p=0.004), and no change in lean mass (0.4 ± 1.2 kg; p=0.36). The CHAT group had a 1.1 ± 6.7% change in peak VO 2 (p=0.81), while the SWET group exhibited a 10.6 ± 16.7% change (p=0.13). There were minimal changes in MAP for both groups (CHAT: -1.0 ± 1.0 mmHg; SWET: -0.4 ± 1.2 mmHg). Conclusions: Preliminary findings indicate that, as compared to CHAT, the SWET intervention elicits beneficial changes in body mass, fat mass, and cardiorespiratory fitness. As the SWET-RA trial is pioneering a remotely delivered program, results from this study will help guide lifestyle intervention implementation to improve CVD risk in larger groups of patients with RA.

The impact of a group based, remotely delivered weight loss intervention in women with polycystic ovary syndrome on ovulation, quality of life and body composition.

BackgroundObesity and visceral adiposity are associated with anovulation. The most common cause of anovulatory infertility in women of reproductive age is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We conducted this formative study to examine the effects of a remotely delivered, group-based lifestyle program for women with overweight/obesity and PCOS on ovulation, PCOS related quality of life (PCOSQ) and body composition.MethodsWomen with anovulatory infertility caused by PCOS (N = 12) were enrolled in a 6-month high-intensity weight management intervention. Participants were asked to attend 45 min., group behavioral lifestyle sessions, delivered remotely by a registered dietitian weekly across the 6-mo. study and comply with a reduced energy diet, increased physical activity (225 min/wk.), and self-monitoring of weight, physical activity and diet. Diets consisted of five portion-controlled meals (three shakes + two entrees), at least five servings of fruits/vegetables, and ad libitum non-caloric beverages daily. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to assess changes in outcomes across the intervention.ResultsTwelve women received the weight loss intervention (mean age = 32.7 ± 4.2 yrs., BMI = 36.8 ± 4.5 kg/m2, 92% college educated), and 8 completed the intervention. Eight (67%) women reported ovulating during the intervention with an average time to ovulation of 57 ± 45 days. Women lost an average of 3.85 ± 5.94 kg (p = 0.02), decreased their BMI (−1.61 ± 1.09 kg/m2; p = 0.04), and waist circumference (−4.54 ± 3.03 cm; p = 0.04) over the 6-mo. intervention. Additionally, self-reported menstrual problems measured by PCOSQ significantly improved over the study (p = 0.03).ConclusionA multicomponent group-based, remotely delivered, lifestyle intervention delivered remotely is a feasible and potentially scalable option to achieve clinically relevant (>3%) weight loss in women with PCOS.Clinical trial registrationwww.clinicaltrials.gov, identifier: NCT03677362.

Dietary and Physical Activity Changes and Adherence to WCRF/AICR Cancer Prevention Recommendations following a Remotely Delivered Weight Loss Intervention for Female Breast Cancer Survivors: The Living Well after Breast Cancer Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundDiet, exercise, and weight management are key in improving outcomes for breast cancer survivors, with international recommendations for cancer survivors relating to these behaviors. However, few behavioral interventions have reported outcomes aligned specifically with these recommendations. ObjectiveTo evaluate a remotely delivered weight loss intervention vs usual care for female breast cancer survivors, on changes in multiple diet and physical activity behaviors. DesignA randomized controlled trial with assessments at study baseline, 6-, 12-, and 18 months (ie, mid-intervention, post-intervention, and non-contact follow-up). Participants/settingParticipants were recruited between October 2012 and December 2014 through hospitals in Brisbane, Australia, and the state-based cancer registry. Eligible participants (women aged 18 to 75 years with body mass index 25 to 45 kg/m2 who were diagnosed with stage I through III breast cancer during previous 2 years) were randomly allocated to intervention (n = 79) or usual care (n = 80). InterventionParticipants randomized to the intervention group received 22 counseling telephone calls targeting diet and physical activity aimed at achieving 5% to 10% weight loss, and optional text messages, over 12 months. Usual care participants received their standard medical care and brief feedback following each assessment, which was similar to that provided to intervention participants with the exception that usual care participants’ results were not compared with national and study recommendations. Main outcome measuresDietary intake (24-hour recalls), physical activity (hip-worn GT3X+ accelerometer [Actigraph]), sitting time (thigh-worn activPAL3 [PAL Technologies Limited), and adherence to World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research (WCRF/AICR) recommendations for cancer survivors (0 to 7 score) were measured at each assessment, with data collected between November 2012 and October 2016. Statistical analyses performedIntervention effects were assessed by linear mixed models, accounting for repeated measures and baseline values. Significance was set at P < 0.05. ResultsAt baseline, participants were aged 55 ± 9 years, with a body mass index of 31.4 ± 5.0 kg/m2, 10.7 ± 5.0 months postdiagnosis, and primarily non-minority. At baseline, only 8% (n = 12) of participants met ≥5 out of seven WCRF/AICR recommendations (WCRF/AICR adherence score = 3.8 ± 1.0). At 12 months, significant intervention effects were observed in walking/running (+21 minutes/week; 95% CI 4 to 38) and WCRF/AICR adherence scores (+0.3 points; 95% CI 0.0 to 0.6) only. At 18 months, significant intervention effects were observed for energy intake (–229 kcal/day energy; 95% CI –373 to –84), total fat (–10 g/day; 95% CI –18 to –2), and saturated fat (–5 g/day; 95% CI –9 to –1), and were sustained for WCRF/AICR adherence scores (+0.5 points; 95% CI 0.2 to 0.8). ConclusionsThis remotely delivered weight loss intervention led to sustained improvements in WCRF/AICR adherence scores, and some improvements in diet and physical activity. These findings provide support for the health benefit of programs targeting lifestyle behaviors in line with cancer survivor recommendations, and the potential for dissemination of such programs for women following treatment for early-stage breast cancer.

Effect of a Remotely Delivered Weight Loss Intervention in Early-Stage Breast Cancer: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Limited evidence exists on the effects of weight loss on chronic disease risk and patient-reported outcomes in breast cancer survivors. Breast cancer survivors (stage I–III; body mass index 25–45 kg/m2) were randomized to a 12-month, remotely delivered (22 telephone calls, mailed material, optional text messages) weight loss (diet and physical activity) intervention (n = 79) or usual care (n = 80). Weight loss (primary outcome), body composition, metabolic syndrome risk score and components, quality of life, fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, menopausal symptoms, fear of recurrence, and body image were assessed at baseline, 6 months, 12 months (primary endpoint), and 18 months. Participants were 55 ± 9 years and 10.7 ± 5.0 months post-diagnosis; retention was 81.8% (12 months) and 80.5% (18 months). At 12-months, intervention participants had significantly greater improvements in weight (−4.5% [95%CI: −6.5, −2.5]; p < 0.001), fat mass (−3.3 kg [−4.8, −1.9]; p < 0.001), metabolic syndrome risk score (−0.19 [−0.32, −0.05]; p = 0.006), waist circumference (−3.2 cm [−5.5, −0.9]; p = 0.007), fasting plasma glucose (−0.23 mmol/L [−0.44, −0.02]; p = 0.032), physical quality of life (2.7 [0.7, 4.6]; p = 0.007; Cohen’s effect size (d) = 0.40), musculoskeletal pain (−0.5 [−0.8, −0.2]; p = 0.003; d = 0.49), and body image (−0.2 [−0.4, −0.0]; p = 0.030; d = 0.31) than usual care. At 18 months, effects on weight, adiposity, and metabolic syndrome risk scores were sustained; however, significant reductions in lean mass were observed (−1.1 kg [−1.7, −0.4]; p < 0.001). This intervention led to sustained improvements in adiposity and metabolic syndrome risk.

Obesity Treatment in African American Churches: Current Treatment Targets and Preferences among Parishioners.

Obesity is prevalent among African Americans, and church-based weight management programs may help address this public health issue. To develop more effective interventions, a survey was administered to members of a large, African American faith-based organization that assessed weight management intervention targets and preferences. Respondents (N = 1,439) represented the Midwestern and Southern United States. Mean body mass index was 30.8 ± 9.2 kg/m2, and 82.5% of respondents were overweight/obese. The majority (65.0%) wanted a weight management intervention conducted with the church and preferred an in-person (69.0%), group-based (68.0%) program that meets weekly for one hour or less (72%) and addresses identified barriers including access to healthy foods, childcare, and physical activity support. Church support was linked to better dietary quality and higher physical activity among parishioners (p's ≤ 0.02), suggesting church support may be important for healthy eating and exercise. This study provides a clear path forward for developing and delivering weight loss interventions within African American churches.

The Effects of a Remote-based Weight Loss Program on Adipocytokines, Metabolic Markers, and Telomere Length in Breast Cancer Survivors: the POWER-Remote Trial.

We initiated a clinical trial to determine the proportion of breast cancer survivors achieving ≥5% weight loss using a remotely delivered weight loss intervention (POWER-remote) or a self-directed approach, and to determine the effects of the intervention on biomarkers of cancer risk including metabolism, inflammation, and telomere length. Women with stage 0-III breast cancer, who completed local therapy and chemotherapy, with a body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 were randomized to a 12-month intervention (POWER-remote) versus a self-directed approach. The primary objective was to determine the number of women who achieved at least 5% weight loss at 6 months. We assessed baseline and 6-month change in a panel of adipocytokines (adiponectin, leptin, resistin, HGF, NGF, PAI1, TNFα, MCP1, IL1β, IL6, and IL8), metabolic factors (insulin, glucose, lipids, hs-CRP), and telomere length in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. From 2013 to 2015, 96 women were enrolled, and 87 were evaluable for the primary analysis; 45 to POWER-remote and 42 to self-directed. At 6 months, 51% of women randomized to POWER-remote lost ≥5% of their baseline body weight, compared with 12% in the self-directed arm [OR, 7.9; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.6-23.9; P = 0.0003]; proportion were similar at 12 months (51% vs 17%, respectively, P = 0.003). Weight loss correlated with significant decreases in leptin, and favorable modulation of inflammatory cytokines and lipid profiles. There was no significant change in telomere length at 6 months. A remotely delivered weight loss intervention resulted in significant weight loss in breast cancer survivors, and favorable effects on several biomarkers.

Implementation costs of a community health worker delivered weight loss intervention in black churches serving underserved communities.

Black adults bear a disproportionate burden of the obesity epidemic but are underrepresented in weight loss research and lose less weight than their white counterparts in weight loss interventions. Comprehensive behavioral weight loss interventions cause weight loss, but their high cost have stymied their implementation in black and other underserved communities. Recent translations of evidence-based weight loss interventions for black communities have been designed to increase intervention reach. However, the costs of implementing such interventions have seldom been reported in the context of a randomized controlled trial. Thus, the costs of implementing a community-health worker delivered Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) adaptated for rural black adults of faith (The WORD) are reported.Data from a randomized controlled effectiveness trial conducted in 31 churches (n = 440) were used to calculate implementation costs. All participants received the 16-session core weight loss intervention and weight loss data was collected at baseline and 6 months.Participants lost an average of 2.53 kg at 6 months. Total implementation costs were $340.95 per participant. Thus, the implementation cost was $138 per kg.This is one of the few comprehensive examinations of costs for a DPP translation for black adults of faith and provide initial data from which practitioners and policy makers can use to determine the engagement of churches to disseminate the DPP through churches. Future studies are needed to confirm the extent churches are a cost-effective strategy to cause weight loss in black communities.

The WORD: Outcomes of a Behavioral Weight Loss Maintenance Effectiveness Trial in Rural Black Adults of Faith.

Rural black communities bear a disproportionate burden of obesity. To increase reach among underserved groups, community-based weight loss and maintenance interventions are crucial. The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) was adapted for rural black adults of faith to create The Wholeness, Oneness, Righteousness, Deliverance (WORD) trial, a group-based, community health worker-delivered weight loss intervention. A Weight Loss Only arm (16 sessions) was compared with a Weight Loss + Maintenance arm (16 + 12 sessions) in a cluster randomized controlled trial of 31 churches (n = 440). Weight and related behaviors were assessed at 0, 6, 12, and 18 months. The WORD produced weight loss from baseline to 6 months (percentage body weight change-2.47 [-3.13 to -1.80]). Among those who lost 5% of their baseline weight, there was a statistical trend of lower weight regain in the Weight Loss + Maintenance arm compared with control. Maintenance arm participants reported higher activity at 12 months. There were no between-arm differences at 18 months. The WORD produced weight loss from baseline to 6 months on par with that produced by other DPP adaptations for black communities, including adaptations using health professionals. Weight regain was also consistent with that reported in prior literature. Continuing sessions as part of the church's mission may foster adoption of DPP-based weight loss programs.

Dietary Self-Monitoring Through Calorie Tracking but Not Through a Digital Photography App Is Associated with Significant Weight Loss: The 2SMART Pilot Study—A 6-Month Randomized Trial

BackgroundDietary self-monitoring (DSM) of foods and beverages is associated with weight loss in behavioral interventions; however, DSM may be burdensome, and adherence may decrease over time. Novel methods of DSM, including apps that track food using photographs, may decrease burden, increase DSM adherence, and improve weight loss. ObjectiveThe objective was to test a mobile photo DSM app compared to a calorie-tracking DSM app on tracking frequency and weight loss in a remotely delivered behavioral weight-loss intervention. DesignThis was a 6-month (October 2016 to April 2017) randomized trial. Participants/settingParticipants were adults (n=41) classified as overweight or obese (body mass index 25 to 49.9) from South Carolina. InterventionParticipants received remotely delivered twice-weekly behavioral weight-loss podcasts and tracked diet using a calorie-tracking DSM app (Calorie Group) or a photo DSM app (Photo Group). Main outcome measuresMain outcomes were the number of days diet was tracked, podcasts downloaded, and weight change at 6 weeks and 6 months. Statistical analysesResearchers used nonparametric Wilcoxon rank sum tests and χ2 analysis to test for differences between groups at baseline; repeated-measures models to estimate weight change and Spearman correlations to determine relationships between DSM frequency, podcasts downloaded, and weight change at 6 months. ResultsThere were no differences between groups for the number of days that diet was recorded (P=0.18), which was low overall (<30% of days) but was statistically significantly and strongly correlated with weight change for all participants pooled (r=0.63; P<0.001) and for the calorie tracking group (r=0.70; P=0.004), but not the photo tracking group (r=0.51; P=0.06). Participants in both groups had significant weight loss at 6 months (Photo Group, –2.5±0.9 kg; P=0.008; Calorie Group –2.4±0.9 kg; P=0.007), with no differences between groups at either 6 weeks (P=0.66) or at 6 months (P=0.74). ConclusionsAs part of a remotely delivered weight loss intervention, frequency of DSM was significantly associated with overall weight loss for participants using a calorie DSM app but not a photo DSM app. DSM was low regardless of group and weight loss was significant, although minimal. Increasing user engagement with any DSM may be important to increase self-monitoring and improve weight loss.

Informing the development of online weight management interventions: a qualitative investigation of primary care patient perceptions

BackgroundThe internet is a potentially promising medium for delivering weight loss interventions. The current study sought to explore factors that might influence primary care patients’ initial uptake and continued use (up to four-weeks) of such programmes to help inform the development of novel, or refinement of existing, weight management interventions.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 patients purposively sampled based on age, gender and BMI from a single rural general practice. The interviews were conducted 4 weeks after recruitment at the general practice and focused on experiences with using one of three freely available weight loss websites. Thematic Analysis was used to analyse the data.ResultsFindings suggested that patients were initially motivated to engage with internet-based weight loss programmes by their accessibility and novelty. However, continued use was influenced by substantial facilitators and barriers, such as time and effort involved, reaction to prompts/reminders, and usefulness of information. Facilitation by face-to-face consultations with the GP was reported to be helpful in supporting change.ConclusionsAlthough primary care patients may not be ready yet to solely depend on online interventions for weight loss, their willingness to use them shows potential for use alongside face–to-face weight management advice or intervention. Recommendations to minimise barriers to engagement are provided.

Randomized trial comparing group size of periodic in-person sessions in a remotely delivered weight loss intervention

Randomized trial comparing group size of periodic in-person sessions in a remotely delivered weight loss intervention

Randomized trial comparing group size of periodic in-person sessions in a remotely delivered weight loss intervention

BackgroundFew randomized studies have examined differential effects of group size in behavioral weight control, especially in hybrid programs that include Internet treatment approaches.MethodsRandomized controlled trial (n = 195) comparing a 4 month hybrid internet weight loss program coupled with monthly face to face groups of 100 persons (Large Group, LG; 1 group) or to the same approach with monthly groups of 20 persons (Small Group, SG; 4 groups). Repeated-measures mixed-model analysis with age and race as covariates were used to estimate primary (weight) and secondary outcomes, and to test group differences in change over time.ResultsThe sample was 46.3 years old ±10.4, 90.3% female, and 51.9% non-white, with BMI 37.9 ± 8.4 kg/m2. Participants in the LG were more likely to return for the 4-month assessment visit than those in the SG (p = 0.04). Participants randomized to both the LG and SG conditions experienced significant WL over time (no between group difference: −4.1 kg and −3.7 kg, respectively) and weight loss was positively associated with attendance at monthly meetings and logins to the website. Satisfaction with the program was high and similar in both groups (94.4% reported that they were “satisfied” or “very satisfied”).ConclusionsUsing a hybrid approach of in-person and online weight loss interventions may be an effective way to reach larger and more diverse populations. Delivering the face to face component of the intervention in groups larger than those traditionally delivered (20–25 people) could increase the cost-effectiveness of group-based behavioral weight loss interventions.Clinical trials registration numberNCT01615471. Registered June 6, 2012. Registered retrospectively.

Effects of workplace-based dietary and/or physical activity interventions for weight management targeting healthcare professionals: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials

BackgroundThe prevalence of overweight and obesity is high amongst healthcare professionals and there is growing interest in delivering weight loss interventions in the workplace. We conducted a systematic review to (i) examine the effectiveness of workplace-based diet and/or physical activity interventions aimed at healthcare professionals and to (ii) identify and describe key components of effective interventions. Seven electronic databases were systematically searched.ResultsThirteen randomised controlled trials met the inclusion criteria, of which seven had data available for meta-analysis. Where meta-analysis was possible, studies were grouped according to length of follow-up (<12 months and ≥12 months) and behavioural target (diet only, physical activity only or diet and physical activity), with outcome data pooled using a weighted random effects model. Nine studies reported statistically significant (between-group) differences. Four studies reported being informed by a behaviour change theory. Meta-analysis of all trials reporting weight data demonstrated healthcare professionals allocated to dietary and physical activity interventions lost significantly more body weight (−3.95 Kg, [95% CI −4.96 to- 2.95 Kg]) than controls up to 12 months follow up.ConclusionsWorkplace diet and/or physical activity interventions targeting healthcare professionals are limited in number and are heterogeneous. To improve the evidence base, we recommend additional evaluations of theory-based interventions and adequate reporting of intervention content.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40608-014-0023-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Click "like" to change your behavior: a mixed methods study of college students' exposure to and engagement with Facebook content designed for weight loss.

BackgroundOverweight or obesity is prevalent among college students and many gain weight during this time. Traditional face-to-face weight loss interventions have not worked well in this population. Facebook is an attractive tool for delivering weight loss interventions for college students because of its popularity, potential to deliver strategies found in successful weight loss interventions, and ability to support ongoing adaptation of intervention content.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to describe participant exposure to a Facebook page designed to deliver content to overweight/obese college students in a weight loss randomized controlled trial (N=404) and examine participant engagement with behavior change campaigns for weight loss delivered via Facebook.MethodsThe basis of the intervention campaign model were 5 self-regulatory techniques: intention formation, action planning, feedback, goal review, and self-monitoring. Participants were encouraged to engage their existing social network to meet their weight loss goals. A health coach moderated the page and modified content based on usage patterns and user feedback. Quantitative analyses were conducted at the Facebook post- and participant-level of analysis. Participant engagement was quantified by Facebook post type (eg, status update) and interaction (eg, like) and stratified by weight loss campaign (sequenced vs nonsequenced). A subset of participants were interviewed to evaluate the presence of passive online engagement or “lurking.”ResultsThe health coach posted 1816 unique messages to the study’s Facebook page over 21 months, averaging 3.45 posts per day (SD 1.96, range 1-13). In all, 72.96% (1325/1816) of the posts were interacted with at least once (eg, liked). Of these, approximately 24.75% (328/1325) had 1-2 interactions, 23.39% (310/1325) had 3-5 interactions, 25.13% (333/1325) had 6-8 interactions, and 41 posts had 20 or more interactions (3.09%, 41/1325). There was significant variability among quantifiable (ie, visible) engagement. Of 199 participants in the final intervention sample, 32 (16.1%) were highly active users and 62 (31.2%) never visibly engaged with the intervention on Facebook. Polls were the most popular type of post followed by photos, with 97.5% (79/81) and 80.3% (386/481) interacted with at least once. Participants visibly engaged less with posts over time (partial r=–.33; P<.001). Approximately 40% of the participants interviewed (12/29, 41%) reported passively engaging with the Facebook posts by reading but not visibly interacting with them.ConclusionsFacebook can be used to remotely deliver weight loss intervention content to college students with the help of a health coach who can iteratively tailor content and interact with participants. However, visible engagement with the study’s Facebook page was highly variable and declined over time. Whether the level of observed engagement is meaningful in terms of influencing changes in weight behaviors and outcomes will be evaluated at the completion of the overall study.

Weight loss social support in 140 characters or less: use of an online social network in a remotely delivered weight loss intervention

Little is known about how online social networking can help enhance weight loss. To examine the types of online social support utilized in a behavioral weight loss intervention and relationship of posting and weight loss. A sub-analysis of the content and number of posts to Twitter among participants (n = 47) randomized to a mobile, social network arm as part of a 6-month trial among overweight adults, examining weight loss, use of Twitter, and type of social support (informational, tangible assistance, esteem, network, and emotional support). A number of Twitter posts were related to % weight loss at 6months (p < 0.001). Initial reported weight loss predicted engagement with Twitter (p < 0.01) but prior Twitter use or initial Twitter engagement did not. Most Twitter posts (total posts n = 2,630) were Informational support (n = 1,981; 75%), with the predominant subtype of Teaching (n = 1,632; 62%), mainly in the form of a status update (n = 1,319). Engagement with Twitter was related to weight loss and participants mainly used Twitter to provide Information support to one another through status updates.

Effectiveness of Cellular Phone-Based Interventions for Weight Loss in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Systematic Review

Background: In response to the rapid increase in obesity and its association with chronic diseases, World Health Organization has declared an immediate need for effective and widely-accessible interventions for weight management. Cellular phones are portable, convenient, and popular among people of varying economic status and geographic regions; hence, they offer a viable medium for delivering weight loss interventions. Objective: To determine whether cellular phones are an effective medium for delivering weight loss interventions in adults who are overweight or obese. Methods: A literature search was conducted to retrieve articles published prior to February 2012. Studies were included if they: 1) included adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher and with no known chronic condition, 2) delivered a weight loss intervention using a cellular phone, 3) measured weight, BMI, waist circumference, body fat or any other proxy for weight loss, 4) had a comparison group, and 5) were published in English. At least two reviewers independently screened all titles and abstracts and reviewed the included articles. Results: 193 unique citations were screened; of those, six studies met inclusion criteria. Mobile interventions varied from phone calls and short message service (SMS) messaging to emails, websites and podcasts. Among studies of one-way interactive interventions (i.e., the researcher could contact the participants, but the participants could not respond), one high quality randomized controlled trial (RCT) showed a small but statistically significant effect in weight reduction, favoring the intervention, and one low quality study reported no significant difference compared to printed material. Of the four studies on two-way interactive interventions (i.e., there was open communication between researchers and participants), two RCTs demonstrated statistically significant difference for weight and waist circumference, while one showed no significant difference. When compared to a clinic-based intervention, one low quality study showed that an internet/SMS weight loss intervention was inferior to regular clinic visits. Conclusion: Due to the small number of high quality studies, modest evidence was found for the effectiveness of cellular phones in the delivery of weight loss interventions for people who were overweight or obese.

Weight loss social support in 140 characters or less: use of an online social network in a remotely delivered weight loss intervention

Weight loss social support in 140 characters or less: use of an online social network in a remotely delivered weight loss intervention

Feasibility of Internet-delivered Weight Loss Interventions Among Rural Women Ages 50-69

The increased availability and use of the Internet by midlife and older women who seek health information may provide an innovative method for delivering weight loss interventions. This preliminary study examined the feasibility and efficacy of web-based interventions for promoting weight loss among rural overweight and obese women ages 50-69 (M = 55.5 +/- 4.9) over a 3-month period. Twenty-one Caucasian women with body mass index of 28-34.5 (M = 30.69 +/- 2.58) were randomly assigned to either a Web site only or Web site augmented with a peer-led support group. The Web site included recommended approaches to healthy eating and activity, weekly newsletters, and other resources. Body weight, eating, and activity measures were assessed at baseline and postintervention. Data analysis included 2-way repeated measures ANOVAs with effect sizes reported as appropriate for a pilot study. Sixteen women (76.2%) completed the study; 14 lost from 2% to 10% of their body weight, and 2 gained 2% of their weight. Large effect sizes were found over time for body weight, estimated VO2max, and percentage of calories from fat. For time by group interaction, large effect sizes favoring the Web site plus peer-led support group were found for body weight, waist circumference, percent body fat, whole grain servings, and both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Process evaluations indicated that 85.7% of women accessed the Web site weekly. There were a total of 305 hits in the Web site only group versus 658 hits in the peer-led support groups. Internet delivered interventions appeared feasible for these rural women with weight loss and improvement in selected eating and activity measures after 3 months.

A Primary Care Weight Management Intervention for Low‐Income African‐American Women

To determine whether a tailored weight management program, addressing the needs of obese, low-income African-American women, would produce greater weight loss than standard medical care. A randomized, controlled trial was conducted between 1999 and 2003 with 144 overweight or obese women (predominantly African-American) enrolled at two primary care clinics. Four physicians at each clinic were randomly assigned to provide either tailored weight management interventions or standard care. The tailored condition consisted of six monthly outpatient visits lasting approximately 15 minutes each, which included personalized materials and messages. The main outcome was body weight change. The intervention group lost more weight than the standard care group (p = 0.03). The tailored group lost a mean (standard deviation) of 2.0 (3.2) kg by Month 6. The standard care group gained 0.2 (2.9) kg. More participants in the tailored group lost weight (79% vs. 47%; p = 0.04). Obese, low-income, African-American women provided with 90 minutes of physician-delivered, tailored weight management instruction over 6 months achieved greater weight loss than those receiving standard medical care. The primary care physician can be effective in delivering weight loss interventions, and the primary care clinic may be a useful setting to implement weight management interventions.