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Weight loss program participants benefit from personal contact groups

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Individuals who complete behavioral weight loss programs may have a better chance of losing weight and keeping it off, according to recent study results.

To compare the benefits of weight loss maintenance programs with self-directed intervention, researchers from the Weight Loss Maintenance Collaborative Research Group conducted a two-phase trial of 1,032 overweight and obese participants with hypertension, dyslipidemia or both.

Phase 1 of the trial included a six-month weight loss program where participants lost at least 4 kg. In phase 2, the participants were randomly assigned to one of the following weight-loss maintenance intervention programs for 30 months: monthly personal contact, unlimited access to an interactive technology-based program or self-directed control, according to the study.

Mean weight loss during the six-month program was 8.5 kg. Compared with participants in the self-directed group, those in the personal contact cohort regained less weight (4.0 kg vs. 5.5 kg; P=.001). Weight regained between the interactive technology-based group and the self-directed group did not differ at 30 months; however, at 18 and 24 months weight regain was lower in the technology-based group.

According to the researchers, 71% of study participants remained below baseline weight. – by Stacey L. Adams

JAMA. 2008;299:1139-1148.

Svetkey and colleagues have provided good news for the primary care physician. They have reinforced the fact that physicians and their staff can make a significant impact on long-term weight maintenance. One strength of this study was the high follow-up, and the other was the 2.5 years that participants were observed. Overall, 71% remained below their entry weight and the mean weight loss was 4% to 5%. We know from studies in individuals with impaired glucose tolerance, or with hypertension, that this degree of weight loss will delay onset of diabetes or reduce blood pressure and need for anti-hypertensive medications.

– George A. Bray, MD

Endocrine Today Editorial Board member