Web-based weight loss in primary care: a randomized controlled trial

Obesity (Silver Spring). 2010 Feb;18(2):308-13. doi: 10.1038/oby.2009.242. Epub 2009 Aug 20.

Abstract

Evidence is lacking regarding effective and sustainable weight loss approaches for use in the primary care setting. We conducted a 12-week randomized controlled trial to evaluate the short-term efficacy of a web-based weight loss intervention among 101 primary care patients with obesity and hypertension. Patients had access to a comprehensive website that used a moderate-intensity weight loss approach designed specifically for web-based implementation. Patients also participated in four (two in-person and two telephonic) counseling sessions with a health coach. Intent-to-treat analysis showed greater weight loss at 3 months (-2.56 kg; 95% CI -3.60, -1.53) among intervention participants (-2.28 +/- 3.21 kg), relative to usual care (0.28 +/- 1.87 kg). Similar findings were observed among intervention completers (-3.05 kg; 95% CI -4.24, -1.85). High rates of participant retention (84%) and website utilization were observed, with the greatest weight loss found among those with a high frequency of website logins (quartile 4 vs. 1: -4.16 kg; 95% CI -1.47, -6.84). The intervention's approach promoted moderate weight loss at 12 weeks, though greater weight loss was observed among those with higher levels of website utilization. Efficacious web-based weight loss interventions can be successfully offered in the primary care setting.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Counseling*
  • Female
  • Goals
  • Health Behavior*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Health Promotion* / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / complications*
  • Internet* / statistics & numerical data
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Obesity / complications
  • Obesity / physiopathology
  • Obesity / psychology
  • Obesity / therapy*
  • Patient Compliance
  • Primary Health Care* / statistics & numerical data
  • Self Care
  • Time Factors
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Weight Loss*