Continuous Engagement in a Weight-Loss Program Promotes Sustained Significant Weight Loss.

BACKGROUND: Significant weight loss improves health but regain is common. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to determine if 2,346 members of Take Off Pounds Sensibly-a national, low-cost, peer-led weight-loss program-achieved and maintained significant weight loss with 7 consecutive annual renewals. METHODS: This study was a retrospective cohort design. For each renewal, the cumulative change from baseline weight was calculated. Weight change was placed into 1 of 3 categories: significant weight loss, loss ≥ 5%; weight stable, loss of 0 to < 5%; or weight gain, any amount above baseline weight. RESULTS: The cohort included 2,346 individuals. Fifty-one percent (n=740) of participants were in the significant weight-loss category all 7 years; 256 (18%) were in the significant weight-loss category at year 1 but moved into at least 1 other category during years 2 through 6; 359 (25%) were in the weight stable category at year 1; and 98 (7%) were in the weight gain category at year 1. CONCLUSIONS: Over 60% of the population achieved significant weight loss by year 7. Since continuous, long-term engagement in a weight-loss program can lead to significant weight loss, even if significant weight loss is not initially achieved, participation should be encouraged.

Duke Scholars

Author Nia Schwann Mitchell Medicine, General Internal Medicine

Author Nrupen Bhavsar Surgery, Surgical Sciences