Equivalent weight loss for weight management programs delivered by phone and clinic
Joseph E Donnelly, Jeannine Goetz, Cheryl Gibson, Debra K Sullivan, Robert Lee, Bryan K Smith, Kate Lambourne, Matthew S Mayo, Suzanne Hunt, Jae Hoon Lee, Jeffrey J Honas, Richard A Washburn, Joseph E Donnelly, Jeannine Goetz, Cheryl Gibson, Debra K Sullivan, Robert Lee, Bryan K Smith, Kate Lambourne, Matthew S Mayo, Suzanne Hunt, Jae Hoon Lee, Jeffrey J Honas, Richard A Washburn
Abstract
Objective: Face-to-face (FTF) weight management is costly and presents barriers for individuals seeking treatment; thus, alternate delivery systems are needed. The objective of this study was to compare weight management delivered by FTF clinic or group conference calls (phone).
Design and methods: Randomized equivalency trial in 295 overweight/obese men/women (BMI = 35.1±4.9, Age = 43.8±10.2, Minority = 39.8%). Weight loss (0-6 months) was achieved by reducing energy intake between 1,200 and 1,500 kcal/day and progressing physical activity (PA) to 300 min/week. Weight maintenance (7-18 months) provided adequate energy to maintain weight and continued 300 min/week of PA. Behavioral weight management strategies were delivered weekly for 6 months and gradually reduced during 7-18 months. A cost analysis provided a comparison of expenses between groups.
Results: Weight change from baseline to 6 months was -13.4 ± 6.7% and -12.3 ± 7.0% for FTF clinic and phone, respectively. Weight change from 6-18 months was 6.4 ± 7.0% and 6.4 ± 5.2%, for FTF clinic and phone, respectively. The cost to FTF participants was $789.58 more per person.
Conclusions: Phone delivery provided equivalent weight loss and maintenance and reduced program cost. Ubiquitous access to phones provides a vast reach for this approach.
Conflict of interest statement
Disclosure: The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
Copyright © 2013 The Obesity Society.
Source: PubMed