Analysis of the Factors Affecting the Success of Weight Reduction Programs

Abstract

Obesity is a risk factor for numerous health problems. Behavior therapy is important for obesity treatment. The aim of the present study was to identify the parameters that are associated with successful weight reduction. A database of 123 subjects who underwent weight reduction programs at the Center for Health Promotion, Samsung Medical Center from June 2001 through November 2004 was retrospectively analyzed. The goal of the program was to reduce the body weight by more than 5% during the follow-up period. The study population was divided into 2 categories (the success group and the failure group) based on the outcome of weight reduction. We analyzed the demographic, laboratory and clinical parameters to determine the predictors of successful weight reduction. The prevalence of success group was 36.6% (45/123). Significant correlations for successful weight reduction were found for the follow up period and the frequency of medical visits. Our results suggest that strong motivation was the most important factor for successful weight reduction.

Predictors of weight reduction and maintenance in a large cohort of overweight and obese adults in a community setting

“…Even a single visit to a dietitian had a significant effect on the likelihood to succeed in achieving and maintaining weight reduction. This finding is in line with previous studies, which found visits to a dietitian as a significant predictor for weight loss and maintenance in structured weight loss programs . It should be emphasised that our study is unique in showing this effect also in a community setting.…”

“…A possible explanation is that when subjects lose large amount of fat they experience favourable changes in their body shape and motivation, and are thus more motivated to maintain weight . The literature, however, is inconsistent regarding this issue: similar to our results, many studies reported higher baseline BMI as a significant predictor of success in weight reduction and maintenance during short and long follow up periods . However, it was also reported that at extreme baseline BMI (above 35) the probability of weight loss and maintenance success declines…”

“…Our study did not find statistically significant associations of any of the demographic factors with high successful weight reduction and maintenance, including marital status, socioeconomic status, ethnic background and gender (using the final multivariate analysis). Previous studies examining the association of demographic parameters with weight reduction outcomes showed inconsistent results for marital status, socioeconomic status, ethnic background and gender . Thus, further research is needed to clarify the link between demographic characteristics and weight reduction and maintenance outcomes.…”

“…Obesity rates in Israel are high and comparable to those in the United States, reaching 30% for body mass index (BMI) ≤ 30 . Excess body weight is associated with decreased longevity and quality of life and a variety of pathological conditions . Clinical trials have reported numerous short‐ and long‐term health benefits associated with weight loss .…”

“…Participants who fail to lose weight during the first 6 months (the majority) are usually not followed up, and data regarding their weight reduction and maintenance outcomes are lacking. The time frame considered as weight loss maintenance is controversial, especially as weight regain after initial weight reduction is a common phenomenon; however, in most studies it is accepted to be 12 months …”