Predictors of Behavioral Obesity Treatment Outcomes

Launched by RUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · Apr 6, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking into why people from lower-income backgrounds often struggle more with weight loss compared to those from higher-income backgrounds. Researchers want to understand how everyday challenges and certain thought patterns linked to difficult living conditions might affect weight loss success. By identifying these factors, the study aims to improve weight loss programs for everyone, especially those who face economic hardships.

To participate in this trial, individuals need to be at least 18 years old, have obesity (defined as a body mass index of 30 or higher), and fit into either a lower or higher socioeconomic status group. However, some people may not be eligible, such as those who have had weight loss surgery, are currently in other weight loss treatments, or have certain medical conditions. Participants will be asked to engage in behavioral weight loss interventions and share their experiences, helping researchers to learn more about what works and what doesn’t for different groups of people. It’s a chance to contribute to important research that could lead to better support for those trying to lose weight.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Age ≥18 years old
• • 2. Obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2)
• • 3. Meets criteria for either the lower SES or higher SES cohort
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Not fluent in English
• • 2. Change in income or financial assets exceeding ±75% of federal poverty guideline within the past 12 months, or expected in the next 6 months, if this change would result in reclassification on SES.
• • 3. Previous or planned bariatric surgery, or concurrent engagement in other behavioral or pharmacological treatment for obesity
• • 4. Resides more than 20 miles away from Rush, or planning to move outside of this geographic area during the study period
• • 5. Body mass index ≥60 kg/m2, due to increased injury risk with exercise
• • 6. History of bariatric surgery, or current engagement in another weight loss therapy
• • 7. Lack of reliable access to cell or landline phone
• • 8. Medical contraindications to treatment, including osteoporosis, cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment ≤25), active substance abuse based on the World Health Organization's ASSIST screener, lack of physician clearance for participation, or serious medical illness (e.g., stage 3 or 4 heart failure, cancer, renal failure, etc.)