Optimizing an Extended Care Intervention to Promote Weight Loss Maintenance

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · Jan 15, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the best ways to help people keep weight off after they have lost it. Many people find it hard to maintain their weight loss over time, and this study aims to figure out which combination of support methods works best without being too complicated or costly. Participants will first take part in a 16-week program to lose weight, and those who lose at least 5% of their weight will move on to a 12-month phase where they will be assigned to different support methods. These methods include limiting food variety, doing strength training exercises at home, having a buddy to support them, and attending workshops to learn how to manage thoughts and feelings about weight control.

To be eligible for the trial, participants need to be over 18 years old, have a body mass index (BMI) over 30, and have regular internet access for virtual meetings. They should also be willing to get medical clearance for exercise if needed. Participants can expect to attend weekly group sessions, receive support from a Wellness Coach, and share their experiences through surveys. This trial is not yet recruiting participants, but it offers a unique opportunity for those struggling with weight maintenance to potentially benefit from a structured support system.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age \>18 years
• • Body mass index (BMI) \>30 kg/m2
• • Has regular access to internet (to access Zoom videoconferencing platform)
• • If indicated during screening, willing to obtain medical clearance for exercise from their healthcare provider prior to enrollment
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Current or recent (past 6 months) use of prescription weight loss medications
• • Weight loss \>10 pounds in past 6 months (other than postpartum)
• • Pregnancy or anticipating pregnancy
• • Another household member already participating in the study
• • Participation in another randomized research project
• • Uncontrolled hypertension (blood pressure \>160/100 mm Hg at screening)
• • Any of the following other medical conditions: myocardial infarction or cerebrovascular accident within the last 6 months; unstable angina within the past 6 months; NYHA Class III or IV congestive heart failure; type 1 diabetes; and chronic lung diseases that limit physical activity
• • Unable to identify potential buddy (i.e., adult friend or family member) for extended care intervention phase
• • Residing \>50 miles from the university (to attend assessment visits)
• • Planning to relocate out of the area in the next 18 months
• • Does not have internet access
• • Unwilling or unable to do any of the following: give informed consent; read/understand English; accept random assignment