Comparison of Web-based Interventions for Weight Loss and Weight Maintenance in Rural Women
Year: 2017
Type: conference-abstract
Abstract: This community-based clinical trial compared 3 web-delivered interventions, web-based only (WO) with web-based supplemented by peer-led discussion (WD) or professional email counseling (WE), on achieving weight loss and weight maintenance among rural women, ages 40–69. Rural women (n=301, baseline BMI of 28–45 kg/m2) were randomized to WO, WD, or WE groups. All groups received access to the comprehensive website which included self-monitoring and interactive features for healthy eating and activity. The primary analysis focused on each of 3 phases separately [Phase 1 guided weight loss (baseline to 6 mo); Phase 2 guided weight loss and weight maintenance (7 to 18 mo); and Phase 3 self-directed weight maintenance (19–30 mo)]. Linear mixed models were used for analysis. Intervention groups did not differ from each other in mean change on body weight, with this finding consistent across all phases and for all pairwise comparisons. Across the groups, estimated mean weight loss after Phase 1 ranged 4.0 to 5.5 kg (4.2 to 6.2% of initial body weight). All groups had increases (p < 0.05) in weight after Phases 2 and 3, with average weight increases of 2 kg and 1 kg after Phases 2 and 3, respectively. The lack of group differences were potentially due to the robust nature of the web-site available to all groups. While weight loss was modest, the use of web-based interventions may be clinically relevant for reaching rural women on a public health level, as small weight reductions are linked with health benefits.
Source: Innovation in Aging
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,977
OpenAlex ID: W2730648309