Year: 2020
Type: article
Abstract: With these important findings in mind, several questions remain unanswered and warrant further investigation.First, it is unclear why there was no significant difference between the group telephone counseling and the educational program groups.The attendance rate for group telephone counseling, which used an audio-only format, was about 50%.It is possible that these group telephone sessions provided limited opportunity for building rapport, thereby discouraging participation.Our study team has been testing video conference-based group counseling for weight loss and other lifestyle behavioral changes.5 Such an approach may be more engaging because it allows for eye contact, viewing of facial expressions, and the ability to link participant identity with comments that are offered.Based on preliminary findings, participants demonstrated a 94% attendance rate during video conference-based group counseling sessions.6 Second, given the important role of self-monitoring and adherence to caloric goals, how can we best support individuals in these efforts?Mailing paper-and-pencil food logs can be very timeconsuming and tedious.A recent study has reported that using smartphone-based self-monitoring apps can promote adherence to self-monitoring and caloric intake goals.7 The feedback from these apps is automated, real-time, and shows progress toward a caloric goal and macronutrient distributions.These features encourage individuals to remain vigilant about their dietary behaviors and make adjustments to the eating plan accordingly.Future studies need to examine strategies to promote smartphone-based self-monitoring apps among rural participants to improve obesity management.Third, most of the study sample was composed of female participants.Yet, there is a substantial knowledge gap in understanding how to best reach and engage male adults in weight-loss efforts.Future studies need to explore how to recruit and help male participants to lose weight and prevent weight regain.Such research would be of benefit for obesity management in both rural and general populations.
Source: JAMA Network Open
Authors: Lu Hu, Collin Popp, Mary Ann Sevick
Institution: New York University
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,000
OpenAlex ID: W3035624992