Does loneliness impact intentional weight loss? The role of obesity-related disadvantages and comorbidities

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Loneliness is increasingly recognized as a significant factor influencing health outcomes, including weight management. Nevertheless, its role in intentional weight loss remains underexplored. The 12-month digital Healthy Weight Coaching (HWC), in Finland, offers a real-world context to investigate this relationship. We explored whether baseline loneliness affects weight loss during HWC and whether comorbidities or perceived obesity-related disadvantages mediate this relationship. METHODS: Data were included from participants enrolled in the HWC between 2016 and 2020. Baseline assessments included loneliness, comorbidities, and perceived obesity-related disadvantages. Weight was self-reported weekly, with body mass index calculated from interpolated weights at three, six, nine, and 12 months. Generalized estimating equations were used to analyze the impact of baseline loneliness on weight change, and ordinary least squares regression analyses were used to analyze mediation. RESULTS: Participants who felt lonely, somewhat lonely, or not lonely at baseline achieved comparable weight loss. However, higher loneliness was linked to greater perceived obesity-related disadvantages, psychological distress, number of comorbidities, and lower vitality, indirectly leading to lesser weight loss. CONCLUSIONS: Loneliness did not directly hinder weight loss but was linked to health and psychosocial challenges that may indirectly reduce success, highlighting the need for holistic support in weight management. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (Clinical Trials Identifier NCT04019249).

Source: Preventive Medicine

DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2025.108430

Authors: Siniriikka A. Männistö, Anu Joki, Laura-Unnukka Suojanen, Mikko S. Venäläinen, Kirsi H. Pietiläinen, Aila J. Ahola

Institutions: University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Turku, Turku University Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Obesity and Health Practices

Subfield: Pharmacy

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650

Funders: Foundation for Cardiovascular Research, Helsingin Yliopisto, Suomen Lääketieteen Säätiö, Academy of Finland, Novo Nordisk, Signe ja Ane Gyllenbergin Säätiö, Sydäntutkimussäätiö, Sigrid Juséliuksen Säätiö, Paulon Säätiö, Novo Nordisk Fonden, Diabetestutkimussäätiö

OpenAlex ID: W4415080242