Research

Adherence

Behavioral weight management interventions delivered in primary care result in statistically significant weight loss (mean difference -2.3 kg) and waist circumference reduction (-2.5 cm) compared to no treatment or minimal intervention at 12 months.

If you have obesity, ask your primary care doctor about a behavioral weight management program. Look for programs that offer at least 12 contacts (visits or calls) over a year. These programs, delivered by nurses, health coaches, or GPs, have been proven to help adults lose an average of 2.3 kg and reduce waist size, which brings health benefits even if the number seems modest.

GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
The mean difference between the intervention and comparator groups at 12 months was −2.3 kg (95% confidence interval −3.0 to −1.6 kg, I2=88%, P<0.001), favouring the intervention group.
Claire Madigan et al. · BMJ · 2022

Why this rating

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 34 randomized controlled trials with a large sample size (n=8000), though heterogeneity is high (I2=88%).

Source

Effectiveness of weight management interventions for adults delivered in primary care: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Claire Madigan et al. · BMJ · 2022

Meta-analysis · 34 studiesCited 105×
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