Research
Adherence
Personal weight control attempts are highly prevalent globally, with approximately 42% of adults in general populations and 44% of adults in ethnic-minority populations reporting attempts to lose weight annually.
You are not alone in your efforts. Data shows that 42% of adults in general populations and 44% in ethnic-minority populations actively try to lose weight every year. This is a common behavior, not a personal failure. Focus on evidence-based strategies like dieting and exercise, which are the most prevalent methods used.
GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
Results from high quality studies showed that 42% of adults from general populations and 44% of adults from ethnic-minority populations reported trying to lose weight, and 23% of adults from general populations reported trying to maintain weight annually.
Why this rating
Based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of 72 studies with a total sample size of 1,184,942.
Source
Prevalence of personal weight control attempts in adults: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Inês Santos et al. · Obesity Reviews · 2016
DOI 10.1111/obr.12466
Meta-analysis · 72 studiesCited 273×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
More from this paper
- Recurrent weight loss attempts are a negative predictor of success in weight loss interventions and may negatively impact self-concept and body image.Good
- The most prevalent personal weight control strategies are exercising and dieting, and the most common motives are wellbeing and long-term health.Good
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This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →