Research

Adherence

Group-based weight management programmes with intensive, face-to-face support and a focus on group identity and accountability are more acceptable and feasible for adults with severe obesity (BMI ≥35 kg/m²) than remote or less intensive interventions.

If you have severe obesity, look for a weight management programme that is group-based and offers intensive, face-to-face support. The social aspect and accountability to a group with similar experiences can be a powerful motivator. However, be aware that if you have significant physical pain or mental health challenges, you may need a programme that offers flexibility or private options, as standard group activities might not suit everyone.

ModerateSupportsMEDIUM confidence
Group-based activities were enjoyed by many and participants preferred WMPs with more intensive support... The sense of belonging to a group who shared similar issues... seemed to foster a strong group identity and related accountability.
Zoë Skea et al. · BMJ Open · 2019

Why this rating

Qualitative systematic review of 33 papers; strong thematic consistency but lacks quantitative outcome data on weight change.

Source

Acceptability and feasibility of weight management programmes for adults with severe obesity: a qualitative systematic review

Zoë Skea et al. · BMJ Open · 2019

DOI 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-029473

systematic_review · n=797Cited 31×
Read the paper
DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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