Predictors of weight loss outcomes in obesity care: results of the national ACTION study

Abstract

Abstract Background A key objective of this study was to examine obesity care attitudes and behaviors of people with obesity (PwO) and determine independent factors associated with a self-reported sustained weight loss success outcome. Methods An online survey was conducted in 2015 among 3008 U.S. adult PwO (BMI > 30 through self-reported height and weight). Multivariate logistic models explained variation in weight loss success, defined as ≥ 10% weight loss in previous 3 years and maintained for > 1 year. Results Controlling for weight changes over time, we found significant associations between self-reported weight history and weight loss success. PwO who had personal motivation to lose weight, were willing to talk to a diabetes educator about their weight, who had their weight loss attempts recognized by a healthcare provider, and were diagnosed with “obesity” or “overweight” were more likely to report having success losing weight. Conclusions This study does not determine causality, but suggests motivation and engagement with PwO may impact weight loss, and presents a basis for assessing the mechanism involved. Determining such mechanisms may identify important targets to improve obesity treatment outcomes. Trial registration This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT03223493, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03223493. Registered July 17, 2017 (retrospectively registered).

Keywords

• People with obesity
• Obesity attitudes, obesity management
• Weight-loss success