Abstract
Background
Diet and lifestyle intervention programs have been shown to be effective in decreasing obesity/overweight and many associated comorbidities in specialty research settings. There is very little information however as to the efficacy of such programs conducted in usual/typical primary care practices. We analysed effectiveness of the Medical Weight Loss Program (MWLP) designed to specifically address overweight/obesity in the setting of an urban academic primary care practice.
Objective
To determine whether participation in the MWLP within a general primary care setting can result in weight loss.
Methods
A retrospective medical chart review of patients treated in MWLP and a control group of patients with obesity receiving regular care in the general primary care setting. From the practice database (1 April 2015–31 March 2016), 209 patients (≥18 years old) who participated in the MWLP were identified; 265 controls were selected from the remaining population based on the presence of the obesity-related diagnoses.
Results
MWLP patients lost on average 2.35 ± 5.88 kg in 6 months compared to their baseline weight (P < 0.0001). In contrast, the control group demonstrated a trend of gaining on average 0.37 ± 6.03 kg. Having three or more visits with the MWLP provider within 6 months after program initiation was the most important factor associated with successful loss of at least 5% of the baseline weight. Weight loss also correlated with a decrease in abdominal girth.
Conclusion
MWLP integrated into the general primary care practice may potentially be an effective model for managing obesity and related morbidities.
Characteristics of patients potentially eligible for pharmacotherapy for weight loss in primary care practice in the United States
