Introduction:
Few studies have examined behavioral weight loss interventions with respect to change in cardiovascular disease risk factors in young adults (aged 18 to 35 years).
Hypothesis:
We tested the hypothesis that a 6 month behavioral weight loss intervention resulted in significant improvements in selective cardiovascular disease risk factors in young adults.
Methods:
Data are presented as median [25
th
, 75
th
percentiles]. 470 participants (age: 30.9 [27.8, 33.7] years); BMI: 31.2 [28.4, 34.3] kg/m
2
) were enrolled in a 6 month behavioral weight loss intervention that included weekly group sessions and prescribed an energy restricted diet and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Assessments included weight using a standardized protocol, resting blood pressure, and fasting lipids, glucose, and insulin. Statistical significance of change was according to tests of symmetry or the Wilcoxon matched pairs signed ranks test.
Results:
The primary outcome (weight) was available for 424 of the 470 participants (90.2%). Weight significantly decreased (-7.8 kg [-12.2, -3.7]) (p<0.0001). Systolic (-4.0 mmHg [-8.5, 0.5] and diastolic blood pressure (-3.0 mmHg [-6.5, 1.0]) decreased (p<0.0001). Total cholesterol (-13 mg/dl [-28.0, 2.0]), LDL cholesterol (-9.5 mg/dl [-21.7, 2.0]), triglycerides (-8.5 mg/dl [-44.0, 9.0]), glucose (-4.0 mg/dl [-8.0, 1.0]), and insulin (-2.6 mIU/L [-5.9, 0.7]) decreased (p<0.0001, n=416). There was not a significant change in HDL cholesterol (p=0.72).
Conclusions:
In conclusion, after 6 months, weight loss was observed in young adults assigned to this behavioral intervention that focused on physical activity and diet modification. They tended to also have improved cardiovascular disease risk factors. This may demonstrate an approach to reducing cardiovascular disease risk in young adults.
Supported by NIH (U01HL096770) and AHA (12BGIA9410032)
Are standard behavioral weight loss programs effective for young adults?
