Obesity-related comorbidities in obese African Americans in an outpatient weight loss program

To identify, among obese African-American enrollees in an outpatient weight loss program, differences between those with and without obesity-related comorbidities (ORCMs).

Data were from 237 obese African Americans (BMI, 30 to 50 kg/m2; 90% women) who enrolled in a 10-week lifestyle weight loss program. Analyses compared subgroups defined by ORCM status (from medical history) on baseline characteristics, program attendance, and postprogram weight change.

Most participants (76%) had one or more ORCMs. Those with versus without ORCMs, respectively, were older (mean age, 45.6 vs. 37.1 years; p < 0.001), were less educated (59.2% vs. 76.6% with > 12 years; p = 0.031), were more likely to perceive a physical limitation affecting activity (22.2% vs. 1.8%; p < 0.001), and had higher waist circumference (mean, 113.7 vs. 106.9 cm; p < 0.001) but not BMI (38.3 vs. 37.0 kg/m2; p = 0.095). Logistic regression analyses confirmed the independence of these associations. Having ORCMs was not associated with class attendance or return for data collection after the 10-week program. Postprogram weight change (n = 134) was unrelated to ORCMs, but better weight loss was seen among those without perceived physical limitations (1.9 vs. 0.4 kg in those without versus with limitations; p = 0.069).

Data from this clinical sample of obese African Americans suggest that waist circumference is relevant to ORCM status at BMI levels up to 50 kg/m2. Clear indications for tailoring of treatment based on ORCM status were not identified, although the possible influence of ORCM-related activity limitations warrants further study.