Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2026

Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
Published on: May 30, 2025
Applying a stepped-care approach to the treatment of obesity
Robert A Carels1, Lynn Darby, Holly M Cacciapaglia
1Department of Psychology, Bowling Green State University, OH 43403, USA. rcarels@bgnet.bgsu.edu
Objective:
In a stepped-care (SC) approach to treatment, more intensive interventions are implemented when less intensive interventions prove to be insufficient. It was hypothesized that a behavioral weight loss program with SC (BWLP+SC) would evidence superior treatment outcomes when compared with a BWLP without SC (BWLP).
Methods:
Forty-four obese, sedentary adults were randomly assigned to a BWLP+SC [i.e., problem-solving therapy (PST)] or a BWLP.
Results:
Participants in the BWLP+SC lost significantly more weight and body fat, reported greater physical activity and greater improvements in diet, and were more likely to achieve their within-treatment weight loss goals than BWLP participants. Participants in the BWLP+SC who received PST (BWLP+SC [PST]) also evidenced superior treatment outcomes including superior weight loss maintenance (through 12 months posttreatment) compared with BWLP participants matched on SC eligibility [BWLP (SC matched)].
Conclusion:
BWLP+SC may improve treatment outcomes and participant motivation to achieve preestablished weight loss goals.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Dosing: Obese Patients
Atherosclerosis III: Management
Diabetes: Management and Pharmacotherapy
Insulin remains the cornerstone of treatment for most patients with type 1 and many...
Pharmacokinetics in Obese Patients: Drug Metabolism and Excretion
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
Assessment:
Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care
