Changes in Health-Related Quality of Life among African-Americans in a lifestyle weight loss program

Changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were assessed in clinically obese, African-American adults after completion of a weight loss program that resulted in modest average weight loss.

Data were analyzed for 87 men and women who provided weight measurements after an initial 10-week weight loss program (Phase 1) and a subsequent clinical trial to evaluate three weight maintenance approaches (Phase 2) over an additional 8 to 18 months. HRQoL was assessed using the Short Form SF-36 questionnaire. Intra-person changes in HRQoL were assessed and analyzed for associations with weight change within each phase. Non-parametric bivariable analyses and multivariable linear regression were used in statistical analyses.

Changes in HRQoL were modest; clinically significant intra-subject improvements in SF-36 domains of general health and vitality and in the mental component summary score were observed after Phase 1 but were attenuated during Phase 2. Improvements in vitality were significantly associated with greater weight loss in Phase 1, but no HRQoL change scores during Phase 2 were associated with weight change.

Short-term improvements in general health and vitality were observed. The vitality domain of the SF-36 appeared to be the domain of HRQoL most responsive to modest weight change.