A smartphone-supported weight loss program: design of the ENGAGED randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Obesity research
• Behavioral science
• Digital health interventions

Background:

• Obesity is a significant public health issue requiring scalable and cost-effective weight management solutions.
• Mobile technology can reduce the cost and burden of intensive weight loss programs by minimizing in-person contact.
• The ENGAGED study is a randomized controlled trial evaluating a smartphone-supported weight loss program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the feasibility and efficacy of an abbreviated smartphone-supported weight loss program.
• To compare technology-supported behavioral weight loss (TECH) with standard behavioral weight loss (STND) and self-guided behavioral weight loss (SELF).
• To investigate the potential for improved behavioral adherence and goal achievement in the TECH group.

Main Methods:

• 96 obese adults (BMI 30-39.9 kg/m2) were randomized into STND, TECH, or SELF groups.
• All groups aimed for 7% weight loss via diet and 175 min/week physical activity.
• The TECH group used a smartphone app and accelerometer for monitoring during months 1-6; STND and SELF used paper diaries.

Main Results:

• Weight loss was assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months using linear mixed modeling.
• Self-monitoring adherence and diet/activity goal attainment were analyzed as potential mediators.
• The study hypothesizes greater weight loss in the TECH group due to enhanced adherence.

Conclusions:

• The ENGAGED study integrates behavioral science principles with mobile technology for weight management.
• The smartphone-supported intervention (TECH) is hypothesized to yield superior weight loss outcomes.
• This innovative approach aims to enhance adherence and goal achievement for effective weight loss.