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05:10
Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
Published on: May 30, 2025
The CHANGE program: comparing an interactive vs. prescriptive approach to self-management among university students
Erin S Pearson1, Jennifer D Irwin, Don Morrow
1Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
Canadian Journal of Diabetes
|September 28, 2013
Summary
Two telephone-based obesity interventions, motivational interviewing via Co-Active Life Coaching (MI-via-CALC) and the LEARN Program, showed similar effectiveness. Both self-management (SM) approaches are viable for weight management in young adults.
Area of Science:
- Obesity research
- Behavioral medicine
- Public health interventions
Background:
- Obesity is a significant health concern among young adults.
- Effective self-management (SM) strategies are crucial for weight control.
- Telephone-based interventions offer accessible delivery methods for SM programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of two distinct SM approaches for obesity treatment.
- To evaluate a 12-week telephone-based intervention using motivational interviewing via Co-Active Life Coaching (MI-via-CALC) versus the LEARN Program.
- To qualitatively explore participants' experiences with each intervention.
Main Methods:
- University students (n=45, age 18-24, BMI ≥30 kg/m²) were randomized to MI-via-CALC or the LEARN Program.
- Interventions involved coaching for personal goals (MI-via-CALC) or structured, scripted lessons (LEARN).
- Outcomes assessed included weight, caloric intake, anthropometrics, lipid profiles, and qualitative feedback over 6 months post-intervention.
Main Results:
- The LEARN Program group showed a greater reduction in weight (-7.76 lb) compared to the MI-via-CALC group (-2.5 lb) by week 12.
- MI-via-CALC participants achieved a more significant decrease in caloric intake (-662.76 kcal) than the LEARN group (-105.5 kcal).
- Qualitative data indicated MI-via-CALC focused on self-understanding and responsibility, while LEARN emphasized practical knowledge.
Conclusions:
- Both MI-via-CALC and the LEARN Program are effective and warranted self-management treatments for obesity in this population.
- The choice of intervention should consider the unique contributions and best fit for individual participants.
- Further consideration of tailored SM approaches may enhance weight management outcomes.
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