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A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Behavioral Weight Loss Program for Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Patients
Katie Becofsky1, Edward J Wing1, Jeanne McCaffery1
1Alpert Medical School of Brown University, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island.
Summary
Obesity worsens health outcomes for individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). An internet-based weight loss program significantly reduced weight and improved quality of life in HIV-infected patients over 12 weeks.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Obesity exacerbates health complications in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
- Effective weight management strategies are crucial for improving health outcomes in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a behavioral weight loss program delivered via the internet for HIV-infected patients.
- To assess the impact of the intervention on weight reduction and quality of life.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 40 HIV-infected participants.
- Participants were assigned to either an internet-based behavioral weight loss program or a control group.
- Outcomes were measured at 12 weeks, including weight change and quality of life assessments.
Main Results:
- The intervention group achieved significantly greater weight loss (mean, 4.4 kg) compared to the control group (mean, 1.0 kg) (P = .02).
- Participants in the internet weight loss program demonstrated improvements in quality of life.
Conclusions:
- An internet-based behavioral weight loss intervention is effective for HIV-infected patients.
- This approach can lead to significant weight reduction and enhanced quality of life in this population.