[Motivational intervention for obesity in Primary Care using a physical activity program]

Area of Science:

• Obesity research
• Digital health interventions
• Clinical trial methodology

Background:

• Obesity is a significant public health concern requiring effective interventions.
• Traditional weight loss methods often have limited long-term success.
• Novel approaches integrating technology are needed to enhance patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of three distinct obesity interventions.
• To evaluate the added benefit of a digital health platform promoting physical activity.
• To assess impact on weight, BMI, and lipid profiles over 12 months.

Main Methods:

• A 12-month, multicenter, randomized controlled trial involving overweight/obese patients.
• Three arms: standard care (G1), motivational intervention (G2), and motivational intervention with a digital platform (G3).
• Data collected on weight, BMI, waist circumference, lipids, blood pressure, and HbA1c.

Main Results:

• 168 patients completed the study; average weight reduction was 4.37 kg.
• Group 3 (digital platform + motivation) showed significant weight loss (2.63 kg more than G1) and BMI reduction.
• Both intervention groups (G2, G3) reduced cholesterol levels; G3 demonstrated superior results in risk reduction and number needed to treat compared to G1 and G2.

Conclusions:

• A digital health platform enhancing physical activity, combined with motivational intervention, provides significant additional benefits for weight loss and metabolic health in obese patients.
• This integrated approach is more effective than motivational intervention alone or standard care.
• The digital health platform offers a cost-effective enhancement to obesity management programs.