Exploring the Acceptability of Post-bariatric Nutritional-Behavioral and Supervised Exercise Intervention...

Area of Science:

• Bariatric Surgery Outcomes
• Behavioral Interventions
• Telehealth in Healthcare

Background:

• The BARI-LIFESTYLE trial assessed a combined nutritional-behavioral tele-counselling and supervised exercise program post-bariatric surgery.
• While not improving weight loss, the program's acceptability is key for future intervention design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the acceptability of a post-bariatric surgery tele-counselling and supervised exercise intervention.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to participation in lifestyle interventions following bariatric surgery.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was used, analyzing randomization refusal, dropout, intervention refusal, and attendance rates.
• Quantitative data from exit questionnaires were analyzed descriptively, and qualitative free-text responses underwent content analysis.

Main Results:

• Tele-counselling showed high acceptability (1.3% refusal, 79% attendance, 96.8% usefulness).
• Supervised exercise had moderate acceptability (21.6% refusal, 72.4% attendance, 98.1% usefulness among attendees).
• Competing demands and scheduling conflicts were key barriers; mobile technology integration and personalized exercise were recommended.

Conclusions:

• The BARI-LIFESTYLE program offered holistic support for diet, exercise, and psychosocial aspects post-bariatric surgery.
• Participant feedback highlights the need for enhanced accessibility and technological integration in future lifestyle interventions.