Consistent Support Group Attendance Is Vital for Sustained Total Body Weight Loss in a Community Gastroenterology...

Obesity is a major modifiable risk factor for gastrointestinal disease. Although lifestyle modification remains the basis of treatment, these interventions are often ineffective when self-directed. This study aimed to assess the effect on weight loss when lifestyle modification is paired with a support group model.

Ninety-four patients with obesity enrolled in the weight loss program at a community gastroenterology practice and participated in a 6-month support group. These sessions provided patients with a space to discuss shared experiences and receive education. Total body weight loss was examined by the level of support group attendance.

Patients who demonstrated high levels of support group attendance (≥ 75%) had significantly greater mean absolute (p = 0.0004) and total percentage body weight loss (p < 0.0001) compared to those who attended fewer sessions and overall were significantly more likely to achieve clinically significant total body weight loss (≥ 10%) (p = 0.0008) over the 6-month period after adjustment for age.

This study demonstrates that lifestyle modification is effective in achieving clinically significant weight loss when patients have consistent engagement, measured here by attendance, in a support group. Regular support group attendance has been validated as an effective tool to maintain lifestyle modification participation and adherence, and it appears equally important in sustaining long-term weight loss.