Analysis of factors contributing to long-term success among graduates of aresidential weight management program for women

Abstract

This study evaluated several components of a residential weight loss program for adult women and compared the characteristics of successful and nonsuccessful participants. Program components included a 1000–1200‐kcal daily diet, nutrition counseling, behavior modification, and regular exercise. Weight loss averaged 7 kg during an average 35‐day stay. Thirty‐eight percent of participants (n = 226) responded to questionnaires that were mailed 6 months to 5 years after participation. Respondents did not differ on any baseline measure of body composition or characteristics from nonrespondents including degree of overweight, rate of weight loss, etc. Nineteen percent reported weight increment since initial attendance. Fifty‐two percent of the respondents reported maintenance of all weight loss with 18% losing an additional 5 kg and 8% losing an additional 9 kg. Duration of time since attendance and repeated visits were not related to successful weight maintenance. No behavioral profile discriminated between successful and unsuccessful respondents. However, continued success was related to increased and regular exercise and later age of onset of obesity.