The drop it at last study: six-month results of a phone-based weight loss trial.
OBJECTIVE
To address the translational research question regarding the optimal intervention "dose" to produce the most cost-effective rate of weight loss, we conducted the Drop It At Last (DIAL) study.


METHODS
DIAL is a 6-month pilot randomized trial to examine the efficacy of phone-based weight loss programs with varying levels of treatment contact (10 vs. 20 sessions) in comparison to self-directed treatment.


METHODS
Participants were recruited from the community via mailings and advertisement.


METHODS
Participants were 63 adults with a body mass index between 30 and 39 kg/m(2).


METHODS
Participants received a standard set of print materials and were randomized to either: (1) self-directed treatment; (2) 10 phone coaching sessions; or (3) 20 phone coaching sessions.


METHODS
Measured height, weight, and psychosocial and weight-related self-monitoring measures were collected at baseline and follow-up.


METHODS
General linear models were used to examine 6-month treatment group differences in weight loss and in psychosocial and behavioral measures.


RESULTS
Weight losses were -2.3, -3.2, and -4.9 kg in the self-directed, 10-session, and 20-session groups, respectively (p < .21). Participants who completed 10 or more sessions lost more weight (-5.1 kg) compared to those completed four or fewer sessions (-.3 kg, p < .04).


CONCLUSIONS
Phone-based weight loss program participation is associated with modest weight loss. The optimal dose and timing of intervention warrant further study.
Sherwood
Nancy E
NE
Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. Nancy.E.Sherwood@HealthPartners.com
Jeffery
Robert W
RW
Welsh
Ericka M
EM
Vanwormer
Jeff
J
Hotop
Ann Marie
AM
D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D015992:Body Mass Index; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D003376:Counseling / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009765:Obesity / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D019114:Remote Consultation / Q000379:methods; D013689:Telephone; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015431:Weight Loss