title: Computerized self-monitoring and technology-assisted feedback for weight loss with and without an enhanced behavioral component.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a 12-week weight management intervention involving computerized self-monitoring and technology-assisted feedback with and without an enhanced behavioral component.
  
  
  METHODS
  120 overweight (30.5±2.6kg/m(2)) adults (45.0±10.3 years) were randomized to one of three groups: computerized self-monitoring with Basic feedback (n=45), Enhanced behavioral feedback (n=45), or wait-list control (n=30). Intervention participants used a computer software program to record dietary and physical activity information. Weekly e-mail feedback was based on computer-generated reports, and participants attended monthly measurement visits.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The Basic and Enhanced groups experienced significant weight reduction (-2.7±3.3kg and -2.5±3.1kg) in comparison to the Control group (0.3±2.2; p<0.05). Waist circumference and systolic blood pressure also decreased in intervention groups compared to Control (p<0.01).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A program using computerized self-monitoring, technology-assisted feedback, and monthly measurement visits produced significant weight loss after 12 weeks. However, the addition of an enhanced behavioral component did not improve the effectiveness of the program.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This study suggests that healthcare professionals can effectively deliver a weight management intervention using technology-assisted strategies in a format that may complement and reduce face-to-face sessions.
authors.affiliation: Department of Health and Sport Sciences, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA. hchmblss@memphis.edu
authors.forename: Heather O
authors.initials: HO
authors.lastname: Chambliss
authors.forename: Rachel C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Huber
authors.forename: Carrie E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Finley
authors.forename: Scott O
authors.initials: SO
authors.lastname: McDoniel
authors.forename: Heather
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Kitzman-Ulrich
authors.forename: William J
authors.initials: WJ
authors.lastname: Wilkinson
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001521:Behavior Therapy; D015992:Body Mass Index; D004032:Diet; D034742:Electronic Mail; D015444:Exercise; D005246:Feedback; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012648:Self Care; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D013781:Texas; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015431:Weight Loss