title: The potential of virtual reality technologies to improve adherence to weight loss behaviors.
abstract: A significant proportion of the global population is obese, foreshadowing an epidemic of chronic disease. Self-monitoring (of diet, exercise, and body weight), decreasing energy intake, and increasing energy expenditure are robust predictors of successful weight loss. However, few individuals consistently practice these behaviors, making long-term weight loss and maintenance unlikely. Technologies afford unique opportunities to overcome barriers and increase the reach of traditional obesity interventions. In this article, we introduce ENGAGED, a technology-enhanced modification of the Diabetes Prevention Program designed to improve adherence to weight loss behaviors. Using a treatment implementation framework, we suggest how virtual reality technologies might further improve the delivery, receipt, and enactment of ENGAGED to maximize patient impact.
authors.affiliation: Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
authors.forename: Michael J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Coons
authors.forename: Megan
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Roehrig
authors.forename: Bonnie
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Spring
mesh_terms: D001835:Body Weight; D003198:Computer Simulation; D048909:Diabetes Complications; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy*; D004032:Diet; D015444:Exercise; D015438:Health Behavior; D006266:Health Education; D006801:Humans; D009765:Obesity / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy*; D010349:Patient Compliance; D012648:Self Care; D015431:Weight Loss