title: Weight-loss history as a predictor of obesity treatment outcome: prospective, long-term results from behavioral, group self-help treatment.
abstract: Weight-loss history was examined as a predictor of outcome in group self-help obesity treatment. Participants (n = 128; 83% women; mean body mass index = 34.2 kg/m(2); mean age = 47.2 years) in self-help, group behavioral weight-loss treatment reported a mean of 5.1 prior weight-loss attempts and lost 13.8 percent of initial weight in current treatment. A greater number of past attempts independently predicted greater 6-month, 18-month, and intent-to-treat weight losses. Greater magnitude of largest past loss predicted greater 18-month weight loss. In contrast to studies on professional treatment, group self-help participants might benefit from repeated weight-loss efforts despite previous failures.
authors.affiliation: University of Hawaii at Manoa, USA.
authors.forename: Janet D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Latner
authors.forename: Anna C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Ciao
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D001835:Body Weight; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009765:Obesity / Q000628:therapy*; D010352:Patient Dropouts; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group / Q000379:methods; D012657:Self-Help Groups; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015431:Weight Loss / Q000502:physiology*; D061217:Weight Reduction Programs / Q000379:methods*
keywords: behavior therapy; continuing care; obesity; predictors of outcome; self-help; weight loss