A VIRTUAL WEIGHT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM IS ASSOCIATED WITH WEIGHT LOSS, REDUCED WAIST CIRCUMFERENCE, AND INCREASED SATISFACTION FOR WOMEN WITH OBESITY AT RISK FOR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

Abstract

Therapeutic Area

Obesity

Background

Obesity is a chronic, progressive, and relapsing health condition that increases cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, yet management is challenging, and weight loss is typically not sustained. We hypothesized a Nurse Practitioner (NP)-led virtual weight management program will result in weight loss, reduced waist circumference (WC), and increased satisfaction for obese women at risk for CVD.

Methods

Women enrolled in an observational, single center study in the outpatient cardiology clinics in a large academic medical center in Southern California. Women with a BMI over 30 kg/m2 and at least one CVD risk factor were eligible. Measures included a digital-based weight-tracking application, a smart scale, a smart tape measure, and a satisfaction with the program survey. Thirty women were followed for eight weeks between January-March 2023. Each woman met twice on a virtual platform to receive dietary counseling using motivational interviewing and to establish weight goals with the NP. The women received booster texts every two weeks to submit weights and WC. Paired t-tests were used to compare mean scores pre-and post-intervention.

Results

Thirty women enrolled and 26 completed the program. Mean age was 54.0±13.4 years, and White (n=19, 73.2 %). There was a significant reduction in mean weight (6.4 lbs.±6.6 lbs; p < 0.001; 3.2 %±2.9 body weight) and WC (3.0 in.±1.6; p < 0.001) (Figure). Twenty-two women lost weight and reduced their BMI. Ninety two percent of women (n=24) were satisfied with the program.

Conclusions

This NP-led virtual weight management program resulted in the majority of women significantly reduce their weight and WC using novel self-monitoring technology in addition to behavioral counseling on lifestyle modifications. Utilizing smart scales for digital self-monitoring has the potential to offer a promising strategy for obese women at risk for CVD to achieve sustained weight loss.