Abstract
ABSTRACT
Introduction
The global prevalence of overweight and obesity is continuously increasing. Long-term weight loss results remain disappointing. This study aims to identify factors and strategies for successful long-term weight loss in a primary care-led weight-loss intervention from the perspective of participants.
Materials and methods
This qualitative interview study is the first follow-up study in a 2-year study series of participants with overweight or obesity. Methods utilized are semi-structured interviews (n = 20) with quantitative self-description. The data were transcribed from audio-taped interviews and analysed thematically.
Results
This study found that clear, continuously evolving self-monitoring strategies facilitated by strong routines and a long-term focus enhanced successful outcomes. Challenges faced included stress, disappointment and loss of routine along with external criticism and discouragement. Benefits experienced due to weight loss included improved health, self-esteem, communal support and encouragement, which continued to fuel motivation. Receiving continuous support and encouragement from healthcare practitioners was instrumental for long-term success.
Conclusion
This study highlighted the complex, multifaceted experiences patients encounter in the pursuit of trying to achieve long-term weight loss. Personalized treatment protocols taking into account the diverse requirements and circumstances of individuals have the potential to improve treatment outcomes. Continuous, professional support may enhance long-term outcomes.
Introduction
The global prevalence of overweight and obesity is continuously increasing. Long-term weight loss results remain disappointing. This study aims to identify factors and strategies for successful long-term weight loss in a primary care-led weight-loss intervention from the perspective of participants.
Materials and methods
This qualitative interview study is the first follow-up study in a 2-year study series of participants with overweight or obesity. Methods utilized are semi-structured interviews (n = 20) with quantitative self-description. The data were transcribed from audio-taped interviews and analysed thematically.
Results
This study found that clear, continuously evolving self-monitoring strategies facilitated by strong routines and a long-term focus enhanced successful outcomes. Challenges faced included stress, disappointment and loss of routine along with external criticism and discouragement. Benefits experienced due to weight loss included improved health, self-esteem, communal support and encouragement, which continued to fuel motivation. Receiving continuous support and encouragement from healthcare practitioners was instrumental for long-term success.
Conclusion
This study highlighted the complex, multifaceted experiences patients encounter in the pursuit of trying to achieve long-term weight loss. Personalized treatment protocols taking into account the diverse requirements and circumstances of individuals have the potential to improve treatment outcomes. Continuous, professional support may enhance long-term outcomes.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 2256669 |
| Pages (from-to) | 1-20 |
| Number of pages | 20 |
| Journal | International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being |
| Volume | 18 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| Early online date | 13 Sept 2023 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2023 |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.
Publisher Copyright:
© 2023 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.
Funding
The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.
Keywords
- long-term weight loss
- Obesity
- obesity management
- sustainable weight-loss
- weight management
- weight-loss