Efficacy of blended-care prevention for weight management (Wirksamkeit von blended-care Präventionsprogrammen für Gewichtsmanagement)

Prevention facilitates lifestyle changes in individuals at risk of excess weight and obesity, reducing the risk for type 2 diabetes. We evaluated the efficacy of two prevention programmes on weight loss in German cohorts, using real world data. Both programmes a) were accredited for reimbursed usage in German health care, b) fostered health literacy and motivation for healthy eating and physical exercise, and c) combined counseling by nutritionists and app guidance (blended-care).

We collected data from 747 adults insured at a German statutory health insurer. All individuals participated in remotely-delivered prevention programmes offered by a nutritional care provider. Weight data was collected at the beginning (≤14 days past start) and at the end (60-90 days after start). Programme A comprised three 45 minute appointments with nutritionists and additional app usage for self-monitoring. Programme B involved nutritionists’ chat feedback via app along with structured educational app content and self-monitoring.

Programme A: 445 individuals (382 female, 40 male, 23 not specified; ⌀ 42 years (SD 12)) lost 2.1% weight on average (p< 0.01). 16% of patients lost 5% or more weight. Programme B: Individuals (236 female, 24 male, 42 not specified; ⌀ 41 years (SD 11)) lost 2,5% weight on average (p< 0.01). 20% of patients lost 5% or more weight. There were no differences regarding weight loss between the programmes (p=0.46).

Blended-care prevention programmes prove to be efficacious for weight management. Long-term data is needed to evaluate the stability of weight loss over time.

Publication History

Article published online:
06 May 2021