The development of a prospective, nationwide, epidemiologic, clinical registry called the REGISTRY OF WEIGHT AND RELATED DISORDERS (REWARD) Project was designed to investigate obesity and comorbidities, patterns of care, successful weight management strategies and its subsequent impact on health. The REWARD pilot study was conducted to evaluate participant recruitment and data collection strategies. The pilot study included 153 participants recruited by their physicians at regular office visits. After consenting to participate, anthropometric measurements were taken and participants completed questionnaires on medical and weight history, as well as weight management strategies. Participants submitted follow-up data one, two and three months after baseline.
Baseline characteristics were: male/ female 27/73%, mean age 48±15 years, and mean body mass index (BMI kg/m2) 34±8, 12.4% normal weight or less (BMI < 25.0), 18.3% overweight (BMI 25-29.9) and 62.8% obese (BMI > 30). The self-reported prevalence of common comorbidities of obesity in this population are: high blood pressure 32.7%; high cholesterol (<240 mg/dl) 26.1%; and diabetes 11.1%. The most frequently reported weight management strategies were: medically supervised weight loss programs 28.1%; self-imposed exercise programs 26.1%; meal replacements 20.9%; and self-imposed diets 17.0%. At month one, 52% of participants (50/96) reported a change in weight management strategies from baseline.
In the full launch of REWARD, weight management strategies, weight change, and prevalence of comorbid conditions will be tracked longitudinally. Participation in REWARD will encourage grater dialogue between physicians and patients relative to weight and health. Data will help advance the practice of evidence-based medicine in the area of weight management.
See www.rewardproject.orgLearning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to: · List the prevalence of self-reported comorbidities in the REWARD population. · Describe which weight management strategies are most commonly used in this population and the impact of REWARD Project outcomes on physician approaches to weight management.
Keywords: Registry, Weight Management
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.