Successful lifestyle intervention for severely obese patients A controlled study evaluating an intervention program

Background Despite the increasing obesity epidemic, treatment options for severely obese patients are scarce. The Polyclinic for Endocrinology of the University Hospital Cologne has developed the interdisciplinary weight loss program "Change your Life!" (CyL) based on the Gemeinsame Empfehlungen (recommendations by health insurances) aiming for long-lasting lifestyle changes and weight reduction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the CyL-program. Methods As required by the Gemeinsame Empfehlungen, a pre-post-intervention comparison was performed for the CyL-group. Additionally, in a matched controlled prospective study, 12 patients of the CyL-group were compared with 12 patients undergoing regular obesity counseling. Primary endpoint was percentage weight loss; changes in metabolic parameters, blood pressure, fitness and quality of life were secondary endpoints. Results The CyL-group experienced a weight loss of 13.9 % (from 122 kg [25.; 75. percentile: 103.5; 126.0] to 104 kg [25.; 75. percentile: 92.0; 116.0]; p = 0.006). The control group showed a significantly lower weight reduction (1.7 % [25.; 75. percentile: 0.2; 3.2]; p = 0.005). Weight loss was followed by metabolic improvements and improved blood pressure, fitness and quality of life. Conclusion The weight loss program CyL offers the chance of a successful lifestyle intervention for severely obese patients.