ASSESSMENT OF ATTRITION FROM DIET THERAPY AMONG OBESE WOMEN

Background and Aim: Current weight-loss programs have high attrition rates, recognition of barriers to participation in weight loss interventions may help to better promote attrition in weight loss interventions. Therefore, we examined the factors that lead to attrition from diet therapy among obese women attending the nutrition clinicMethods: In this cross-sectional study, 80 apparently healthy, non-pregnant, non-lactating and non-menopausal obese women, aged 18-40 years and body mass index ranged from 30 to 40 kg/m² were recruited in the nutrition clinic in Ardabil city. At baseline, demographic data were collected and anthropometric indices were determined for each subject. All women completed the translated and validated University of Rhode Island Change Assessment questionnaire. Subjects participated in a 3-month weight loss program consisting of balanced low calorie diet (mean energy intake: 2254.66± 243.88 kcal). Results: Attrition rate was 26.7% after 3 months. It was correlated with initial weight, age and readiness to weight loss. Subjects in contemplation stage had higher attrition rate. Conclusion: It seems that psychosocial and behavioral interventions should be considered before implementing any diet therapy in clinical settings for optimal outcomes.

Keywords:

attrition , diet therapy , obese women