Evaluation of the Impact of a Therapeutic Education Program on the Nutritional Status of 20 Volunteers with Common Obesity at the Medical Clinic II/CHN Abass Ndao in Senegal

Introduction: Obesity, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes and a major public health problem, contributes to the rise of cardiovascular disease worldwide, with an increasing prevalence in developing countries, particularly in Senegal. Previous studies have shown that a reduction in body mass index leads to a significant reduction in the risk of non-communicable chronic diseases and mortality. Objective: To evaluate the impact of a pilot multidisciplinary therapeutic education program on the nutritional and behavioural status of 20 obese volunteers. Methodology: This was a prospective, interventional study conducted from 1 June to 31 August, 2021 on 20 volunteers with general obesity at the Medical Clinic of Abass Ndao Hospital in Senegal. Biological parameters were measured before and after the intervention using a bioimpedance device to assess the impact of the program. Results: The median age was 32.5 years, the median weight was 99 kg, and the median body mass index was 34 kg/m2. Associated risk factors included sedentary lifestyle (95%), type 2 diabetes (30%), dyslipidaemia (5%), hypertension (5%) and eating disorders, which were present in almost all volunteers. At the end of the intervention, a 27% reduction in visceral fat, a 60% reduction in fat mass, and a 73% reduction in body mass index were observed between T0 and T3, resulting in a 73% reduction in body mass index. There was also a 67% increase in muscle mass and an 80% increase in basal metabolic rate. There was also a 58% reduction in eating disorders. Conclusion: The largely positive results encouraged us to integrate this program into the daily activities of the Marc Sankalé Center as a preventive measure against diabetes.