Multidisciplinary and group-based interventions as the first step for improving dietary and health behaviours in severe obesity

BackgroundSevere obesity is increasing in prevalence globally, placing a significant burden on an individual's health and to public healthcare systems. Multidisciplinary and group-based interventions - which involve coordinated input from dietetics, psychology, physiotherapy and peer support - may improve health behaviours and weight outcomes in individuals living with severe obesity. At current, there is no assessment of the efficacy of group-based, multidisciplinary interventions, in severe obesity management.Aims/ObjectivesThus, this study aims to evaluate the efficacy of an 8-week group-based multidisciplinary intervention, termed Be Well, on initial changes to dietary behaviours, weight and mood outcomes in patients living with severe obesity. The study was conducted at a hospital-based and publicly funded obesity service, based in New South Wales, Australia.Method127 were registered to attend Be Well. Of these, 98 attended the first session, and 77 proceeded to complete the intervention. Changes in dietary behaviours (i.e. reported discretionary and non-discretionary food intake), body mass index (BMI) and mood (i.e. scores on the DASS-21), from pre to post intervention, were evaluated.ResultsFrom pre to post intervention, patients had significant reductions in BMI, self-reported discretionary food intake, stress and depression scores. Patients reported feeling less isolated and having an improved understanding of health beyond weight, post the intervention.ConclusionMultidisciplinary group interventions are an effective first step for the treatment of severe obesity by tertiary services, with more work needed to understand barriers and facilitators of engagement.