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01-10-2009 | Research Article

Explanations for Unsuccessful Weight Loss Among Bariatric Surgery Candidates

Authors: Kevin O. Hwang, Joseph H. Childs, G. Ken Goodrick, Wael A. Aboughali, Eric J. Thomas, Craig W. Johnson, Sherman C. Yu, Elmer V. Bernstam

Published in: Obesity Surgery | Issue 10/2009

Abstract

Background

Our objective was to analyze subjective explanations for unsuccessful weight loss among bariatric surgery candidates.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 909 bariatric surgery candidates (78.2% female, average body mass index [BMI] 47.3) at a university center from 2001 to April 2007 who answered an open-ended question about why they were unable to lose weight. We generated a coding scheme for answers to the question and established inter-rater reliability of the coding process. Associations with demographic parameters and initial BMI were tested.

Results

The most common categories of answers were nonspecific explanations related to diet (25.3%), physical activity (21.0%), or motivation (19.7%), followed by diet-related motivation (12.7%) and medical conditions or medications affecting physical activity (12.7%). Categories related to time, financial cost, social support, physical environment, and knowledge occurred in less than 4% each. Men were more likely than women to cite a medical condition or medication affecting physical activity (19.2% vs 10.8%, P = 0.002, odds ratio [OR] = 1.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.28–2.99) but less likely to cite diet-related motivation (7.1% vs 14.2%, P = 0.008, OR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.26–0.82).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that addressing diet, physical activity, and motivation in a comprehensive approach would meet the stated needs of obese patients. Raising patient awareness of under-recognized barriers to weight loss, such as the physical environment and lack of social support, should also be considered. Lastly, anticipating gender-specific attributions may facilitate tailoring of interventions.

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Title: Explanations for Unsuccessful Weight Loss Among Bariatric Surgery Candidates
Authors: Kevin O. Hwang
Joseph H. Childs
G. Ken Goodrick
Wael A. Aboughali
Eric J. Thomas
Craig W. Johnson
Sherman C. Yu
Elmer V. Bernstam
Publication date: 01-10-2009
Publisher: Springer New York
Published in: Obesity Surgery / Issue 10/2009
Print ISSN: 0960-8923
Electronic ISSN: 1708-0428
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11695-008-9573-0

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Explanations for Unsuccessful Weight Loss Among Bariatric Surgery Candidates

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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