0
0
Malaga, Spain – New research set to be presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO 2025) suggests that focusing solely on percentage weight loss targets in obesity management may be an ineffective approach. An international team of researchers, including Dr. Sanjeev Sockalingam from Obesity Canada and the Center for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, argues that a more holistic approach, considering factors like improved quality of life and reduced obesity-related complications, is necessary.
The study, a scoping review of 30 research papers published between 1992 and 2024, examined the efficacy of percentage-based weight loss targets, primarily those ranging from 3% to 10%. The review, which analyzed data from databases like Cochrane, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, revealed a significant discrepancy between targeted and achieved weight loss, indicating that many patients fail to meet these goals.
Researchers found that a substantial number of studies did not report post-study BMI or weight change results, and the rationale for selecting specific weight loss targets varied widely. The original 5% weight loss target, often cited in obesity management, was found to originate from a small number of well-resourced studies where this target was associated with health benefits. However, this new review highlighted that achieving even a 10% weight loss target was difficult, with some studies reporting only a third of patients reaching this mark.
“Most of the studies in our review looked at populations where people were not only living with obesity, they also had a myriad of obesity-related conditions,” said the authors. “Finally, we saw that in studies there is often an improvement in health outcomes with interventions such as nutrition, exercise and lifestyle, regardless of the weight loss outcome.”
The researchers concluded that focusing solely on percentage weight loss targets often leads to unattainable and unsustainable goals for patients. They advocate for a shift towards a more patient-centered approach that prioritizes improvements in obesity-related complications, quality of life, and physical and social functioning.
“Obesity management interventions would benefit from shifting focus towards more comprehensive, patient-focused parameters, such as improvement of obesity-related complications, enhancing quality of life and overall physical and social functioning. This approach could provide more meaningful measures of success beyond mere weight reduction,” the authors stated.
This research highlights the need for a reevaluation of current obesity management strategies, advocating for a more personalized and holistic approach that considers the diverse needs of individuals living with obesity.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information provided by the European Association for the Study of Obesity and presents findings that are to be presented at a medical congress. The information should not be interpreted as medical advice. Individuals with concerns about their weight or health should consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance. The results of studies presented at medical congresses have not been peer-reviewed and should be interpreted with caution.
