Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Face-to-Face Weight Management Intervention in Maidstone, United Kingdom: A Real-World Evaluation (Preprint)

BACKGROUND Obesity remains a critical global public health issue, contributing to severe health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. In Maidstone, United Kingdom the obesity rate stands at 16.3% higher than the national average of 15.8%. OBJECTIVE This study evaluates the demographics and outcomes of a face-to-face weight management program implemented in Maidstone, a region with varying levels of deprivation, who self-referred to a Tier 2 Weight Management program. METHODS This study employed a single-arm intervention design, where adults who were overweight or obese self-referred to an in-person weight management service. The service focuses on accessible behavior change self-management through weekly evidence-based structured education, guided behavioral change activities, and community support. Participant characteristics and health data were collected at baseline, 12 and 26-weeks. RESULTS A total of 50 participants self-referred and completed the initial registration process, all of whom (100%) were deemed eligible for the program. The first 40 participants (80%) enrolled in the face-to-face weight management service, and of these, 15 (38%) also downloaded an app for additional support. The average age of participants was 42.4 years, with mean BMI of 35.7 kg/m², predominantly female (68%) and 73% identified as white. At the 26-week follow-up, 75% of participants reported outcomes, with an average weight loss of 3.46% ± 4.2% (from 98.3 ± 23.0 kg at Week 0 to 94.9 ± 21.7 kg at Week 26) and an average BMI reduction of 3.34% ± 3.9 kg/m² (from 35.7 ± 8.7 kg/m² at Week 0 to 34.5 ± 8.3 kg/m² at Week 26). Participants expressed high levels of engagement and acceptance of the service, and those who utilized the digital app experienced greater weight loss. CONCLUSIONS The face-to-face service was well-received and facilitated significant weight loss. Integration of digital technology contributed to greater weight reduction among participants.