Using social support to help manage weight for veterans
Harnessing the power of social support for weight management: a randomized controlled trial of HealthyTogether
This study is testing a new program called HealthyTogether, which helps veterans manage their weight by encouraging support from family and friends while teaching them better communication skills, to see if this approach can lead to healthier habits and weight loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Puget Sound Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10996595 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new program called HealthyTogether, which aims to improve weight management among veterans by incorporating social support from family and friends. The program combines virtual interventions with training in communication and relationship skills to help participants make healthier lifestyle choices. By focusing on both individual behavior and the social environment, the study seeks to determine the effectiveness of this approach in promoting weight loss and healthier habits among veterans. Participants will be involved in a two-site trial to assess how well the program works and identify any challenges in its implementation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans aged 21 and older who are struggling with weight management and are willing to engage their social support networks.
Not a fit: Patients who are not veterans or those who do not have a support system to engage in the program may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective weight management strategies for veterans, improving their overall health and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have shown that similar approaches integrating social support can be feasible and effective, indicating promise for this new intervention.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- VA Puget Sound Healthcare System — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gray, Kristen E — VA Puget Sound Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Gray, Kristen E
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.