Behavioral weight loss intervention for college students

Testing a Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention for Emerging Adults Implemented Within College Health Service Centers

Not applicable Interventional The Miriam Hospital · NCT06994923

This study is testing a new weight loss program for college students aged 18-25 who are overweight to see if small changes in their eating and activity habits can help them lose weight.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 29 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe Miriam Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Providence, Rhode Island)
Trial IDNCT06994923 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot randomized controlled trial investigates a behavioral weight loss intervention designed for college students aged 18-25 who are overweight or obese. The intervention employs a 'small change' approach, encouraging participants to make minor, self-selected adjustments to their eating and activity habits. The study aims to assess the acceptability of this intervention and its effectiveness in achieving clinically meaningful weight loss. By implementing the program within college health centers, the study seeks to reduce barriers to participation and improve engagement among emerging adults. The findings will contribute to the development of a tailored weight loss program for this demographic.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are college students aged 18-25 with a BMI of 25 or greater who are English-speaking.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of eating disorders, current pregnancy, or severe restrictions that interfere with treatment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide a more accessible and effective weight loss solution for college students struggling with obesity.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using the 'small change' approach have shown effectiveness in other populations, suggesting potential for success in this demographic.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* BMI of 25 or greater
* Enrolled at college/university where study will take place
* English-speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

* History or current diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or alcohol use disorder (current symptoms also assessed at screening using validated screening questionnaires)
* Participation in another formal weight loss program or current utilization of obesity medications
* Current or recent pregnancy
* Psychiatric hospitalization in the past 12 months
* Recent weight loss of 5% body weight or more
* History of bariatric surgery
* Severe food or physical activity restrictions that would interfere with treatment recommendations

Where this trial is running

Providence, Rhode Island

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Obesity and Overweightobesitycollege studentsbehavioral weight loss interventionsmall changes
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.