Using digital self-monitoring data to support long-term weight loss
Sharing Digital Self-Monitoring Data With Others to Enhance Long-Term Weight Loss: A Randomized Trial Using a Factorial Design
This study is testing whether using digital tools to track weight, exercise, and eating habits can help adults with overweight or obesity lose weight and keep it off over two years.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 320 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Drexel University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT05180448 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to improve long-term weight loss outcomes for adults with overweight or obesity by utilizing digital tools for self-monitoring weight, physical activity, and eating habits. Participants will engage in a 24-month lifestyle modification program, sharing their data with coaches, group members, and supportive friends or family. The program includes weekly remote meetings for the first three months, followed by quarterly group meetings and regular communication through phone calls and text messages. The effectiveness of different data-sharing partnerships will be evaluated over the study period.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-70 with a BMI between 27-50 who can engage in physical activity and have access to a smartphone and internet.
Not a fit: Patients with certain medical or psychiatric conditions, those currently pregnant or breastfeeding, or individuals with a history of bariatric surgery may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance weight loss maintenance and improve overall health for participants.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using digital tools and social support for weight loss, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals must be of overweight or obese BMI (27-50 kg/m2) * Individuals must be adults (aged 18-70) * Able to engage in physical activity (defined as walking two city blocks without stopping) * Access and willingness to use a smartphone and internet * Has one adult friend or family member who indicates willingness to serve in a support role * Satisfactory completion of all enrollment procedures * English Speaking Exclusion Criteria: * Medical or psychiatric condition (e.g., cancer, type I diabetes, psychosis, full-threshold eating disorder) that may pose a risk to the participant during intervention or cause a change in weight, or limit ability to comply with the program or participate appropriately in group-based treatment * Currently pregnant or breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant in the next 24 months * Use of insulin or a medication that can cause significant change in weight * History of bariatric surgery * Weight loss of greater than or equal to 5% in the previous 3 months * Weight loss of greater than or equal to 10% in the past 3 years that is currently being maintained
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Drexel University — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Meghan L Butryn, PhD — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Research Coordinator
- Email: nam365@drexel.edu
- Phone: 215-553-7161
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.