Weight Watchers on prescription: An observational study of weight change among adults referred to Weight Watchers by the NHS
Author Information
Author(s): Ahern Amy L, Olson Ashley D, Aston Louise M, Jebb Susan A
Primary Institution: MRC Human Nutrition Research Unit, Elsie Widdowson Laboratory, Cambridge, UK
Hypothesis
What is the weight change among obese and overweight adults referred to Weight Watchers by the NHS?
Conclusion
A third of patients referred to Weight Watchers through the NHS Referral Scheme achieved a weight loss of 5% or more, which is associated with clinical benefits.
Supporting Evidence
- Median weight change for all referrals was -2.8 kg, representing -3.1% initial weight.
- 33% of all courses resulted in loss of ≥5% initial weight.
- 54% of courses were completed.
- Median weight change for those completing a first course was -5.4 kg, or -5.6% of initial weight.
- 57% lost ≥5% initial weight.
Takeaway
This study found that many people who were sent to Weight Watchers by their doctors lost weight, which can help them be healthier.
Methodology
Data was obtained from the WW NHS Referral Scheme database for 29,326 referral courses, measuring weight changes over 12 sessions.
Potential Biases
The low proportion of men referred may reflect gender bias in perceptions of the program.
Limitations
Data was only available for participants who activated their WW packs and may not be nationally representative.
Participant Demographics
90% female, median age 49 years, median BMI 35.1 kg/m2.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Confidence Interval
(0.51, 0.89)
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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