Short summary

Obesity is related to multiple chronic diseases and recognised as one of the most important public health challenges. Several interventions and strategies have been developed, however, the prevalence of obesity globally is increasing and one of the big challenges is to obtain long-term effects of treatments and interventions. The present study focuses on stigma, self-esteem, and body acceptance in order to facilitate the individual's quality of life and the motivation for healthier lifestyle.

Rationale

The study aim is to evaluate a patient-centred intervention focusing on improved quality of life, better body perception, increased general physical activity and wellbeing among individuals with obesity and having risk factors for adverse outcome. The lifestyle intervention has specific focus on a supportive counselling approach (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and on individual motivation for changing lifestyle without focusing on weight loss.

The hypothesis is that interventions with motivational impact and a deeper understanding of the individual's attitude and ability for change lifestyle changes is requisite in order to stimulate lifestyle changes and mental well-being.

Description of the cohort

The study is a one-site, single-blind, clinical intervention study. The study period is one year. Individuals who already are participating in South Danish Obesity Initiative' (SDOI) investigation program and further referred to the lifestyle intervention at Hospital of South West Jutland, will be invited to participate in the study. The study is non-randomized; however, it will include a reference group. Those who accept to participate in the lifestyle intervention and in the study, will be an intervention group. Those who are not interested to participate in the lifestyle intervention will be invited to participate in the study as a reference group.

Data and biological material

Primary outcome: Health related quality of life (HRQoL) measured by the questionnaire Impact of Weight on Quality of Life-Lite at week 52.

Secondary outcomes: • General physical activity (minutes per day measured by accelerometer), Dynamic and isometric muscle strength (Newton) in the quadriceps muscle (knee extension) and Handgrip strength, Chair-stand test, aerobic capacity (VO2 max (l/min)), Bodyweight (kg). • Body perception (questionnaire), Self-esteem (questionnaire), Questionnaire on weight-neutral approaches, Perceived chronic pain (scale 0-10). • Total cholesterol (+ HDL and LDL) (mmol/l), Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), Diastolic and systolic Blood pressure (mm Hg).

Collaborating researchers and departments

Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Hospital of South West Denmark, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Esbjerg