FeatureWeight Loss Intervention Efficacy Among Black Women

- Black women who participated in weight loss interventions had significant weight loss.
- Weight loss was usually short-term, and weight gain was common at 12 and 18 months.
- Weight loss beyond 24 months post-intervention was not seen in the literature.
- Interventions should include diet, physical activity, and behavioral components.

Obesity is a complex disease state that has challenged the health of Americans and has become a main concentration in health care. The highest rates of obesity are observed among black women. The purpose of this evidence-based review was to find evidence that specifically examined black women to determine if participation in weight loss interventions led to successful weight loss compared with usual care and control groups. Twelve experimental studies and 4 systematic reviews revealed that interventions contributed to successful weight loss among black women with obesity. However, maintenance of weight loss is an ongoing challenge.