Effect of a stepped-care intervention approach on weight loss in adults: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Context: Given the obesity epidemic, effective but resource-efficient weight loss treatments are needed. Stepped-treatment approaches customize interventions based on milestone completion and can be more effective while costing less to administer than conventional treatment approaches. Objective: To determine whether a stepped-care weight loss intervention (STEP) compared with a standard behavioral weight loss intervention (SBWI) would result in greater weight loss. Design, Setting, and Participants: A randomized clinical trial of 363 overweight and obese adults (body mass index: 25-