The Short-Term Effect of a Technology Driven Weight Control (SMART) Program for Obese Adults

Phase I Study of Integrating RMR Technology and Email Counseling in a PCP Office.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the short-term effect of a technology based weight reduction program for obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2) adults in a primary care office.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Participant between the ages of 18-65 years.
2. Participant with a BMI (Body Mass Index > 30.0 kg/m2)
3. Have access and use email a minimum of 2-days per week.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Participant is not pregnant or lactating: Weight loss is not recommended for pregnant women and extra energy requirements are essential for fetal development (Butte, Wong, Treuth, Ellis, & O'Brian Smith, 2004; Durnin, 1991).
2. Participant is not currently participating in any structured/self-help weight loss program. The elimination of individuals actively participating in a current weight loss program will reduce the potential of a carry-over effect from these weight loss modalities (Fife-Shaw, 2006).
3. Participant has not attempted weight loss in the past 3 months. Same as number two.