The effect of group visits on body weight, well-being, and health locus of control in overweight and obese women

Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of group visits on weight loss, well-being, and health locus of control in overweight and obese women. Methods: Sixty volunteers meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. Multidimensional Health Locus of Control and Short Form-36 scales were completed for each participant. Blood variables, resting metabolic rate, exercise stress test and arteriography measurements were performed. Diet and exercise programs were organized. The scales, blood analysis, exercise stress test and resting metabolism measurements were repeated for 30 participants who have completed the eight group visits in six months. Results: Participants mean body weights measured in the beginning of the study were significantly decreased 8,2% in the end (84.7±13.8 kg, 77.8±14.1 kg, p <0.001, respectively). Significant decreases were found in mean body mass index, waist-hip circumference and waist-height ratio (p<0.001 for each). While significant increase was found in HDL cholesterol values, WBC, TSH, fT4, Hgb, Plt, AST, ALT, heart rate and systolic-diastolic blood pressures were significantly decreased. In the end of the study, significant improvement was observed in physical functioning, bodily pain, general health, vitality, emotional role and mental health subscales (p=0.011, p=0.003, p=0.004, p=0.04, p=0.014, p=0.024, respectively). Significant improvements were found both in physical (p=0.002) and mental component (p=0.038) summary scales. Participants' Health Locus of Control scores did not changed significantly. The time spent on a patient during the group visits was found to be 2,5 to 2,8 times shorter than that of individual interviews. Conclusion: Our results showed that significant weight loss and quality of life improvement may be achieved with group visits in overweight and obese women. Our results may motivate physicians to use group visits for their overweight and obese patients.