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Archived: This report is greater than 3 years old. Findings may be used for research purposes, but should not be considered current.

This report is from AHRQ's series on Future Research Needs Projects.

Structured Abstract

Objective

To identify and prioritize questions for future research in adult weight gain prevention.

Methods

We identified potential research needs based on gaps identified from a recent systematic review, and then engaged seven stakeholders to participate in a Delphi process to prioritize PICOTS (populations, interventions, comparisons, outcomes, timing, settings) elements. We then used these results to create research questions, which our stakeholders prioritized.

Results

Based on consensus, seven questions were of highest priority: (1) To prevent weight gain in all adults, what is the comparative effectiveness of adding physical activity versus not adding physical activity to a work-based self-management and diet intervention? (2) To prevent weight gain in all adults, what is the comparative effectiveness of adding physical activity versus not adding physical activity to a home-based self-management and diet intervention? (3) To prevent weight gain in all adults, what is the comparative effectiveness of a work-based self-management and physical activity intervention versus a self-management and diet intervention? (4) To prevent weight gain in all adults, what is the comparative effectiveness of a home-based self-management and physical activity intervention versus a self-management and diet intervention? (5) To prevent weight gain in overweight (body mass index [BMI] ≥27kg/m2) adults, what is the comparative effectiveness of adding physical activity versus not adding physical activity to a home-based self-management and diet intervention? (6) To prevent weight gain in overweight (BMI ≥27kg/m2) adults, what is the comparative effectiveness of a home-based self-management and physical activity intervention versus a self-management and diet intervention? (7) To prevent weight gain in young adults (age 18–35), what is the comparative effectiveness of adding physical activity versus not adding physical activity to a home-based self-management and diet intervention?

Conclusion

Stakeholders prioritized strategies to prevent weight gain for all/overweight/young adults in work/home settings, as they may lead to significant benefits from avoiding obesity. Rigorous studies that evaluate high-quality interventions addressing these topics are needed.