Examining preferences for weight loss interventions among black men and women with overweight or obesity: A qualitative study

Background: Behavioral interventions aiming to modify dietary habits and physical activity have been less effective in achieving clinically significant weight loss in Black adults. Inequities exist in both representation and weight loss outcomes in among Black men and women compared to White men and women. While there have been some research efforts focused on weight loss in Black women, participation rates of Black men in weight loss interventions are lower. This may perpetuate the development of obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and other cardiovascular problems. This qualitative study investigated the barriers and facilitators to healthy eating and physical activity and the weight loss desires among Black adults with overweight or obesity.

Methods: 24 Black adults mainly from New England states were recruited for the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with Black males and females who self-reported being overweight or obese. Preferences for weight loss specific to each gender, barriers, and facilitators for weight-related behaviors such as diet and physical activity, were examined by gender to inform development of a culturally relevant behavioral weight loss intervention.

Results: The sample consisted of Black adults from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. Black females (n = 16) and Black males (n = 8) were mostly non-Hispanic Black Americans. Key themes that emerged were: (1) the creation of a weight loss program for Black adults, (2) healthy eating barriers, (3) physical activity barriers, (4) healthy living facilitators, and (5) social support. Distinctive preferences for weight loss were expressed by Black females and males Community and personalization were preferred by Black females while Black males preferred personalized diet and exercise regimes for diverse health conditions, not limited to weight loss. While both genders referred to digital devices and apps for recording weight, diet and physical activity as a major facilitator to adopting healthy habits, social support in the form of culturally relevant information from healthcare providers was highly desired to be incorporated into the intervention.

Conclusion: The findings of this study hold relevance for designing and developing of weight loss programs that promote behavior change for Black adults and help reduce obesity-related health inequities within this population.

Citation: