Behavior Therapies as Adjunct in Obese Adult Weight Loss

ABSTRACT Purpose: The purpose of this article is to review the available paradigms in the treatment of obesity in adults. This article will focus on recent findings by clinical researchers on obesity, why their contributions are noteworthy, behavior modification therapies, the technology used for delivery of these therapies, and how these therapies can help obese patients improve weight loss and weight maintenance. Method: A PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar search was completed with search terms adult obesity, cognitive behavior therapy, and adult obesity smart tools, 3wCBT, evidence-based CBT, 3wCBT. Results: There are new organic findings in adult obesity research that are amenable to correction through the use of cognitive behavior therapies. These therapies, accessed through smart tools, have shown promise in weight management as well as sustained weight loss maintenance in obese adults. These findings coupled with the resultant change in treatment protocols not only will give an improved understanding of the etiology of obesity in adults but will enhance patient outcomes. Conclusion: Adult obesity has become a serious world health concern and has steadily increased in prevalence since the 1970s. Obesity has led to chronic health conditions that decrease both quality and quantity of life as well as predispose those who suffer from obesity to mental health issues. The medical community has not dealt well with obese patients and many providers have shamed and ridiculed those that come to them, errantly believing that this will motivate them.1,2 Many providers admit that the lack of evidence-based, effective therapies for an effective treatment paradigm, based on cognitive behavior therapies, has emerged. These therapies, coupled with the advent of electronic platforms that can be accessed on a patient’s cell phone, have made access and convenience easier and more affordable than ever before. Studies have shown the efficacy of these programs in leading patients to a healthier weight and sustained weight loss. The widespread use of these weight loss tools will enhance the ability of clinicians to offer affordable, convenient, and efficacious weight management treatments to their obese patients. Medical providers can feel confident that they are recommending evidence-based tools to their obese patients to manage their weight. Patients will have more of an opportunity to direct their own weight loss in a convenient and cost-effective manner