Changes in health-related quality of life among African-Americans in a lifestyle weight loss program

Purpose Changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were assessed in clinically obese, African- American adults after completion of a weight loss program that resulted in modest average weight loss. Methods Data were analyzed for 87 men and women who provided weight measurements after an initial 10-week weight loss program (Phase 1) and a subsequent clinical trial to evaluate three weight maintenance approaches (Phase 2) over an additional 8 to 18 months. HRQoL was assessed using the Short Form SF-36 questionnaire. Intraperson changes in HRQoL were assessed and analyzed for associations with weight change within each phase. Nonparametric bivariable analyses and multivariable linear regression were used in statistical analyses. Results Changes in HRQoL were modest; clinically significant intra-subject improvements in SF-36 domains of general health and vitality and in the mental component summary score were observed after Phase 1 but were attenuated during Phase 2. Improvements in vitality were significantly associated with greater weight loss in Phase 1, but no HRQoL change scores during Phase 2 were associated with weight change. Conclusions Short-term improvements in general health and vitality were observed. The vitality domain of the SF-36 appeared to be the domain of HRQoL most responsive to modest weight change.