An interesting study from the New England Journal of Medicine on weight-loss techniqueswas presented this morning at the AHA’s Scientific Sessions in Orlando. The Practice-Based Opportunities for Weight Reduction (POWER) trial examined theeffectiveness of weight-loss programs in obese patients with high bloodpressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. Outpatient treatment of obese patients at risk of heart disease has been a struggle for physicians everywhere and alternative, convenient solutions that encourage weight-loss and a healthy lifestyle are much needed.

The goal for patients in the 24-month long study was to lose five percent of initial weight within six months. Two methods were explored: one with in-person health coaches and one driven by technology where patients were counseled on weight reduction over the phone. Both methods engaged primary care physicians as an integral part of the support team. The study found that patients who received information over the phone were equally as likely to lose weight and keep it off as patients who met directly with coaches.  Fifty three percent of patients enrolled in the phone driven program, which also had an interactive website component, achieved their goal. This outcome has the exciting potential to change the way weight-loss programs are developed and delivered in the future, increasing patient access to essential counseling and tools.

I will be excited to follow the impact this study will haveon patient access, especially in my home state of Mississippi. Given the high obesity rates of the South and the increasing rates across the country, effective solutions for weight-loss are greatly needed andhave been an ongoing struggle to develop. The results of the POWER trial can open the doors to a whole new way to treat overweight patients at risk for heart disease.  This trial demonstrates that information can be disseminated to a wide-range of patients not only nationally, but also globally, using common communications channels.

Finding innovative and flexible weight-loss education programs is key. Here at the College, we identified the importance of patient education several years ago with the launch of CardioSmart, which has been a successful initiative to get out in the community and promote a healthy lifestyle. NASCAR Track Walks that couple fitness with entertainment have been a huge hit and create the foundation for making smart choices. The Health and Wellness Center on CardioSmart has a section devoted to diet and exercise, providing patients with the tools and information they need to reduce their risk of heart disease. The Walk With a Doc program featured in the latest issue of Cardiology is another successful grassroots program that has seen tremendous success ininspiring and educating patients. Thinking outside the box and finding practical solutions to problems we encounter every day can truly impact the care and outcomes of our patients.