RESPONSE OF FREE-LIVING ADULTS TO BEHAVIORAL TREATMENT OF OBESITY - ATTRITION AND COMPLIANCE TO EXERCISE

The effects of a behavior modification program were studied in a free- living population of mildly obese adults over a one-year period. A tot al of 165 subjects were randomly assigned to control or to exercise-on ly, diet-only, or exercise-plus-diet behavior modification groups. The diet plan consisted of a prudent, reduced-fat regimen. Most subjects chose brisk walking for exercise. After the first 3 months, diet inter vention was associated with a significant reduction in weight, percent body fat, and waist circumference. After 12 months, mean weight of th e exercise-plus-diet group was lower than that of the exercise-only gr oup. Interpretation of these results is difficult, because many of the subjects failed to adhere to the behavioral recommendations. Problems in treating obese adults without close therapist scrutiny are discuss ed.