Kimberly Bird

Date of Graduation

2015

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Type

DNP

College

School of Nursing

Department

Adult Health

Committee Chair

Georgia Narsavage

Committee Co-Chair

Emily Barnes

Committee Member

Mary Colley

Committee Member

Kara Gilreath

Abstract

Background: Obesity is an increasing worldwide epidemic that contributes to chronic diseases such as Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), Hypertension (HTN), Hyperlipidemia, Diabetes Mellitus Type 2, some cancers, and even death. West Virginia ranks in the top ten most obese states with over 32% of the residents being obese. Research has shown that group education programs are more effective in weight loss than individual education programs.;Objective: The purpose of the study was to examine the change in weight, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure, and number of steps of overweight or obese adult participants in a group weight loss program.;Method: Adult overweight and obese participants participated in a group weight loss program that promoted weight loss by journaling of foods consumed, activities completed, and group discussion or problem solving for a twelve-week period.;Outcomes: Due to the high attrition rate there were inadequate data to assess significance of the findings related to results of weight loss, decreased BMI, decreased systolic blood pressure, or increased number of steps walked daily. Important information was gained regarding individual pros and cons of the Medical Weight Loss Program.;Discussion/Implications: The trend toward significance with the small sample suggests that the Managing Overweight/Obesity for Veterans Everywhere (MOVE!) Program has a strong potential for success in different venues with modifications to meet the needs of the participants. A modified program is successfully continuing at the center.

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