Intentional weight loss was associated with lower mortality, whereas unintentional weight loss was associated with increased mortality
QUESTION: Are weight change and intention to lose weight associated with all cause mortality in adults who are overweight or obese?
Design
Prospective cohort study with 9 years of follow up (mean follow up 8 y).
Setting
USA.
Participants
6391 adults ≥35 years of age (mean age 54 y, 55% men, 87% white) with a body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2 before weight loss.
Assessment of risk factors
Weight loss intention and weight change during the previous year were assessed by self report in a supplemental survey to the 1989 National Health Interview Survey. The same survey was used to determine age, ethnicity, sex, smoking status, self rated health, hospital admissions, physician visits, chronic and acute conditions, limitations in activities or work, and height and weight.
Main outcome measure
Data on all cause mortality were obtained from the computerised National …
