The effects of program duration on continuance in a behavioral weight loss program.

This study investigated the effects of weight loss program duration on treatment continuance and weight loss. Subjects were assigned to either a 12 or 8 week program. Subjects in the eight week program (n = 74) had a lower dropout rate than those in the 12 week program (n = 52); weight loss at treatment termination and six month follow-up was equivalent for completers of the two programs. Results suggest that a reduction in weight loss program duration may be a practical way to reduce dropout rates and program costs.