We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of weight management interventions delivered in primary care. 

We found that:

• Weight management interventions delivered by primary care are effective, should involve at least 12 contacts and can be utilised to help people better manage their weight
• There is some evidence that weight management interventions delivered by non-medical practitioners within primary care, which are often endorsed and supervised by general practitioners, result in similar amounts of weight loss compared to those delivered by clinician-led programmes
• Primary care delivered weight management interventions should be commissioned

What next?

Can primary care delivered weight management interventions be implemented, and are the interventions equitable?

Citation details

Madigan CD, Graham H, Sturgiss E, Kettle V, Gokal K, Biddle GJH, Taylor GMJ, Daley AJ. Effectiveness of weight management interventions in adults delivered by primary care practitioners: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. BMJ 2022; 377. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2021-069719

Acknowledgements

Professor Amanda Daley is supported by a National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Research Professorship award. This research was supported by the NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre. The views expressed are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the NHS, the NIHR, or the Department of Health and Social Care. 

Dr Liz Sturgiss' salary is supported by an Investigator Grant (National Health and Medical Research Council, Australia). Dr Gemma Taylor is supported by a Cancer Research UK Fellowship.