Weighing the Options: Criteria for Evaluating Weight-Management Programs

This new report describes the epidemic of obesity in America and its consequences in terms of individual health and self-image as well as the cost to the nation. It examines the spectrum of weight-control programs (do-it-yourself, nonclinical, and clinical) and discusses approaches to weight loss: physical means including diet, exercise, drug therapy, and surgery as well as various aspects of behavior modification.

The authors provide a decision-making model that links the consumer's choice with the weight-loss options available. Three criteria are explored in detail:

• match between program and consumer
• soundness and safety of the program
• program outcomes

The report address the state of obesity prevention, and it advocates a new concept of treatment that focuses on achieving health rather than on simply losing weight. It concludes with a policy and research agenda.