Gender Differences in Factors Associated with Clinically Meaningful Weight Loss among Adults Who Were Overweight or Obese: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

objectivesThe impact of heterogeneity on gender difference for achieving clinically meaningful weight loss (cmWL) remains unclear. Here, we explored the potential gender differences in factors associated with cmWL.

methodsA total of 60,668 participants with body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2 at study entry and available BMI values at follow-up were included in this study. cmWL was defined as a weight loss of ≥5% from the study entry to follow-up. The associations of social-demographic factors, personal history of chronic diseases, lifestyle behaviors, and history of BMI with cmWL were evaluated using logistic regression models.

resultsDuring a median follow-up of 9.13 years, 26.6% of the participants had a cmWL (30.8% for females vs. 23.1% in males; p < 0.001). Participants with older age, obesity at study entry, being more physical activity compared to 10 years ago, being relapsed smokers or consistent current smokers, having a history of chronic diseases (i.e., diabetes, osteoporosis, and stroke), cancer diagnosis during the study period, and more than 10-year follow-up were more likely to achieve cmWL in both males and females (all p < 0.05). The new smoking quitters and participants with less active in physical activity compared to 10 years ago were less likely to achieve cmWL in both males and females (all p < 0.05). Specifically, males with a history of emphysema were more likely to reach cmWL, and for females, those being overweight at 20 years old and current drinkers were more likely to reach cmWL (p < 0.05). Sensitivity analyses demonstrated similar results.

conclusionAge, BMI status, physical activity, smoking status, family income, and health status were independent factors in males and females for weight management. However, further well-designed prospective studies are warranted to confirm our findings.