2012 Articles

Implementation of a Weight Loss Program for Latino Outpatients with Severe Mental Illness

Mangurian, Christina; Chaudhury, Simriti; Amiel, Jonathan M.; Jackson, Carlos; Newcomer, John W.; Cournos, Francine; Essock, Susan M.; Barrett, Diane; Devlin, Michael J.

To determine feasibility of implementation of a weight loss program for overweight Latinos with severe mental illness. In this quasi-experimental study, a 14-week behavioral weight loss course (extended) was implemented at one clinic. A one-time nutrition class (brief) was given at a sister clinic. Implementation feasibility was assessed by consent and participation rates. Weight was followed for 6 months. Consent rates were high [77 % (49/64) extended; 68 % (39/57) brief], and 88 % (43/49) of extended subjects participated and 88 % (38/43) completed follow-up. Weight loss did not differ between groups. A behavioral weight loss course is feasible to implement for this population.