Project ReLearn is testing the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of an Artificial Intelligence system for optimizing weight loss coaching. Participants are randomized to a 1-year weekly gold standard behavioral weight loss remote (video) group treatment or the AI-optimized treatment, which is made up of a combination of remote group treatment, short video call and automated message. In the AI-optimized condition, the system monitors outcomes (via wireless scale, mobile phone app, and wristworn tracker) and, each week, assigns each participant the treatments they have responding to the best, within certain time constraints.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
301
Behavioral weight loss treatment is the current gold standard treatment for obesity.
AI-optimized Behavioral Weight Loss Treatment will continuously vary intensity (automated text message, videoconference group, individual coaching call) and coach type (paraprofessional or MS-level expert) based on continuously-monitored participant digital data.
Drexel University Center for Weight, Eating and Lifestyle Science
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
Weight change
Weight will be measured using the Fitbit Aria Air wireless scale, which is accurate to 0.2 kg. In order to maximize accuracy, we will (1) provide instructions (e.g., place scale on flat, hard surface; weigh upon waking, without clothes, after using the bathroom), (2) require participants to confirm that they are following instructions at each assessment point, (3) use an average of 5 consecutive daily weights for each timepoint, (4) remove errant weights (e.g., \>1 kg change in 1 day).
Time frame: Baseline, 1-month, 6-month, and 12-month assessment
Costs
All time spent training counselors, participants and supervising counselors, will be tracked by the project coordinator, as will time counselors spend delivering individual and group treatment. The web portal will track counselor time on the portal, e.g., reviewing food records and texting. While the basic time commitments are pre-set by condition, several factors will vary including participant no-shows, participant drop-outs, and counselor adherence to time limits.
Time frame: Baseline, 1-month, 6-month, and 12-month assessment
Physical Activity
Minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) will be measured via Fitbit, a consumer-grade wrist-worn activity tracker which has superior compliance and close-to-equivalent accuracy as a research-grade accelerometer. Number of days meeting MVPA goal will be used by the AI system, with MVPA minutes as a secondary outcome.
Time frame: Baseline, 1-month, 6-month, and 12-month assessment
Calorie intake
Seven days of calorie intake as derived from the Fitbit app's food log will be used as a secondary outcome. Participants will already be tracking their consumption using the app because data are used by both the coaches (per standard treatment) and the AI system.
Time frame: Baseline, 1-month, 6-month, and 12-month assessment
Acceptability as Measured by Likert Self-report Scale
Participants will be asked to rate satisfaction with and perceived effectiveness of the program. Counselors will rate effectiveness and ease of use.
Time frame: 6-month and 12-month assessment
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