This study aims to develop and test a culturally tailored online weight loss program for the Saudi population. Building upon the success of a previous program in the United States, the research team will adapt educational materials and conduct a pilot study to assess the feasibility and initial outcomes of the program among Arab participants. The study seeks to answer questions about the program's acceptability, effectiveness, and scalability, with the ultimate goal of combating obesity and its related health issues in Saudi Arabia.
This research project aims to help Saudi individuals lose weight in a way that suits their culture. Obesity is a significant problem and can lead to serious health issues like diabetes and heart problems. Even though Saudi Arabia has attempted to help individuals lose weight before, previous efforts haven't been successful enough. Therefore, the investigators aim to develop a new weight loss program that is better suited to Saudi individuals. First, educational materials will be created in Arabic to teach individuals how to eat better and live healthier. Then, collaboration will be undertaken with individuals in Saudi Arabia to ensure the program fits their needs. Afterward, the program will be tested with a small group of individuals to evaluate its effectiveness and acceptability. Approximately 20 individuals will be invited to join the program at King Abdullah Medical City. They will participate in ten online sessions, where they will learn about healthy eating and lifestyle improvements. Additionally, they will regularly weigh themselves. Data will be collected before and after the program to assess its impact on weight loss and overall well-being. By the end of the project, the investigators hope to have developed an effective program that assists Saudi individuals in losing weight and maintaining good health.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
Ten 40-minute education sessions appropriate to Saudi people will be developed and will cover essential topics for enhancing diet, lifestyle, and health. Each session comprises four modules, including activities and homework reviewed by a dietitian. Based on the EMPOWER weight loss program developed by the Nakamura lab for the US population, adjustments will be made to align with Saudi preferences, including food choices and cooking methods. Participants will access these materials online.
King Abdullah Medical City (KAMC)
Mecca, Saudi Arabia
Program feasibility and acceptability
Participants' views on the program's feasibility and acceptability will be gauged through structured surveys or interviews at the intervention's end. We'll employ two surveys: Feasibility Survey: this survey developed based on a previous study, examines various aspects like personal gain, program content, and engagement. Participants rate questions on a 1-5 scale and provide open-ended feedback. Feedback Survey: Participants will rate enjoyment, likelihood of recommendation, perceived benefits, and willingness to pay for services on a 1-5 scale. Open-ended questions will capture additional feedback.
Time frame: 3 months
Weight Loss
Change in body weight from baseline to three months.
Time frame: 3 months
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