Study Assessing the Contribution of Telemedicine Monitoring in Addition to Standard Follow-up of an Obesity Program
This study, called STROBERRY, is taking place in France and aims to see if adding regular support through phone or video calls (telemedicine) helps people manage their obesity better. It's for adults aged 18 to 60 who have already completed a special program for managing their weight. The researchers want to find out if these extra virtual check-ins, provided every three months for four years, can help people stay involved in their treatment and prevent them from stopping their follow-up care. Obesity is a big health concern, and this study hopes to improve how people are supported after their initial weight management program.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Obesity is a widespread health issue in many countries, including France, where this study is taking place. It can lead to various health problems and also has a significant impact on healthcare costs. Many hospitals have programs to help people manage their weight, often involving different specialists working together, such as dietitians, exercise experts, and doctors.
This study, called STROBERRY, wants to improve how people are supported after they've been through one of these weight management programs. While existing programs offer standard check-ups, often once a year, the researchers wonder if more regular contact could make a difference. They are specifically looking at whether using 'telemedicine' – health support given remotely, like through phone or video calls – can help.
The main goal is to see if adding these regular virtual check-ins helps people stay committed to their weight management journey and prevents them from stopping their follow-up care. The study will involve giving some participants extra support through quarterly (every three months) online or phone meetings over four years, in addition to their usual care. This research is important because it could help improve long-term support for people managing obesity.
Key takeaways
- This study evaluates regular telemedicine support for obesity management.
- It aims to keep people engaged with their long-term weight loss goals.
- Participants will receive quarterly phone/video calls over four years.
- The study includes adults aged 18-60 who have completed an obesity program.
- It hopes to improve how patients are supported after initial weight management.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you must be a man or woman aged between 18 and 60 years old. You should have a current Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher, which is generally considered to be in the obesity range. Importantly, you must have already completed a special program for managing your obesity at the hospital running the study, either as your first attempt at weight management or a second attempt after earlier treatments.
There are also some reasons why you couldn't join. For example, if your obesity care was solely surgical and didn't include a medical program, you wouldn't be eligible. Also, pregnant or breastfeeding women cannot take part. If you are currently in prison or have certain legal protections that prevent you from making your own decisions about healthcare, you also wouldn't be able to join the study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 60 years old?
- Do you have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher?
- Have you completed a medical obesity program at the study hospital?
- Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Are you able to provide your own consent to participate?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you would continue to receive your usual obesity care and annual check-ups. In addition to this, some participants would receive extra support through what's called 'telemedicine.' This means you would have motivational interviews every three months, which could be done over the phone or through video calls. These extra appointments would be spread out over four years. There are no specific medications being tested as part of this study; it's focused on the impact of regular support calls. The main aim is to see if these regular check-ins help you stay engaged with your weight management program.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Clinique Saint-FrançoisVerified postcodeChâteauroux, France
Common questions
What is 'telemedicine' in this study?
Telemedicine here means having regular support discussions over the phone or through video calls instead of face-to-face appointments.
How long does the study last?
If you join, the additional telemedicine support would last for four years, with check-ins every three months.
Do I have to take new medicine?
No, this study is not testing new medications. It's about how extra support from telemedicine affects your existing weight management care.
Who is running this study?
The study, called STROBERRY, is taking place at Saint-François' hospital in Berry, France.
What does 'lost to follow-up' mean?
It means people who stop attending their regular appointments or checks that are part of their health program.
How to find out more
Françoise LEVITTA, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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