EvaluWeight v1.0

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    A Mixed-methods Realist Evaluation of a Level 3 Weight Management Service (EvaluWeight)

  • IRAS ID

    335895

  • Contact name

    Megan Elliott

  • Contact email

    megan.elliott@wales.nhs.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    1 years, 6 months, 27 days

  • Research summary

    BACKGROUND: Patients living with severe obesity (BMI ≥40 kg/m2 or BMI ≥35 kg/m2 with co-morbidities) are eligible for Level 3 Weight Management (L3 WM) services, which are specialist multidisciplinary interventions delivered in secondary care to support the physical and psychological health of patients. Evidence shows L3 WM services can be effective in reducing weight and improving health outcomes, but research is needed to determine how and why services work, and the mechanisms which generate different outcomes in different contexts and for different people.

    RESEARCH QUESTION: How, for whom, to what extent and why does a Level 3 Weight Management service work for patients with severe obesity?

    DESIGN: A mixed-methods Realist Evaluation design comprising three cycles; (C1) development of the initial programme theory, (C2) data collection to test the initial programme theory using (C2a) quantitative analysis of referral and service data for L3 WM patients and (C2b) Qualitative Interviews & Focus Groups. Data from each phase of research will be integrated (C3) to inform a Realist Programme Theory which answers the research question in cycle 3.

    PARTICIPANTS: Adult patients living in Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board with a Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥40 kg/m2 or BMI ≥35 kg/m2 with co-morbidities will be eligible to participate.

    OUTCOMES: Change in weight, BMI, waist circumference, well-being. Patient experience.

    DISSEMINATION: Study results will be published in high-impact journal(s), presented at national conferences and shared with professional groups and stakeholders.

  • REC name

    London - Brighton & Sussex Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    24/LO/0334

  • Date of REC Opinion

    19 Jun 2024

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion