W8Buddy study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Long-term health and economic impact of using digital tool Gro Health W8Buddy to support people accessing specialist weight management services
IRAS ID
355370
Contact name
Petra Hanson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Warwick University
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Background: Obesity is a pressing health issue, and it impacts more than a quarter of our population. Obesity can lead to severe health complications. Treatment options available to patients who access Specialist Weight Management Services include lifestyle advice, counselling, weight loss drugs and surgery. However, there is limited and variable access to these services across the country.
Aims: Our study will examine the use of digital technology to support people living with obesity. We will focus on one type of digital technology called Gro Health W8Buddy. This is an online system and mobile telephone application. Our aim is to understand the long-term health benefits of using a digital technology compared to standard face-to-face NHS Specialist Weight Management Services. We will also assess if digital technology can improve patients access to services.
Approach: Digital technology is already used in different parts of the NHS. However, more research evidence is needed before we recommended it for all patients. This includes evidence which shows that the technology is acceptable and works for all patient groups, and that it offers value for money for the NHS. We will recruit 450 patients (study participants) who will choose either standard NHS care or the digital technology. We will measure health and care outcomes (such as weight loss, time taken to be treated) at 18- and 24-months and gather feedback from patients through surveys, interviews, and focus groups. Our research team is made up of a partnership between University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, Warwick and Birmingham University, and DDM Health (technology company).
Expected Impact: We aim to shape future healthcare policies by showing the benefit of patient-centred digital technology in the NHS. We aim to provide research which makes a difference to patients and improve health outcomes for people living with obesity.REC name
East Midlands - Leicester South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/EM/0147
Date of REC Opinion
29 Jul 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion