BACKGROUND/AIM: Dropouts in intervention trials can affect the statistical power of the study. The aim was to assess predictors of dropping out in a weight loss trial. METHODS: Each subject (n = 114) was instructed to follow a diet, energy-restricted by 30% from estimated energy expenditure (approximately 600 kcal/day), for 8 consecutive weeks. A detailed meal plan as well as recipe booklets and instructions were provided by a nutritionist. RESULTS: Antidepressants were used by 19.2% of the dropouts, compared with 1.8% of the completers (p < 0.001). Additionally, those dropping out consumed 35% more soft drinks in total and 44% more diet (artificially sweetened) soft drinks at baseline (habitual intake) than those completing the trial (p = 0.012). Dropouts (18.6%) were on average 1.9 years younger than those completing the study, but the difference was of borderline significance (p = 0.085). CONCLUSIONS: The use of antidepressants and heavy habitual soft drink consumption might be considered as exclusion criteria when preparing weight loss intervention trials including dietary restrictions. (c) 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.
RCT Entities:
BACKGROUND/AIM: Dropouts in intervention trials can affect the statistical power of the study. The aim was to assess predictors of dropping out in a weight loss trial. METHODS: Each subject (n = 114) was instructed to follow a diet, energy-restricted by 30% from estimated energy expenditure (approximately 600 kcal/day), for 8 consecutive weeks. A detailed meal plan as well as recipe booklets and instructions were provided by a nutritionist. RESULTS: Antidepressants were used by 19.2% of the dropouts, compared with 1.8% of the completers (p < 0.001). Additionally, those dropping out consumed 35% more soft drinks in total and 44% more diet (artificially sweetened) soft drinks at baseline (habitual intake) than those completing the trial (p = 0.012). Dropouts (18.6%) were on average 1.9 years younger than those completing the study, but the difference was of borderline significance (p = 0.085). CONCLUSIONS: The use of antidepressants and heavy habitual soft drink consumption might be considered as exclusion criteria when preparing weight loss intervention trials including dietary restrictions. (c) 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.