International Weight Control Registry

Obesity results from prolonged imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure and is a major underlying cause of most of the non-communicable diseases (NCDs) that afflict adults, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, some cancers, and osteoarthritis.In addition, obesity is a strong independent risk factor for dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and disability in old age, and reduces workforce productivity and quality of life. In consequence, reducing the high prevalence of NCDs in adults requires effective behavioral interventions for weight management.
In this pilot project, we will start to develop an International Weight Control Registry (IWCR) that collects comprehensive information on potential factors that may influence energy regulation. Individuals living in the United States and other countries will be enrolled. Topics will include dietary intake, physical activity, and behavioral, psychological, environmental, and cultural factors.