The Relationship Between Weight Loss and Health-related Quality of Life in a Serbian Population

We examined changes in weight-specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and the relation to weight loss in a Serbian population undergoing diet-induced weight loss treatment. HRQOL was assessed at intake and after 1?year using the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life-Lite (IWQOL-Lite) questionnaire. Study sample consists of 135 obese patients. After 1?year of diet therapy, patients experienced an average weight loss of similar to 12%, and significant improvements were noted in all IWQOL-Lite domains (Physical Function, Self-esteem, Sexual Life, Public Distress and Work). Amount of weight loss was closely linked to all domains (F=27.49; p<0.001), except Sexual Life (F=2.08; p=0.108). In patients with weight reductions of 5%9.99%, there was a great improvement in physical function and self-esteem. In those with =10% weight loss, there was improvement in all dimensions of IWQOL-Lite. With the prevalence of obesity rising worldwide, including in Serbia, the positive effects of weight loss on weight-specific HRQOL are encouraging. Copyright (C) 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.