Welcome to FAMily-centered WEight Loss for Black Adults (FAM WEL Being) Research Study
Adapted weight loss program for pairs of Black adults and adult family members
FAM WEL Being (FAMily-centered WEight Loss for Black Adults) is a National Institutes of Health-funded research study by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. The research study aims to identify the best combination of family-centered components to optimize weight loss outcomes among Black adults, recognizing the unique social and cultural factors that contribute to high obesity rates, especially in Black women.
Using an innovative approach, FAM WEL Being incorporates family and social networks to enhance lifestyle changes that support modest weight loss, proven to reduce obesity-related conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Participants receive a core behavioral intervention, along with randomly assigned family-centered elements, such as family skills, communication training, and family cohesion sessions.
Additionally, Social Network Analysis (SNA) will assess how social connections influence health behaviors and weight loss success, creating a culturally relevant program that leverages family dynamics to improve health outcomes for Black adults.