Bridging The Engagement Gap In Obesity Trials

By Anna Haught, Director of Operations, Avacare Clinical Research Network

Obesity clinical trials are marathons that demand sustained psychological and physical commitment from participants. Unlike acute care studies, these programs often last over a year, during which initial enthusiasm frequently transitions into "motivation fatigue" as the reality of permanent lifestyle changes and inevitable weight plateaus sets in. For researchers, success depends on moving beyond protocol adherence to address the emotional and practical burden carried by the participant.

Effective retention strategies focus on normalizing the participant journey and reducing friction. This includes proactive counseling to help participants through plateaus. Operational excellence further supports this by simplifying documentation and providing logistical aid, such as transportation assistance and flexible scheduling, to prevent daily life from becoming a barrier to participation. Perhaps most critically, leveraging sites where participants have an existing, trusted relationship with their healthcare provider creates a foundation of accountability. This continuity of care ensures that even treatment non-responders feel valued and empowered, preserving the data integrity essential for bringing transformative metabolic therapies to market.