![]() ![]() The potential of VR as an intervention has been explored across a spectrum of health and well-being conditions, and it has been recommended as a potential behavior modification tool for tackling obesity. On the basis of the social cognitive theory by Bandura (behavior learning through observation of models) and self-perception theory by Bem (inference of own attitudes by observing self from a third-party perspective), studies have demonstrated a link between virtual representations of self and real-world behavior and attitudes, which is considered as a consequence of individuals identifying with their avatar, particularly when the avatar is self-resembling, and experience of presence within the computer-mediated environment. Avatar technology is well established within the computer gaming industry, and third-person perspective of self within a VR setting has been shown to promote emotional engagement. VR enables people to experience an alternate visual reality, often through an avatar (computerized representation of self). An area that has significant potential to be exploited as a catalyst for weight loss behavior modification within health care is virtual reality (VR) and the creation of personal avatars. It has been argued that new multicomponent (integrated) electronic platforms integrating education with individually tailored weight loss programs, including the promotion of autonomous motivation, self-efficacy, self-regulation, and positive body image, may present a way forward for wide-scale weight loss solutions and obesity management. Technology-based interventions for weight loss have shown promise in the short term however, the potential of computer engineering has not been fully realized when designing weight loss interventions. ![]() However, interest in the use of digital technologies to support health behavior change is growing. Common barriers to successful weight loss among adults with obesity have been identified as lack of sustained motivation and poor adherence to behavioral regimens. Systematic reviews have evaluated the effectiveness of interventions, and multicomponent interventions have been acknowledged to be more effective for weight loss than single-component approaches. Obesity interventions in adults rely predominantly on managing dietary intake and increasing physical activity. Consequently, in terms of individual, societal, and economic well-being and sustainability, developing effective interventions to reduce population obesity is imperative. In addition to affecting the health of individuals, obesity increases demand for, and complexity of, health care and is estimated to cost the UK National Health Service (NHS) £5 billion (US $5.739 billion) annually with a projected increase of £1.9 billion to £2 billion (US $2.08 billion to US $2.19 billion) per annum by 2030 without intervention. It has also been identified as a mortality and morbidity risk factor for COVID-19. It is associated with a range of increased health risks including diabetes (type II), heart disease, cancer, depression, and mental health issues, affecting societal engagement and quality of life. Obesity is a global health concern and a health priority in the United Kingdom. Overall, 13 participants (n=11, 85% women and n=2, 15% men) and two health care professionals were interviewed about their experience of using the avatar program. ![]() Quality-of-life and self-efficacy measures demonstrated greater improvement in the intervention arm at both T1 (105.5 for routine care arm and 99.7 for intervention arm) and T2 (100.1 for routine care arm and 81.2 for intervention arm). ![]() Mean change in participants’ weight from T0 to T2 was 4.5 kg (95% CI 2.7-6.3) in the routine care arm and 5.3 kg (95% CI 3.9-6.8) in the intervention arm. Participants’ initial mean weight was greater in the intervention arm than in the routine care arm (126.3 kg vs 122.9 kg) pattern of weight loss was similar across both arms of the study in T0 to T1 period but accelerated in T1 to T2 period for intervention participants, suggesting that access to the self-resembling avatar may promote greater engagement with weight loss initiatives in the short-to-medium term. Overall, 10 men (n=7, 70% for routine care and avatar and n=3, 30% for routine care) and 33 women (n=23, 70% for intervention and n=10, 30% for routine care) were recruited. ![]()
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