Weight management interventions significantly reduce BMI and waist circumference in young adults in LMICsWeight Programs Lower BMI in Young Adults

Obesity reviews : an official journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity Published September 1, 2026 Study authors: Shakya Sujata, Neupane Subas, Bajracharya Shanti, Absetz Pilvikki PubMed ↗ DOI ↗ Editorial oversight: Dr. Amelia Tan, PhD · Internal Medicine & Chronic Disease

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Key Takeaway

Note that weight management interventions significantly reduce BMI and waist circumference in young adults in LMICs.

This meta-analysis evaluates the effectiveness of various weight management interventions for young adults residing in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The analysis focuses on primary outcomes of body mass index (BMI) and secondary outcomes of waist circumference to determine the impact of these interventions compared to controls.

The meta-analysis found that intervention groups achieved a significantly lower BMI compared to controls, with an effect size of -1.13 (95% CI: -2.10, -0.17). Additionally, waist circumference was significantly lower in the intervention group compared to controls, with an effect size of -1.66 (95% CI: -2.35, -0.96). These findings suggest that weight management programs may be effective for this specific demographic.

However, the authors note that the evidence is limited and of moderate quality. Notably, no studies reported on the feasibility of these interventions. While the results suggest potential benefits for obesity control in LMIC settings, the lack of feasibility data and the moderate certainty of the evidence mean that the practical application of these findings should be interpreted with caution.

How this fits prior evidence

This meta-analysis addresses a gap in evidence regarding weight management specifically for young adults in low- and middle-income countries. While other evidence shows that high-intensity interval training improves BMI in pediatric overweight populations and that semaglutide reduces body weight in adults with obesity, this study provides specific data on the impact of general weight management interventions in LMIC settings. The findings of reduced BMI and waist circumference support the general clinical goal of obesity control in young populations.

A new analysis of existing studies suggests that weight management programs can help young adults in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) lower their body mass index (BMI) and waist size. The analysis combined results from several studies, though the exact number of participants was not reported. The findings are based on moderate-quality evidence, so they should be interpreted with some caution.

On average, young adults who took part in a weight management program had a BMI that was 1.13 units lower than those who did not. They also had a waist circumference that was 1.66 centimeters smaller. These differences were statistically significant, meaning they are unlikely to be due to chance.

The analysis did not report any information about side effects or safety concerns. However, it also did not report on how feasible these programs are to implement in real-world settings, which is an important limitation. The evidence is limited and moderate in quality, so more research is needed to confirm these findings and to understand how well these programs work in different LMIC contexts.

For young adults in LMICs, these results offer hope that structured weight management programs can be effective. However, anyone considering such a program should talk to a healthcare provider to find an approach that is safe and suitable for their individual needs.

What this means for you:

Weight programs may help young adults in LMICs reduce BMI and waist size, but more research is needed.

Common questions

What did the study find about weight management programs?

The analysis found that young adults in low- and middle-income countries who took part in weight management programs had a significantly lower BMI (by 1.13 units) and smaller waist circumference (by 1.66 cm) compared to those who did not.

Who does this study apply to?

This study applies to young adults living in low- and middle-income countries. The results suggest that weight management programs may be beneficial for this population, but the evidence is moderate in quality and more research is needed.

Are there any side effects or safety concerns?

The analysis did not report any information about side effects or safety concerns. It also did not report on how feasible the interventions are to implement, which is a limitation. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any weight management program.

Study Details

Study typeMeta analysis

EvidenceLevel 1

PublishedSep 2026

PMID42444264

View Original Abstract ↓

INTRODUCTION: Overweight and obesity rates are rising globally, including among young adults, posing significant health risks. However, prevention programs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are limited, and little is known about their applicability in these settings. This systematic review aimed to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of overweight and obesity prevention and management interventions among young adults in LMICs. METHODS: Databases, including Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science, were systematically searched to identify trials published between 2014 and February 2026. Studies were included if they targeted young adults in LMICs and reported outcomes such as body mass index (BMI) and/or waist circumference. Publications reporting feasibility outcomes were manually searched. A random-effects meta-analysis estimated the mean difference in outcomes by gender and intervention duration. A narrative synthesis complemented the random-effects meta-analysis. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and Grades of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework evaluated the evidence quality. RESULTS: Sixteen intervention studies met inclusion criteria, but none reported on feasibility. Nine studies were included in the meta-analysis on effectiveness. Pooled estimates show that mean BMI (kg/m) (-1.13; 95% CI: -2.10, -0.17) and waist circumference (cm) (-1.66; 95% CI: -2.35, -0.96) were significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the controls. Greater effects were observed in longer durations of interventions (≥ 6 months). The quality of evidence was moderate. CONCLUSION: Obesity control interventions may benefit young adults in LMICs, but evidence is limited and moderate in quality. Future studies should evaluate feasibility using established implementation frameworks.

Weight management interventions significantly reduce BMI and waist circumference in young adults in LMICsWeight Programs Lower BMI in Young Adults

How this fits prior evidence

Common questions

Study Details

Efficacy and Safety Profile of Subcutaneous Semaglutide for Weight Management in Adults

Semaglutide helps people with obesity lose significant body weight

Clinical research that matters. Delivered to your inbox.

Weight management interventions significantly reduce BMI and waist circumference in young adults in LMICsWeight Programs Lower BMI in Young Adults

How this fits prior evidence

Common questions

Study Details

Efficacy and Safety Profile of Subcutaneous Semaglutide for Weight Management in Adults

Semaglutide helps people with obesity lose significant body weight

Clinical research that matters. Delivered to your inbox.

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