Changes in C-reactive protein during weight loss and the association with changes in anthropometric variables in men and women: LIFE Study

Objective: To investigate whether sex differences exist in the pattern of change in C-reactive protein (CRP) levels during weight loss, and whether the associations between weight change and CRP change differ by the types of anthropometric variables. Design: Longitudinal, prospective analysis of subjects participating in an intentional weight loss trial (the Lose It For Ever: LIFE Study) followed-up for 30 months. Subjects: A total of 212 healthy, obese men and women (age: 23-77 years, body mass index (BMI): 30-39 kg m-2) took part in this study. Measurements: BMI, waist and hip circumferences, and waist-to-hip ratio, CRP and lifestyle variables repeatedly measured at baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 30-month follow-up. Results: Weight change was J shaped with a nadir at 12 months in both men and women (P for month2