The use of novel technology-based weight loss interventions for obese women with endometrial hyperplasia and cancer

Abstract Objective Obesity significantly increases the risk of the development of both endometrial hyperplasia and cancer. Our objective was to assess the feasibility of two technology-based weight loss interventions in this patient population. Methods Women with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 ) and endometrial hyperplasia or Type I endometrial cancer were randomized 1:1 to a technology-based 6 month lifestyle intervention via either telemedicine or text messaging. The telemedicine arm received weekly phone calls, with weights tracked online using Withings© Wi-Fi scales. The text arm received 3–5 personalized messages daily via Text4Diet™. Participants maintained a 1200–1800 calorie/day diet, self-monitored food intake and received exercise goals. Biomarkers (IGFBP-1, adiponectin, VEGF, IL1-beta, IL2, IL6, and IL7) were assessed pre- and post-treatment. Results Twenty women were randomized (Telemedicine: n = 10, Text4Diet: n = 10), and 90% lost weight. Many were early stage (70%) and grade (43.8%) disease with a median age of 60.5 years. We observed a statistically greater weight loss in the Telemedicine arm [median loss: 9.7 kg (range: 1.6–22.9 kg)] versus 3.9 kg (range: 0.3–11.4 kg) in the Text4Diet arm (p = 0.0231). Similarly, percent weight loss was greater in the Telemedicine (7.6%) as compared to the Text4Diet arm (4.1%, p = 0.014). Mean serum levels of IL-2 were significantly (27.15 pg/mL vs. 5.18 pg/mL, p = 0.0495) lower at intervention end as compared to baseline. Conclusions A technology-based weight loss intervention is feasible in women with Type I endometrial cancer/hyperplasia. Both interventions produced weight loss, although more person-to-person contact produced more significant outcomes. Reductions in expression of IL-2 were related to weight loss.