Cost-Effectiveness of a Weight Loss Intervention: An Adaptation of the Look AHEAD Lifestyle Intervention in the US Military

Objective This study aimed to assess whether a counselor-initiated (CI) adaptation of the Look AHEAD (Action for Health in Diabetes) intensive lifestyle intervention in a military setting was cost-effective relative to a self-paced (SP) adaptation. Methods A cost-effectiveness analysis from a payer perspective was performed alongside a 2014-2017 randomized behavioral weight loss trial among 248 active-duty military personnel stationed at a US Air Force base in Texas. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were calculated for weight loss, reductions in waist circumference, and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Results After 12 months, the CI adaptation cost more per participant compared with the SP adaptation ($1,081 vs. $120) but achieved greater weight loss (1.86 kg vs. 0.06 kg), greater reductions in waist circumference (1.85 cm vs. 0.48 cm), and more QALYs (0.871 vs. 0.856). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for the CI adaptation relative to the SP adaptation was $61,268 per additional QALY. At willingness-to-pay thresholds of $50,000 and $100,000 per QALY, the CI adaptation was 45% and 49% likely to be cost-effective, respectively. Conclusions The CI delivery of the Look AHEAD Intensive Lifestyle Intervention may offer a cost-effective approach to tackle excess weight in the US military.