The problem of overweight and obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the U.S. and globally, and the high prevalence is due in part to the dietary changes associated with weight-loss treatment. Approximately one third of lost weight is often regained in the first year after treatment and, at times, continues. Because a plethora of co-morbid diseases are associated with obesity, in particular, cardiovascular disease, hypertension and hyperlipidemia, clinicians and researchers have attempted to find useful strategies for maintaining weight loss.

Clinical trials are part of clinical research and at the heart of all medical advances. Clinical trials look at new ways to prevent, detect, or treat disease. Scientists are conducting research to learn more about overweight and obesity, including studies on the role of dietary patterns in obesity development and treatment; novel behavioral, medication, device, and surgical approaches; and other research areas that can tell us more about why people develop obesity or respond to treatment.