Treating Binge Eating and Obesity Digitally in Black Women

More than 30% of Black women with obesity binge eat. Binge eating may increase the risk for the development of metabolic syndrome and binge-eating-disorder (BED), which is associated with severe obesity. Though several effective treatments for binge eating exist, Black women have not fared well. Not only has their inclusion in treatment trials been limited, but when participating, they are more likely to drop out, and/or lose less weight, compared to their White counterparts. Furthermore, treatment for binge eating is often not available in primary care and community-based settings places where Black women are more likely to receive treatment for their eating and weight-related concerns. Currently, there is scant intervention research to treat binge eating in Black women. With the highest rates of obesity (57%) nationally, Black women are in need of culturally-relevant treatments for binge eating and weight gain prevention. Given the established relationship between frequent binge eating and subsequent weight gain, addressing binge eating among Black women with obesity is imperative.

Inclusion Criteria:Over 18 years of age,BMI ≥ 30 kg/m^2,have and regularly use a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone,report at least one binge eating episode weekly,work or live within 30 miles of Kannapolis, NC,complete the screening questionnaireExclusion Criteria:currently pregnant,in substance abuse treatment,involved in another weight reduction program,have a history of anorexia,are purging,currently in treatment for eating difficulties,are concurrent intravenous drug usersconsume >4 alcoholic beverages/day