Effects of weight reduction programs on close family members.

Ninety-two patients in long-term treatment for obesity completed a questionnaire on the weight development of their close family members. Of 47 such relatives, 37 had lost a mean of 6.1 kg and 10 increased a mean of 5.1 kg. Treatment of obesity will affect many more than those taking part in the actual program and generally result in weight loss. This effect on family members was mostly considered beneficial.