Rationale: Recent pandemic of COVID-19 affected health and daily life style of Sri Lankans in many ways. Aim of this audit was to assess the weight change of clinic patients before, during and after the lockdown period.
Methods: Clinic based observational study with a sample of 77 weight reducing adults followed up at medical nutrition clinic of Colombo North Teaching Hospital Sri Lanka, were randomly selected. The change in weight three months prior, during and after the lockdown period was assessed by measuring weight according to standard procedure. Reasons for the weight change was assessed through direct questioning from a checklist. Standard weight loss was considered as 2-4 kg/month as recommended by many weight management guidelines. Data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel.
Results: Age ranged from 18 to 65 years with majority being females (74%, n=57). Majority were obese patients (71.4%, n=55) with a median BMI of 31.5kg/m2. 51.9% had ≥2 non-communicable diseases. Average follow-up period was eleven months and follow up percentage for the post-lock down period was 81%.
Percentage who reduced weight and achieved the recommended weight loss prior to, during and after lockdown respectively were 61%, 41.6%, 71.4% and 10.6%, 6.25%, 25.4%. Majority (55.8%) has gained weight during the lockdown period. Average weight gain was 0.5kg/month. Lack of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and disturbance in meal pattern were the main reasons identified.
There is a statistical significant difference (paired t test P value = 0.009) in the weight change during the routine clinic visits. There is no statistical difference (paired t test P value = 0.89) in the weight change during lockdown period.
Conclusion: Majority of obese and overweight participants achived weight loss out side the lockdown period. Majority gained weight during the lockdown period. Patient motivation and regular clinic follow-up is essential for weight management and behavioral modification. To achieve this goal, special methods should be adopted during the pandemic.
Disclosure of Interest: None declared.
P308