Smartphone nudges help low-income adults shed pounds

NCT ID NCT04353258

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a 12-month weight loss program delivered by smartphone, using behavioral economics tricks, could help economically disadvantaged adults lose weight. 195 participants with obesity and low income were split into two groups: one got the standard mobile program, the other got extra behavioral economics features. The main goal was to see how much weight each group lost.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Behavioral economics weight loss program delivered via mobile phone

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could provide an effective, low-cost weight loss option for people with limited financial resources.

What could go wrong

This is a completed trial, but results may not apply to all groups. Weight loss programs often have mixed long-term success, and the mobile-only format may not suit everyone.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for OBESITY are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Obesity obesity disorder Weight Loss

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • UConn Weight Management Research Lab

    Hartford, Connecticut, 06103, United States