Erickson solution-focused coaching for weight management in obese patients with obstructive sleep apnoea: ECOHEALTH pilot study

Abstract

Coaching as a lifestyle modification approach to weight management is insufficiently explored in obstructive sleep apnoea. We investigated anthropometry and body composition after 20 weeks of Erickson coaching in 26 obstructive sleep apnoea patients (19 males; 47.6 ± 2.4 years). Body weight, neck circumference, waist-to-hip ratio and %body fat significantly decreased after 20 weeks. The mean weight loss was 5.2 per cent ± 1.0 per cent; 20 (77%) participants achieved target reduction of >3 per cent. Coaching session attendance ( p = 0.006) and reaching personal goal related to physical performance ( p = 0.044) were independently associated with weight loss (multiple regression model R2 = 0.608, p < 0.001). Erickson solution-focused coaching supports adherence to healthy lifestyle and weight reduction in obstructive sleep apnoea.