Recent findings from the RAND Corporation found that people who are 100 pounds or more overweight are the fastest growing group of overweight people in the U.S, with the proportion of the "severely obese" 50 percent higher in 2005 than it had been in 2000. With an estimated 34 million Americans now classified as "obese" (weighing 20% more than their ideal weight) there is an urgent need for effective interventions.

Current research published in the International Journal of Obesity (March, 2007) show there is hope. Results from a study of over 1,000 dieters who attended a 12-week educational program offered by Health Management Resources (HMR) showed an average weight loss of 77 pounds. 25% of the group lost 100 pounds or more - for an average weight loss of 137.4 pounds. Moreover, these patients were able to maintain a significant portion of that weight loss while participating in the maintenance phase of the program. (The majority of these patients were medically supervised. For many dieters, weight loss is temporary.)

All of the dieters in the study participated in the HMR Program for Weight Management™, a comprehensive weight-loss program offered in hospitals and medical centers across the country.

Patients lost weight using HMR meal replacements (low-calorie, portion-controlled shakes and entrees) and in some cases, additional fruits and vegetables. They attended weekly classes at HMR clinics where they learned and practiced specific lifestyle skills, including daily physical activity. In addition, patients received individual coaching, support, and follow-up via phone calls with trained health educators.

HMR is the leading provider of weight treatment services to the medical community, with programs in hospitals and medical settings across the country. HMR offers a range of diet options including medically supervised low- and very low-calorie diets, moderately restricted diets, and "at home" dieting options, including new Healthy Solutions Quick Start Diet Kits with home delivery of weight loss foods and support materials. For more information, visit www.hmrprogram.com or call 1-800 - 418-1367.

Boston, MA (PRWEB) April 30, 2007