NCT05693896 · University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Treating Binge Eating and Obesity Digitally in Black Women
What this study is about
More than 30% of Black women with obesity binge eat. Binge eating may increase the risk for the development of metabolic syndrome and binge-eating-disorder (BED), which is associated with severe obesity. Though several effective treatments for binge eating exist, Black women have not fared well.
View original scientific description
More than 30% of Black women with obesity binge eat. Binge eating may increase the risk for the development of metabolic syndrome and binge-eating-disorder (BED), which is associated with severe obesity. Though several effective treatments for binge eating exist, Black women have not fared well. Not only has their inclusion in treatment trials been limited, but when participating, they are more likely to drop out, and/or lose less weight, compared to their White counterparts. Furthermore, treatment for binge eating is often not available in primary care and community-based settings places where Black women are more likely to receive treatment for their eating and weight-related concerns. Currently, there is scant intervention research to treat binge eating in Black women. With the highest rates of obesity (57%) nationally, Black women are in need of culturally-relevant treatments for binge eating and weight gain prevention. Given the established relationship between frequent binge eating and subsequent weight gain, addressing binge eating among Black women with obesity is imperative.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Centering Appetite
A digital treatment of Appetite Awareness Treatment (AAT) and behavioral weight loss treatment (BWL) over 6 months, delivered remotely using Zoom. The goal of AAT is to enable participants to be able to relearn their stomach's hunger signals and begin to obey and monitor functions of satiety. AAT has been successful in helping participants diagnosed with Binge Eating Disorder (BED) and bulimia nervosa reduce binge eating, overeating, urges to eat in response to non-appetite stimuli, and prevent weight gain.
Primary outcome measures
Feasibility (Recruitment): Total Number of Eligible Adults Enrolled in the Study
Time frame: 3 month
Recruitment is defined as the number of potential eligible adults screened for the study versus the number of persons who enrolled in the study.
Retention: Percentage of Participants Retained in the Study
Time frame: 6 months
Percentage of eligible participants who were enrolled and retained in the study through the 6 months.
Attendance: Percentage of Intervention Sessions Attended
Time frame: 6 months
Percentage of intervention sessions attended for the duration of the study by each participant.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Over 18 years of age,
- BMI ≥ 30 kg/m\^2,
- have and regularly use a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone,
- report at least one binge eating episode weekly,
- work or live within 30 miles of Kannapolis, NC,
- complete the screening questionnaire
Exclusion criteria
- currently pregnant,
- in substance abuse treatment,
- involved in another weight reduction program,
- have a history of anorexia,
- are purging,
- currently in treatment for eating difficulties,
- are concurrent intravenous drug users
- consume \>4 alcoholic beverages/day
Where
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Collaborators
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 27, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations