Average cost-effectiveness ratios (ACERs) and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) in terms of cost per kilogram (kg) of weight lost and cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained were compared. The goal of the study was to provide data on ACERs and ICERs of commercially available nonsurgical weight-loss strategies. Six interventions with proven clinical efficacy met the inclusion criteria. These included three commercial programs (Weight Watchers, Vtrim and Jenny Craig) and three weight-loss medications (Qsymia 7.5/46, Orlistat 3x120 milograms, and lorcaserin). Results showed that the average cost per kg of weight lost ranged from $155 for Weight Watchers to $546 for Orlistat. Weight Watchers and Qsymia were the least expensive solutions, with the incremental cost per QALY gained for Weight Watchers and Qsymia being $34,630 and $54,130, respectively. The other companies, systems and drugs were found to be more expensive.

The effects of Ramadan fasting on endothelial function in patients with cardiovascular diseases 

This year, the month of Ramadan lasts from June 28 until July 28. Because more than 1 billion people worldwide practice Islam, it is estimated that hundreds of millions of people observe the Ramadan fast each year. Ramadan fasting differs from regular voluntary fasting by the fact that Muslims do not eat, drink or smoke from dawn to sunset each day. The effect of Ramadan fasting in men with cardiovascular disease was assessed for changes in cardiovascular risk factors, particularly endothelial dysfunction. The study found that following Ramadan fasting, there was an improvement in nitric-oxide levels and markers of oxidative stress, indicating an improvement in endothelial function. This suggests that Ramadan fasting may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health.