BMC Medicine is calling for submissions to our new Collection on weight loss interventions and their health impacts, emphasizing a variety of strategies, including dietary changes, physical activity, pharmacological treatments, and surgical options. We encourage submissions that explore the long-term effects of these interventions, adherence challenges, and strategies to address health inequities. The goal is to advance understanding and improve outcomes in weight management and overall health.

Weight loss interventions encompass a wide range of strategies aimed at reducing body weight and improving health outcomes. These interventions can include dietary changes, increased physical activity, pharmacological treatments, and surgical options such as bariatric surgery. As the global prevalence of obesity and related comorbidities continues to rise, understanding the efficacy and mechanisms of various weight loss interventions becomes increasingly crucial for public health. This Collection seeks to explore the diverse methodologies and outcomes associated with weight loss interventions, offering insights into their impacts on both individual and population health.

The significance of this research is underscored by the growing body of evidence linking obesity to numerous chronic health conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of cancer. Advances in pharmacological treatments, such as SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists, have emerged as promising options for weight management, demonstrating not only weight loss but also improved metabolic health. There are, however, challenges and limitations related to drug availability, healthcare delivery, and long-term treatment adherence with rapid weight gain when stopping treatment. Additionally, integrating behavioral strategies with nutritional and physical activity interventions has shown potential in enhancing adherence and long-term success. By further investigating these modalities, we can develop comprehensive approaches that address the multifactorial nature of obesity.

Continued research in this domain may yield innovative strategies that harness technology, such as mobile health applications and telehealth, to support weight loss interventions. As we deepen our understanding of the genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors influencing obesity, personalized interventions tailored to individual needs could emerge. This progress may lead to improved health outcomes, reduced health inequities, and ultimately a shift in the paradigm of obesity treatment and prevention.

We are looking for original manuscripts on topics including, but not limited to:

Clinical trials investigating interventions for weight loss to promote health

Real-world data on long-term effects and challenges of weight loss interventions

Factors affecting long-term adherence to weight-loss or weight maintenance interventions

Challenges and inequities in access to weight loss interventions

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.

BMC Medicine is calling for submissions to our new Collection, Palliative care and medicine, focused on the growing body of knowledge in end-of-life care. Palliative care is an essential component of healthcare that focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious, life-limiting illnesses. This specialized approach addresses not only physical symptoms but also psychological and social needs, emphasizing a holistic perspective on patient care. As the global population ages and the prevalence of chronic conditions rises, the demand for effective palliative care services is more critical than ever. This Collection aims to gather research that explores innovative practices, challenges, and advances in palliative care.

Advances in this field of palliative care have led to improved pain and symptom management techniques, enhanced communication strategies, and the integration of these initiatives into standard treatment protocols for various diseases. Additionally, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of advance care planning and bereavement support, which are crucial for ensuring that patients and their communities receive comprehensive care aligned with their values and preferences.

As research in palliative care continues to evolve, we may see the emergence of innovative models of care that integrate technology, such as telehealth solutions, to expand access and enhance patient engagement. Future studies may also focus on the development of personalized care plans that address the unique needs of diverse populations, ensuring that palliative care is equitable and inclusive. This ongoing exploration has the potential to transform the landscape of end-of-life care, ultimately improving the quality of life for patients and their communities.

Topics of interest include but are not limited to:

Innovations in pain management in palliative care

Advance care planning and its impact on quality of life

Novel models for palliative and hospice care

Bereavement support for families

Addressing frailty in geriatric palliative care

Palliative care in low-income and middle-income countries

New technologies and big data for palliative care

Access to palliative care medications

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.