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Feasibility of "Sit Less, Move More": An intervention for reducing sedentary behavior Among African Americans with MS
Jessica F Baird1, Jeffer E Sasaki2, Brian M Sandroff1
1Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA.
Background:
Sedentary behavior is a major concern in multiple sclerosis, as it may accelerate disease progression and physical disability. This is especially concerning in African Americans, who present with greater neurological disability than Caucasians.
Objective:
We conducted a feasibility trial on an intervention targeting sedentary behavior in African Americans with multiple sclerosis.
Methods:
We examined the feasibility of the Sit Less, Move More program, a 12-week behavioral intervention that used text messaging along with theory-driven newsletters and behavioral coaching for managing sedentary behavior. We recruited ambulatory, inactive, African Americans with multiple sclerosis, and assessed feasibility on process, resource, management, and scientific outcomes.
Results:
Of the 64 people initially contacted, 45 were assessed for eligibility, 31 were sent the informed consent document, and 30 returned a signed document and were included in the study. Study costs were US$7242.38. Personnel time to complete the study was 130 h. There was a small effect on both device-measured (d = -0.19) and self-reported (d = -0.39) sedentary behavior.
Conclusions:
The Sit Less, Move More intervention is safe and feasible for African Americans with multiple sclerosis, and yielded a small reduction in sedentary behavior. The intervention was low cost and well received. Our results suggest the Sit Less, Move More program should progress towards a Phase II trial to determine its efficacy.
