Preferred Behavior Change Techniques for Physical Activity Interventions among Persons Newly Diagnosed with Multiple...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Growing interest in behavior change interventions (BCIs) for physical activity promotion in newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.
• BCIs ideally require theory-based behavior change techniques (BCTs), potentially tailored for the MS subpopulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine preferred BCTs among individuals newly diagnosed with MS.
• To inform the design and delivery of physical activity BCIs for early-stage MS.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 20 participants newly diagnosed with MS (disease duration ≤ 2 years).
• Semi-structured interviews conducted online via video conferencing.
• Participant opinions mapped with the Behavior Change Wheel, BCTs, and BCT groups.

Main Results:

• Ten frequently preferred BCTs were identified for physical activity interventions.
• Preferred BCTs focused on social support, physical activity skills/regulation, and knowledge of benefits.
• A refined list of BCTs for tailored interventions was generated.

Conclusions:

• Findings provide a targeted list of BCTs for designing effective physical activity interventions for newly diagnosed MS patients.
• Tailored interventions incorporating preferred BCTs can enhance physical activity engagement in early MS.