Theory-based physical activity behavior change intervention in people newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis: Study...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Science
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Physical activity (PA) is crucial for individuals newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).
• This population often experiences inactivity, necessitating targeted interventions.
• Early-stage MS may benefit from unique PA promotion strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a remote, theory-based behavior change intervention for promoting PA in recently diagnosed MS patients.
• To assess the intervention's impact on physical activity levels, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and quality of life.
• To gather data for a larger, full-powered randomized controlled trial (RCT).

Main Methods:

• A pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 50 participants with MS diagnosed within the past two years.
• Participants were randomized to either a PA intervention or a waitlist control (WLC) group.
• The intervention utilized the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior (COMB) Model and Behavior Change Wheel (BCW), delivered remotely.

Main Results:

• Primary outcomes include device-measured (light PA, moderate-to-vigorous PA, step counts) and self-reported PA.
• Secondary outcomes encompass fatigue, depression, anxiety, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL).
• Data analysis employed an intent-to-treat approach using mixed-effects ANOVA.

Conclusions:

• The study provides preliminary evidence for a remote intervention to promote PA in early MS.
• Findings will inform the design of a full-powered RCT to establish intervention efficacy.
• The intervention aims for immediate and sustained improvements in lifestyle, PA, and health outcomes.