Mindfulness-Based Self-Management Program Using a Mobile App for Patients With Pulmonary Hypertension: Single-Arm...

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Hypertension Research
• Mindfulness Interventions
• Digital Health

Background:

• Mindfulness-based interventions are used for chronic illnesses, but a tailored program for pulmonary hypertension (PH) was lacking.
• Limited mobility in PH patients necessitates accessible, remote interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess the feasibility of an online mindfulness-based self-management program for PH patients.
• To evaluate the program's impact on PH symptoms, quality of life, and psychological well-being.

Main Methods:

• An 8-session, weekly online program combining PH self-management education with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.
• Utilized a mobile app and Apple Watch for symptom monitoring and mindfulness practice.
• Assessed outcomes including quality of life (emPHasis-10), depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), resilience (CD-RISC), and loneliness at baseline, week 4, and program completion.

Main Results:

• A 75% retention rate was observed in the 12 participants enrolled.
• Significant improvements were noted in quality of life (emPHasis-10) and resilience (CD-RISC).
• Trends toward reduced depression (PHQ-9) and anxiety (GAD-7) were observed, though not statistically significant with limited data.

Conclusions:

• The online mindfulness program appears beneficial for PH patients in managing symptoms and emotions.
• The intervention shows potential for improving quality of life in individuals with pulmonary hypertension.
• Further evaluation in a randomized controlled trial is recommended to confirm these preliminary findings.