Remote behaviour change service for inactive adults with lung disease: A non-randomised controlled study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Respiratory Medicine

Background:

• Adults with lung disease often have reduced physical activity.
• Remote behavior change services offer a potential solution for increasing activity levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the "Active Steps" remote behavior change service in increasing physical activity in adults with lung disease over 12 months.

Main Methods:

• A 12-month randomized controlled trial comparing "Active Steps" (telephone coaching, print, and digital strategies) with a control group.
• Self-reported physical activity and health (EQ-VAS) were measured at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months.
• Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the odds of becoming physically active and changes in physical activity and health.

Main Results:

• While not statistically significant in the adjusted model (p=0.097), the "Active Steps" group showed a higher proportion of physically active participants at 12 months (46% vs. 23%).
• The service significantly increased physical activity at 3 and 6 months and improved self-reported health (EQ-VAS) across all time points compared to controls.
• High participant attrition at 12 months requires cautious interpretation of sustained effects.

Conclusions:

• Charity-led remote behavior change support demonstrates short-to-medium-term effectiveness for increasing physical activity in adults with lung disease.
• Further research is needed to address adherence and long-term sustainability of such remote interventions.
• The "Active Steps" program shows promise but requires further investigation into long-term outcomes and participant retention.