The feasibility of recruiting patients with early COPD to a pilot trial assessing the effects of a physical activity intervention

Faulkner, James, Walshaw, Emily, Campbell, John, Jones, Rupert, Taylor, Rod, Price, David and Taylor, Adrian H (2010) The feasibility of recruiting patients with early COPD to a pilot trial assessing the effects of a physical activity intervention. Primary Care Respiratory Journal, 19, 124–130. (doi:10.4104/pcrj.2010.00008).

Abstract

Aim:
To determine the feasibility of recruiting patients with early chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to the Health Enhancing Activity in Lung THerapy (HEALTH) exercise and education programme.

Methods:
Patients with early COPD were identified from general practices. Those meeting the study inclusion criteria were administered tiotropium throughout the study period. Participants were randomised to either an eight-week health enhancing and physical activity (HEPA) programme, or to a control group (usual care). Behavioural, physiological and psychosocial outcome measures were reported pre-and post-intervention.

Results:
Out of 27 practices approached, 16 (59.3%) agreed to participate. Of 215 potentially eligible patients contacted, 60 (27.9%) replied. Twenty (33.3%) were randomised to either HEPA intervention (n=10) or usual care (n=10). Fourteen patients attended a post-intervention assessment.

Conclusion:
This study provides valuable information on the feasibility of conducting such a trial involving a physical activity intervention.

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Contributors

Author: James Faulkner

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