Embedding a Behavior Change Program Designed to Reduce Sedentary Time Within a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Is Feasible in People With COPD.

Purpose: This study examined the feasibility of embedding a 4-wk intervention, which sought to reduce sedentary time (SED), into a pulmonary rehabilitation program (PRP) in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Methods: This was an intervention study that comprised one face-to-face session and three follow-up visits. Primary outcomes related to feasibility and included adherence to data completion undertaken before and during the intervention period, participant satisfaction with the intervention (out of 100%), and participant achievement of intervention goals. Secondary outcomes, collected before and after the intervention period, included SED and daily step count.

Results: Of 28 eligible individuals approached to participate, 21 (75%) were enrolled and 19 (90%) completed the program (13 females; age 69.1 ± 8.7 yr). Sixteen participants (84%) were adherent to wearing a physical activity monitor before and during the intervention period. The satisfaction score was 90 ± 12%. Over the intervention period, a total of 73 intervention goals were set, of which 41 (56%) were achieved. The effect of the intervention on SED was unclear.

Conclusions: Embedding this intervention in a PRP appears to be feasible; however, its impact on SED should be further evaluated.