Feasibility of “Sit Less, Move More”: An intervention for reducing sedentary behavior Among African Americans with MS

BACKGROUND: Sedentary behavior is a major concern in multiple sclerosis, as it may accelerate disease progression and physical disability. This is especially concerning in African Americans, who present with greater neurological disability than Caucasians. OBJECTIVE: We conducted a feasibility trial on an intervention targeting sedentary behavior in African Americans with multiple sclerosis. METHODS: We examined the feasibility of the Sit Less, Move More program, a 12-week behavioral intervention that used text messaging along with theory-driven newsletters and behavioral coaching for managing sedentary behavior. We recruited ambulatory, inactive, African Americans with multiple sclerosis, and assessed feasibility on process, resource, management, and scientific outcomes. RESULTS: Of the 64 people initially contacted, 45 were assessed for eligibility, 31 were sent the informed consent document, and 30 returned a signed document and were included in the study. Study costs were US$7242.38. Personnel time to complete the study was 130 h. There was a small effect on both device-measured (d = −0.19) and self-reported (d = −0.39) sedentary behavior. CONCLUSIONS: The Sit Less, Move More intervention is safe and feasible for African Americans with multiple sclerosis, and yielded a small reduction in sedentary behavior. The intervention was low cost and well received. Our results suggest the Sit Less, Move More program should progress towards a Phase II trial to determine its efficacy.