Text Messaging Intervention for Sedentary Lifestyle
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if an eight-week texting program can reduce daily sitting time. Participants will receive motivational text messages on their smartphones and wear a Fitbit to track their steps. The trial seeks individuals who sit for more than six hours a day and are comfortable using a smartphone. Those feeling stuck in a sedentary lifestyle and possessing a smartphone may find this trial suitable. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could enhance daily habits and overall health.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this text messaging intervention is safe?
Research has shown that using Fitbits in health programs is generally safe. Studies have found that these devices can increase physical activity and promote healthier lifestyles. Users have not reported any major safety issues.
Fitbits are popular and designed to track steps and physical activity safely. Previous research has examined their accuracy and ability to encourage more activity. So far, no evidence suggests that wearing a Fitbit causes serious side effects.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the mobile phone text-based intervention for sedentary lifestyles because it leverages technology to promote physical activity in a novel way. Unlike traditional methods like gym memberships or in-person coaching, this intervention uses text messages to encourage and remind participants to stay active, making it accessible and convenient. Additionally, by pairing this with a Fitbit, the approach offers real-time feedback and personalized motivation, which can be more engaging and effective in promoting sustained behavior change. This method is cost-effective and easily scalable, potentially reaching a larger audience than traditional interventions.
What evidence suggests that this mobile phone text-based intervention is effective for reducing sedentary behavior?
Research shows that text messages can help people sit less and move more. In this trial, participants will receive a Mobile Phone Text-based Intervention aimed at reducing sedentary behavior. Studies have found that digital health programs, such as text messaging, can significantly reduce sitting time, especially for those with long-term health issues. One study showed that text reminders encouraged people with heart problems to exercise more, leading to less sitting. Another review found that similar phone-based programs can increase physical activity, motivating people to be more active. These findings suggest that regular text message reminders can help people become less sedentary.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Karen M. Basen-Engquist
Principal Investigator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 who own a smartphone, can use WiFi or mobile data, have an email address (or are willing to create one), can read and understand English, consent to participate, are open to receiving texts and completing questionnaires on their phone. It's not for those who don't want their activity tracked or need walking aids due to medical conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants receive an 8-week phone-based texting intervention program to reduce sedentary behavior
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in sedentary behavior and physical activity after the intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- FitBit
- Mobile Phone Text-based Intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor