Health education program for persons with multiple sclerosis: A pilot study

BACKGROUND: Despite the growing evidence that physical activity (PA) can prevent functional decline and improve quality of life, individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) are more sedentary than the general population, and face many barriers to participation. Consequently, there is a need for evidence-based programs that promote the adoption and maintenance of PA participation. Therefore, the purpose was to assess the effectiveness of the “Health Education for Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (HEMS)” program, which is based on social cognitive theory. METHOD: Participants completed the (1) baseline assessment, (2) 8-week (1hr/wk) HEMS program, (3) post assessment, and (4) 8-week follow-up evaluation. The primary outcome was amount of weekly activity (pedometers or activity log), and secondary outcomes included self-efficacy, outcome expectations, social support, and goal achievement. Baseline data has been collected and 5-weeks of the intervention delivered. RESULTS: Eighteen participants (M age 55; 15 females) completed baseline assessment. Participants' reported completing 4,845 steps/day and had moderate self-efficacy (M 6.16/10), moderate to high outcome expectations (M 4.09/5), moderate social support to be active (M 2.99/5), and sometimes set activity goals (M 2.66/5). It is hypothesized that participants will report increases in primary and secondary variables post program and at follow-up when compared to baseline. CONCLUSION: Participants were sedentary at baseline, confirming the low activity levels reported in previous research. This inactivity has been shown to increase the risk of morbidity and mortality. It is critical that health promotion programs provide individuals with the tools to reduce further disability and improve quality of life.