Kennedy Krieger Institute

Author Of 1 Presentation

Observational Studies Poster Presentation

P0888 - Multiple Sclerosis Patients' Perceptions of Using an Accelerometer and Mobile App for Clinical Research (ID 1464)

Speakers
Presentation Number
P0888
Presentation Topic
Observational Studies

Abstract

Background

Designing data collection methods is a vital, yet challenging part of conducting multiple sclerosis (MS) clinical studies. Emerging technologies, such as wearable activity monitors (i.e. Accelerometers) and mobile applications (apps), provide innovative methods of objectively measuring MS patient outcomes. However, there is a gap in scientific knowledge about MS patients’ experiences with using these technologies in clinical research. This knowledge is imperative because patients’ perceptions of these technologies can affect adherence to study protocols. Research is needed to understand the feasibility of using these technologies for continuous long-term monitoring and data collection.

Objectives

To describe how persons living with MS perceived an accelerometer and diet-tracking app in a longitudinal clinical study and to apply this knowledge to the design and conduct of future clinical research.

Methods

This was a qualitative study nested in a larger observational study, which collected data using the Actigraph accelerometer and Calorie-Mama AI mobile app. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted during final study visits (September 2018- March 2019), audio recorded, and transcribed verbatim. We continued interviewing participants until data saturation occurred. Qualitative data were analyzed using the constant comparative method. To further explore qualitative results, we did chi-squared tests to examine relationships between 1. age and successful diet tracking and 2. disability and interest in an MS self-management app.

Results

We interviewed 28 persons living with MS: 68% were female, mean age was 45.5 years, and median Expanded Disability Status Score (EDSS) was 2 (indicating low disability). Participants’ perceptions of the accelerometer were that it was “bulky” (n=21) and attracted unwanted attention (n=9), and that the band was uncomfortable (n=20). Participants (n=12) also mentioned they would have liked feedback from the device during or after the study. Despite stated issues, 93% of participants indicated they would use the device again in future studies. The mobile app was perceived as difficult to use to accurately track food (n=21) and time-consuming (n=10). As a result, half of participants did not correctly record their diet for the study. Younger age was associated with successful app use [X2 (1, N=27)= 4.46, p=0.035]. Also, many persons living with MS were interested in an MS self-management app, and interest was associated with higher EDSS [X2 (1, N=27)= 6.01, p=0.022].

Conclusions

Although participants had negative perceptions of the accelerometer, they were willing to use it for future studies, suggesting only minor design modifications may be needed. Mobile apps also should be easy to navigate and use, especially among older persons living with MS. A surprising finding was that MS mobile apps may be more appealing to younger persons living with MS who have greater disability.

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