Abstract 15294: Preliminary Results of the Sit Less Program for Patients With Coronary Artery Disease: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Coronary artery disease (CAD) patients spend on average 10-14 hours per day sitting, which is higher than the recommended 8 hours of sitting. Independent of physical activity levels, higher levels of daily sitting are associated with adverse cardiometabolic outcomes. This study evaluated the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a multi-technology-based Sit Less program in reducing sitting time (ST) and increasing breaks in ST in CAD patients. Methods: CAD patients were randomized to a control (n=8) or a 12-week Sit Less program (n=11). Sit Less included one in-person counseling session, a Fitbit, a smart water bottle (used to break prolonged ST via frequent restroom visits), and tailored weekly text messages. Feasibility was assessed via text message response rate and program satisfaction. Primary outcomes included changes in total daily ST, prolonged ST (total time spent in sitting bouts of >30 mins and >60 mins), and sit-to-stand transitions (all measured using activPAL). Cardiometabolic biomarkers included BMI, blood pressure, insulin, HbA1c, and lipids. Pre-post group differences were examined using independent t-tests. Results: All participants completed the study (15 male, 66±10yrs, mean ST = 10.4 hours/day). Out of the 11 Sit Less participants, 82% responded to all text messages and expressed satisfaction with the program. Significant pre-post group differences were found for total daily ST and prolonged ST (Figure 1). The Sit Less group had 36 minutes reduction in total ST and 3.4 more sit-to-stand transitions, while the control group had 47 minutes increase in total ST and 1 fewer sit-to-stand transitions. No significant differences in cardiometabolic markers were found within or between groups. Conclusion: The Sit Less program was feasible in CAD patients and the intervention reduced total and prolonged ST. Large-scale trials are needed to assess the program's effectiveness in reducing sitting and improving cardiometabolic outcomes.