The feasibility of recruiting patients with early COPD to a pilot trial assessing the effects of a physical activity intervention

Abstract

To determine the feasibility of recruiting patients with early chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to the Health Enhancing Activity in Lung THerapy (HEALTH) exercise and education programme. Patients with early COPD were identified from general practices. Those meeting the study inclusion criteria were administered tiotropium throughout the study period. Participants were randomised to either an eight-week health enhancing and physical activity (HEPA) programme, or to a control group (usual care). Behavioural, physiological and psychosocial outcome measures were reported preand post-intervention. Out of 27 practices approached, 16 (59.3%) agreed to participate. Of 215 potentially eligible patients contacted, 60 (27.9%) replied. Twenty (33.3%) were randomised to either HEPA intervention (n=10) or usual care (n=10). Fourteen patients attended a postintervention assessment. This study provides valuable information on the feasibility of conducting such a trial involving a physical activity intervention.