Targeting metabolic syndrome from the emergency department through mixed-methods: pilot trial
Investigating a Program for Emergency Department Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: A Group of Conditions Increasing Risk of Heart Disease, Stroke, and Diabetes
Lauren K Stewart
Primary Investigator
Brief description of study
The purpose of this study is to pilot a multifaceted intervention for at-risk emergency department patients (i.e. those with an elevated BMI and at least one additional metabolic syndrome risk factor) to establish feasibility. Our composite intervention will include an educational video outlining the adverse effects of metabolic syndrome and the benefits of walking, a written exercise prescription with a defined goal of walking 150 minutes per week, a Fitbit accelerometer device, resources for healthy eating, periodic text message reminders to encourage activity, and a referral to outpatient follow-up. We plan to track physical activity (including number of steps and minutes spent active) using the Fitbit device with the goal of better understanding how to motivate patients to increase walking behavior.
THIS STUDY IS ENROLLING BY INVITATION ONLY - Patients presenting to the Eskenazi Health Emergency Department will be screened via real-time surveillance of the tracking board for eligibility. Patients that meet study criteria based on medical record review will be approached in-person for study enrollment, consent, baseline intervention during their clinical ED visit.
Detailed description of study
One-time virtual follow-up interview (via telephone or video-conferencing platform based on patient preference) with patients enrolled in intervention group at 3 months post-intervention.
Eligibility of study
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:
- Conditions: Metabolic Syndrome, hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia
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Age: 18 years - 100 years
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Gender: All
Inclusion Criteria
• Ambulatory adults (18 years of age) presenting to the emergency department setting
• BMI 30 kg/m2
• Prior diagnosis of at least one additional comorbid component of metabolic syndrome: hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia
• Clinical plan for discharge
Exclusion Criteria
• Pregnant patients
• Unable to safely ambulate (including patient or family perception of inability to safely ambulate)
• Lack of access to smart phone
• Unable or unwilling to wear Fitbit accelerometer device
• Unable to obtain informed consent
This study investigates a program for patients visiting the emergency department who have metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. It includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels. The purpose of this study is to see if a combination of tools can help these patients manage their condition better.
The study procedures involve using a Fitbit device to track physical activity, such as steps and active minutes. Participants will watch an educational video about the effects of metabolic syndrome and receive a written exercise plan to walk 150 minutes each week. They will also get resources for healthy eating and periodic text reminders to stay active. A follow-up interview will be conducted three months after the intervention.
- Who can participate: Adults 18 years or older who visit the emergency department, have a BMI of 30 or higher, and have one or more conditions like high blood pressure or high blood sugar can participate. They must be able to walk safely and have a smartphone.
- Study details: Participants will receive an exercise plan to walk 150 minutes weekly and use a Fitbit to track their activity. They will also get healthy eating resources and text reminders to encourage activity. A placebo is not applicable in this study.
