Pilot Study of a Multi-Component Program for Metabolic Syndrome Patients in the Emergency Department Using Education, Fitbit Tracking, and Follow-Up Care

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a multifaceted intervention for metabolic syndrome MetS in patients visiting the emergency department to see if it is feasible and can improve physical activity and healthy eating habits. This pilot trial will involve 20 participants randomly assigned to either the intervention or usual care group. The study aims to increase understanding and motivation related to MetS by offering education, devices, and support. The intervention group receives a six-part program including an educational video about MetS and benefits of walking, a written exercise prescription targeting 150 minutes of walking per week, a Fitbit accelerometer to track activity, written healthy eating resources, regular text message reminders over three months, and an urgent referral for follow-up care in primary care and a health clinic. The control group receives usual care and a Fitbit device but no specific behavioral guidance. Participants will be monitored for three months starting from enrollment, with measurements including average daily steps, minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity, and several surveys assessing diet, physical activity, life satisfaction, physical function, and self-efficacy at enrollment and follow-up. Researchers will also track emergency department revisits. The primary outcome is the mean daily steps during the study period, with all participants wearing the Fitbit device to monitor activity continuously.

Targeting Metabolic Syndrome From the Emergency Department Through Mixed-Methods: Pilot Trial