Steps Ahead: Optimising physical activity and health in adults with cystic fibrosis

Background: Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is one of the most common, life limiting diseases in Ireland. Physical activity (PA) is regarded as an important component in the management of  CF. A Cochrane review found that there are a lack of strategies to promote PA in this  population and consideration should be given to telehealth interventions (Cox et al, 2013).  Improving the evidence base around PA in people with CF, and how this may impact health outcomes, could serve to inform healthcare professionals tasked with promoting PA  participation in this population. 

Aims: This thesis aims to evaluate the following: (1) To conduct a systematic literature review on the effectiveness of exercise interventions to increase PA in CF, (2) To assess the accuracy of the ActivPAL and Fitbit Charge 2 to measure step count in CF, (3) To assess PA  and sedentary behaviour in CF and determine the association with health outcomes in CF, (4) To assess the effectiveness of a pilot randomised trial which aims to increase PA levels  in adults with CF using a fitness wearable, goal setting and text message feedback, (5) To  qualitatively evaluate the pilot randomised trial. 

Methods: The research strategy undertaken involved: a systematic review on exercise interventions in CF (Chapter Two); a validation study to assess the accuracy of the ActivPAL and Fitbit Charge 2 as a measure of step count in people with CF (Chapter Three); an observational cross-sectional study of PA levels in people with CF and exploring the association with aerobic capacity, sleep, quality of life and well-being using previously validated outcome measures (Chapter Four); a pilot randomised study to explore the effectiveness of wearable technology, goal setting and text message feedback on PA and  health outcomes (Chapter Five); semi-structured interviews to qualitatively evaluate the intervention (Chapter Six).