A feasibility study of ACT for people with MND (Phase 1) v1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A feasibility study of acceptance and COMmitment therapy for people with Motor nEuroN Disease (COMMEND)
IRAS ID
228539
Contact name
Rebecca Gould
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN12655391
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Z6364106/2017/08/113, UCL Data Protection Registration Number
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 30 days
Research summary
BACKGROUND: Motor neuron disease (MND) is a rapidly progressive, fatal neurodegenerative disease predominantly affecting motor neurons from the motor cortex to the spinal cord, causing progressive wasting and weakening of muscles involved in mobilising, talking and breathing. Prognosis is poor: there is no known cure and median survival is 2-3 years following onset. Although prevalence rates of 44% for depression and 30% for anxiety have been observed, guidance on improving the psychological health is lacking.
AIMS: The aim is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a manualised intervention based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for people with MND.
METHODS: Prior to the feasibility study a manualised intervention based on ACT will be developed through a series of PPI workshops/interviews with people with MND, caregivers and healthcare professionals (approved by UCL REC ref. 13312/001). It is anticipated (subject to change based on patient and clinical input) that ACT will comprise up to 8 sessions, each lasting up to 1 hour, over 3 months; a minimum of 4 sessions being face-to-face (delivered to individuals within the MND clinic or participant's home or via videoconferencing) and up to 4 being delivered via online videos/DVDs (complemented by therapist support). The intervention will be evaluated in an open uncontrolled feasibility study (N = 28). Quantitative and qualitative data assessing the feasibility, acceptability, perceived value, suitability and relevance of the intervention and its format to people with MND will be collected at 0 and 6 months. Progression to Phase 2 (the future RCT) will occur if the intervention is deemed acceptable to people with MND as indicated by uptake and initial engagement (≥80% of the target sample recruited in 4 months, with ≥70% completing at least 2 sessions). A separate application will be made to the HRA for approval to conduct Phase 2.
REC name
London - Dulwich Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/0227
Date of REC Opinion
16 Mar 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion