Digital physical activity intervention for lung transplant candidates
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Enhancing physical activity and quality of Life in lung transplant candidates through digital health: A Feasibility Study
IRAS ID
356471
Contact name
Emily Hume
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Northumbria University
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Lung transplantation (LTx) is a well-established treatment option for individuals with severe lung disease. Due to the shortage of donors, the demand for LTx vastly exceeds the availability of donor lungs, resulting in extensive waiting times (~83 weeks), often leading to further health deterioration.
The terminal stages of these conditions cause considerable lung and muscle dysfunction, resulting in disabling symptoms that significantly impact an individual’s physical function and quality of life. As expected, individuals on the waiting list undertake low levels of physical activity, which is associated with deconditioning, increased hospital admissions, and poorer outcomes following LTx.
To address this, we aim to see if a digital intervention incorporating an activity monitor, an interactive online platform and individualised remote support from a health professional could be a valuable low-cost intervention to empower individuals on the waiting list to increase physical activity in their everyday lives. Our previous research has shown that this type of intervention can increase physical activity levels and quality of life in people who have already undergone LTx and was well accepted by those taking part. We now want to investigate whether using this intervention earlier in the transplant journey can maintain health during the long waiting period, when people often feel isolated and not in control of their future.
The objective of this study is to determine the feasibility of delivering this digital physical activity intervention in people on the waiting list for LTx and whether it has the potential to optimise health outcomes, compared to usual clinical care.
REC name
Wales REC 1
REC reference
25/WA/0250
Date of REC Opinion
24 Sep 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion