IBM Dietary Surveillance Study (Version 1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Surveying the Dietary Intake, Physical Activity Patterns, Muscle Strength and Morphology of Adults with Inclusion Body Myositis
IRAS ID
329836
Contact name
Paul Morgan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Manchester Metropolitan University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 10 months, 31 days
Research summary
Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM) is a progressive muscle-wasting condition primarily affecting older adults. Declines in muscle mass and function often lead to loss of independence and reduced quality of life. At present, no medications have been shown to slow or stop the progression of IBM, highlighting the need for alternative strategies to support those living with the condition.
Certain nutrients are vital for maintaining muscle health across the lifespan; however, the relationship between diet and IBM severity is poorly understood. This study will investigate the dietary intake, physical activity, muscle mass, strength, and quality of life of adults with IBM, compared with healthy age- and activity-matched controls. By identifying lifestyle factors that may protect against disease progression, the study will provide essential evidence to inform future dietary-based interventions.
A total of 32 adults with IBM and 15 controls aged 40 years and older will be recruited. IBM participants will be identified through Salford Royal Hospital (Manchester) and the Neuromuscular Centre (Winsford), while controls will be recruited from the local community.
Participation will involve one screening and enrolment visit at Manchester Metropolitan University’s Institute of Sport, followed by a four-week period of home-based monitoring (diet diaries, activity trackers, and questionnaires). Participants will then attend a single laboratory visit lasting around 3–4 hours, where assessments will include energy expenditure, finger-prick blood sampling to measure vitamin D levels, body composition (DXA), muscle strength, and MRI scans to examine muscle health and swallowing. All procedures have been reviewed with patient input to ensure accessibility and minimise burden.
This observational study will run for approximately 9 months, with each participant taking part for five weeks in total. It is sponsored by Manchester Metropolitan University and funded by both the university and Myositis UK. Recruitment will begin in late 2025.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/EE/0051
Date of REC Opinion
4 Feb 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion