Reducing Sedentary Time in Obese Adults

A Mobile Health Approach to Reducing Sedentary Time in Bariatric Surgery Patients

Greater time spent in sedentary behaviors, independent of physical activity level, can increase risk of morbidity and mortality. Objective assessments indicate that bariatric surgery patients spend large amounts of time in sedentary behaviors. The present study is the first to test whether a mobile health (mHealth) approach that employs widely adopted smartphone technology to monitor and modify sedentary behaviors as they occur is a feasible and acceptable method of reducing sedentary time in these patients and other obese populations.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Bariatric surgery patients and other obese individuals will be considered
• Body mass index >= 30 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• Report being unable to engage in daily activities and walk continuously for >= 10 minutes without assistance
• Are currently involved in a physical activity intervention.
• Are unable to read or understand the study materials
• Are currently taking medications that cause dizziness and/or feeling faint when sitting or standing.
• Report any condition that in the opinion of investigators would preclude adherence to the intervention protocol including plans to relocate, history of substance abuse or other significant psychiatric problems, or terminal illness.