Lifestyle factors are known to affect the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). The Multiple Sclerosis Online Course (MSOC) has been developed to deliver a widely accessible and user-friendly educational tool regarding modification of lifestyle related risk factors for people with MS.
The intervention consists of arms:
1. An MS Online intervention course based delivering evidence-based information regarding modifiable lifestyle related risk factors implicated in disease progression
2. An MS Online standard-care course, similar in format and presentation, but containing general information sourced from standard MS websites.
Having conducted a feasibility study, (ACTRN12621000245897) the purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness of the intervention course compared with the standard-care arm in a larger randomised controlled trial.
The study hypothesis is that undertaking an MS Online Course delivering evidence-based information regarding the modification of lifestyle related risk factors will lead to changed behaviours and improved health outcomes for people with MS.
What will participants be asked to do?
· Complete a baseline survey related to life and health online
· Complete a FREE 6-week MS online course related to diet, exercise, sunlight and vitamin D, stress reduction and other information about MS.
· Complete an online survey related to life and health at 6-months, 1 year and 2.5 years after completing the online course.
· May be invited to participate in a phone or internet interview about experience of the online course (with option to decline)
Eligible participants must:
· Be able to read, write, and speak English
· Be 18 years old or over
· Have a confirmed diagnosis of relapsing-remitting MS (by a neurologist)
· Be able to access the internet and be able to view sessions
Anticipated start date:
January – February 2022
Contacts:
Asso. Prof. Sandra Neate
Neuroepidemiology Unit
Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Melbourne School of Population and Global Health
Level 3, 207 Bouverie Street Carlton
The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010
Australia
Email: neu-research@unimelb.edu.au
Further details:
Further information can be found on the ANZCTR website and Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MSOCResearch