Background

Severe asthmatics experience frequent extra-pulmonary symptoms that reduce their health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Body Reprograming (BR) is a multi-component evidence-based psycho-educational intervention designed to reduce medically unexplained symptoms of fibromyalgia. It provides a network explanation of these symptoms and practical solutions including relaxation techniques, dietary changes, and exercise.

Aim

A pilot study to assess the feasibility and acceptability of BR course for severe asthmatics.

Methods

Unblended observational single site (Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital) feasibility study.

Patients ? 18 years old with severe asthma and ? 8 non-respiratory symptoms a week (on general symptom questionnaire) were invited to a 4-week BR course.

4 half-hour BR sessions was delivered to groups of 4-8 patients via zoom calls. Post session online resources were provided.

Participants were sent HRQoL questionnaires pre and post intervention (including the Friends and Family Test) and were interviewed post course via zoom by members of the research team.

Results

The initial face-to-face BR programme was adapted to be delivered online due to the COVID pandemic.

Twenty-eight patients were recruited. 16 (84%) attended ?1 sessions and 11 (58%) attended all four sessions.

Participants enjoyed the opportunity to share experiences with other severe asthmatics and felt BR concepts validated their current behaviours.

The online format was well received as it reduced traveling, but it did limit active participation.

Conclusion

BR is an acceptable and feasible intervention. Further studies are required to assess the benefits of BR within a patient-focused holistic asthma management plan.