A remote behaviour change service for increasing physical activity in people with chronic lung conditions: intervention development using the Behaviour Change Wheel

Background: Physical inactivity is rising in the UK adult population, particularly in those with a long-term health condition. People living with chronic lung conditions (e.g. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis, pulmonary fibrosis) have lower daily physical activity levels compared to aged-matched healthy populations. Structured physical activity programmes, such as pulmonary rehabilitation, a face-to-face 6- to 8-week intervention, are one of the key treatments for chronic lung conditions. However, across the UK, there are barriers preventing people with a lung condition from attending these programmes including accessibility, under-referral and long waiting times. Current evidence also suggests that completing short-term structured programmes does not always translate to long-term behaviour change (i.e. daily physical activity). Remote-based interventions, including web and telephone, can support change in physical activity behaviour. These interventions, however, are not readily available for people with a lung condition in the UK. Third-sector organisations such as the British Lung Foundation can support the availability of remote-based interventions targeting physical inactivity in people with lung conditions.