ACT web-based intervention for IBS patients: a feasibility study.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating the delivery of an acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) web-based intervention on symptomology in adult IBS patients: a feasibility study.
IRAS ID
304810
Contact name
Anna Ryan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 1 days
Research summary
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition associated with symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating and changes in bowel habits. IBS is considered a ‘functional’ disorder; meaning there is no evidence of an organic pathology. IBS can have a significant impact on an individuals’ quality of life, psychological distress and behaviours.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) interventions have been recommended as a line of treatment for IBS and have been found to be effective in helping people to manage symptoms, reduce distress and live more effectively with their condition. However, there are problems with access to psychological therapy for IBS, because there aren’t enough Psychologists to deliver to everyone that needs it. Therefore, self-help materials have been developed to provide support for people with IBS. We propose that a more interactive online intervention will be more accessible and lead to greater retention.
Patients diagnosed with IBS by their Consultant will be offered the option to partake in this study. Participants will be recruited following consultation with their Gastroenterologists: in Grampian, Edinburgh and London. Consenting participants will be granted access to the web-based application, alongside some questionnaires to monitor both physical and psychological symptoms.
The current study proposes exploring the feasibility of delivering a web-based ACT intervention for IBS alongside usual treatment. We want to test whether we can recruit people in a study of online therapy for IBS, to see if this mode of delivery leads to greater retention and increased access to treatment, and judge how effective the intervention is. This will help to inform whether future larger-scaled trials in this area are justified. This study will also examine whether use of a web-based ACT application may impact upon an individual’s symptoms and quality of life.
REC name
South Central - Berkshire B Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/SC/0039
Date of REC Opinion
15 Feb 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion