Text Messaging to Promote Walking Among Latino Adults at Risk for Peripheral Arterial Disease

Thirty-five million Latinos live in the U.S. and nearly 14% have peripheral arterial disease (PAD) defined as a build-up of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the legs. Approximately 40% have at least one risk for PAD (i.e., aged 70 years and older, diabetes, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, or smoking). Persons with at least one risk factor and who are physically inactive are more likely to suffer from severe PAD. Physical inactivity is highly prevalent in Latinos and a major risk factor for PAD. Physical inactivity affects 50% of Latinos aged 60 years and older.

Participation in this study will last for about 3 months. Participants will be randomized to one of two groups. One group will receive text messages, brief telephone calls, and a handout. The other group will only receive the handout. The study will be looking at how the different groups respond to the different interventions used in the study.

Inclusion criteria

• Latino adults
• English or Spanish speaking
• Have one or more of the following: diabetes mellitus, smoking, hypertension, or hyperlipidemia.
• Adults age 70 years or older, regardless of having one or more the above noted risk factors for PAD, will also be eligible for enrollment.

Exclusion criteria

• Pregnancy
• Prior major amputation (foot or lower leg) or critical leg ischemia (tissue loss, gangrene, or ulcers)
• Use of supplemental oxygen
• Myocardial infarction within preceding 3 months