NCT05445583 · University of Michigan
Asthma and Technology in Emerging African American Adults
(ATHENA)
What this study is about
The purpose of the ATHENA Project is to test a mobile health intervention to help African American young adults better manage their asthma. The program has four components: 1) a web-based, mobile asthma program delivered to participants' mobile device, 2) meetings with an asthma nurse via video conference, 3) text messaging, and 4) physical activity tracking.
View original scientific description
The purpose of the ATHENA Project is to test a mobile health intervention to help African American young adults better manage their asthma. The program has four components: 1) a web-based, mobile asthma program delivered to participants' mobile device, 2) meetings with an asthma nurse via video conference, 3) text messaging, and 4) physical activity tracking. Participants will be randomly assigned to one or more of these components to better meet the needs of young adults with asthma.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Motivational Enhancement System (MES)
MES is an eHealth application and focuses on asthma management behaviors with feedback on asthma symptoms, physical activity, adherence, and tailored education. The program is interactive and tailored to each participant by (1) allowing participants to choose barriers/goals related to their asthma care and (2) by sending personalized feedback based on participant daily diary responses. MES consists of 4 sessions delivered over the course of 10 weeks within 10 smaller 5-10 minute blocks.
BEHAVIORAL
Supportive Accountability (SA)
Supportive accountability (SA) is an asthma management intervention delivered by asthma nurses trained in motivational interviewing skills (e.g., open-ended questions around change talk, affirmations) via participants' personal mobile devices (e.g., Skype, FaceTime, voice calls, and SMS). The theory underlying SA is that education and behavior change are most impactful when delivered by a knowledgeable yet supportive authority figure (i.e. nurse).
BEHAVIORAL
Text Messaging (SMS)
SMS will target asthma knowledge. SMS messages will be sent via CIAS 3.0 to participants' personal mobile devices with facts about asthma management, links to educational web content, and videos providing information about living with asthma. Information covered includes 'What is asthma,' 'What is an asthma attack,' 'What causes an asthma attack,' 'How is asthma treated,' 'Asthma and weather,' 'Using an inhaler,' 'Using a spacer,' and 'Asthma Action Plans.'
BEHAVIORAL
Physical Activity Tracking (PAT)
All participants will be provided a wearable physical activity tracking device, which will allow them to accurately track exercise and total steps each day. Through PAT, users will be able to set daily goals and attain motivation to continue asthma management. For individuals randomized to groups that also include MES or SA, those programs will incorporate PAT data that is remotely transmitted, to facilitate asthma management motivation.
Primary outcome measures
Asthma Control Test (ACT)
Time frame: Change from baseline at 3, 6, and 12 months
Frequency of asthma symptoms based on self-report
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- African American, 18-30 years of age, uncontrolled asthma (defined by a score of less than 19 on the ACT), own or have access to a cell phone for the duration of the study, have a primary care physician (PCP)
Exclusion criteria
- Significant cardiopulmonary disease (including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), a greater than 20 pack per year smoking history, developmental delay or mental illness such that participation in the program would not be possible, pregnancy
Where
- Tallahassee, Florida
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Detroit, Michigan
Collaborators
National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 26, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations