EMPower is a research study that will examine the effects of a smartphone application that coaches teens and young adults on how to maintain a Heart Healthy Lifestyle.
This study will specifically determine if this smartphone application can help people lose weight, lower their blood pressure, and improve their heart size!
Who can join EMPower?
If you or your child:
Is 13-21 years old
Has extra weight
Has a smartphone (Android or iOS)
Has a data plan and can download applications
Speaks and reads English
Then you may be eligible!
What will happen if I join EMPower?
You will be randomly assigned (like a flip of a coin) to either be in one of two groups:
Control Group
Intervention Group
If you are in the Control Group: You will meet with a dietitian who will give you personalized diet and fitness goals. You will receive forms to record your diet and activity history that you can mail, fax, or email to the dietitian for feedback each month.
If you are in the Intervention Group: You will use a smartphone app to communicate with a lifestyle coach who will help you make heart healthy lifestyle changes and provide motivation and encouragement.
Everyone in the study will be asked to attend two 4-hour study visits in the Pediatric Clinical Research Unit (PCRU) at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. You will have blood pressure measurements taken, laboratory studies drawn, and have an ultrasound of your heart.
The study lasts for 6 months.
There will be no costs to you for participating in the study unless you receive data or text messaging charges from your cell provider.
How will I benefit?
You may lose weight, lower your blood pressure, and improve your heart size. This may help you feel better and go to less doctor visits. You will also receive up to $200 in cash throughout the study to thank you for participating.
What are the risks?
Minimal risks related to having your blood drawn
Electronic Media Powering positive health changes in youth Principal Investigator: Tammy Brady, MD, PhD IRB00065277