Managing Chronic Disease Online

(HealthScoutNews) -- Stanford University Medical Center is looking for people who have been diagnosed with heart disease, lung disease or Type 2 diabetes to take part in a study of a workshop that teaches disease self-management skills.

This free, six-week online workshop is designed to help participants learn skills to manage their chronic disease and to maintain or increase their activity levels.

The Stanford researchers plan a two-year study of the workshop to determine how effective this kind of Internet-based program can be in helping people with chronic health conditions live better, more active lives.

The study is open to any U.S. resident. Participants need to have Internet access and an active e-mail account. Each person taking part will be enrolled with 15 to 20 other people who have also been diagnosed with heart disease, lung disease or Type 2 diabetes.

The workshops are led by two leaders and participants are asked to log on two to three times a week for a total of one to two hours. Workshop topics include dealing with frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation; appropriate use of medications; exercise to maintain and increase strength, flexibility and endurance; healthy eating; and making informed treatment decisions.

More information

If you want more information or are interested in enrolling in the study, go to the program's Web site, or phone toll-free 1-800-366-2624.

Reference Source 101

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