# Outcomes of a Self-Management Program for People with Non-Communicable Diseases in the Context of COVID-19

## TL;DR

An online self-management program improved physical activity and reduced depressive symptoms in people with non-communicable diseases during the pandemic.

## Contribution

Demonstrates the effectiveness of an online self-management program for NCDs during the pandemic.

## Key findings

- The intervention group showed significant reduction in depressive symptoms.
- The intervention group increased physical activity levels.
- The control group experienced decreased physical activity and no improvement in depression.

## Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the online version of the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) on physical activity and depressive symptoms in individuals with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Mexico and Peru during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: Quasi-experimental study with a non-probability sample of 114 people with NCDs, recruited by invitation in Mexico and by convenience in Peru. The participants were assigned to intervention (n = 85) and control (n = 29) groups. The Personal Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8) and the Physical Activity Scale were used to assess the outcomes. Measurements were taken before and after the intervention. The CDSMP comprises six sessions that take place once per week and last 2.5 h each. Results: The intervention group showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms and an increase in physical activity (PA) at the end of the program. In contrast, the control group showed no significant improvement in depression and presented a significant decrease in PA.