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Comparison of Patient's Physical Activity Levels According to the Physical Activity Level of Their General Practitioner

This study investigates whether a patient's physical activity levels are linked to how active their general practitioner (GP) is. Many people in France don't get enough exercise, leading to serious health issues like heart disease. Previous research has shown that active doctors are more likely to advise patients on exercise, but it's not clear if this advice actually helps patients become more active. This study aims to find out if there's a connection. It hopes to understand if a GP's own lifestyle can influence their patients' health habits, ultimately helping more people become active and healthier.

At a glance

Status
Recruiting
Sponsor
Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne
Enrolment target
8,000
Start
03 Dec 2025
Estimated completion
01 Oct 2026

What is this study about?

This study is looking into a really interesting question: Do patients tend to be more physically active if their family doctor (GP) is also physically active? We know that not getting enough exercise is a big problem in places like France, with many adults not moving enough or spending too much time sitting down. This can lead to serious health problems, especially heart disease.

Previous studies have hinted that doctors who are active themselves are more likely to talk to their patients about the importance of exercise. However, those studies didn't actually check if patients then *became* more active. This research aims to fill that gap. It wants to directly compare how active patients are with how active their own GP is.

The main goal is to see if there's a link between a GP's own activity levels and their patients' activity levels. Understanding this could help us find new ways to encourage more people to be active and improve their health, simply by understanding the influence of their trusted medical professional.

Key takeaways

  • The study explores the link between a patient's activity and their GP's activity.
  • Many people in France don't get enough exercise, which is a health concern.
  • It's about data collection, not giving new treatments.
  • Your GP must be participating for you to join.
  • The goal is to understand how to encourage healthier, more active lifestyles.
  • Participation is voluntary and confidential.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be an adult patient who is seeing a GP who has agreed to take part in the study. You can be seeing your GP for any reason at all, and you will need to agree to be part of the research.

There are some people who can't take part. This includes anyone under the age of 18, or if you have a legal guardian or curator because of health or legal reasons. Also, if you simply don't want to participate, that's absolutely fine, and you won't be included.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

  1. Are you 18 years old or older?
  2. Is your GP participating in this study?
  3. Are you able to legally consent for yourself?
  4. Are you happy to share information about your activity levels for this research?
Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The study involves collecting information about your physical activity levels and those of your GP. This will likely involve answering some questions about your daily routines and how much you move. The study description doesn't mention specific appointments, medical treatments, or long-term follow-up beyond the initial data collection. It seems to be a one-off assessment of current activity levels.

Potential risks and benefits

A potential benefit of taking part is contributing to research that could help improve public health strategies for physical activity. There are no known physical risks involved, as the study is about collecting information, not giving treatments. Your participation is completely voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason.

Locations (1)

  • Gestonnairedu CURRS
    Verified postcode
    Reims, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What exactly is 'physical activity' in this study?

Physical activity generally means any movement that uses energy, like walking, cycling, or playing sports, rather than sitting still.

Will my GP know if I participate?

Yes, your GP needs to agree to be part of the study for you to participate as their patient.

Do I need to change my exercise habits to join?

No, you don't need to change anything. The study is simply observing current activity levels.

Is my personal information kept private?

The study will ensure your information is handled confidentially and your privacy is protected, as is standard practice in medical research.

Why is this study important?

It could help us understand how doctors can best encourage their patients to be more active, which is important for preventing many health problems.

How to find out more

Gestonnairedu CURRS

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.

Interested in taking part?

Register your interest

Share your details and the research team for "Comparison of Patient's Physical Activity Levels According t…" will contact you if you may be eligible. Always speak to your GP before agreeing to take part.

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