Functional social support and self-management in COPD

Examining the Role of Functional Social Support Subtypes for Self-Management Capacity Among Individuals With COPD

Medical University of South Carolina · NCT07353034

This project sees if emotional, tangible, affectionate, and social-interaction support relate to how well people with COPD manage their own care.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment111 (estimated)
Ages40 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMedical University of South Carolina (other)
Locations1 site (Charleston, South Carolina)
Trial IDNCT07353034 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study uses a cross-sectional quantitative survey to measure four types of functional social support and their relationship with self-management capacity among adults with COPD. A purposive subsample (N=20) will complete semi-structured qualitative interviews to explore barriers and facilitators to adequate support. Eligible participants are English-speaking adults aged 40 or older with self-reported COPD, internet access, and no history of psychosis, severe mental illness, or ongoing substance abuse. The study is conducted at the Medical University of South Carolina and aims to inform development of targeted self-management interventions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal participants are English-speaking adults aged 40 or older who report a COPD diagnosis or treatment, have internet access, and do not have severe mental illness or active substance abuse.

Not a fit: People with other chronic respiratory conditions (for example asthma or lung cancer), those with a history of psychosis or severe mental illness, ongoing substance abuse, or no internet access would likely not qualify and may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If findings are clear, they could guide targeted support programs that help people with COPD manage symptoms and daily care more effectively.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown links between social support and self-management in chronic diseases, including COPD, but interventions specifically tailored to functional support profiles are still limited.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥40
* Self-reported COPD diagnosis or treatment
* English-speaking
* Internet access

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of psychosis or severe mental illness
* Ongoing substance abuse
* Other chronic respiratory conditions (e.g., lung cancer, asthma)

Where this trial is running

Charleston, South Carolina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Social Support, Self-Management Capacity, Chronic Disease Management, Behavioral Health, Psychosocial Support

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.