Activity Trackers for Improving BP

Increasing physical activity levels may improve cardiovascular health and BP levels in young
individuals, especially if such strategies promote healthy lifestyles. Physical activity is
currently recommended for adults CV health, but physical activity levels are known to be low
in populations with diabetes or chronic kidney disease. One prior study of the use of
pedometers (not associated with wireless technology or provider feedback) in children with
CKD did not significantly improve physical activity levels. Supervised walking appeared to
provide some benefit in individuals with type II diabetes, but overall compliance was poor.
Interview of adolescents and young adults with chronic illnesses has shown preference for the
use of electronic devices and online tools for disease management.Thus, use of sophisticated
electronic devices such as FitBits© (wireless pedometers worn on the wrist that sync with
cell phones) may improve disease control by engaging young patients in self-monitoring of
their own health and lifestyle behaviors. This pilot study aims to determine if use of
FitBits© coupled with provider feedback will increase awareness of young adults of their
physical fitness and improve blood pressure levels.

Inclusion Criteria:

- ages 12-30 receiving anti-hypertensive therapy at the time of recruitment.

- diabetes, non-dialysis requiring chronic kidney disease, kidney transplant, or other
etiologies of hypertension

- have phones compatible for wireless device (FitBits©) data transmission

Exclusion Criteria:

- history of decompensated congestive heart failure

- pregnant

- cognitive impairment

- unable to perform physical activity

- BP >180/110 mm Hg

- prisoners

- contraindication to use or wear of home activity tracker (such as allergy to activity
tracker band)

- presence of any co-morbidity that would preclude physical activity

- actively using physical activity tracking devices prior to the study will be excluded.