Impact of the iPeer2Peer Program on Adolescents with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Author Information
Author(s): Nishat Fareha, Kelenc Lauren, Berard Roberta, Duffy Ciaran, Feldman Brian, Forgeron Paula, Huber Adam M., Luca Nadia, Schmeling Heinrike, Spiegel Lynn, Tucker Lori, Watanabe-Duffy Karen, Killackey Tieghan, Lalloo Chitra, Wiles Brittany, Nair Anya, Olaizola Sofia, McDermott Brenna, Tavangar Farideh, Kohut Sara Ahola, Stinson Jennifer N.
Primary Institution: The Hospital for Sick Children
Hypothesis
The iPeer2Peer program will improve self-management and health-related quality of life in adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Conclusion
The iPeer2Peer program did not show significant improvements in clinical outcomes, but both mentors and mentees reported satisfaction and perceived benefits from the program.
Supporting Evidence
- The iPeer2Peer program did not show significant improvement in self-management or secondary outcomes.
- Qualitative feedback indicated satisfaction with the program from both mentors and mentees.
- Mentees valued the opportunity to converse with mentors who empathized with their disease experience.
Takeaway
The iPeer2Peer program connects young people with arthritis to mentors who understand their challenges, but it didn't significantly improve their health management.
Methodology
A mixed-methods randomized controlled trial with 164 adolescents aged 12-18, comparing an intervention group receiving peer mentoring to a control group receiving standard care.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the underpowered study and challenges in recruitment.
Limitations
The study did not reach the proposed sample size, likely due to recruitment challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Participant Demographics
Mean age 14.4 years, 78% female, with a variety of JIA types.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.7
Statistical Significance
p=0.7
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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