Modifying body fat to aid COVID-19 recovery through behavioral strategies
Official title: Modifying Adiposity Through Behavioral Strategies to Improve COVID-19 Rehabilitation
Funded at Baltimore VA Medical Center · NIH-11606747 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study in veterans explores whether changing weight through lifestyle habits can improve recovery after COVID-19–related health problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baltimore VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2027 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX004572-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11606747 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Older Veterans with PCC and overweight/obesity.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without PCC or those with normal weight may be less likely to benefit.
What this research studies
This project will look at how excess body fat affects daily functioning and quality of life after COVID-19 in older veterans. It will measure physical performance, well-being, and inflammation, comparing those with higher adiposity to those with healthier weight. The plan includes a randomized trial to test whether a weight-reduction approach can improve recovery and long-term health for people living with PCC. Conducted at two VA medical centers, the study aims to link body composition with recovery outcomes and identify practical strategies for rehabilitation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could lead to practical weight-management rehabilitation strategies that improve fatigue, pain, breathlessness, and overall functioning after PCC.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests obesity influences recovery; this study expands to a diverse veteran population and includes a randomized trial.
Where this research is happening
-
Baltimore VA Medical Center
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ryan, Alice S. — Baltimore VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Ryan, Alice S.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.