Effects of exercise on brain health in schizophrenia

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the impact of aerobic exercise on hippocampal volumes and the severity of psychotic symptoms in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Participants, including both patients and healthy volunteers, will be randomly assigned to either an aerobic or resistance exercise program over a 12-week period. Throughout the study, participants will continue their prescribed medications, and various clinical data will be collected to assess changes in fitness and neuroplasticity. The research will be conducted at UBC Hospital and exercise facilities at the University of British Columbia, with trained assistants monitoring the exercise sessions.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 to 45 years
* Able to provide written, informed consent in English
* Patients may be on prescribed medications
* DSM-IV diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder
* Normal visual acuity (or normal visual acuity achievable with corrective lenses)
* Physical ability to be engaged in a regular exercise program

Exclusion Criteria:

* A history of organic disorders (dementia, severe head injury, or developmental disorders such as autism, mental retardation, Down's Syndrome)
* A current DSM-IV diagnosis of substance dependence (during prior 12 months, excluding tobacco)
* Any history of DSM-IV diagnoses (Axis I) for other psychiatric disorders
* History of angina, heart attack or transient ischemic attacks
* Non-independent mobility or limb prostheses
* A history of severe head injury leading to loss of consciousness for \> 5 minutes
* Contra-indications for neuroimaging (metal implants, non-removable orthodontic devices, severe claustrophobia, pregnancy, or surgeries within the previous 6 months)
* Currently already enrolled in a regular exercise program

Where it's running

• UBC Hospital
  Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Donna J Lang, PhD — University of British Columbia, Dept. of Radiology
• Study coordinator: Donna J Lang, PhD
• Email: donna.lang@ubc.ca
• Phone: 604-875-2000

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.