Exercise therapy for patients with glaucoma
High Intensity Interval Training in Patients With Glaucoma
This study tests if a structured exercise program can help people with glaucoma feel better and slow down the disease compared to just receiving lifestyle advice.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 168 (estimated) |
| Ages | 40 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Basel Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Basel) |
| Trial ID | NCT06058598 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This multicenter study investigates the effects of high-intensity interval training on patients with primary open-angle glaucoma. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group, which will undergo a structured exercise program, or a control group receiving lifestyle counseling. The study aims to assess whether exercise can improve disease progression and enhance the quality of life for glaucoma patients. Follow-up assessments will occur at baseline, three months, and six months to evaluate the outcomes of the intervention.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 40 to 75 with primary open-angle glaucoma, high tension glaucoma, or normal tension glaucoma who are in regular follow-up at the study centers.
Not a fit: Patients with very severe glaucoma, recent glaucoma surgery, or significant comorbidities such as life-threatening arrhythmia or cancer may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a novel non-pharmacological treatment option that improves the management of glaucoma.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of using exercise for glaucoma treatment is novel, previous studies have shown positive effects of physical activity on vascular health, suggesting potential benefits.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Voluntary written informed consent of the participant has been obtained prior to any screening procedures * Patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), high tension glaucoma (HTG) and normal tension glaucoma (NTG), aged 40 - 75 years * In regular follow-up in either of the two study centres Exclusion Criteria: * Patients having had glaucoma surgery within 6 months before start of the project * Patients with changes in topical medication or laser trabeculoplasty within 3 months before start of the project * Patients with very severe glaucoma (visual field mean deviation lower than -12Db) * Significant opacification of ocular media * Patients with life-threatening arrhythmia, signs of ischemia during CPET which preclude participation in an exercise trial * Patients with insulin treated diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cancer. * Patients doing ≥1 structured exercise training session per week or \>150min of exercise/week assessed via the following two questions: a. On average, how many days per week do you engage in moderate to vigorous physical activity (like brisk walking)? b. On average, how many minutes per day do you engage in physical activity at this level? Calculate the total weekly minutes of exercise by multiplying a times b. * Mental or physical limitation precluding participation in a high intensity exercise program
Where this trial is running
Basel
- University of Basel, Department of Sport, Exercise & Health — Basel, Switzerland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Henner Hanssen, Prof. Dr.
- Email: henner.hanssen@unibas.ch
- Phone: +41 61 207 47 46
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.