Low-resistance exercise training for improving quality of life in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Safety and Impact of Low Resistance Exercise Training on Quality of Life in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
This study tests if a low-resistance exercise program can help improve the quality of life for people with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Pennsylvania Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT06543745 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effects of low-resistance exercise training on the quality of life and frailty in patients diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Participants will undergo an initial assessment of their physical performance and quality of life, followed by a 12-week home-based low-resistance training program. After the training period, participants will return for a follow-up assessment to measure any changes in their quality of life and physical performance. Caregivers will also provide feedback through exit interviews regarding their experiences with the training.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension who have been on stable PAH therapy for at least three months.
Not a fit: Patients classified as WHO functional class IV or those with severe concomitant lung diseases may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance the functional ability and overall quality of life for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise interventions in similar patient populations, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of PAH: idiopathic, heritable, associated with connective tissue disease, congenital heart disease, human immunodeficiency virus, drug- or toxin, or portopulmonary hypertension * On stable PAH therapy for 3 months Exclusion Criteria: * World Health Organization (WHO) functional class IV * Left ventricular ejection fraction \< 40% (via transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) within one year of screening) * Moderate or severe concomitant lung disease: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or interstitial lung disease * Enrollment in a clinical trial * Recent hospitalization (within 4 weeks of screening) * Inability to perform the Short Physical Performance Battery or wheelchair bound
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsyvania — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Nadine Al-Naamani, MD, MS — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Zara Dunefsky, BA
- Email: zara.dunefsky@pennmedicine.upenn.edu
- Phone: 215-294-9755
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.