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Published on: July 5, 2017
Progressive resistance training in elderly HIV-positive patients: does it work?
Paula Maria Loiola de Souza1, Wilson Jacob-Filho, José Maria Santarém
1Pathology Department, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
This study shows that progressive resistance training in elderly individuals with HIV/AIDS significantly improved muscular strength and physical fitness. The exercise program also led to increased CD4+ counts and a better CD4+/CD8+ ratio without adverse effects.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Immunology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Aging is associated with declines in body composition and physical fitness, which are exacerbated by chronic conditions like HIV/AIDS.
- Resistance exercise is recommended for healthier aging, aiming to improve fitness and strength, particularly in individuals with AIDS wasting syndrome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a case series of elderly, HIV-positive patients undergoing a progressive resistance training program.
- To evaluate changes in body composition, muscular strength, physical fitness, and CD4+/CD8+ cell counts.
Main Methods:
- A nine-month prospective study involving elderly HIV-positive patients.
- A supervised resistance training program (leg press, seated row, lumbar extension, chest press) performed twice weekly for one year.
- Assessment of body composition (DXA, anthropometry), muscular strength, and physical fitness before and after the intervention.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in muscular strength (74%-122%) and improvements in functional tests (sit-stand, 2.4m walk).
- Reduction in triceps and thigh skinfolds; no significant changes in overall body composition.
- Significant increases in CD4+ counts (N=151 cells) and the CD4+/CD8+ ratio (0.63 to 0.81).
Conclusions:
- Progressive resistance training enhances strength and physical fitness in elderly HIV-positive individuals.
- The training program led to favorable immunological markers (CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ ratio) without significant side effects.
- Resistance exercise is a viable intervention for improving health outcomes in aging populations with HIV/AIDS.
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