Efficacy of aerobic exercise for HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders receiving ART: An RCT

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) significantly impacts daily functioning, independence, and social engagement, particularly in resource-limited settings.
• Effective interventions are crucial to mitigate the challenges faced by individuals with HAND.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of aerobic exercise (AE) in improving activity and participation (AP) levels among individuals with HAND.
• To determine if AE can enhance the capacity for independence and engagement in everyday activities for people with HAND.

Main Methods:

• A parallel-group, randomized controlled trial with 73 participants with HAND.
• A 12-week intervention involving three moderate-intensity AE sessions per week, with progression based on individual tolerability.
• Outcomes, including the primary outcome of AP, were measured at baseline, post-intervention, and three months after the intervention using rank analysis of covariance.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in social wellbeing AP (Cohen d = 0.550; p = 0.021), emotion AP (Cohen d = 0.641; p = 0.007), and overall AP level (Cohen d = 0.896; p < 0.001) in the AE group compared to the control group.
• No significant difference in AP was detected three months post-intervention (Cohen d = 0.437; p = 0.067), suggesting potential for sustained effects or the need for continued exercise.

Conclusions:

• Aerobic exercise demonstrates a modest but significant positive effect on activity and participation levels in individuals with HAND.
• Regular AE can be a valuable strategy to manage activity and participation restrictions associated with HAND, potentially improving quality of life.