High-Intensity Exercise for Cognitive Impairment with HIV
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This is a single site, randomized exercise trial with individuals at least 50 years of age living with HIV who experience suboptimal cognition. The overall goals of this proposal are to determine whether 16 weeks of structured high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can overcome vascular and cognitive impairments (Aim 1) to a greater extent than continuous moderate exercise. Additionally, investigator will seek to identify barriers to engagement in exercise and the participants' perceptions of the study and exercise interventions (Aim 2). This study will enroll 60 participants in Birmingham, Alabama. Data collection will occur at each visit, with baseline data collected at the initial visit with a 3-month follow-up occurring following completion of the intervention.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you must have been on prescribed HIV ART (antiretroviral therapy) for at least 12 months and not be using older drugs with known mitochondrial toxicity.
What data supports the effectiveness of high-intensity exercise for cognitive impairment in individuals with HIV?
Research shows that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can improve physical fitness and endurance in older adults with HIV, which may help slow down the aging process. However, while physical performance benefits were observed, improvements in cognitive ability were not reliably demonstrated, indicating further research is needed to explore its impact on cognition.12345
Is high-intensity exercise safe for people with HIV?
How does high-intensity exercise differ from other treatments for cognitive impairment with HIV?
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is unique because it is a time-efficient exercise strategy that can provide similar or even better health benefits compared to traditional aerobic exercise. It has been shown to improve cognitive function in various conditions, potentially making it a promising option for cognitive impairment with HIV.89101112
Research Team
Raymond Jones, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults over 50 living with HIV who have cognitive challenges and a sedentary lifestyle. They must be on HIV treatment without old drugs known to harm mitochondria, speak English, and not engage in moderate exercise more than 150 minutes per week. Exclusions include severe heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension, kidney or mitochondrial diseases, active substance abuse, orthopedic limitations to exercise, other trials' participation, or needing oxygen for lung issues.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Baseline data collection including vascular function and cognitive assessments
Treatment
Participants undergo 16 weeks of structured high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or continuous moderate exercise
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including 3-month post-intervention assessments
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Continuous Moderate Exercise
- High-Intensity Interval Training
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Lead Sponsor