Exercise Programs for High-Risk Metabolic Syndrome
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests two exercise programs to determine if they can reduce breast cancer risk in African-American women with metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome includes conditions like high blood pressure and high blood sugar, which can increase breast cancer risk. Participants will join either a supervised exercise group (facility-based exercise), a home-based exercise group, or a control group with no new exercise plan. Women who are postmenopausal, have a waist measurement over 35 inches, and live near the Navy Yard stop might be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to important research that could improve health outcomes for African-American women.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you use anti-diabetic medication, including insulin.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's exercise interventions are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that supervised exercise programs can improve metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. These programs are particularly effective at reducing waist size and are generally safe and well-tolerated by participants.
For exercise done at home, studies indicate that people at high risk for heart problems can start safely. These programs usually focus on walking and other moderate activities, which are unlikely to cause harm. Participants often adhere to these programs and report satisfaction, suggesting they find them manageable and safe.
Both types of exercise programs have demonstrated positive results in reducing health risks without significant side effects, indicating they are generally safe for most people to try.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these exercise programs for high-risk metabolic syndrome because they offer structured, practical ways to manage this condition through physical activity. The facility-based exercise intervention provides supervised workouts, using heart rate and perceived exertion to ensure participants engage in effective, moderate-intensity exercise. On the other hand, the home-based program offers flexibility, allowing participants to integrate exercise into their daily routines by aiming for 10,000 steps per day, tracked via pedometers. These approaches could make regular exercise more accessible and sustainable compared to traditional gym memberships or personal training, potentially leading to better long-term health outcomes for those at risk of metabolic syndrome.
What evidence suggests that this trial's exercise interventions could be effective for metabolic syndrome?
Research has shown that exercise can improve metabolic syndrome (MetS) by positively affecting body weight and heart health. This trial will compare different exercise programs. Participants in the facility-based exercise intervention arm will engage in supervised exercise, which studies have found often boosts fitness, helps control blood sugar, and improves cholesterol and fat levels. Meanwhile, those in the home-based exercise intervention arm will follow a home-based program, which can include remote monitoring and has also been effective in reducing MetS risk factors. Both methods aim to achieve similar benefits, such as weight loss and improved heart health. Exercise programs, whether supervised or done independently, show promise for managing MetS and may also lower the risk of breast cancer.678910
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for African-American postmenopausal women aged 45-65 with metabolic syndrome, living near the Navy Yard stop on the green line. They must read and speak English, have a cell phone, be able to consent, get medical clearance, and not be pregnant or planning pregnancy. Excluded are those in other trials, on weight loss programs or with physical limitations preventing exercise.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants complete baseline assessments prior to randomization
Treatment
Participants engage in either a supervised facility-based or home-based exercise intervention for 6 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in biomarkers and health-related quality of life
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Facility-based Exercise
- Home-based Exercise
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Georgetown University
Lead Sponsor