Exercise for Thalassemia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether a regular routine of weight-bearing exercise can improve body composition and bone health in people with thalassemia, a blood disorder. The researchers aim to determine if exercise can increase muscle mass, reduce body fat, and strengthen bones over time. Participants will initially maintain their normal activities and then switch to an exercise program to compare changes. Suitable candidates are those aged 14 to 40 with thalassemia and lower bone density (indicated by a BMD Z-score less than -1.0) who do not already exercise regularly. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding how exercise can benefit individuals with thalassemia.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are taking bone medications like Zometa, Prolia, or Forteo, you must not have used them in the past 2 years to participate.
What prior data suggests that this exercise intervention is safe for individuals with Thalassemia?
Research has shown that weight-bearing exercise is generally safe for people with Thalassemia. These exercises help strengthen bones by improving bone mineral density, benefiting bone health. They pose a low risk and can help manage common bone problems in Thalassemia, such as weaker bones (osteopenia) and brittle bones (osteoporosis).
One study found that physical activity was linked to stronger bones in adults with Thalassemia. Another study showed that weight-bearing exercises increased bone strength in children with Thalassemia. These exercises provide a safe way to support bone health without major side effects.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike traditional treatments for thalassemia, which often focus on blood transfusions and iron chelation therapy, weight-bearing exercise offers a non-invasive approach that could improve bone health and overall physical well-being. Researchers are excited about this method because it taps into the body's natural ability to strengthen bones through regular physical activity, potentially reducing some of the complications associated with thalassemia. This exercise regimen could complement existing treatments by enhancing patients' quality of life and providing a holistic way to manage the condition.
What evidence suggests that weight bearing exercise might be an effective treatment for Thalassemia?
Research has shown that exercise can benefit people with thalassemia, a blood disorder. Studies have found that increased activity may improve bone health and reduce pain for these patients. In animal studies, endurance exercise strengthened bones and reduced breakdown. One study found that regular exercise, combined with medication and blood transfusions, improved the lives of people with beta-thalassemia. Additionally, in a test where children with thalassemia walked for six minutes, they walked farther after regular exercise, demonstrating better physical fitness. Overall, these findings suggest exercise could enhance body composition, muscle function, and bone health in individuals with thalassemia. Participants in this trial will engage in weight-bearing exercises to further explore these benefits.15678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Ellen Fung, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Francisco
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adolescents and adults with Thalassemia who are interested in how exercise affects their body composition and bone health. Participants will engage in a self-directed, weight-bearing exercise program to see if it improves muscle mass, strength, endurance, and bone density.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Usual Activity
Participants engage in their usual daily activities to establish baseline body composition and muscle function
Exercise Intervention Period 1
Participants engage in a 12-week weight bearing exercise intervention to improve body composition and muscle function
Exercise Intervention Period 2
Participants continue the exercise intervention for an additional 24 weeks to assess changes in bone mineral density
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the exercise intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Weight Bearing Exercise
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Francisco
Lead Sponsor