Abstract
BackgroundImproved treatment options of HIV have resulted in regular physical activities of many HIV-infected patients. However, data on effects of sports in HIV-patients are scarce.Methods21 HIV-infected persons were monitored prospectively while preparing for a marathon run. Multiple parameters with regard to immunology, quality of life and metabolism were measured at 4 time points (at baseline 1 year before the marathon run, 3 and 6 months after beginning of training, and immediately before marathon).Results13 out of 21 participants completed the marathon (12 male, 1 female; median age 42 years [27–50]; CD4 = 620/μl [146–1268]; 11 were on ART since 3.5 years [1–7]). 8 participants ceased training early. All reasons for stopping (besides one pre-existing metatarsal fracture) were not regarded as training-related (e.g. time limitation n = 3; newly diagnosed anal cancer n = 1; personal reasons/unknown n = 3).We observed a significant increase in absolute CD4-T-cells (620/μl [146–1268] vs. 745 [207–1647]; p = 0.001) with simultaneous decrease of CD4-T-cell apoptosis (53% [47–64] vs. 32% [14–42]); p < 0.01). No effects on viral load independent of ART occurred. Systolic blood pressure and cholesterol improved significantly, although moderate and normal at baseline (cholesterol 185 mg/dl [98–250] vs. 167 [106–222], p = 0.02; RRsys 125 mmHg [100–145] vs. 120 [100–140], p = 0.01). Blood count, liver enzymes, creatinine and CK remained unchanged.ConclusionsThe results of this pilot study indicated improved metabolic and immunologic parameters in HIV-infected patients undergoing moderate endurance training. Although training effects or ART cannot be ultimately separated as underlying mechanisms, we conclude that marathon training is safe for HIV-infected patients and potentially improves general health.Trial registrationDRKS00011592 (retrospectively registered on February 9th 2017).
Highlights
Improved treatment options of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have resulted in regular physical activities of many HIV-infected patients
Participants A total of 21 HIV-infected subjects starting moderate endurance training in order to participate in a marathon run (VIII Gay Games in Cologne, Germany) were followed prospectively for one year
The remaining 13 participants competed in the marathon run
Summary
Improved treatment options of HIV have resulted in regular physical activities of many HIV-infected patients. Data on effects of sports in HIV-patients are scarce. Due to continuous improvements in ART life expectancy approaches to that of the general population in most developed countries [1]. Quality of life has improved for most treated patients, who are able to participate in daily activities without restrictions. Strenuous exercise is undertaken by an increasing proportion of patients. HIV research has focused mainly on ART and associated problems such as efficacy, safety and tolerability, long term toxicities [2] and since recently prophylaxis [3]. Little is known about effects of usual activities such as exercise on HIV-associated clinical parameters and health state
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