Effects of Early Exercise Engagement on Vascular Risk in Patients with Transient Ischemic Attack and Nondisabling Stroke

The objective of this study was to conduct a randomized, parallel-group clinical trial assessed the efficacy of a health-enhancing physical activity program (exercise and education) on vascular risk factors and aerobic fitness in patients who have experienced a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or nondisabling stroke. Sixty patients (69 ± 11 years) completed a baseline (BL) vascular risk stratification and aerobic fitness examination (cycle test) within 2 weeks of symptom onset. Subjects were then randomized to either an 8-week, twice weekly exercise program or to a usual-care control (CON) group. Postintervention (PI) assessments were completed immediately after the intervention and at 3-month follow-up. A series of primary (systolic blood pressure [SBP]) and secondary (vascular risk factors like total cholesterol [TC], high-density lipoproteins, etc.; Framingham risk score; peak oxygen uptake) outcome measures were assessed. Significantly greater reductions in SBP (mean change ± SD; −10.4 ± 9.2 mm Hg) and TC (−.53 ± .90 mmol/L) were observed between BL and PI assessments for the exercise group compared with the CON group (−1.9 ± 15.4 mm Hg and −.08 ± .59 mmol/L, respectively) (P < .05). These improvements were maintained between the PI and the 3-month follow-up assessment (P > .05). Significant improvements in aerobic fitness were also observed and maintained at the 3-month follow-up assessment after regular exercise participation (P < .05). The early engagement in exercise resulted in significant improvements in vascular risk factors and fitness in those diagnosed with TIA. As these beneficial effects were maintained up to 3 months after completing the exercise program, exercise should be considered a useful additive treatment strategy for newly diagnosed TIA patients. Future research should examine the long-term efficacy of such programs.