Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
4210561 Respiratory Medicine 2010 11 Pages PDF
Abstract

SummaryBackgroundChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients have lower levels of physical activity compared to age-matched controls, and they limit physical activities requiring normal exertion. Our purpose was to compare the effectiveness of a traditional exercise therapy (TET) program with a behavioral lifestyle activity program (LAP) in promoting physical activity.MethodsModerate physical activity (kcal/week) was assessed in 176 COPD patients using the Community Health Activities Model for Seniors questionnaire. Patients were randomized to either a three month TET program that meet thrice weekly or a LAP. The LAP was designed to teach behavioral skills that encouraged the daily accumulation of self-selected physical activities of at least moderate intensity. Interventionist contact was similar (36 h) between the two groups. Patients were assessed at baseline and 3, 6 and 12 months.ResultsCompared to baseline values, self-reported moderate physical activity increased three months post-randomization with no significant difference (p = 0.99) found between the TET (2501 ± 197 kcal/week) and the LAP (2498 ± 211 kcal/week). At 6 and 12 months post-randomization, there were no significant differences (p = 0.37 and 0.69, respectively) in self-reported levels of moderate physical activity between the TET (2210 ± 187 and 2213 ± 218 kcal/week, respectively) and the LAP (2456 ± 198 and 2342 ± 232 kcal/week, respectively).ConclusionAlthough there was no difference between treatment groups, the TET and the LAP were both effective at in increasing moderate levels of physical activity at 3 months and maintaining moderate physical activity levels 12 months post-randomization.This clinical trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov. Its identifier is NCT00328484.

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