Research consultancy

Research consultancy

The Impact of a 12-Week Aerobic Exercise Program on Immunological Measures in HIV-Positive Patients on ART

Study Overview

A Ugandan study investigated the effects of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on HIV-positive individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Participants were divided into a control group (no exercise) and an experimental group (12 weeks of aerobic exercise). Both groups were assessed using a physical activity readiness questionnaire, with outcomes measured across immunological markers (CD4 count), functional work capacity, and psychological well-being. Results indicated that aerobic exercise significantly improved CD4 counts, enhanced functional capacity, and reduced psychological distress, suggesting its potential to improve quality of life and reduce mortality in this population.

Chapter One: Background

HIV and Global Burden
HIV, a retrovirus from the Lentivirus genus, progressively weakens the immune system by attacking CD4+ T-cells. According to UNAIDS (2020), HIV remains a major global health crisis, with 37.9 million people living with HIV/AIDS worldwide—including a significant number of children under 15. Africa bears the highest burden, with Uganda reporting 1.5 million cases by 2021. Despite advances in ART, challenges such as opportunistic infections, treatment side effects, and psychological comorbidities persist.

Role of Aerobic Exercise
Research suggests aerobic exercise may mitigate ART-related side effects, enhance immune function, and improve mental health. Studies in healthy and chronically ill populations (O’Brien et al., 2016) demonstrate benefits such as increased red blood cell production, reduced stress, and improved cognitive function. For HIV patients, aerobic exercise has been linked to better mood, life satisfaction, and reduced anxiety (Bopp et al., 2003).

Problem Statement
While ART strengthens immunity, suboptimal clinical outcomes—such as metabolic disorders, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle effects—remain prevalent (Tugume et al., 2023). Aerobic exercise could reduce treatment costs, prolong asymptomatic phases, and decrease pill burden (Bopp et al., 2003). However, Uganda’s Ministry of Health (2018) lacks specific guidelines on exercise type, intensity, and duration for HIV patients. This study addresses this gap by evaluating the effects of a 12-week aerobic exercise program on immunological, functional, and psychological outcomes.

Objectives

1. Assess the effect of aerobic exercise on CD4 counts in HIV-positive patients at GMH-Bombo.

2. Evaluate its impact on functional work capacity.

3. Determine its influence on psychological markers (e.g., anxiety, depression).

Chapter Two: Literature Review

ART and Exercise Synergy
While ART improves survival rates, side effects like fatigue and neuropsychiatric symptoms persist. Aerobic exercise offers a complementary therapy, enhancing CD4 counts and mental health without adverse effects (O’Brien et al., 2020).

Immunological Benefits
A 12-week aerobic program increased CD4 counts and lipid profiles in HIV patients (Maduagwu et al., 2015). However, high-intensity exercise may temporarily suppress immunity, increasing infection risk (Bopp et al., 2003).

Functional and Psychological Outcomes
Exercise improves VO₂max and reduces perceived exertion (Scribbans et al., 2016). It also alleviates depression and anxiety, critical for HIV patients with elevated mental health risks (Heissel et al., 2019).

Chapter Three: Methodology

Design & Participants

• Design: Quasi-experimental (non-randomized).

• Location: General Military Hospital (GMH)-Bombo, Uganda.

• Participants: 135 HIV+ adults on ART for ≥12 months, asymptomatic, aged 20+.

Intervention

• Experimental Group: 12 weeks of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (e.g., brisk walking, cycling).

• Control Group: No exercise.

Measures

• Immunological: CD4 counts (PIMA analyzer).

• Functional Capacity: Duke Activity Status Index (DASI), Borg RPE scale.

• Psychological: Psychosocial assessment tool.

Analysis
SPSS v20.0 for t-tests (p ≤ 0.05 significance).

Chapter Four: Results

1. CD4 Counts: Significant increase in the exercise group (mean +167.8) vs. decline in controls (-35.6).

2. Functional Capacity: Improved VO₂max and reduced exertion post-exercise.

3. Psychological Markers: Anxiety and depression scores decreased by 58.5% in the exercise group.

Chapter Five: Conclusions & Recommendations

Key Findings

• Aerobic exercise enhances immunity, functional capacity, and mental health in HIV patients.

• Structured, supervised programs are critical for optimal outcomes.

Recommendations

1. Integrate aerobic exercise into Uganda’s HIV care guidelines.

2. Train clinicians in exercise prescription.

3. Promote community-based exercise programs.

4. Further research on exercise’s impact on viral load and body composition.

Significance
This study provides evidence for aerobic exercise as a low-cost adjunct therapy to improve holistic health in HIV patients, advocating for policy and clinical practice reforms in Uganda.