research consultancy
Title:
Impact of a 12-Week Aerobic Exercise Program on Functional Work Capacity Among HIV-Positive Clients on Antiretroviral Therapy at GMH-Bombo Hospital, Uganda
Abstract
Background:
Aerobic exercise has been shown to influence the functional work capacity of individuals living with HIV/AIDS undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART). While ART has improved life expectancy and quality of life, complementary interventions such as physical activity are underutilized in Uganda.
Objective:
To assess the impact of a 12-week aerobic exercise program on the functional work capacity of HIV-positive clients on ART at GMH-Bombo Hospital.
Methods:
A quasi-experimental design was used involving HIV-positive clients who had been on ART for at least one year. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups: a control group (no intervention) and an experimental group (received moderate-intensity aerobic training for 12 weeks). Functional work capacity was assessed using the Borg Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale and the Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) before and after the intervention.
Findings:
Significant improvements in functional capacity were observed among participants in the experimental group, with VO₂ max increasing from 25.13 to 34.19 mL/kg/min. Perceived exertion decreased significantly post-intervention, indicating improved cardiovascular efficiency.
Conclusion:
Aerobic exercise enhances functional work capacity in HIV-positive clients on ART, potentially improving their quality of life and productivity.
Recommendations:
The Ministry of Health (MoH) should formally integrate aerobic exercise into HIV care programs and equip clinicians with exercise prescription skills.
Introduction
Uganda continues to grapple with high HIV prevalence, especially in the context of mental and physical health burdens among people living with HIV (PLHIV). While ART has significantly reduced morbidity and mortality, sedentary lifestyles, stigma, and comorbidities persist. This study investigates the role of aerobic exercise in improving functional work capacity in HIV-positive clients on ART, filling a notable research gap in Uganda.
Methodology
Design:
A quasi-experimental design was adopted due to ethical and practical constraints around randomized controlled trials in this population. Pre- and post-tests were used to assess changes within and between control and experimental groups.
Location:
The study was conducted at General Military Hospital-Bombo, located in Luwero District, central Uganda.
Population and Sample:
Out of 4,150 ART clients at the hospital, 3,300 met the inclusion criteria, and 135 volunteered to participate. The sample size was determined using Yamane’s formula (n=99 minimum), and purposive sampling was used to ensure participants had been on ART for over 12 months.
Data Collection Tools:
Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q): Screened participants for safe exercise participation.
Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Scale: Measured exertion levels during 10-minute aerobic sessions.
Duke Activity Status Index (DASI): Assessed self-reported functional capacity.
Intervention:
The experimental group underwent 12 weeks of structured aerobic training (three sessions per week, guided by music at 150 bpm), while the control group received no intervention.
Results
Demographics:
Most participants were aged 38–47 and had secondary-level education.
The majority in both groups were male and married.
Effect on Functional Work Capacity:
Pre-Test: Participants rated exertion levels as “hard” to “very hard.”
Post-Test: Experimental group ratings shifted to “very light” to “fairly light.”
VO₂ Max: Increased significantly among the exercise group, confirming improved oxygen efficiency.
Statistical Analysis:
Paired t-tests revealed a significant mean difference (-3.22) in perceived exertion for the experimental group (p < 0.001), while the control group showed no significant change (p = 0.510).
Discussion
The findings support existing literature showing aerobic exercise enhances cardiovascular function, VO₂ max, and perceived physical capability among HIV-positive clients. Improved oxygen uptake and reduced heart rate post-exercise suggest enhanced functional work capacity, which aligns with previous studies in similar settings.
Conclusion
Aerobic exercise significantly improves the functional work capacity of HIV-positive clients on ART. Participants became physically stronger and more efficient in daily activities, thereby improving their overall well-being.
Recommendations
MoH should integrate aerobic exercise into HIV/AIDS care frameworks.
Clinicians should receive training in prescribing therapeutic exercise.
Guidelines should be updated to include exercise protocols.
PLHIV should be encouraged to participate in regular physical activity.
Exercise science should be incorporated into health education curricula.
Mental health services should promote aerobic exercise for psychosocial benefits.
Physiotherapists should be included in HIV care teams to ensure proper exercise interventions.
Limitations
Purposive sampling may have introduced bias.
Nutritional status, which could influence outcomes, was not controlled.
The study focused on one hospital and a single type of intervention, limiting generalizability.
