Physical activity following 12-week supervised exercise training program in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Physical inactivity is 4^th leading risk factor for death and major public health problem. Chronic respiratory disease patients tend to be more sedentary which is associated with higher mortality rates. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive and fatal interstitial lung disease characterized by severe signs and symptoms during exertion associated with low physical activity (PA) in order to avoid these episodes. Aim: To examine the effect of 12-week supervised exercise training (ET) program on PA levels in IPF patients. Methods: Thirty-four IPF patients (68±8 yr) were randomly allocated to ET group who participated in 12-week supervised exercise program, consisted 60 minutes twice weekly exercise sessions, or to control group who continued regular medical treatment. PA was assessed by International Physical Activity Questionnaire at baseline, after 12-week intervention and at 11 months follow up. Results: Following 12 weeks significant improvements were demonstrated in PA [mean difference to control group; 1791 METS-min/week, CI95% (864-2717) p<0.001]. At 11 months follow-up ET group decreased their PA levels and return to baseline values, while the control showed a trend of deterioration. Conclusion: Twelve-week supervised ET program at short-term improves PA levels in patients with IPF but the benefits were not-sustained at 11 months follow up. These results suggest the efficacy of supervised ET to increase PA in IPF patients however maintenance strategies are warranted to preserve the enhanced PA levels.