A comparison trial of eight weeks versus twelve weeks of exercise program in interstitial lung diseases

Abstract

Background: Exercise training have been shown to be the effective approach for functional outcomes in interstitial lung diseases (ILD). In many studies, the duration of exercise programs (EPs) varies between 8-12 weeks. However, the optimal duration of EPs is still unknown. Objective: In our prospective non-controlled study, we aimed to compare the results of the 8^th week with the results of the 12^th week of the PR programs applied to the patients with ILD. Methods: A total of 14 patients [Age; 63(53,70) years, body mass index: 28(25,32) kg/m², disease duration; 1.5 (1,4) years] with ILD [11 idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, 2 sarcoidosis (stage 3 and 4) and 1 nonspecific interstitial pneumonia] were included in the study. 6-minute walk test, pulmonary function test, arterial blood gas analysis, mMRC dyspnea scale, quality of life questionnaires and hospital anxiety depression scale were performed at before and 8 and 12 weeks after the program. Results: 6-minute walk distance, dyspnea, anxiety, depression and quality of life improved both at 8^th and 12^th week after EP when compared the with the initial assessment(P<0.05). When compared with 8^th week; mMRC dyspnea score, 6-minute walk distance and quality of life scores significantly improved at 12^th weeks (P=0.046, P=0.016, P<0.05, respectively). Conclusions: Prolonging duration of the EPs results in more improvement in functional outcomes in patients with ILD. However, it has no effect on pulmonary functions and arterial blood gas results.