Abstract
Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major health issue worldwide.
Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of aerobic exercises at steep surfaces on Apo A1 and Apo B serum levels and their ratio in COPD patients.
Methods: This interventional study was undertaken on 16 COPD patients. The sample was selected by using the random sampling method. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups of 8 members: uphill and downhill. Spirometry was conducted prior to the exercises and pulmonary volumes were measured. Aerobic exercises (stationary bicycle and treadmill) were started 3 times a week for 8 weeks. The duration of exercises in each session was determined based on the patients’ ability (30-40 min). In the first and second group, exercises were performed on sloped surfaces that were downwards and upwards at a 10-degree angle, respectively. Blood samples were taken from the patients before and after the 8 weeks. Apo A1 and Apo B serum levels and Apo A1 to Apo B ratio were measured. Data were analyzed by SPSS software. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: ApoA1/Apo B ratio in the uphill group before and after the intervention was 1.43±0.21 and 1.53±0.24 mg/dL, respectively, with P-value=0.36. In the downhill group, this value was 1.27±0.17 and 1.30±0.18, respectively, with a P-value=0.032.
Conclusion: In light of the results of the present study, incorporating downhill exercises in COPD patients' rehabilitation program can help improve pulmonary function and prevent atherosclerotic events.
Keywords: Apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, downhill, exercise, uphill.
Graphical Abstract
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