Effects of home-based exercise training on functional outcomes and quality of life in patients with pulmonary hypertension: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the effects of home-based exercise training (HBET) on function and quality of life (QoL) in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH). Methods: A prospective, nonblinded, randomized clinical trial was carried out on 84 medically stable patients with PH belonging to any functional class or etiology and of either sex. Patients were randomized to either standard care or HBET. Both groups also received education using the Pulmonary Hypertension Manual (PulHMan). Outcomes included functional capacity from 6-min walk distance (6MWD), QoL using the Medical Outcomes Survey Short Form – 36, functional class (FC), and right heart indices (right ventricular systolic pressure [RVSP] and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion [TAPSE]) and were assessed at entry and after 12 weeks. Results: HBET improved 6MWD by 48.5 m and 13 m in the experimental and control groups, respectively (p < 0.001). QoL showed statistical improvements after HBET between the groups for the physical and mental components and for the various subdomains (except body pain). Furthermore, FC improved by one grade with HBET (p < 0.001). Conclusion: HBET program improved functional capacity, QoL, and FC in patients with PH. Keywords: Rehabilitation, Exercise training, Six-minute walk distance, Quality of life, Pulmonary arterial hypertension