Effect of aerobic exercise training on cardiovascular parameters and CD4 cell count of people living with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: Despite the significant positive effect of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy on physical and psychosocial well-being of people living with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) (PLWHA); decreased physical activity and its associated cardiovascular risk still pose some consequences for health and general well-being. This study investigated the effect of an 8 week aerobic exercise training on cardiovascular parameters and CD4 cell (T-cells) count of PLWHA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This randomized controlled trial recruited 30 age matched PLWHA who were randomly assigned into exercise group (EG) ( n = 15) and control group (CG) ( n = 15) respectively. The PLWHA were patients receiving treatment in President's Emergency Plan for AIDS relief at the HIV clinic of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. The EG in addition to conventional therapy received moderate intensity continuous exercise training (60-79% of the maximum heart rate [max]) of between 45 and 60 min, 3 times/week for 8 weeks, while the CG received conventional therapy involving antiretroviral therapy and counseling only. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max) and CD4 cell count were assessed at baseline (week 1) and week 8 respectively. Analysis of co-variance and Pearson correlation tests were used in data analysis. RESULTS: Findings of the study revealed a significant effect (ANCOVA test) of moderate intensity continuous exercise training program on, SBP, DBP, VO2 max and CD4 cell count at P < 0.05. Changes in VO2 max significantly correlated (Pearson correlation test) with changes in CD4 cell count ( r = 0.528) at P < 0.05. CONCLUSION: Moderate intensity aerobic exercise is an effective complementary therapy in lowering blood pressure and increasing CD4 cell count in PLWHA.

Effects of interval exercise training programme on the indices of adiposity and biomarker of inflammation in hypertension: a randomised controlled trial.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: Hypertension remains a significant risk factor in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of 8 weeks interval training programme on blood pressure, aerobic capacity (VO max), indices of adiposity and marker of inflammation in black African men with essential hypertension. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Two hundred and forty five (245) male subjects with stage 1 and 2 (systolic blood pressure [SBP] between 140-179 & diastolic blood pressure [DBP] between 90-109 mmHg) essential hypertension were age matched and grouped into experimental and control groups. The experimental (n=140; 58.90 ± 7.35 years) group involved in an 8 weeks interval training (60-79% HRmax) programme of between 45 and 60 minutes, while age-matched control hypertensive (n=105; 58.27±6.24 years) group remain sedentary during this period. All subjects in both groups were on antihypertensive drugs throughout the study period. Cardiovascular parameters (SBP, DBP) & VO max and percent body fat [%BF], waist to hip ratio [WHR] and C-reactive protein [CRP] were assessed. Independent t-test and Pearson correlation test were used in data analysis. RESULTS: Findings of the study revealed significant decreased effects of interval training programme on SBP, DBP, %BF, WHR and CRP and significant increased effect on VO max at p< 0.05. Also, changes in CRP as a result of exercise training significantly and positively correlated with changes in SBP, DBP, %BF, WHR, CRP and negatively correlated with VO max at p< 0.05.

Effect of aerobic exercise training on maternal weight gain in pregnancy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Weight gains in pregnancy within the recommended guidelines are associated with healthy fetal and maternal outcomes; higher weight gains are associated with fetal macrosomia. This study was a systemic review of randomized controlled trials on the effect of aerobic training on maternal weight in pregnancy. METHODS: The study data source was publications through May 2012 in the MEDLINE (PubMed) database. The citation lists of randomized controlled trials on the effect of aerobic training and maternal weight were extracted. Data on participants' characteristics, study quality, population, intervention, treatment outcome (maternal weight gain) were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: There were 11 randomized controlled studies using body weight (kg) as measure of treatment outcome. A total of 1177 subjects were recruited in the 11 studies. The mean± SD weight gain (kg) for the exercise (11.31± 7.44kg) and control (14.42± 6.60kg) groups; Meta-analysis result indicated significant effect of aerobic training on maternal weight (t= -7.580, p= .000) at p< 0.05. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that aerobic training is an effective tool in maternal weight gain control in pregnancy. More randomized controlled trials are warranted.

Therapeutic effect of a moderate intensity interval training program on the lipid profile in men with hypertension: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: Physical inactivity has been established as a major primary risk factor for the development of hypertension. Also, factors such as elevated total cholesterol (TC) and reduced high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) have been implicated as risk factors for coronary events in hypertension. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of interval training program on blood pressure and lipid profile of subjects with hypertension. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 245 male patients with mild-to-moderate hypertension (systolic blood pressure [SBP] between 140 and 180 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure [DBP] between 90 and 109 mmHg) were age matched and grouped into interval and control groups. The interval (n=140; 58.90 ± 7.35 years) group was involved in an 8-week interval training (60-79% HR max reserve) program of between 45 minutes and 60 minutes at a work/rest ratio of 1:1 of 6 minutes each, while the control hypertensive (n=105; 58.27 ± 6.24 years) group remained sedentary during this period. Cardiovascular parameters (SBP and DBP), VO 2 max, TC, HDL, and artrogenic index (AI) were assessed. Student's t-test and Pearson correlation test were used in data analysis. RESULTS: Findings of the study revealed significant decreased effects of the interval training program on SBP, DBP, TC AI, and significant increased effects on VO 2 max and HDL level at P<0.05. There was also a significant correlation between changes VO 2 max and changes in AI. CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that the interval training program is an effective adjunct nonpharmacological management of hypertension and a means of upregulation of HDL.

Effects of aerobic exercise training on psychosocial status and serum uric Acid in men with essential hypertension: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Chronic psychosocial stress and serum uric acid (SUA) level have been implicated in the etiology and cardiovascular events risk factors in hypertension. Studies have reported significant benefit of exercise in the overall management of hypertension. However, studies on the effect of exercise on psychosocial stress and SUA in the management of hypertension seem scanty. AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of continuous training program on SUA and psychosocial status of black African (Nigerian) population with hypertension. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Age-matched randomized controlled trial was used; subjects with diagnosis of hypertension attending the hypertensive clinic of Murtala Muhammed Specialist Hospital (MMSH), Kano, Nigeria form the population for the study. Two hundred and seventeen subjects with mild to moderate (systolic blood pressure (SBP) between 140 and180 and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) between 90 and 109 mmHg) essential hypertension were grouped into continuous (112) and control groups (105). The continuous group involved in an 8 weeks continuous training (60%-79% HR max) of between 45 and 60 min, 3 times per week, while the controls group remain sedentary. SBP, DBP, SUA, VO(2) max and psychosocial status were assessed. Student t-test and Pearson correlation test were used in data analysis. RESULTS: The study revealed significant beneficial effect of continuous training programs on VO(2) max, SBP, DBP, SUA, and psychosocial status (P < 0.05). Psychosocial status and SUA was significantly and positively and negatively correlated respectively with VO(2) max at P < 0.01. CONCLUSIONS: This study concludes and supports the recommendations of moderate intensity (continuous) training program in blood pressure reduction, SUA and psychosocial stress management in hypertension.

Pattern of facial palsy in a typical Nigerian specialist hospital.

BACKGROUND: Data on incidence of facial palsy is generally lacking in Nigeria. OBJECTIVE: To assess six years' incidence of facial palsy in Murtala Muhammed Specialist Hospital (MMSH), Kano, Nigeria. METHOD: The records of patients diagnosed as facial problems between January 2000 and December 2005 were scrutinized. Data on diagnosis, age, sex, side affected, occupation and causes were obtained. RESULTS: A total number of 698 patients with facial problems were recorded. Five hundred and ninety four (85%) were diagnosed as facial palsy. Out of the diagnosed facial palsy, males (56.2%) had a higher incidence than females; 20-34 years age group (40.3%) had a greater prevalence; the commonest cause of facial palsy was found out to be Idiopathic (39.1%) and was most common among business men (31.6%). Right sided facial palsy (52.2%) was predominant. Incidence of facial palsy was highest in 2003 (25.3%) and decreased from 2004. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that the incidence of facial palsy was high and Bell's palsy remains the most common causes of facial (nerve) paralysis.

Effect of interval exercise training programme on C-reactive protein in the non-pharmacological management of hypertension: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: Increased serum levels of inflammatory mediators have been associated with numerous disease states including hypertension. C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are associated with future development of hypertension and cardiovascular event in hypertension, which suggests that hypertension, is in part an inflammatory disorder. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of interval training programme on blood pressure and CRP in the non pharmacological management of hypertension. METHODS: Two hundred and forty five male subjects with mild to moderate (Systolic Blood Pressure [SBP] between 140-179 & Diastolic Blood Pressure [DBP] between 90-109 mmHg) essential hypertension were age-matched and randomly grouped to interval (n=140) and control groups (n=105). The interval (work: rest ratio of 1:1) groups involved in an 8-weeks interval training programs for between 45-60 minutes, at intensities of 60-79% of HR reserve, while the control group remained sedentary during this period. SBP, DBP, VO2max and CRP were assessed. Students't and Pearson correlation tests were used in data analysis. RESULTS: Findings of the study revealed significant effect of interval exercise training program on SBP, DBP and CRP. The study also showed positive significant correlation between changes in CRP and changes in SBP (r=225) and DBP (r= .324) at p<0.05. CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that moderate intensity interval training programs is effective in the non-pharmacological management of hypertension and may prevent cardiovascular event through the down regulation of CRP in hypertension.

Effects of Aerobic Exercise Training on Psychosocial Status and Serum Uric Acid in Men with Essential Hypertension: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Chronic psychosocial stress and serum uric acid (SUA) level have been implicated in the etiology and cardiovascular events risk factors in hypertension. Studies have reported significant benefit of exercise in the overall management of hypertension. However; studies on the effect of exercise on psychosocial stress and SUA in the management of hypertension seem scanty. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of continuous training program on SUA and psychosocial status of black African (Nigerian) population with hypertension. Subjects and Methods: Age-matched randomized controlled trial was used; subjects with diagnosis of hypertension attending the hypertensive clinic of Murtala Muhammed Specialist Hospital (MMSH); Kano; Nigeria form the population for the study. Two hundred and seventeen subjects with mild to moderate (systolic blood pressure (SBP) between 140 and180 and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) between 90 and 109 mmHg) essential hypertension were grouped into continuous (112) and control groups (105). The continuous group involved in an 8 weeks continuous training (60-79 HR max) of between 45 and 60 min; 3 times per week; while the controls group remain sedentary. SBP; DBP; SUA; VO 2 max and psychosocial status were assessed. Student t-test and Pearson correlation test were used in data analysis. Results: The study revealed significant beneficial effect of continuous training programs on VO 2 max; SBP; DBP; SUA; and psychosocial status (P 0.05). Psychosocial status and SUA was significantly and positively and negatively correlated respectively with VO 2 max at P 0.01. Conclusions: This study concludes and supports the recommendations of moderate intensity (continuous) training program in blood pressure reduction; SUA and psychosocial stress management in hypertension

Effect of interval training program on white blood cell count in the management of hypertension: A randomized controlled study.

OBJECTIVE: Elevated white blood cell (WBC) count is considered to be prospectively and positively associated with cardiovascular diseases, particularly hypertension. Also, the positive role of exercise in the management of hypertension has been well and long established. However the relationship between WBC count and hypertensive management particularly in the nonpharmacological technique is ambiguous and unclear. Therefore the purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of interval training program on WBC count and cardiovascular parameters in male hypertensive patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 245 male patients with mild to moderate (systolic blood pressure (SBP) between 140 mmHg and 179 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) between 90 mmHg and 109 mmHg) essential hypertension were age matched and grouped into experimental and control groups. The experimental (n=140; 58.90±7.35 years) group involved in an 8-week interval training (60-79% HR max reserve) program of between 45 minutes to 60 minutes, while the age-matched controls hypertensive (n=105; 58.27±6.24 years) group remain sedentary during this period. Cardiovascular parameters (SBP, DBP, and VO(2) max) and WBC count were assessed. Student's t and Pearson correlation tests were used in data analysis. RESULTS: Findings of the study revealed a significant effect of the interval training program on VO2max, SBP, and DBP and WBC count at P<0.05 and VO2max is negatively related to the WBC count (r=-0.339) at P<0.01. CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that the interval training program is an effective adjunct nonpharmacological management of hypertension and the therapeutic effect of exercise programs may be mediated through suppression of inflammatory (WBC count) reaction.

Effect of low intensity continuous training programme on serum uric acid in the non pharmacological management of hypertension: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Elevated serum uric acid (SUA) is considered to be positively associated with cardiovascular event risk factor in hypertension. Also, the positive role of exercise in the management of Hypertension has been well and long established. However the relationship between SUA level and hypertensive management particularly in non pharmacological technique is ambiguous and unclear. Therefore the purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of continuous low intensity training programme on SUA level and cardiovascular parameters in male subjects with hypertension. METHOD: Two hundred andseventeen male patients with mild to moderate (systolic blood pressure [SBP] between 140-180 & diastolic blood pressure [DBP] between 90-109 mmHg) essential hypertension were age matched and grouped into continuous and control groups. The continuous (n=112; 58.63 +/- 7.22 years) group involved in on 8 weeks interval training (35-9% HR max reserve) programme of between 45 minutes to 60 minutes, while age-matched controls hypertensive (n=105; 58.27 +/- 6.24 years) group remain sedentary during this period. Cardiovascular parameters (SBP, DBP & VO2max) and SUA were assessed. Students' t and Pearson correlation tests were used in data analysis. RESULTS: Findings of the study revealed significant effect of interval training programme on VO2 max, SBP, and DBP and SUA concentration at p < 0.05 and changes in VO2max negatively correlated with SUA (r = -.266) at p < 0.05. CONCLUSION: it was concluded that low intensity continuous training programme is an effective nonpharmacological management and may prevent cardiovascular event through the down regulation ofSUA in hypertension.

Paralytic poliomyelitis during the pre-, peri- and post-suspension periods of a polio immunization campaign.

A total of 744 paralytic poliomyelitis patients (0-59 months old) were reviewed and results showed a critical and perpetual surge during 2003 (20.2%), 2004 (27.4%) and 2005 (41%). A slight male predominance (56%) was reported and a high incidence was reported in the low socioeconomic (68.3%) and urban setting (60.3%) groups. It was concluded that the polio eradication campaigning programmes in Nigeria had not been successful and that legislation on poliomyelitis was required.

Pattern of ptosis in Kano North-West Nigeria.

OBJECTIVE: Epidemiological data on ptosis are generally lacking in the developing nations. The aim of this study was to assess the seven years pattern of ptosis in a Nigerian Specialist Hospital, Kano North-West Nigeria. METHOD: The records of patients' diagnosis as ptosis between 2000 and 2006 were scrutinized. Data such as age, sex, cause, socioeconomic status, side of ptosis and management were obtained. RESULT: A total number of 104 patients were recorded. High prevalence was found as follows: male 102(65.4%); right side (61.5%); trauma (RTA) (60.9%); civil servants (38.5.8%) and age group: 51-60 years (25.6%). CONCLUSION: It was concluded that trauma from road traffic accident (RTA) is the major aetiological factor and the right side mostly affected. RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that surgical training and facilities for ptosis correction is off priority.

Pattern of Ptosis in Kano North-West Nigeria

Objective: Epidemiological data on ptosis are generally lacking in the developing nations. The aim of this study was to assess the seven years pattern of ptosis in a Nigerian Specialist Hospital; Kano North-West Nigeria. Method: The records of patients' diagnosis as ptosis between 2000 and 2006 were scrutinized. Data such as age; sex; cause; socioeconomic status; side of ptosis and management were obtained. Result: A total number of 104 patients were recorded. High prevalence was found as follows: male 102(65.4); right side (61.5); trauma (RTA) (60.9); civil servants (38.5.8) and age group: 51-60 years (25.6). Conclusion: It was concluded that trauma from road traffic accident (RTA) is the major aetiological factor and the right side mostly affected. Recommendation: It is recommended that surgical training and facilities for ptosis correction is off priority