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The effect of a 16-week walking program on biomarkers, physical fitness, health related quality of life and self-perceptions of adults with schizophrenia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 March 2020

E. Oliveira*
Affiliation:
Sisters Hospitallers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Occupational Therapy - Casa Saúde Rainha Santa Isabel, Coimbra, Portugal
M. Uba-Chupel
Affiliation:
Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education- University of Coimbra, Research Unit for Sport and Physical Activity, Coimbra, Portugal
D. Sousa
Affiliation:
Sisters Hospitallers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Nurse - Casa Saúde Rainha Santa Isabel, Coimbra, Portugal
C. Rocha
Affiliation:
Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra- ESTESC - Coimbra Health School, Department Complementary Sciences- INESCC, Coimbra, Portugal
A. Teixeira
Affiliation:
Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education- University of Coimbra, Research Unit for Sport and Physical Activity, Coimbra, Portugal
P. Ferreira
Affiliation:
Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education- University of Coimbra, Research Unit for Sport and Physical Activity, Coimbra, Portugal
*
*Corresponding author.

Abstract

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Introduction

People with schizophrenia exhibit low levels of physical activity, which have impact on physical and mental health as well as overall quality of life (QOL). Mental and physical benefits of exercise are known, although the mechanisms through which physical exercise improves schizophrenia symptoms are not fully understood.

Objectives

To assess the effect of a 16-week exercise program (EP) on the expression of BDNF and S100B biomarkers, physical fitness, health related quality of life and self-perceptions of adults with schizophrenia.

Methods

Thirty-five patients with schizophrenia (PwSZ) were divided in three groups Institutionalized Patients (n = 11); Psychosocial Rehabilitation (n = 13); and Control Group (n = 11). The EP consisted of one-hour walking session three times a week during 16 weeks. All participants were assessed before and after EP using the six minutes walking test, a psychological tests battery including MOS Short Form 36, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Physical Self-Perception Profile, Satisfaction with Life Scale as well as the BDNF and S100B measurements using serum analysis.

Results

No significant statistical differences were found both for BDNF and S100B levels as a result of exercise. Additionally, no significant statistical differences were found for Physical Self-concept and Global Self-esteem changes as a result of the walking program (WP). However, PwSZ showed significant statistical differences on the satisfaction with life (P < 0.05) and on the perceived health related QOL (P < 0.05) in all groups participating in the EP.

Conclusion

In spite of the limited impact of the WP in PwSZ, this group may obtain positive outcomes of the exercise participation based on a more positive attitude towards life.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

Type
EW545
Copyright
Copyright © European Psychiatric Association 2014
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