Precision Exercise to Improve Outcomes in Sepsis
Sepsis is a serious illness, and many people who survive it find it hard to exercise and can get ill again. This study is testing a special 12-week exercise training programme designed just for people who have recovered from sepsis. We want to see if this personalised exercise helps improve their ability to do physical activities and boosts their immune system. People taking part will either join the exercise programme or get general healthy lifestyle advice. Researchers will compare these groups to understand if this new exercise approach can make a real difference in the lives of sepsis survivors. We are looking for volunteers aged 19 and over.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Sepsis is a very serious condition where the body’s response to an infection harms its own tissues and organs. Many people who go through sepsis survive, but the experience can leave them feeling very unwell for a long time. For example, they often find it much harder to exercise and can even end up back in hospital quite often. This happens because sepsis can make your immune system confused, sometimes overreacting and sometimes not fighting off new infections properly.
We know that exercise can be very good for many different health problems, and it’s been shown to help people exercise better. It can also help the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body. However, previous exercise studies for sepsis survivors haven't always shown big improvements when using standard, general exercise plans. Doctors believe that a more personalised approach to exercise, tailored to each person, might be much more effective and safer.
This study aims to find out if a special 12-week exercise programme, designed uniquely for each person, can significantly improve how well sepsis survivors can exercise. We also want to understand if this particular type of exercise can help their immune system recover and function better after sepsis. By comparing people who do this specific exercise with those who receive general lifestyle advice, we hope to learn how best to support people recovering from sepsis.
Key takeaways
- Targets people who have recovered from sepsis.
- Tests a personalised 12-week exercise programme.
- Aims to improve exercise ability and immune function.
- Compares exercise with general lifestyle advice.
- Requires commitment to 3 sessions per week if in the exercise group.
- Open to adults aged 19 and over with specific health conditions.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for people aged 19 or older who have survived sepsis. To be eligible, your sepsis must have happened at least two months before you join the study, and your fitness levels should be lower than what is expected for someone of your age and gender. You also need to be able to commit to attending three exercise sessions per week for 12 weeks.
There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you need extra oxygen, have had a heart attack or stroke in the last 90 days, or have conditions like diabetes, autoimmune diseases (or take medication for them), or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Also, if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant soon, or breastfeeding, you won't be able to take part.
Finally, if you have certain problems with your heart, lungs, or muscles that would make exercise unsafe, or if your oxygen levels drop too low during exercise, you wouldn't be able to participate. This is to make sure everyone involved can exercise safely.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 19 years old or older?
- Did you have sepsis at least 2 months ago?
- Do you feel less fit than you used to be for your age and gender?
- Can you commit to attending 3 exercise sessions per week for 12 weeks?
- Do you NOT need extra oxygen for breathing?
- Have you NOT had a heart attack or stroke in the last 3 months?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you'll first answer some questionnaires about your health and feelings, and provide a blood sample. You will also do an exercise test to see how well you can currently exercise.
After that, you will be assigned to one of two groups. One group will take part in a 12-week exercise program. This means attending three exercise sessions per week (36 sessions in total). These sessions will include both strength (muscle building) and aerobic (heart and lung fitness) exercises, uniquely designed for you.
The other group will not do the exercise programme but will instead get general health and lifestyle advice once a week. Researchers will then compare the two groups to see the effects. Your total time in the study will be about 12 weeks of active participation, plus initial assessments.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- St. Paul's Hospital - Centre for Heart Lung InnovationVerified postcodeVancouver, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is sepsis?
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by your body's extreme response to an infection. It can lead to organ damage if not treated quickly.
What does 'precision exercise' mean?
It means the exercise plan is specially designed for you, taking into account your current fitness and needs. It's not a 'one-size-fits-all' approach.
Do I have to exercise if I join the study?
Only if you are randomly placed into the exercise group. The other group receives general lifestyle advice instead of exercise training.
How long will the exercise sessions last?
The information doesn't specify the exact length of each session, but they will happen three times a week for 12 weeks.
Will I know which group I am in?
Yes, you will know if you are in the exercise group or the group receiving general advice.
How to find out more
Graeme Koelwyn, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.