Study explores effects of exercise on lung disease

Senior citizens with shortness of breath are walking and lifting weights at Wake Forest University as part of a research study on how exercise affects breathing problems.

The study, Reconditioning Exercise And Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease Trial (REACT), is a joint effort between the university’s health and exercise science department and Bowman Gray School of Medicine.

Funded by the National Institutes of Health, the study targets men or women between the age of 55 and 80 who do not exercise regularly and have a disability attributed to chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

About 65 participants have enrolled in REACT since it began in January. The participants maintain an exercise program of walking and upper body strength training three times a week. The program lasts for three months, however, some participants may continue for a total of 21 months.

Anyone interested in participating in the study should call the REACT recruitment center at 910-777-3252. There is no charge to participate and transportation is available.

Categories: Research, School of Medicine, Wake Forest College