Principal Investigator: Kim Huffman, MD
The purpose of this 25-week study is to examine the roles of exercise and weight loss in improving cardiovascular health in individuals with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). In this project, participants will be randomized to one of two groups: 1) counseling health as treatment, receiving a one-on-one session about proper diet and home exercise recommendations, or 2) 16 weeks of a supervised exercise training program and weekly weight loss sessions. All participants will receive study-related medical examinations, including body composition, an exercise test, and muscular strength and stiffness measurements. These assessments will take place both before and after the intervention.
This exercise and weight loss study will consist of both virtual and in-person visits. On-site sessions will take place at the Duke Center for Living Campus.
Participants may qualify for this study if they are:
- Between 60 and 80 years of age
- Have detectable blood antibodies or radiographic erosions associated with RA
- Have no history of other inflammatory diseases (e.g., Page’s or Wilson’s disease)
- Have no history of coronary artery disease or type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Not currently participating in regular exercise
- Able to walk without assistance
Study volunteers will be compensated for their participation.
For more information, please contact the study team at SWEAT@duke.edu or 919-660-6769.
Pro00104843