Cognitive benefits of aerobic exercise in patients with Cushing’s syndrome

Abstract

Objectives. Previous research has shown that Cushing’s syndrome has been linked with higher incidence of cognitive impairment. The beneficial effects of exercise on cognitive function have been demonstrated in clinical studies. This study will test the hypothesis that aerobic exercise leads to improved cognitive function in patients with Cushing’s syndrome.
Material and Method. 16 patients with Cushing’s syndrome (10 with iatrogenic syndrome, 2 with adrenal and 4 with pituitary adenoma) and mild or moderate cognitive impairment were recruited for this study. The mental state examination were evaluated by Folstein test-30-point questionnaire test that is used to screen for cognitive impairment. Training consisted of exercise (such as cycling or fast walking) 5days/week for approximately 30 min/day. The efficacy were evaluated at six months of aerobic exercise treatment.
Results. The subjects were between 42 and 58 years age and an evolution of the Cushing’s syndrome between 2 and 6 years. Patients were screened initially with a questionnaire detailing their medical history, concomitant medications, smoking status, alcohol consumption. Baseline score of the Folstein test were 20±2.1 points. 10 patients present mild (19-24 poinnts) and 6 patients moderate (10-18 points) cognitive impairment. At the end of six months, the mean score of the Folstein test was improved (20,3±2.1 vs 21.4±3.3, p<0.05).
Conclusion. In our study the Folstein score can be corrected significantly by aerobic exercise in patients with Cushing’s syndrome.

Key words:

cognition aspects, Cushing’s syndrome, aerobic exercise

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