Physical activity pattern and cardiorespiratory fitness in individuals with schizophrenia compared with a population-based sample

A systematic review of passive data for remote monitoring in psychosis and schizophrenia

There is increasing use of digital tools to monitor people with psychosis and schizophrenia remotely, but using this type of data is challenging. This systematic review aimed to summarise how studies processed and analysed data collected through digital devices. In total, 203 articles collecting passive data through smartphones or wearable devices, from participants with psychosis or schizophrenia were included in the review. Accelerometers were the most common device (n = 115 studies), followed by smartphones (n = 46). The most commonly derived features were sleep duration (n = 50) and time spent sedentary (n = 41). Thirty studies assessed data quality and another 69 applied data quantity thresholds. Mixed effects models were used in 21 studies and time-series and machine-learning methods were used in 18 studies. Reporting of methods to process and analyse data was inconsistent, highlighting a need to improve the standardisation of methods and reporting in this area of research.

Effects of aerobic training on brain architecture, hippocampal volume, cardiorespiratory parameters, and health-related quality of life among patients with schizophrenia: A systematic review

Background

Schizophrenia is considered to be a condition that usually manifests at any age but commonly seen in young people and is associated with a genetic propensity in brain development.

Aim

The study explores the impact of aerobic training on brain architecture, hippocampal volume, cardiorespiratory parameters, and quality of life in young individuals with schizophrenia. The investigation focuses on the correlation between genetic predisposition, hippocampal atrophy, and diminished cardiorespiratory fitness, aiming to discern potential benefits of aerobic exercise on both physical and mental health outcomes.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in major online databases, such as Cochrane, Embase, PEDro, Web of science and PubMed (Medline). Two authors independently evaluated possibilities of bias, retrieved data and decided which trials should be included in the analysis. Total of 13 published articles (randomized clinical and controlled trials) with 656 patients was included from January 2010 to December 2020.

Results

Following aerobic exercise training, people with schizophrenia presented with an increased hippocampus volume and enhanced cardiorespiratory endurance (P ˂0.05). Due to a lack of information, we rated the majority of the studies' risk of bias in relation to random sequence creation, allocation concealment, and selective reporting as uncertain.

Conclusion

Findings from the present review propose aerobic exercise program as a meaningful therapeutic intervention for schizophrenia patients in terms of maintaining appropriate brain architecture, increasing the hippocampal volume, improving cardiorespiratory parameters and health related quality of life.

Experiences with physical activity, health and well-being among young adults with serious mental illness

PURPOSE

To explore how young adults with serious mental illness (SMI) experience physical activity and how these experiences influence their perceived health and well-being.

METHODS

Nine young adults with SMI who had participated in an aerobic high-intensity interval training program were interviewed in depth. The interviews were transcribed and subjected to reflexive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The results indicated that people with SMI mainly experience physical activity as a meaningful activity that contributes to an increased sense of well-being and better health. However, to overcome various barriers, it is crucial to experience social support and encouragement. The following three main themes were identified through reflexive thematic analysis: (1) positive changes in focus and an increase in well-being occur through physical activity; (2) increased mental strength results from physical activity; and (3) a lack of support and feelings of safety prevent physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that adapted physical activity is an important resistance resource that can promote stronger self-identity, increased mental well-being and social engagement and thus contribute to an improved ability to manage stressors. Furthermore, the findings reveal that to engage in physical activity and promote sustainable life changes, it is important for individuals to choose a physical activity based on personal interest and meaning.

The relationship between the brain-derived neurotrophic factor and neurocognitive response to physical exercise in individuals with schizophrenia

OBJECTIVE

Physical exercise can improve neurocognition in individuals with schizophrenia, presumably by facilitating neuroplasticity. There is, however, large inter-individual variation in response. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been proposed to mediate these effects. The current aim was to investigate the sparsely studied relationship between peripheral resting BDNF and neurocognitive response to physical exercise in individuals with schizophrenia.

METHOD

The current study reports secondary analyses of data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT), ClinicalTrials.gov number 02205684, recently reported according to the CONSORT guidelines. Eighty-two individuals with schizophrenia (mean age 37 ± 14 years old, 61% men) were randomly allocated to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or a comparison group performing low-intensity active video gaming (AVG). Both interventions consisted of 2 sessions/week for 12 weeks. In previously published primary RCT analyses, HIIT and AVG showed comparable small to moderate improvements in neurocognition. We now address the inter-individual variability in neurocognitive response. We apply mediation and moderation analyses for repeated measures designs (MEMORE) and mixed effects models.

RESULTS

Baseline neurocognition was not significantly correlated with baseline levels of mature BDNF (baseline-mBDNF) or the precursor proBDNF. Nonetheless, baseline-mBDNF, but not baseline proBDNF, moderated the effect of exercise on neurocognition (p = 0.025) and explained 7% of the variance. The neurocognitive improvement increased with increasing baseline-mBDNF values. The moderating effect of baseline-mBDNF remained significant in a more complex model adding the moderating effects of exercise mode, sex, age, duration of illness and baseline VO2max on the outcome (neurocognition). Mean baseline-mBDNF significantly decreased from baseline to post-intervention (p = 0.036), regardless of exercise mode, differing by sex and associated with improved VO2max but not with change in neurocognition. A mediating role of mBDNF on the effect of physical exercise on neurocognition was not supported. Values of proBDNF mainly remained stable from baseline to post-intervention.

CONCLUSION

We found that baseline-mBDNF moderated the effect of physical exercise on neurocognition in individuals with schizophrenia and explained a small part of the inter-individual variation in neurocognitive response. Mean mBDNF decreased from baseline to post-intervention, regardless of exercise mode. A mediating role of mBDNF on the effect of exercise on neurocognition was not supported. The inter-individual variation in neurocognitive response and the complex role of peripheral BDNF in physical exercise is still to be elucidated.

Monitoring the Effectiveness of Treatment in Women with Schizophrenia: New Specialized Cooperative Approaches

Women with schizophrenia have specific health needs that differ from those of men and that change through successive life stages. We aimed to review the biopsychosocial literature on schizophrenia that addresses clinically important questions related to the treatment of women, including somatic morbi-mortality, hyperprolactinemia, comorbid substance use disorders, social risk factors, and medication effectiveness/safety. Data search terms were as follows: (Morbidity AND mortality) OR hyperprolactinemia OR ("substance use disorders" OR addictions) OR ("social risk factors") OR ("drug safety" OR prescription) AND women AND schizophrenia. A secondary aim was to describe a method of monitoring and interdisciplinary staff strategies. Schizophrenia patients show an increased risk of premature death from cardiovascular/respiratory disease and cancer compared to the general population. The literature suggests that close liaisons with primary care and the introduction of physical exercise groups reduce comorbidity. Various strategies for lowering prolactin levels diminish the negative long-term effects of hyperprolactinemia. Abstinence programs reduce the risk of victimization and trauma in women. Stigma associated with women who have serious psychiatric illness is often linked to reproductive functions. The safety and effectiveness of antipsychotic drug choice and dose differ between men and women and change over a woman's life cycle. Monitoring needs to be multidisciplinary, knowledgeable, and regular.

Experiences of the Quality of the Interplay between Home-Living Young Adults with Serious Mental Illness and Their Social Environments

The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences of the interplay between home-living young adults in the community with a serious mental illness (SMI) and their social environment and how this experience influence their mental health and well-being in light of the theory of salutogenesis. In a qualitative study, nine young adults with SMI were interviewed. The interviews were transcribed and subjected to reflexive thematic analysis. The following three overarching themes characterized these young adults' experiences of such interplay: (1) a sense of shame and feeling less valued in society, (2) challenges in engagement and maintaining relationships, and (3) the significance of social support in one's family. Accordingly, the young adults experienced both the presence of good, constructive interplay with their social environment and deficits in this reciprocal feedback loop. Overall, this study illuminates the need for more tolerant health-promoting public attitudes to ensure that individuals with a SMI might experience better interplay by feeling that they are valued members of a nurturing society and that they can contribute to their local community. Participation in society should not be limited by one's illness or expectations of being recovered before one can fully participate in society. Experiencing social support and inclusion in society is essential to strengthen self-identity and fight against stigma, thus promoting a sense of coherence, health and well-being.

Alterations in inflammatory markers after a 12-week exercise program in individuals with schizophrenia-a randomized controlled trial

Background

In individuals with schizophrenia, inflammation is associated with depression, somatic comorbidity and reduced quality of life. Physical exercise is known to reduce inflammation in other populations, but we have only limited knowledge in the field of schizophrenia. We assessed inflammatory markers in plasma samples from individuals with schizophrenia participating in an exercise intervention randomized controlled trial. We hypothesized that (i) physical exercise would reduce levels of inflammatory markers and (ii) elevated inflammatory status at baseline would be associated with improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) following intervention.

Method

Eighty-two individuals with schizophrenia were randomized to a 12-week intervention of either high-intensity interval training (HIIT, n = 43) or active video gaming (AVG, n = 39). Participants were assessed at baseline, post intervention and four months later. The associations between exercise and the inflammatory markers soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor, c-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), soluble TNF receptor 1 and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were estimated using linear mixed effect models for repeated measures. For estimating associations between baseline inflammation and change in CRF, we used linear regression models.

Results

Our main findings were (i) TNF and IL-6 increased during the intervention period for both groups. Other inflammatory markers did not change during the exercise intervention period; (ii) baseline inflammatory status did not influence change in CRF during intervention, except for a positive association between baseline IL-6 levels and improvements of CRF to post intervention for both groups.

Conclusion

In our study, HIIT and AVG for 12-weeks had no reducing effect on inflammatory markers. Patients with high baseline IL-6 levels had a positive change in CRF during intervention. In order to increase our knowledge regarding association between inflammatory markers and exercise in individuals with schizophrenia, larger studies with more frequent and longer exercise bout duration are warranted.

Virtual Group-based Walking Intervention for Persons with Schizophrenia: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Persons with schizophrenia have reduced cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), a predictor of all-cause mortality. Exercise is effective for improving CRF; however, motivational challenges affecting those with schizophrenia impact exercise engagement and maintenance. Virtual Physical Activity Can Enhance Life (Virtual PACE-Life), a multicomponent walking intervention guided by self-determination theory (SDT), was developed to target CRF in this population while addressing motivational difficulties. Virtual PACE-Life includes live video-delivered group walking sessions, Fitbit activity tracking, recommendations for home-based walking sessions, goal setting, and if-then plans. The present study was a 16-week pilot randomized controlled trial that evaluated the impact of Virtual PACE-Life against Fitbit Alone in a sample of 37 participants with schizophrenia on intermediate targets (competence, autonomy, and relatedness satisfaction, autonomous motivation), proximal outcomes (Fitbit-measured steps/day and minutes spent walking), and the primary outcome (CRF using the 6-minute walk test). Blinded research staff completed assessments at baseline, midpoint, posttest, and one-month follow-up. Analysis of covariance and hierarchical linear regression analyses were used to evaluate group differences at each timepoint controlling for baseline. Attendance at Virtual PACE-Life groups was 58% and Fitbit adherence was above 70% in both conditions. Intent-to-treat results indicated greater competence and autonomy satisfaction for Virtual PACE-Life but not in relatedness satisfaction or autonomous motivation. There were no group differences in proximal or primary outcomes during the intervention period. Completer analyses showed improvements in steps/day and autonomous motivation favoring Virtual PACE-Life. Future research is needed to maximize the exercise and CRF benefits of virtual group-based exercise for persons with schizophrenia.

Quality of clinical management of cardiometabolic risk factors in patients with severe mental illness in a specialist mental health care setting

PURPOSE

Cardiometabolic disease in patients with severe mental illness is a major cause of shortened life expectancy. There is sparse evidence of real-world clinical risk prevention practice. We investigated levels of assessments of cardiometabolic risk factors and risk management interventions in patients with severe mental illness in the Norwegian mental health service according to an acknowledged international standard.

METHODS

We collected data from 264 patients residing in six country-wide health trusts for: (a) assessments of cardiometabolic risk and (b) assessments of levels of risk reducing interventions. Logistic regressions were employed to investigate associations between risk and interventions.

RESULTS

Complete assessments of all cardiometabolic risk variables were performed in 50% of the participants and 88% thereof had risk levels requiring intervention according to the standard. Smoking cessation advice was provided to 45% of daily smokers and 4% were referred to an intervention program. Obesity was identified in 62% and was associated with lifestyle interventions. Reassessment of psychotropic medication was done in 28% of the obese patients. Women with obesity were less likely to receive dietary advice, and use of clozapine or olanzapine reduced the chances for patients with obesity of getting weight reducing interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly nine out of the ten participants were identified as being at cardiometabolic high risk and only half of the participants were adequately screened. Women with obesity and patients using antipsychotics with higher levels of cardiometabolic side effects had fewer adequate interventions. The findings underscore the need for standardized recommendations for identification and provision of cardiometabolic risk reducing interventions in all patients with severe mental illness.

Physical Health Impairment and Exercise as Medicine in Severe Mental Disorders: A Narrative Review

BACKGROUND

Individuals with severe mental disorders (SMDs; schizophrenia spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder) are not only suffering from their mental conditions; they also have an attenuated physical health, augmenting their overall critical condition.

OBJECTIVES

We review and critically appraise the evidence based on (1) key physiological factors relating to aerobic endurance and skeletal muscle strength; (2) implications for physical function and health; and (3) effects of training interventions with different intensities evaluated in individuals with SMDs.

FINDINGS

Reductions in aerobic endurance factors, peak oxygen uptake (VO_2peak) and walking work efficiency, are paralleled by reductions in maximal skeletal muscle strength and power. In turn, the poor aerobic endurance and muscle strength lead to impaired physical function, increased risk of lifestyle-related diseases, and ultimately early death. Exercise has the potential to counteract the attenuated physical health in people with SMDs. While aerobic endurance training is shown to increase VO_2peak due to plasticity of the oxygen transport system, strength training is documented to improve maximal muscle strength, power, and walking work efficiency as a result of adaptations in neuromuscular force developing factors.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, improvements in these key determinants for physical health appear to be achievable in people with SMDs despite many being challenged by motivational difficulties with attending regular exercise and have beneficial implications for physical function during activities of daily living, lifestyle-related diseases, and early death.

Adherence to a guided walking program with amelioration of cognitive functions in subjects with schizophrenia even during COVID-19 pandemic

Background

Aim of the study was to enrol a group of individuals with schizophrenia in a long-term moderate-intensity physical activity program and to evaluate its effects on their cognitive functions and cardiovascular risk factors. An additional aim of the study was the comparison of the adherence to the physical activity program before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Forty sedentary patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (mean age 46.4 ± 9.6) followed by the Public Mental Health Department of Ferrara were included in the study. 28 of them followed a 1-year walking program consisting of two guided walking sessions/week, while 12 maintained their sedentary lifestyle and followed the usual Cognitive Rehabilitation program. To the participants following the walking program VO₂ peak and walking speed were assessed at baseline and at the end of the program. All participants were evaluated on blood pressure and anthropometric variable. Cognitive functions were assessed with the Screen for Cognitive Impairment in Psychiatry (SCIP) and with the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) questionnaires.

Results

The 20 participants completing the walking program displayed significant improvements in cognitive functions (d_ppc2 0.35 for SCIP and 0.26 for FAB), with a positive correlation between SCIP score and the number of sessions attended (R = 0.86, p < 0.001), evident in the patients attending to at least 75 of the 100 walking sessions. Walking speed and VO₂peak increased significantly and a decrease of body weight, BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure was also observed. The adherence to the walking program registered during Covid-19 period did not differ from that observed before the pandemic. The 12 CG (Control Group) patients maintaining the sedentary lifestyle did not display improvements of cognitive functions.

Conclusions

The main finding of this study is the improvement of cognitive functions which is significantly related to the number of walking sessions attended by participants with schizophrenia. The walking program, guided by exercise specialists, proved to be an enjoyable activity for people with mental disorder feasible even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trial registration Retrospectively registered on ISRCTN as non-randomized trial (n. ISRCTN14763786).

High-intensity interval training may reduce depressive symptoms in individuals with schizophrenia, putatively through improved VO2max: A randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) may improve cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and mental health. The current observer-blinded RCT investigates the sparsely studied efficiency of HIIT in reducing psychotic and non-psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia and complements previous studies by investigating whether symptom reduction following HIIT is associated with, putatively partly mediated by, increased VO₂max.

METHODS

Participants (outpatients meeting diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia) were randomized to HIIT (n = 43) or a comparison group performing low-intensity active video gaming (AVG) to control for social interaction (n = 39). Both interventions consisted of two supervised sessions/week for 12 weeks and a 4 months follow-up. Effects on overall symptoms and symptom domains [PANSS (0-6 scale), five-factor model] were estimated using mixed-effects models (intention-to-treat, n = 82). Underlying mechanisms were analyzed using moderated mediation analyses (n = 66). We anticipated that HIIT would reduce overall symptoms, particularly depressive symptoms, more than AVG, and symptom reduction would be associated with, putatively mediated through, improved VO₂max.

RESULTS

Depressive symptoms (baseline score 3.97, 95% CI: 3.41, 4.52), were -1.03 points more reduced in HIIT than AVG at post-intervention (95% CI: -1.71, -0.35, p = 0.003), corresponding to a small to moderate effect size (d = 0.37) and persisting at follow-up. There was a small reduction in overall symptoms, but no significant between-group differences were observed. Change in VO₂max correlated negatively with the change in depressive symptoms. Mediation analysis showed a significant effect of change in VO₂max on change in depressive symptoms within HIIT. The total effect was moderated by group, and depressive symptoms were more reduced in HIIT. Direct effects, not mediated through VO₂max, were non-significant. Indirect effects, mediated through VO₂max, were non-significant, but the moderated mediation test indicated a non-significant trend of 0.4 points (95% CI: -1.188, 0.087) and a larger reduction in depressive symptoms through VO₂max in HIIT.

CONCLUSION

HIIT reduced depressive symptoms more than AVG, which persisted at follow-up. HIIT may serve as a complementing treatment option targeting these symptoms in individuals with schizophrenia, even before they reach clinical depression. Depressive symptoms are important to prevent, stabilize, and treat due to their negative implications for psychological wellbeing and long-term functional outcome. Reduction in depressive symptoms was associated with improved VO₂max, and non-significant trends in the data supported that improved VO₂max may be part of the complex mechanisms underlying the anti-depressive effect of HIIT.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

[www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NCT02205684].

Metabolic Syndrome and Dietary Habits in Hospitalized Patients with Schizophrenia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and Objectives: The true prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and the reason for it being higher in patients with schizophrenia when compared to general population have not yet been fully determined. Although being considered as one of the major causes, currently there are limited findings regarding differences in dietary patterns of schizophrenic patients with and without MetS. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of MetS among hospitalized patients with schizophrenia, to investigate the differences in socio-demographic, clinical, and lifestyle characteristics between participants with and without MetS, with the special emphasis being put on their dietary habits, and to ascertain the correlation between dietary habits and MetS components. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study included 259 hospitalized patients with schizophrenia aged ≥ 18 years. All participants underwent basic anthropometric measurements, blood sampling and blood pressure assessment, and provided relevant socio-demographic and lifestyle information. The presence of MetS was determined according to the Joint Interim Statement definition and dietary habits were assessed using a non-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Results: The overall prevalence of MetS was 47.9%. No socio-demographic or lifestyle differences were found between participants with and without MetS. A large number of participants (42.9%) reported consuming carbonated soft drinks on a daily basis. Daily frequency of fruit (11.6%) and vegetables intake (29.3%) was far below recommended. Dietary habits of participants with and without MetS did not significantly differ, while consumption frequencies of some of the studied food and beverage items and groups significantly correlated with certain MetS components (such as statistically significant positive correlation between cured meat products consumption frequency and waist circumference, as well as between red meat consumption frequency and systolic blood pressure). Conclusions: The concept of the present study did not allow us to distinguish to what extent the participants’ dietary habits were influenced by independent procurement of food products, nor has it allowed us to quantify the portion sizes of consumed food and beverage items and groups. Nevertheless, the findings indicate the need for early identification of individuals with high MetS risk and for the incorporation of nutritional support programs into hospital treatment of patients with schizophrenia.

High-intensity interval training and active video gaming improve neurocognition in schizophrenia: a randomized controlled trial

There is a need for treatments targeting neurocognitive dysfunctions in schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to investigate the neurocognitive effect of aerobic high-intensity interval training (HIIT). A comparison group performed sport simulating active video gaming (AVG). We anticipated that HIIT would improve neurocognition beyond any effect of AVG, due to engagement in higher intensity cardiorespiratory demands. Recent research on the beneficial neurocognitive effect of AVG challenges this expectation but added new relevance to comparing the two interventions. This is an observer-blinded randomized controlled trial. Eighty-two outpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia were allocated to HIIT (n = 43) or AVG (n = 39). Both groups received two supervised sessions per week for 12 weeks. The attrition rate was 31%, and 65% of the participants were defined as protocol compliant study completers. Intention-to-treat analyses showed significant improvements in the neurocognitive composite score from baseline to post-intervention and from baseline to 4 months follow-up in the total sample. The same pattern of results was found in several subdomains. Contrary to our hypothesis, we found no interaction effects of time and group, indicating equal effects in both groups. Separate within-group analysis unexpectedly showed trends of differential effects in the learning domain, as HIIT showed post-intervention improvement in verbal but not visual learning, while AVG showed improvement in visual but not verbal learning. HIIT and AVG improve neurocognition equally, suggesting that both interventions may be applied to target neurocognition in schizophrenia. Future research should investigate trends towards possible differential effects of exercise modes on neurocognitive subdomains. NCT02205684, 31.07.14.

Development of salutogenic coping skills: experiences with daily challenges among young adults suffering from serious mental illness

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to explore experiences with daily challenges and the development of salutogenic copings skills among young adults with serious mental illness.

METHODS

Nine young adults with serious mental illness were interviewed. The interviews were transcribed and subjected to reflexive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Two main themes were identified through the analysis: "The influence of symptoms in everyday life and challenges with participating in the community" and "Making the small things matter." The findings show that different life experiences, or on-going challenges, often can affect or interfere their lives on a daily basis, and that previous experiences with psychosis can contribute to the development of salutogenic coping skills.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows the importance of increased knowledge and awareness of different life experiences and challenges among people with serious mental illness such as schizophrenia spectrum disorders. It is significant to strengthen the ability to identify and use appropriate resistance resources to promote salutogenic coping skills and thus better health. Furthermore, it is important to be aware that the development of salutogenic coping skills must be personalized to cultural contexts and society as well as supported by local communities, families and services.

Effect of high-intensity interval training on cardiorespiratory fitness, physical activity and body composition in people with schizophrenia: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Exercise may improve cardiorespiratory fitness in people with schizophrenia, however, possible condition-specific cardiorespiratory disadvantages, a scarcity of methodologically sound studies, and conflicting results raise questions about the effect of exercise on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) in this group. The primary aim of this study, therefore, was to investigate the effect of high-intensity interval training on VO2max in people with schizophrenia. Second, we sought to determine whether the intervention would have an effect on general physical activity (PA) level and body composition.

METHODS

Eighty-two patients with schizophrenia were randomly assigned to supervised high-intensity interval training or computer gaming skills training, performed twice a week for 12 weeks. Oxygen uptake was measured directly, during a maximum exercise session on a treadmill. PA level were assessed using ActiGraph accelerometer, and body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance. Differences between groups were assessed by analysis of variance using a univariate general linear model.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the groups on any of the cardiorespiratory variables neither at baseline nor after the program. There were also no significant within-group differences in any of the cardiorespiratory fitness variables between the baseline and post-program time points, despite that 61% of the participants performing high-intensity interval training showed a significant increase in workload on the treadmill. However, 47% of the participants in the high-intensity interval training group had a ≥ 5% increase in VO2max. Participants supervised by mental health care providers with PA competence (e.g. rehabilitation center staff, sport scientist, physical trainer) had a much larger increase in VO2max compared to participants supervised by mental health workers without such competence, and when adding PA competence to the model, the intervention group increased VO2max significantly compared to the comparison group. The intervention had no significant effect on PA level or body composition.

CONCLUSIONS

The intervention did not improve VO2max, PA level or body composition but succeeded in increasing workload on the treadmill. With regard to VO2max, approximately half of the patients may be considered responders.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov ; NCT02205684 , registered July 2014.

Motivational theory-based interventions on health of people with several mental illness: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Motivational theory-based interventions are known to be effective for increasing physical activity (PA) in the general population but their effects in people with severe mental illness are poorly understood. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis on the effect of these interventions on PA and cardiometabolic risk factors. A systematic search of randomized controlled trials through 6 databases was carried out from inception to March 2019. Analyses were conducted using random-effect models. Weighted mean difference (WMD) were used as effect size when outcomes had the same units, otherwise Hedge's g was used. Fourteen articles including 2128 participants were identified. Motivational theory-based interventions were effective in increasing PA (g = 0.27, 95%CI[0.03; 0.51], p = .003), reducing weight (WMD = -1.87 kg, 95%CI[-2.98; -0.76], p = .001), body mass index (WMD = -0.82 kg/m², 95%CI[-1.23; -0.41], p = .009), waist circumference (WMD = -1.91 cm, 95%CI[-3.63; -0.18], p = .03) and fasting glucose (g = -0.17, 95%CI[-0.34; -0.001], p = .04). Larger effect sizes were found in interventions based on only one theoretical model of motivation. In conclusion, interventions using motivational theories are effective to improve PA levels and the cardiometabolic health profile of people with severe mental illness. Systematic review registration: CRD42018104445.

Is there an association between cardiorespiratory fitness and stage of illness in psychotic disorders? A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Clinical staging models describe where an individual exists on a continuum from asymptomatic at-risk states (Stage 0) through to established late-stage disease (Stage 4). We applied this framework to systematically assess evidence for any associations between objectively assessed cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and stage of psychosis.

METHOD

Nine electronic databases were searched for relevant publications from inception until October 31, 2019. Pooled effect sizes (Hedges' g and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI)) were estimated for differences in CRF for studies that reported mean oxygen uptake (max, peak, or predicted VO₂ in ml/kg/min).

RESULTS

Thirty-eight studies were eligible. Findings indicated that suboptimal CRF can be present at Stages 0 and 1. Meta-analyses of 22 studies demonstrated that CRF was significantly reduced in individuals classified between Stages 1 and 4 compared with matched or general population controls (g = -0.93; 95% CI -1.14, -0.71). Mean VO₂ was decreased by 28% in Stage 4 compared with Stage 1 (34.1 vs. 24.66 ml/kg/min); the largest effect size for CRF reduction was reported between Stages 2 and 3 (g = -1.16; 95% CI -1.31, -1.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Although not identifying direct causal links between clinical stage and CRF, using this framework may enhance understanding of co-associations between mental and physical health markers across the entire spectrum of psychosis. Limitations include lack of research on CRF in Stages 0 and 1 alongside problems determining stage in some studies. However, impaired CRF is reported in emerging psychosis, supporting calls that early intervention programmes should address both mental and physical wellbeing.

Aerobic interval training in standard treatment of out-patients with schizophrenia: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility and effects of integrating aerobic interval training (AIT) in standard care of out-patients with schizophrenia on aerobic capacity and conventional cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors.

METHODS

Out-patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder were randomized to the following: 1) a training group (TG), performing AIT 2 day/week at the clinic with adherence support from municipal services; or 2) a control group (CG), given two AIT sessions and encouraged to exercise on their own. Feasibility was assessed through retention/adherence. V˙O2peak was measured directly along with conventional CVD risk factors before and after 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Of 48 out-patients, 16/25 and 18/23 completed the TG and CG respectively. After 12 weeks, V˙O2peak was higher (2.7 ± 4.8 ml/kg/min, P < 0.01) in the TG compared with the CG. The TG improved V˙O2peak by 3.1 ± 3.7 ml/kg/min (P < 0.01), while no change in the CG was observed. No intergroup difference in weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, lipids, or glucose at posttest was observed. Weight (1.9 ± 4.0 kg, P < 0.05) and BMI (0.5 ± 1.1 kg/m² , P < 0.05) increased in the CG, with no change in the TG.

CONCLUSION

AIT, combined with adherence support, of out-patients with schizophrenia was feasible, improved V˙O2peak , and may be integrated in standard care. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02743143).

Strategies to counter antipsychotic-associated weight gain in patients with schizophrenia

Introduction: Patients living with schizophrenia have a marked risk of clinically significant weight gain and obesity compared to the general population. The risks have been highlighted following the introduction of second-generation antipsychotics. In turn, obesity is associated with a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease, the most common cause of premature mortality in patients with schizophrenia.Areas covered: In this review, the authors outline possible mechanisms that induce obesity in patients with schizophrenia taking antipsychotics. The authors discuss the safety and effectiveness of three main approaches for attenuating antipsychotic-associated weight gain (AAWG), including lifestyle interventions, switching antipsychotics, and augmentation with other medications.Expert opinion: When selecting antipsychotics, effective treatment of psychotic symptoms should be highest priority but obesity and related metabolic comorbidities associated with antipsychotics should not be neglected. Further research into mechanisms of weight gain associated with antipsychotics will guide future treatments for AAWG and development of antipsychotics that produce minimal metabolic adverse effects. With current strategies only producing modest weight loss in already overweight and obese individuals, clinicians should transition to an approach where they aim to prevent weight gain when initiating antipsychotic treatment.

The Association Between Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Cognition Appears Neither Related to Current Physical Activity Nor Mediated by Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in a Sample of Outpatients With Schizophrenia

Objective: We investigated whether levels of current physical activity (PA) contribute to the established relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and cognition in schizophrenia and whether brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) or its precursor proBDNF mediates this relationship. Method: Sixty-one outpatients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders participated. Neurocognition was assessed with the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and nine subtests from the MATRICS battery comprising a neurocognitive composite score (NCS). CRF was assessed with peak oxygen uptake (VO_2peak) measured directly during a maximum exercise test. Current PA levels were objectively assessed by an accelerometer worn for four consecutive days. BDNF and proBDNF were measured in fasting blood. Four serial parallel mediation analyses and two additional parallel mediation analyses were conducted, while controlling for age and sex at all levels. Results: No direct effects were found between PA measures and WAIS or NCS. No significant mediating effects of CRF or BDNF/proBDNF were detected. Conclusion: The results do not support the hypothesis that PA contributes to the naturally occurring relationship between CRF and cognition in schizophrenia or the hypothesis that BDNF or proBDNF mediates this relationship. The results arguably support the assumption that the association between CRF and cognition in schizophrenia is established developmentally early. Clinical Trial Registration: www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT02205684.

Objectively Assessed Daily Steps-Not Light Intensity Physical Activity, Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity and Sedentary Time-Is Associated With Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Patients With Schizophrenia

People with schizophrenia often have an unhealthy sedentary lifestyle with low level of physical activity and poor cardiorespiratory fitness-an important predictor of cardiovascular disease. We investigated the relations between cardiorespiratory fitness and both sedentary time and different aspects of physical activity, such as daily steps, light intensity physical activity, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Using accelerometer as an objective measure of sedentary time and physical activity we estimated their relations to cardiorespiratory fitness in 62 patients with schizophrenia with roughly equal gender distribution, mean age of 36 and 15 years illness duration. We found a significant association between daily steps and cardiorespiratory fitness when accounting for gender, age, sedentary time, light intensity physical activity, and respiratory exchange ratio (maximal effort). Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was not significantly associated with cardiorespiratory fitness. In conclusion, the amount of steps throughout the day contributes to cardiorespiratory fitness in people with schizophrenia, independently of light intensity physical activity and sedentary time. We did not find a significant relationship between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness. This may have implications for the choice of strategies when helping patients with schizophrenia improve their cardiorespiratory fitness.