Exercise Medicine Australia conducts joint research with other research organizations into exercise interventions for disease prevention and rehabilitation. The research focuses on exercise interventions for prevention and management of chronic degenerative conditions and falls; improvement of metal health and cognitive functions; and promotion of active and healthy ageing.
News: A Recent Clinical Trial on the Tai Chi for Cardiopulmonary Health Program
Cardiovascular and respiratory diseases are the leading cause of disease burden in Australia and around the world. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) alone accounts for nearly one third of global deaths. In Australia, heart, stroke and vascular diseases kill more Australians than any other disease groups.
Lung disease poses a significant and growing health challenge in Australia with 2.6 million cases of lung disease reported in 2007-2008.
The Tai Chi for Cardiopulmonary Health Program is safe, targeted and innovative Tai Chi intervention program designed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory disease, improve cardiopulmonary health and the quality of life for cardiopulmonary patients.
A recent clinical trial demonstrated that 12 week practice of the Tai Chi for Cardiopulmonary Health Program has significantly improved the cardiopulmonary patients’ life schema on SIWB.
SIWB index is widely used in studies of chronic illness, aging, and end-of-life care to measure health-related quality of life and wellbeing.
The results of the study also showed a trend for reduction in depressive symptoms in the patients.
Improvement in the patients’ lower limb strength and balance has also been reported.
The study has reported that throughout the trial, there have been no adverse events reported.
The results of the trial were reported at the Inaugural Scientific Meeting of the Pulmonary Hypertension Society of Australia and New Zealand on 25th November 2011 in Sydney, Australia.
