Randomized clinical trial with parallel groups to compare changes in N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (ProBNP1-76) levels in patients with chronic heart failure subject to a supervised exercise program versus a community based exercise p

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate ProBNP_{1- 76} levels of a group of patients with chronic heart failure, who performed a protocolized exercise program and compare them with a control group with community-based exercise program.

Design and Methods: Controlled clinical trial with double masking, parallel design in patients older than 18 years with diagnosis of heart failure, New York Heart Association (NYHA) II-IV Classification, to compare the change in Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide (ProBNP_1-76)

Results: Twenty-three (23) patients were admitted to the intervention group and 26 to the control group. Five patients died, six refused to complete all assessments and one patient failed to perform the cardiopulmonary exercise test. ProBNP_{1- 76} levels and oxygen consumption (VO₂) were not altered significantly in the intervention group when compared to the control group. Health-related quality of life improved significantly in the intervention group in the dimensions of change in the perception of health status (p = 0.007), emotional performance (p = 0.011), physical performance (p = 0.006), physical function (p = 0.024), mental health (p = 0.009) and general health (p = 0.01).

Conclusion: The application of a supervised exercise program in patients with heart failure did not modify brain natriuretic peptide levels or oxygen consumption at eight weeks, but was effective in improving health-related quality of life (Clinical trials number NCT02087670).