RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07132788

Understanding the Effects of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension on Lean Muscle Mass

Sponsor

University of Pennsylvania

Enrollment

150 participants

Start Date

May 1, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Pulmonary Hypertension

Summary

Patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are at increased risk of muscle loss and decreased physical activity. This study will aim to (1) understand the way in which muscle loss occurs in PAH, particularly the role of fat surrounding the heart, and (2) look at the impact muscle loss has on quality of life, daily physical activity, and hospitalizations in patients with PAH. The findings from this study could help identify potentially treatable factors that may improve the overall quality of life and physical functioning of patients with PAH. Subjects will be asked to attend a baseline visit where the following will be performed: * Measure your vital signs * Undergo a research blood draw, less than 4 tablespoons * Provide a urine pregnancy test (if applicable) * Review demographics, personal history, and medical history * Review current PAH medications * Complete questionnaires on how your PAH affects you * Complete a test of physical performance * Complete a grip strength test * Undergo an echocardiogram (Echo) * Complete a six-minute walk test * Undergo a Chest CT Scan * Undergo a scan of your body composition (DXA scan) * Obtain a weight and body composition measurement on the InBody Scale Subjects will also complete activity moniotring, two 24-hour diet recalls, and participate in remote follow-up visits every 6 months

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This clinical trial is studying a behavioral approach called 24 hour diet recall, a behavioral approach called Activity monitoring, and others for people with pulmonary hypertension. The study is currently recruiting participants at 1 location.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

DIAGNOSTIC_TESTblood draw

Research blood draw

DIAGNOSTIC_TESTShort Performance Physical Battery

test of physical performance, which involves measuring movement from sitting to standing, walking speed, and balance

DIAGNOSTIC_TESTGrip strength test

Measures grip strength

DIAGNOSTIC_TESTSix minute walk test

Measures distance walked in 6 minutes

RADIATIONChest CT scan

X-ray and computer technology takes detailed pictures of the organs and structures inside your chest

RADIATIONDual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry Scan

Uses X-ray technology to measure the mineral density of your bones, and provides a ratio of fat tissue to lean mass (muscle) and bone

BEHAVIORALActivity monitoring

A device worn on your non-dominant wrist which measures motion/ movement/ activity

BEHAVIORAL24 hour diet recall

A research dietitian will contact you and ask you to provide details of what you ate over the previous 24 hours

DIAGNOSTIC_TESTEchocardiogram

Ultrasound technology to create moving images of your heart, valves, and chambers

BEHAVIORALQuality of Life Questionnaire (emPHasis 10)

The emPHasis-10 is a pulmonary hypertension-specific questionnaire which is scored from 0-50 (with higher scores indicating worse quality of life.)

BEHAVIORALInternational Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF)

The IPAQ-SF is a small set of questions to obtain comparable estimates of physical activity.

BEHAVIORALLow resistance exercise intervention

Participants will be asked to perform a series of exercises recommend by the National Institute on Aging Go4Life campaign, namely hand grip, overhead arm raise, arm curl, wall push-ups, and chair dips.