Effects of a 6-Week Supervised Aerobic Exercise Program on Functional Capacity in Adults with Pulmonary Hypertension Associated with Congenital Heart Disease

Abstract

Introduction. Pulmonary hypertension associated with congenital heart disease (PH–CHD) is characterized by reduced exercise tolerance and impaired functional capacity due to chronic pulmonary vascular disease and right ventricular pressure overload. Although supervised exercise training is recommended for stable pulmonary arterial hypertension, evidence in adults with PH–CHD remains limited. Aim. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a short-term supervised aerobic exercise program on functional capacity and quality of life in adults with pulmonary hypertension associated with congenital heart disease. Materials and Methods. A quasi-experimental, single-group pre–post study was conducted in adults aged 18-50 years with PH–CHD, functional class I–III, and stable pharmacological therapy. Participants underwent a supervised, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program (40-60 % of heart rate reserve), 30 minutes per session, twice weekly for six weeks. Functional capacity was assessed using the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). Secondary outcomes included estimated maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂ max), metabolic equivalents (METs), and quality of life assessed by the EMPHASIS-10 questionnaire. Results and Discussion. Thirteen participants completed the intervention. The mean 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) increased significantly from 331.62±38.46 m to 384.31±57.31 m (mean difference: 52.69 m; p<0.001). Estimated VO₂ max and METs also improved significantly (both p<0.001). Although EMPHASIS-10 scores showed a numerical reduction, the change was not statistically significant (p=0.445). No cardiovascular adverse events were observed. Conclusions. A 6-week supervised aerobic exercise program is safe and results in clinically meaningful improvements in functional capacity in adults with pulmonary hypertension associated with congenital heart disease; however, short-term training may be insufficient to significantly improve quality of life.

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