Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Physical Therapy for Cardiopulmonary and Geriatrics Disorders

Background: immunodeficiency is a major cause of illness, especially in people of Old age. Aim of Study: The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of exercise program on immunity system of elderly men with immunodeficiency disorder. Material and Methods: forty men patients with immunodeficiency disorders participated in the study, between 60 and 70 years old. They were divided randomly and equally in numbers into two groups: 20 patients group (A), in which patients received the regular medications plus the exercise program; and 20 patients in group (B), in which patients received just the regular medications. The exercise program contained aerobic, stretching, and strengthening exercises for 50-60 min, three times per week, for 3 months, assessment of patients in each group for immunty level (WBCs and lymphocytes), before and after treatment.Results: There was a significant increase in WBCs count, lymphocytes count and 6MWT post treatment in group(A) and group(B) compared with that pre treatment (p > 0.001). The percent of increase in white blood cells count, lymphocytes count and 6 minutes walk test in the study group was 147.45%, 293.83% and 40.68% respectively, and that for control group was 95.83%, 257.14% and 25.36% respectively Conclusion: exercises are effective in increasing immunity level in men patients with immunodeficiency disorders

Issued also as CD