Effectiveness of Exercise on Visceral Adipose Tissue in Older South Asian Women.

Introduction: Individuals of South Asian (SA) origin have a greater risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease than other ethnic populations. This increased risk is in part explained by the unique obesity phenotype of elevated visceral adipose tissue (VAT) among this population. Aerobic exercise in Europeans is effective at reducing VAT but this has not been studied in SA who have some of the lowest levels of physical activity in the world. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine if exercise can reduce VAT given the unique obesity phenotype and associated disease risk in the SA population. Methods: A total of 75 physically inactive, post-menopausal SA women were randomized to either culturally-based (Bhangra dance), standard (gym-based) or a control (non-exercise) program for 12-weeks. The primary outcome was change in VAT. Results: The average attendance in the culturally-based and standard program was 78 +/- 33% and 67 +/- 25%, respectively. Following an intent-to treat analysis, VAT was not significantly reduced in culturally-based (-60cm3, 95%CI: -172, 54, p=0.300) or standard (-98cm3, 95% CI: -216, 21, p=0.106) exercise compared to control after adjustment for baseline physical activity and age. In those participants who attended more than two-thirds of the exercise classes, VAT was significantly reduced compared to control (-109cm3, 95%CI: -204, -13, p=0.026). Conclusion: In intent-to-treat analysis VAT was not significantly reduced after 12-weeks of either standard or culturally-based exercise. However, attendance in both standard and culturally-based exercise was high and VAT was significantly reduced among SA women who adhered to these programs. (C) 2016 American College of Sports Medicine

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