Priscila Sales De Campos
University Of Santa Catarina State, Brazil
Abstract Title: Single Session of Intermittent Acute Hypoxia and Cardiovascular Responses in Adults with Obesity: Research Protocol for a Triple-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial
Biography:
Physical therapist with a PhD in Health Sciences and Technologies from the University of Brasília (UnB), with additional training at the Heart Institute (InCor-HCFMUSP) and experience in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and intensive care. Completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Florida (USA) and is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the Santa Catarina State University (UDESC), focusing on acute intermittent hypoxia and its applications in individuals with obesity. Works at the Military Hospital of Florianópolis, with an emphasis on rehabilitation of patients with complex comorbidities. Experienced in clinical research, respiratory physiology, and neuroplasticity, with national and international collaborations.
Research Interests:
Acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) involves repeated exposures to low oxygen levels interspersed with normoxia and may induce cardiovascular and autonomic adaptations. However, its acute effects in individuals with obesity remain unclear.
Objective: To evaluate the acute effects of a single AIH session on blood pressure, functional capacity, and psychosocial variables in adults with obesity.
Methods: This randomized, triple-blind, sham-controlled trial will include adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m²), aged 18–60 years. Participants will be allocated to an AIH group (10 cycles of 2 minutes of hypoxia [FiO₂ 9–14%, targeting SpO₂ 80% ± 2%] interspersed with 1 minute of normoxia) or a sham group (normoxic exposure). Randomization will use block allocation with sealed opaque envelopes. The primary outcome is 24-hour blood pressure assessed by ambulatory monitoring (ABPM). Secondary outcomes include functional capacity and psychosocial variables (sleep and mood). The estimated sample size is 15 participants per group (α = 0.05; power = 90%). Repeated-measures ANOVA will assess group, time, and interaction effects. Safety criteria include interruption for SpO₂ < 80%, neurological symptoms, or intolerance.
Results: Recruitment began in March 2026 and is ongoing, with completion expected by December 2026.
Conclusions: This trial may demonstrate that a single AIH session may induce acute cardiovascular responses in individuals with obesity, supporting its potential as an adjunct prehabilitation strategy.
