MARVEL

Modifying adiposity through behavioral strategies to improve COVID-19 rehabilitation

The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether long-term side effects from the virus that causes COVID-19 infection affects physical function and cells named senescent cells (a cell that ages and permanently stops dividing but does not die). Additionally, we will evaluate interventions in those with a body mass index > 30 to determine if these intervention might have a positive effect on whole body function.

• Over 50-80 years old
• Veteran
• Body mass index: 19-50 kg/m2

• Uncontrolled diabetes (Hgb A1c >10%)
• Active inflammatory, autoimmune, infectious, hepatic, gastrointestinal, malignant, and psychiatric disease
• Neurologic, musculoskeletal, or other condition that limits subject’s ability to complete study physical assessments
• History of keloid formation
• Weight change within the past year of >5 kg
• Self-reported alcohol or drug abuse

• Medical history
• X-ray for body composition
• Adipose tissue biopsies
• CT scans
• Measurement of resting metabolic rate (amount of calories burned while resting)
• Physical functioning assessment
• Blood tests
• Those with a body mass index > 30 will be randomly assigned (like flipping a coin) to 2 groups for 12 weeks: (1) a weight loss group including diet and exercise or (2) a weight stability group including health education and stretching/balancing classes

Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans’ Hospital
7400 Merton Minter
San Antonio, TX 78229

You may receive up to $100 dollars for the completion of this study

Principal Investigator:
Tiffany Cortes, MD

For more information or to volunteer in this study:

• Call (210) 949-9759