The effect of aerobic training on Clara Cell protein 16 (CC16) and cortisol in addicts

Addiction dependency presents itself as change in the level of protective proteins of airways and increase in stress. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of aerobic training on Clara Cell protein 16 (CC16) and cortisol in addicts. In this semi-experimental study, 20 addicted men (20-33 years old) were selected after public call and divided into drug supplement (N=10) and exercise -drug supplement (N=10) groups. The former group performed exercise training to intensity of 70-75% of VO2max for twenty sessions (5 sessions per week and for 45 to 55 minutes in each session). Also they consumed 10 milligrams of methadone. The other group only consumed 10 milligrams of methadone daily. Later on CC16 and cortisol levels in addicts were evaluated. Data were entered into SPSS software for analysis. Analyses show that the level of CC16 decreased significantly in training group (p=0.029, t9=2.591). In addition, level of cortisol decreased significantly in the former group (p=0.03, t9=2.573). We can deduce that presumably the exercise-drug supplement method in comparison to the other intervention is better for treatment of addict subjects. Also, it is a good method to enhance of pulmonary system in these subjects. However, further research is needed to confirm the results of the current study.