Effects of Aerobic Exercise on Cognitive Function in Women With Methamphetamine Dependence in a Detoxification Program in Tianjin, China: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Cognitive impairment is prevalent among individuals, especially women, with methamphetamine dependence. Although aerobic exercise has been shown to affect cognitive function in humans and animals, few related studies have focused on subjects with methamphetamine dependence. Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the detoxification-related effects of aerobic exercise on cognitive function in women with methamphetamine dependence. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was used with 98 women with methamphetamine dependence undergoing a detoxification program at a mental hospital. The women were distributed using a computer-generated grouping random method into either the study or control group. The investigator conducting the baseline questionnaire, the neuropsychologist assessing the cognitive function, and the data analyst were blinded to group assignment. In addition to hospital routine care, the study group received an aerobic exercise intervention for 3months. The control group only recei