Older people with HIV who did aerobic and resistance exercise for 16 weeks probably had bigger thigh muscles (7.5% increase) compared to those who didn't (3.1% decrease), and this difference was statistically significant.
Scientific Claim
In older adults with HIV, 16 weeks of aerobic and resistance training was likely associated with a 7.5% increase in thigh muscle area compared to a 3.1% decrease in controls (p < 0.01).
Original Statement
“Significant between-group differences were found for muscle area (+7.5% vs. −3.1%, P < 0.01)”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
overstated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
probability
Can suggest probability/likelihood
Assessment Explanation
The study is an RCT but has a small sample size (N=33) and unknown blinding, so causal claims should use probability verbs. The original claim uses definitive language ('increased'), which overstates the confidence.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Randomized Clinical Trial of High Intensity Exercise in People with HIV: Effects on Muscle Composition and Inflammation.