Physical Activity Level and Perception of Exercise in Cystic Fibrosis

Abstract

Background:

More cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are living longer, and lifestyle-related behavior is becoming increasingly important for improving morbidity and mortality. Declining levels of exercise leads to a low cardiorespiratory fitness, which is a strong, independent predictor of mortality in CF. As a result, exercise training has become a regularly accepted form of treatment for CF patients. The purpose of this study was to determine the volume of physical activity (PA) and perception of exercise in adult CF patients.

Methods:

Adult patients from an in-patient CF clinic were recruited to participate. A structured interview and self-report questionnaires were used to collect information on volume (time and intensity level) of PA and exercise perception including preferences, readiness, and barriers.

Results:

Forty-six adult CF patients consented to participate in the interview and completed self-report questionnaires. The majority (76%) of participants self-reported performing PA at a moderate level or above. Mean (+ SD) hours per week of physical activity levels by category were as follows; moderate 11.8 + 12.2 (76.4%), hard 1.8 + 4.6 (17.4%), and very hard 0.4 + 1.6 (6.2 %). Most of the adult CF patients preferred walking and 65% of the participants felt exercise was very important. Lack of energy, good health, self-discipline, and time were noted as the most frequent barriers to exercise. Moderate PA was associated with both physiological and psychological factors.

Conclusions:

Based on this study, adult CF patients self-report performing an adequate amount of moderate PA. However, a small proportion of time is spent at a vigorous PA level. Clinicians providing individualized care during rehabilitation have an opportunity for improving adherence to prescribed exercise that may positively impact both physiological and psychological factors. Further, motivating CF patients to engage in more vigorous PA may provide a stimulus that improves clinical outcomes and potentially survival. Key words: cystic fibrosis; physical activity; exercise; aerobic fitness; exercise barriers; cystic fibrosis survival.