Regular physical activity in children: Does it improve pediatric asthma?

Abstract

Introduction: International guidelines recommend physical activity to improve disease outcomes. Meanwhile, some asthmatic children may be less physically active because of their respiratory symptoms. Our study aimed to evaluate the impact of regular physical activity on asthma control.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study including asthmatic children followed in our department between January 2018 and September 2022. Parents were asked whether their children practice regular sports or not. The population was divided into two groups: one group included patients practising regular physical activity (RPA) and another group not practising sports. RPA was defined as a one-hour PA at least twice a week.

Results: Among the 101 children included, 29 had RPA (28.9%). The most frequent sports reported were taekwondo (6), football (5), swimming (3), and tennis (3), Children with RPA were older (p>0.01). The median follow-up duration was similar between the 2 groups (3.8 years±2). There was no significant difference between the 2 groups regarding treatment adherence (p=0.9), asthma hospitalization (p=0.1), and the average dose of inhaled corticosteroids (p=0.9). However, children who practise sports had better asthma control test scores (p=0.007) and fewer school missing days (p=0.004).

Conclusion: It seems like sport improves the quality of life by reducing pulmonary symptoms in pediatric asthma. Clinicians should insist on the safety and the benefits of RPA in asthmatic children.