[Exercise in children with chronic disease]

Regular physical exercise is gaining acceptance as a prescription for the prevention, management and rehabilitation of diseases occurring in the pediatric and adolescent age group. Exercise is generally used to increase the physical capabilities of these young patients, but, at times, it can directly influence the evolution of the condition. However, in children with chronic diseases, enhanced physical activity can also be deleterious. A well structured exercise program should be implemented. This paper will focus on the role of exercise in different diseases including cardiovascular, pulmonary, neuromuscular disease, diabetes and obesity.