Self-Reported Physical Activity and Exercise Patterns in Children With Sickle Cell Disease

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Hematology
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder impacting physical functioning.
• Understanding physical activity (PA) patterns is crucial for managing SCD in children.
• Previous research has not fully explored PA in children with SCD compared to national samples.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare physical activity (PA) patterns in children with SCD to a national sample.
• To identify factors associated with PA levels in children with SCD.
• To examine participation in physical education and organized sports among children with SCD.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 100 children with SCD.
• The survey included questions from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) Physical Activity Questionnaire.
• Additional questions assessed disease impact, physical functioning, and participation in physical education and sports.

Main Results:

• Children with SCD reported more days of moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) weekly but for shorter durations.
• Fewer children with SCD met recommended daily durations for vigorous PA (VPA) and MVPA compared to NHANES participants.
• Disease impact and physical functioning were negatively associated with PA participation.

Conclusions:

• Children with SCD are active but for shorter durations at moderate-to-vigorous intensities.
• Barriers to PA in SCD include negative beliefs about disease impact and impaired physical functioning.
• Interventions should address these barriers to promote PA in children with SCD.