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Real-time effects of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on pediatric respiratory patients

Michal Cahal1, Israel Amirav1, Nir Diamant1

  • 1Pediatric Pulmonology Unit, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.

Pediatric Pulmonology
|March 17, 2021
PubMed

Insights

The COVID-19 lockdown in Israel led to improved respiratory health in most pediatric patients, but increased anxiety in caregivers. Older children experienced more sedentary lifestyles during this period.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated national lockdowns globally.
  • Understanding the impact of these measures on vulnerable pediatric populations, such as those with chronic respiratory disorders, is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the real-time effects of the national COVID-19 lockdown in Israel on disease expression and lifestyle modifications in pediatric patients with chronic respiratory disorders.

Main Methods:

  • An anonymous electronic questionnaire was administered to caregivers of pediatric patients with chronic respiratory disorders during the March-May 2020 lockdown.
  • Outcomes measured included changes in disease expression, lifestyle, and caregiver emotional status.

Main Results:

  • One-third of 445 pediatric patients showed clinical improvement, with reduced respiratory symptoms, exacerbations, and medication use.
  • Younger children (<5 years), asthmatic patients, and those with multiple respiratory disorders experienced greater improvement.
  • Conversely, older children (>5 years) who worsened showed increased screen time, decreased physical activity, and reduced sleep.
  • Caregiver anxiety levels and perceived patient health risks increased significantly, irrespective of the child's clinical status.

Conclusions:

  • The COVID-19 lockdown was associated with clinical improvement or stability for the majority of surveyed children with chronic respiratory disorders.
  • However, caregivers reported heightened anxiety, and older children exhibited a more sedentary lifestyle.
  • These findings highlight the complex, multifaceted impact of public health interventions on pediatric chronic disease management and family well-being.
Abstract

Keywords:
COVID-19anxietychildrenchronic respiratory disorderslockdownsedentary lifestyle

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