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Exercise training in chronic kidney disease-effects, expectations and adherence.
Naomi Clyne1, Kirsten Anding-Rost2,3
1Department of Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, Institution of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
Regular physical activity offers significant health benefits for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), improving survival and slowing kidney function decline. Exercise training enhances physical function across all CKD stages, with high patient adherence and interest when supported by healthcare professionals.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Exercise Physiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Growing evidence supports the health benefits of physical activity for chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, including improved survival and slower kidney function decline.
- Exercise training demonstrably enhances physical function (aerobic capacity, strength, balance) in all CKD stages and ages.
- Patient adherence to exercise programs is high, with expressed interest in improving physical function and health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the benefits of physical activity and exercise training for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
- To address the gap in knowledge and perceived patient interest among nephrologists regarding exercise prescription.
- To emphasize the crucial role of healthcare professional support and funding for exercise programs in CKD management.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing evidence on physical activity and exercise in CKD.
- Analysis of patient interest and adherence to exercise training programs.
- Assessment of nephrologists' perspectives on prescribing exercise for CKD patients.
Main Results:
- Exercise training significantly improves physical function, including aerobic capacity, muscle strength, and balance, in individuals with CKD.
- Patients with CKD show high adherence and motivation for exercise programs when adequately supported.
- Nephrologists often lack the perceived knowledge to prescribe exercise, despite recognizing its benefits, and underestimate patient interest.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity and structured exercise training are vital non-pharmacological treatments for improving outcomes in chronic kidney disease (CKD).
- Overcoming barriers requires strong support from healthcare professionals and adequate funding for exercise prescription and follow-up by trained professionals.
- Addressing nephrologists' knowledge gaps and patient-specific barriers is essential for integrating exercise into routine CKD care.
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