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Increasing physical activity in severe asthma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Rebecca F McLoughlin1,2,3, Vanessa L Clark1,2,3, Paola D Urroz1,2,3
1National Health and Medical Research Council, Centre of Excellence in Treatable Traits, Newcastle, Australia.
Physical activity interventions can improve asthma control and quality of life in adults with severe asthma. More research is needed to find the best ways to increase physical activity for these patients.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Exercise Science
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Physical inactivity is prevalent in severe asthma, negatively impacting asthma control and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
- Evidence supports physical activity's role in mitigating these risks, yet optimal interventions for severe asthma remain unclear.
Approach:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated physical activity-based interventions in adults with severe asthma.
- Searched multiple databases up to September 2021 for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
- Assessed physical activity outcomes, asthma control, and HRQoL, using the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and random-effects meta-analyses.
Key Points:
- Four RCTs (N=176) involving moderate-to-severe asthma patients were included.
- Interventions included moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic and resistance training, and unsupervised pedometer-based programs.
- Meta-analyses demonstrated significant improvements in steps per day, asthma control, and HRQoL.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity interventions show promise for improving physical activity levels, asthma control, and HRQoL in severe asthma.
- Higher-quality, large-scale, and longer-duration studies are necessary to establish optimal intervention strategies.
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