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Physical Activity Levels in Children with Esophageal Atresia and Congenital Heart Disease: A Comparative Multicenter

Luisa Maria Frankenbach1, Anne-Sophie Holler2, Christina Oetzmann von Sochaczewski3

  • 1Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany.

European Journal of Pediatric Surgery : Official Journal of Austrian Association of Pediatric Surgery ... [Et Al] = Zeitschrift Fur Kinderchirurgie
|September 23, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Physical activity (PA) is reduced in patients with esophageal atresia (EA) and congenital heart disease (CHD). Promoting PA is crucial for these children to prevent sedentary behavior complications.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Health
  • Cardiology
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Esophageal atresia (EA) is linked to impaired motor development, cardiopulmonary function, and physical activity (PA).
  • Congenital heart disease (CHD) is often implicated in reduced PA in EA patients, though evidence is limited.
  • This study investigates PA levels in EA patients without CHD compared to those with CHD and healthy controls.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess and compare moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels in children with isolated EA, those with EA and CHD, and healthy controls.
  • To identify factors associated with reduced PA in EA patients.
  • To inform follow-up strategies for promoting PA in EA patients.

Main Methods:

  • A multicenter study included EA patients aged 6-17 years.
  • Moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) was measured using the Motorik-Modul Physical Activity Questionnaire.
  • EA patients were matched 1:4 with CHD patients and healthy controls; patients with both EA and CHD were excluded.

Main Results:

  • Mean MVPA was significantly lower in EA patients (492 min/week) and CHD patients (463 min/week) compared to controls (613 min/week).
  • MVPA was further reduced in females and older age groups within both EA and CHD cohorts.
  • No statistical association was found between EA type, current symptoms, or surgical approach and MVPA levels in EA patients.

Conclusions:

  • Both isolated EA and CHD are associated with reduced physical activity, particularly in adolescent females.
  • Sedentary behavior poses additional risks, highlighting the need for PA promotion in follow-up care.
  • Interventions to increase PA are recommended for children with EA and CHD to mitigate long-term health issues.
Abstract

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