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Physical Activity and Executive Functioning in Children and Adolescents with Congenital Heart Defects: A Scoping

Amanda Clifton1,2, Neva Kirk-Sanchez2, Gerson Cipriano3

  • 1Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL 33155, USA.

Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease
|October 25, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Physical activity interventions show promise for improving executive functioning (EF) in children with congenital heart defects (CHDs). One study found aerobic exercise improved cognitive and social functioning in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Neuroscience
  • Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

  • Children and adolescents with congenital heart defects (CHDs) often exhibit reduced functional capacity and executive functioning (EF).
  • Brain abnormalities and compromised cerebral perfusion are implicated in these deficits.
  • Physical activity (PA) presents a potential avenue for enhancing EF through cognitive stimulation and improved cerebral blood flow.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review existing evidence on the impact of physical activity (PA) interventions on executive functioning (EF) in children and adolescents (C&As) with congenital heart defects (CHDs).

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature search was conducted across six databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, CENTRAL, PsycInfo) from 2000 to 2024.
  • Inclusion criteria focused on C&As (birth to 18 years) with CHDs, PA interventions, and EF outcomes.
  • Only one study met all inclusion criteria after screening 613 initial articles.

Main Results:

  • The single included study demonstrated significant improvements in self-reported cognitive functioning and parent-reported social functioning.
  • These improvements were observed in children aged 10-15 years with CHDs following a 12-week aerobic exercise program.
  • Identified themes highlighted persistent EF impairments across the lifespan and unique needs of pediatric populations.

Conclusions:

  • Current research on PA interventions for EF in C&As with CHDs is notably limited.
  • Aerobic exercise may positively influence cognitive and social functioning in this population.
  • Further investigation is warranted to fully understand the effects of PA on EF in C&As with CHDs.

Keywords:
adolescentsaerobic trainingchildrencognitioncongenital heart diseaseexercisephysical activity

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