Changes in Physical Activity Among Spanish Kidney Transplant Recipients: A 12-Month Longitudinal Study

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Transplantation Medicine
• Cardiovascular Health

Background:

• Physical activity is vital for cardiovascular risk reduction and overall health in kidney transplant recipients.
• Understanding physical activity changes before and after transplantation is crucial but underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate energy expenditure and physical activity levels in kidney transplant recipients up to one year post-transplant.
• To analyze the relationship between physical activity and cardiovascular risk factors.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, longitudinal study involving 112 kidney transplant recipients (age ≥ 18).
• International Physical Activity Questionnaire used at baseline and 3, 6, 12 months post-transplant.
• Analysis of sociodemographic, clinical data, and laboratory parameters.

Main Results:

• Physical activity declined at 3 months, showed a partial rebound at 6 months, and decreased again by 12 months, remaining below pre-transplant levels.
• Higher physical activity was observed in men, pre-dialysis patients, overweight individuals, and those with a history of cerebrovascular disease.
• Physical activity correlated with laboratory parameters, suggesting a link between clinical status and activity levels.

Conclusions:

• Physical activity levels in kidney transplant recipients tend to decrease post-transplant.
• Tailored interventions focusing on comorbidities and nutritional status are recommended for improving long-term outcomes.
• Specific populations, including women, older adults, and those with multiple comorbidities, may require particular attention.