Does moderate to vigorous physical activity improve lung function in children with cystic fibrosis in a real-world setting?

Abstract

People with cystic fibrosis (CF) are encouraged to engage in physical activity, but the evidence of benefit on lung function is inconsistent. This study aimed to determine the association between moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and lung function (FEV1) among children with CF in the United Kingdom.

Continuous HR was measured as a proxy for physical activity using Fitbit monitors over 16 months. Lung function measurements were modelled to extrapolate sporadic measures to daily predicted FEV1. Linear mixed-effects models were used to estimate the association between MVPA and FEV1.

Of the 134 participants, few met the recommendations for daily physical activity. There was no evidence to support an association between physical activity and lung function. However, it may not be possible to interpret estimates as participants did very little activity overall. Further research is needed to objectively define intensities of physical activity for children.