Effects of physical exercise on quality of life, aerobic capacity and pulmonary functions in children with asthma

ABSTRACT EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL EXERCISE ON QUALITY OF LIFE, AEROBIC CAPACITY AND PULMONARY FUNCTIONS IN CHILDREN WITH ASTHMA Effects of physical training on cardiopulmonary fitness and pulmonary functions in asthmatic children have been studied in the literature, yet few studies concentrated on the quality of life (QOL). The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of regular submaximal exercise of indoor activities on QOL, aerobic capacity and pulmonary functions in children with mild-moderate asthma. Fifty four children with mild-moderate asthma (age 10.1+2.1, 36 male, 18 female) were randomly allocated into exercise (E, n=28) and control (C, n=26) groups. E group underwent a moderately intensive basketball training program; 3 days a week, 60 min daily for 8 weeks. Regular home respiratory exercise program was advised to both groups. Pediatric Asthma QOL Questionnaire (PAQLQ) was used for the evaluation of activity limitation, symptoms and emotional functions in asthmatic children. Aerobic capacity was evaluated through the physical working capacity test (PWC 170) on a cycle ergometer and hallway 6 min walk test distance. Spirometric tests were performed simultaneously. Medication and symptom scores were also recorded. All tests were repeated at the end of training program. Although PAQLQ scores demonstrated significant improvement in both groups (p<0.001 for E group and p<0.01 for C group), the difference of QOL in E group was significantly higher than C group. PWC 170 test results increased significantly in E group (p<0.05) whereas no improvement was detected in C group. Both groups demonstrated increase in 6 min walk test distance, but the improvement was significant only in E group.(p<0.05) No improvements in spirometric values were detected in both groups except PEF values in E group. (p<0. 05) Medication and symptom scores decreased significantly in E group. Our results support the positive effects of regular exercise on QOL and aerobic capacity in children with asthma. Eight weeks of regular submaximal basketball training is an effective alternative program for asthmatic children. Key words: Asthma, quality of life, exercise, aerobic capacity VII