(273) Exercise, Quality of Life, and Pulmonary Function in Adolescents and Adults with Cystic Fibrosis After Monitored Activity

Background: Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive multisystem disease affecting the lungs and many other systems. The effects of aerobic exercise on the amelioration of disease as well as quality of life of people with CF has been a topic of study with existing literature pointing to beneficial outcomes [1,2,3]. While the existing literature has suggested positive effects from exercise interventions, the majority of studies have relied on self-reports [2,3]. The objective of our study was to accurately measure exercise in adolescents and adults with CF using a smartwatch and to study the effects of a 12-week exercise intervention on pulmonary function and quality of life.

Methods: Fifteen individuals (10-23 years) with CF were recruited at Duke CF clinics and consented to a 12-week exercise intervention. Participants were given smartwatches and instructed on proper use and recording of a timed activity. At baseline and 12 weeks, participants completed a sit-to-stand test and standard of care clinic data was abstracted, including demographics and PFTs. At baseline, weeks 4, 8, and 12, and 3-months, participants completed Quality of Life (QoL) questionnaires including Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), and Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire- Revised (CFQ-R). Baseline exercise data was recorded at weeks 1-2. From week 3 to 12, participants were sent emails with exercise reminders, plans, and links to video workouts. SAS statistical software package was used to analyze data. Repeated measures ANOVA was completed for clinical and quality of life data.

Results: Of the 15 participants enrolled, 4 were non-compliant, 8 completed the 12-week program, and 3 participants are currently active. Participants exercised an average of 39.4 and 54.6 minutes per week, during the baseline and intervention period, respectively. Repeated Measures ANOVA indicated that mean GAD-7 scores were significantly reduced at 8 weeks compared to baseline (F 7,2= 5.05, p=.002). Preliminary data from participants who completed the study showed no significant changes in physical or pulmonary function.

Conclusions: Our preliminary data suggest a positive effect of exercise on anxiety as our cohort had significantly reduced GAD-7 scores at 8 weeks compared to baseline. Future research efforts will aim at continuing recruitment and improving participant retention and compliance.

Acknowledgements:

References: [1] Kriemler S, Radtke T, Christen G, Kerstan-Huber M, Hebestreit H. Short-Term Effect of Different Physical Exercises and Physiotherapy Combinations on Sputum Expectoration, Oxygen Saturation, and Lung Function in Young Patients with Cystic Fibrosis. Lung. 2016 Aug;194(4):659-64. doi: 10.1007/s00408-016-9888-x. Epub 2016 May 4. PMID: 27147223.

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