An investigation of the relationships between physical activity, asthma control and BMI in children with asthma using self-reported measures.

Abstract

Objective: This evaluation aims to assess the physical activity (PA) levels of children with asthma whilst assessing the relationships between PA, asthma control and body mass index (BMI). Design: A quantitative research method was adopted and branded as a service evaluation. Participants: 37 asthmatic participants (mean age of 10.7 including 21 males) were recruited through convenience sampling at an asthma outpatient clinic based in Edinburgh, Scotland. Outcome measures: Participants completed two self-reported questionnaires; the physical activity questionnaire for children (PAQ-C) and the asthma control test (ACT). Both questionnaires were completed within the clinic with parents and/or carers providing assistance if required. Results: Overall the group of participants were achieving low to moderate PA levels with a mean PAQ-C of 2.49. Most common sports found were running, walking, dance and football respectively. The mean ACT was 17.08 suggesting uncontrolled asthma. A small positive relationship was found between PAQ-C and ACT (r=0.12 p=0.49). A small positive relationship was established between the ACT and BMI (r=0.15 p=0.39) and a small weak negative relationship between the PAQ-C and BMI (r=-0.23 p=0.18). Conclusions: Despite the participants achieving low PA, the results are similar to that of healthy children. The small relationships found would suggest that other factors must be contributing to low PA and asthma control levels. PA could be promoted by health professionals to children with asthma in order to achieve higher levels.