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Open Access 16-12-2023 | Kidney Transplantation | Original Article

Physical activity and its impact on cardiovascular health in pediatric kidney transplant recipients

Authors: Lena Kohlmeier, Jeannine von der Born, Elena Lehmann, Kerstin Fröde, Carl Grabitz, Anne-Sophie Greiner, Alexander A. Albrecht, Nima Memaran, Rizky I. Sugianto, Uwe Tegtbur, Bernhard M. W. Schmidt, Nele Kanzelmeyer, Anette Melk

Published in: Pediatric Nephrology | Issue 5/2024

Abstract

Background

Cardiovascular (CV) morbidity after kidney transplantation (KTx) in childhood is of increasing importance. In light of a high prevalence of CV risk factors, protective measures such as physical activity (PA) come into focus. Our aim was to comprehensively assess PA in pediatric KTx recipients and evaluate its impact on CV health.

Methods

Forty-eight patients were assessed for frequency, duration, intensity, and setting of PA using the “Motorik–Modul” PA questionnaire. Walking-based activity was measured by accelerometer in a subgroup (n = 23). CV risk factors and subclinical CV organ damage were determined. The impact of PA on CV parameters was analyzed using linear regression models.

Results

Fifty-two percent of pediatric KTx recipients did not reach WHO recommended PA level; 54% did not engage in PA with vigorous intensity (VPA). Twenty-nine percent indicated an extremely inactive lifestyle (< 120 min/week of moderate to vigorous intensity PA, MVPA). Compared to the healthy German KiGGS cohort, KTx recipients specifically lacked engagement in sport activities (KTx: 129 min/week; 95%CI, 97–162 vs. KiGGS, 242 min/week; 95%CI, 230–253). VPA was associated with lower systolic blood pressure (p = 0.024) and resting heart rate (p = 0.005), MVPA with fewer components of the post-transplant metabolic syndrome (p = 0.037), and better left ventricular diastolic function (p = 0.006).

Conclusions

A considerable lack of PA, especially VPA, exists in young KTx recipients. PA was positively associated with important parameters of CV health. While long-term CV protection through PA seems promising in pediatric KTx recipients, specific educational approaches are most likely needed to increase patients’ engagement in sport activities.

Graphical abstract

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Title: Physical activity and its impact on cardiovascular health in pediatric kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Lena Kohlmeier
Jeannine von der Born
Elena Lehmann
Kerstin Fröde
Carl Grabitz
Anne-Sophie Greiner
Alexander A. Albrecht
Nima Memaran
Rizky I. Sugianto
Uwe Tegtbur
Bernhard M. W. Schmidt
Nele Kanzelmeyer
Anette Melk
Publication date: 16-12-2023
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Kidney Transplantation
Kidney Transplantation
Kidney Transplantation
Kidney Transplantation
Kidney Transplantation
Kidney Transplantation
Published in: Pediatric Nephrology / Issue 5/2024
Print ISSN: 0931-041X
Electronic ISSN: 1432-198X
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00467-023-06248-7

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Physical activity and its impact on cardiovascular health in pediatric kidney transplant recipients

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Graphical abstract

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Graphical abstract

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