Self-Reported Physical Activities of Children Aged 9 to 14 Years Who Have Been Treated For Congenital Heart Disease.

Abstract

Children with congenital heart disease (CHD) often experience limited physical activity due to protective behavior from parents and physicians. This study aimed to assess whether physical activity remains insufficient in children post-CHD treatment. A descriptive study was conducted with 40 children aged 9 to 14 years who had been treated for CHD at least 12 months prior and were clinically stable without medication. A control group of 40 healthy peers was included. Physical activity data were collected using a demographic form and the Physical Activity Questionnaire adapted to the Turkish language. The patient group reported significantly lower engagement in running (P = .013) and gymnastics (P =.014). Also, the difference between the groups in terms of their degrees of engagement in physical education classes in the last 7 days was significant (P = .001). Despite being free from heart disease, these children demonstrated limited physical activity, which in turn underscores the educational objective of enhancing encouragement to foster greater physical engagement.