The Association between Objectively Measured Physical Activity and the Prevalence of Comorbidities in Lung Transplant Recipients

Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Lung transplant recipients are often physically inactive and are at risk of developing comorbidities. We investigated whether objectively measured physical activity was associated with the prevalence of comorbidities. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Physical activity (accelerometry) and the presence of cardiovascular disease, symptoms of depression and anxiety, diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, lower extremity artery disease, muscle weakness, obesity, and osteoporosis were assessed in 108 lung transplant recipients. Patients were divided into four groups based on daily step count. <b><i>Results:</i></b> A cohort of 108 patients (60 ± 7 years, 51% male, 20 ± 14 months since transplantation) was included. Active patients (&gt;7,500 steps/day) had significantly fewer comorbidities (4 comorbidities) compared to severely inactive patients (&lt;2,500 steps/day, 6 comorbidities), and muscle weakness and high symptoms of depression were less prevalent. Severely inactive patients had significantly more cardiovascular comorbidities compared to all other groups. No other significant differences were observed. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Physically active lung transplant recipients have fewer comorbidities, lower prevalence of muscle weakness, and fewer symptoms of depression compared to very inactive patients.