Quadriceps Muscle Strength and Body Mass Index are Associated with Estimates of Physical Activity Postheart Transplantation

BACKGROUND Whilst exercise capacity improves postheart transplantation (HTx), it remains unclear if the level of physical activity (PA) shows similar improvement. The purpose of this study was to (1) describe PA levels and (2) identify factors which may be associated with levels of PA post-HTx. METHODS A prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted at a single centre HTx outpatient clinic. Medically stable adult recipients ≥6months post-HTx were recruited. Physical activity level (PAL) and average daily time spent at least moderately active (≥3 metabolic equivalents (METs)) were estimated using a multisensor device. Factors investigated were demographic (age, sex, body mass index (BMI), time post-HTx and reason for HTx), corticosteroid use, exercise capacity (6 minute walk distance) and quadriceps muscle strength corrected for body weight (QS%). RESULTS The mean post-HTx time of the 75 participants was 9.2±7.0yrs (0.5-26yrs). Twenty-seven (36%) were classified as extremely inactive (PAL1.70). Multivariable analysis showed greater QS% (β=0.004 (0.002-0.006) p=0.001) to be independently associated with increased PAL. For increased time ≥3METs both greater QS% (β=0.0164 (0.003-0.029), p=0.014) and lower BMI (β=-0.0626 (-0.115- -0.0099), p=0.021) were independently associated. CONCLUSIONS The degree of observed sedentary behaviour post-HTx is surprising, with the majority of participants not reaching levels of PA recommended for health benefits. QS% and BMI were the only factors found to be independently associated with estimates of PA. Further quality trials are required to demonstrate the long-term benefits of regular PA and investigate ways of increasing adherence to PA post-HTx. Correspondence: Rebecca Louise Kelly, Physiotherapy Department, The Prince Charles Hospital, Rode Rd, Chermside, 4032, Queensland, Australia, Telephone number: + 61 731394443, Email address: francis_becky@hotmail.com, Rebecca.Kelly2@health.qld.gov.au Authorship Rebecca L Kelly1,3,6 BPhty: Participated in research design, writing the paper, performance of the research and data analysis. Dr James R Walsh1,3,6 PhD: Participated in research design, writing the paper and data analysis. Dr Jennifer D Paratz2,3,4 PhD: Participated in writing the paper. Dr Stephanie T Yerkovich2 PhD: Participated in writing the paper and data analysis. Dr Scott C McKenzie2,6 MBBS: Participated in research design and writing the paper. Professor Norman R Morris3,4,5 PhD: Participated in research design, writing the paper and data analysis. Disclosure The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Funding The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation New Investigator Grant (NR2013-229) was utilized to assist with conducting this research. Amount awarded A$9498.64 Copyright © 2018 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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