Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted various aspects of life, including physical activity (PA) levels among children and young adults, particularly those with preexisting cardiovascular conditions. The research article titled "Effects of COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity in children and young adults with implanted devices" provides valuable insights into these changes. As practitioners focused on improving child health outcomes, understanding and applying these findings can guide interventions and promote better health practices.
Research Findings
The study utilized data from electronic health records and implanted cardiac devices to objectively measure changes in PA during different phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. The cohort consisted of 87 children and young adults with implanted cardiac devices, including cardiac monitors, pacemakers, and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators. The study found a significant decline in PA during the stay-at-home order compared to the same period in 2019, with a decrease of 25.6 minutes per day on average. Although PA levels increased slightly after restrictions were lifted, they remained lower than pre-pandemic levels.
Implications for Practitioners
These findings highlight the critical role practitioners can play in mitigating the negative effects of reduced PA. Here are some strategies practitioners can implement:
- Utilize Device Data: Leverage the continuous PA data from implanted devices to monitor and counsel patients on maintaining adequate activity levels.
- Promote Structured Activities: Encourage participation in structured physical activities, even in virtual formats, to counteract the decline in PA.
- Targeted Interventions: Develop targeted interventions for minority populations and females, who were found to have lower PA levels during the reopening phase.
- Educate on Health Benefits: Educate patients and their families about the cardiovascular and psychosocial benefits of regular physical activity.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides important insights, it also underscores the need for further research to understand the long-term consequences of reduced PA due to public health policies. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in or support research efforts that explore:
- The long-term health outcomes of reduced PA in children with cardiovascular conditions.
- The effectiveness of different intervention strategies in promoting PA during pandemics or similar disruptions.
- The role of technology in facilitating PA and monitoring health outcomes.
Conclusion
By understanding and applying the findings from this study, practitioners can play a pivotal role in improving health outcomes for children and young adults with cardiovascular conditions. The integration of device-based data into clinical practice offers a promising avenue for personalized interventions and enhanced patient care.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Effects of COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity in children and young adults with implanted devices.
