Simultaneous Improvement of Habitual Physical Activity and Life Quality in Kidney Transplant Recipients Involved in Structured Physical Activity Program.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to compare the effects of a physical activity program on daily physical activity and quality of life in kidney transplant (KTx) recipients and in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 24 KTx recipients and 15 patients with stage 3 to 4 CKD. Habitual physical activity was monitored for 72 hours. Individualized structured programs of increased physical activity were prepared based on baseline physical performance. The measurements were repeated after 1 and 3 months. Participants completed the 36-item Short Form Health Survey questionnaire and an International Physical Activity Questionnaire at baseline and after 1, 2, and 3 months.

RESULTS

Physical activity duration and total energy expenditure significantly increased after 3 months in both KTx recipients (from 126 ± 87 to 200 ± 132 min/d, P = .001, and from 1.73 ± 0.37 to 2.24 ± 0.59 cal/min, P < .001, respectively) and CKD patients (from 79 ± 78 to 129 ± 114 min/d, P < .001, and from 1.5 ± 0.5 to 1.92 ± 0.47 cal/min, P < .001, respectively). Short Form Health Survey total score and physical component scale score improved significantly in both groups. Mental component scale score increased significantly only in KTx patients.

CONCLUSION

Increased physical activity induces similar beneficial effects on total and physical activity component of quality of life and habitual daily activity in CKD and KTx patients.