Physical activity outcomes following preterm birth

Abstract

Physical activity (PA) is an important mediator of health and disease. Many correlates may play an important role in explaining differences in PA between populations; however, the role of birth outcomes such as prematurity on levels of PA is relatively poorly represented in the literature. Children born preterm may be at risk for reduced levels of PA as they have increased respiratory symptoms as well as decrements in lung function and exercise capacity. Emerging evidence suggests that the effects are prevalent across the whole range of gestational age. This review summarises the current literature in regards to levels of PA in preterm-born children and also explores PA in cohorts of young adults in order to contextualise the possible impact on long term risks to respiratory health.

Keywords: birth weight; bronchopulmonary dysplasia; chronic lung disease of prematurity; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; exercise capacity; physical activity; preterm birth; wheeze.