Factors influencing physical activity in adolescents with complex congenital heart disease

Purpose: We aimed to identify factors influencing physical activity in adolescents with complex congenital heart disease. Methods: We recruited 92 adolescents with complex congenital heart disease from a tertiary medical center in Seoul, measured their levels of physical activity, and identified factors that influenced their physical activity levels using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, the New York Heart Association classification, congenital heart disease complexity, the Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Parental Bonding Instrument scale. Stepwise multiple linear regression was used to determine factors influencing physical activity. Results: Total physical activity was higher in males than in females (t=4.46, p < .001). Adolescents who participated in school physical education classes engaged in more physical activity than those who did not (t=6.77, p < .001). Higher self-efficacy (β=.41, p < .001), male gender (β=.37, p < .001) and participation in school physical education classes (β=.19, p=.042) were associated with a higher likelihood of engagement in physical activity. Conclusion: It is necessary to develop nursing interventions that enhance self-efficacy in order to promote physical activity in adolescents with complex congenital heart disease. Physical activity should also be promoted in an individualized manner, taking into account gender, disease severity, and parental attitude.