An evaluation of a physical activity and exercise promotion pathway for young patients with congenital heart disease

---

Whilst it is widely accepted that physical activity is beneficial for both cardiovascular and overall health, little data is available on whether physical activity is beneficial for young people with congenital heart disease (CHD).

This study aimed to utilise existing exercise guidelines for this patient group, combined with the HRUK toolkits to evaluate the efficacy of prescribed exercise for these young patients This study was significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning they were unable to fulfil their original recruitment targets.

The team was able to implement a successful trial at Bristol. The primary outcome that was being measured was aerobic fitness, a known indicator for future mortality and morbidity. Those who were enrolled in the prescribed exercise programme showed an increase in aerobic fitness but the sample size was too small to conclude statistical significance.

Due to the recruitment issues, this study was not able to achieve the original aims that were set out.

However, the initial results are positive and have formed a basis on which further exploration can be built. There are two publications in preparation and the group has secured further funding to continue the research.