662 Exercise in Adults With Congenital Hart Disease

Abstract

To assess activity and exercise levels, attitudes and barriers to exercise in the ACHD population. Surveys were given to 50 patients with ACHD. Data collected included baseline demographics, diagnosis, dose of exercise, activities during leisure and at work. . 36 (72%) surveys were returned – 2 were excluded as incomplete/not possible. The median age of patients was 29 (IQR 26-39.5) years and 22 (64%) were female. 11 patients (32%) did not know their diagnosis. Exercise was important with a mean score of 3.75 (SD1.13). The median dose of exercise was 14 (IQR 3-22) hours per week with 7 (20%) exercising below recommended levels. There was no correlation between the importance of exercise to the patient or perception of activity level compared to peers with dose of exercise (R2=0.08 and 0.15 respectively). Most patients recorded their health as good, or very good. A variety of barriers to exercise were identified including fear of exercise. 30% of patients would attend formal exercise sessions if they were available. Hours spent in sedentary activity (TV or computer) were high with a median 30 (IQR 18-44) hours per week. A significant number of patients did not know their diagnosis. Most patients with ACHD report feeling well and exercise well above recommended levels. Hours spent on sedentary activity were high in keeping with trends seen in the general population. A targeted approach focusing on those who do not exercise enough including offering an exercise rehabilitation program may be beneficial.