Is there a link between the activity levels of parents and their children with cystic fibrosis? A scoping review

Abstract

Background Increased exercise levels result in decreased pulmonary exacerbations and hospitalisations in people with cystic fibrosis (CF). There is a clear link in the literature between parental activity levels and that of their children, though this not reported in CF. Objective To investigate whether there is a link between activity levels of parents and children with CF. Method A literature search was conducted to identify studies that evaluated the importance of parental activity and other behavioural factors on children’s activity levels. Two investigators screened titles and abstracts to identify suitable studies using inclusion criteria. A third author reviewed discrepancies with eight articles selected for review. Relevant data was extracted from accepted studies using agreed criteria. Discussion A narrative synthesis was used. The data showed multiple outcome measures discussing adherence and treatment levels within children and young people with CF. Questionnaires were the most commonly used tool to establish activity levels. There were multiple psychosocial programmes effectively used in people with CF. There was limited evidence on the impact parents play on a child’s activity levels or their adherence to treatment. Conclusion There is currently no clear link between parental activity levels and activity levels for children with CF, or adherence to physiotherapy treatment in CF. Evidence shows that family-based interventions can increase a child’s adherence to a variety of CF related treatments. Limitations There is limited research currently published in this area meaning that only eight studies were included for review. Selected studies used a range of methodologies making data analysis and synthesis challenging.