Physical activity levels and self-efficacy of Greek children with congenital heart disease compared to their healthy peers

Objective: It remains a challenge for children with congenital heart disease (CHD) to develop healthy lifestyle behaviors. This study investigates the interrelationship of physical activity and self-efficacy levels in Greek children with corrected CHD and compares them with those of healthy controls. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study of 76 patients with operated CHD and 78 healthy volunteers (n = 154) was conducted. The Self Efficacy Scale and Previous Day Physical Activity Recall self-reporting questionnaires were used to assess self-efficacy and physical activity, respectively. Calculated metabolic equivalent of task (MET) provided an indication of participation in moderate and vigorous physical activities. Results: Mean physical self-efficacy in children with CHD was 29.01 +/- 7.28, while that in healthy volunteers was 29.04 +/- 6.60 (p = 0.076). Average physical activity levels-METs in children with CHD (2.38 +/- 0.85) were significantly lower than those in controls (3.1 +/- 0.95). Physical self-efficacy and physical activity were positively correlated (r = 0.515, p = 0.001), thus indicating that children with higher self-efficacy engaged in more vigorous physical activities. In children with CHD, self-efficacy was quite important in predicting physical activity, thus explaining almost 'A of the variability in observed activities. Conclusion: The low physical activity levels exhibited by Greek children with corrected CHD can lead to a sedentary adult lifestyle. Improving physical self-efficacy may help encourage them and consequently increase their physical activity levels. School-based education initiatives and athletic programs can play an important role in improving this. (C) 2019 Hellenic Society of Cardiology. Publishing services by Elsevier B.V.