BENEFITS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR ORGAN TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS : A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF MEDICAL PUBLICATIONS

Introduction:

Physical activity (PA) is recognized as essential for enhancing the health and quality of life of organ transplant recipients (OTR). This systematic review aims to consolidate the findings from various published studies, highlighting the multiple benefits that physical activity confers on this population.

Methods:

A comprehensive systematic review was conducted using PubMed/Medline and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, focusing on studies published between 2000 and 2024 that discuss the benefits of PA for OTR.
The initial search identified 138 relevant publications.
Following a detailed screening process, only studies that assessed the impact of PA during the post-transplant period were included in the final analysis, which encompassed 65 studies from 19 different countries. These studies predominantly consisted of cohort studies, reviews, and randomized controlled trials. The analysis was both quantitative and qualitative, providing a broad perspective on the subject.

Figure: Distribution of Studies Across Different Types of Solid Organ Transplants

Results:

Observed benefits
The analysis revealed that almost all studies reported positive outcomes associated with PA in OTR.

Figure: Frequency of reported benefits of Physical Activity across analyzed studies

Qualitative Analysis

PA provides significant health benefits for OTR, underscoring its necessity as a vital therapeutic intervention.

There is a demonstrated need for structured programs, including supervised exercise, coaching, and educational workshops, to maximize the benefits of PA.

Regular, weekly exercise tailored to individual needs is recommended as a standard approach for OTR.

Early rehabilitation programs should be implemented to ensure optimal recovery and long-term health outcomes.

It is crucial to raise awareness among transplant professionals and healthcare providers about the importance of PA, including the need for exercise prescriptions and collaboration with sports medicine centers.

Several barriers to increasing PA were identified, including patients’ perceived limitations regarding exercise.

Conclusions:

The most frequently observed benefits of PA for OTR are: Reduction of Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Improvement in Strength and Body Composition, Enhanced Quality of Life and Well-being

Structured programs with supervised exercise, tailored weekly plans, and early rehabilitation are essential for optimal recovery and long-term health in OTR. Raising awareness among healthcare providers about PA and addressing barriers to exercise are crucial.

The review emphasizes the importance of conducting further research specifically on pediatric and adolescent populations.

Additionally, long-term studies on recipients under 40 years old, as well as the development of standardized key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the benefits of PA, would provide valuable insights and guidelines for clinical practice.

I have no potential conflict of interest to disclose.

I used generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process.
During the preparation of this work the author(s) used Chat GPT 3.5 in order to improve only readability and language. After using this tool/service, the author(s) reviewed and edited the content as needed and take(s) full responsibility for the content of the publication.