Promoting physical activity for people with haemophilia in the age of new treatments
Ruth Elise D. Matlary, Nathalie Grinda, Fionnuala Sayers, Olav Versloot, Paul McLaughlin
Abstract
Haemophilia treatment has seen great advances in recent years with an accompanied reduced risk of physical activity (PA) related bleeds. Based on its known health benefits, people with haemophilia (PWH) are currently encouraged to regularly engage in PA. However, this may not always translate to increased levels of PA. In this narrative review we aim to provide a brief overview of what is currently understood regarding PA levels and influences for the three broad age groups of children and adolescents, adults and older adults. We also provide recommendations for members of the haemophilia team on important aspects related to promotion of PA in their clinical practice. We highlight that PA behaviour is multifactorial and that many PWH still have limited access to adequate care. Whilst some still face unique challenges to being more physically active, overall, the barriers and facilitators to activity are very similar to that of the general population.