EVALUATION OF THE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS OF COVID-19 PATIENTS IN TURKEY

Authors : Ekin TAÇALAN, Nihan KAFA

Pages : 29-37

Doi:10.21653/tjpr.981642

View : 75 | Download : 76

Publication Date : 2023-04-20

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Purpose: Covid-19 is a viral infection that affects either the respiratory system or the other systems. Studies about the effects of Covid-19 on physical activity are still scarce. This study aims to compare the changes in the physical activity levels of patients before and six months after Covid-19 in Turkey. Methods: One hundred and six participants that have been six months after Covid-19 contraction were included in the study. Along with the Patient Assessment Questionnaire, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form was used to assess physical activity energy consumption insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(vigorous-intensity physical activities, moderate-intensity physical activities, walking, and total physical activities);. Results: Participants became either less physically active or more sedentary six months after Covid-19 insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(p=0.019);. Vigorous-intensity physical activity levels were significantly decreased insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(Mean±SD: 341±854 vs. 109±331 Metabolic Equivalent Task minutes/week, p=0.015);, and perceived fatigue during exercise was significantly increased between before and six month after infection insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(Mean±SD: 4.76±2.17 vs 6.17±2.27, p=0.001);. Participants who had dyspnea insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(n=12); during the period of Covid-19, did more moderate-intensity physical activity insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(p=0.020); and walking insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(p =0.021); after Covid-19, compared to those who had not. Conclusion: Particularly changes in vigorous-intensity physical activity levels and perceived fatigue during exercise were seen in Covid-19 infected patients. We recommend supporting gradually increased tailor-based exercise programs by health professionals in public health agencies, not only for protecting the individuals from Covid-19 outcomes, but also for returning to their preinfection fitness levels.
Keywords : Covid 19, Fiziksel aktivite, Anket