Article

This study aimed to describe participation and health-related quality of life
(HRQoL) in adolescents and young adults with myelomeningocele and to explore
their relationships with lifestyle-related factors. Fifty-one individuals with a
mean age of 21 years 1 month (SD 4y 6mo) years participated (26 males, 25
females; 82% hydrocephalus, 55% wheelchair-dependent). Participation was assessed
using the Life Habits Questionnaire, and HRQoL was assessed using the Medical
Outcomes Study 36-item Short-form Health Survey. Physical activity was measured
using an accelerometry-based activity monitor, fitness (peak oxygen uptake) was
measured during a maximal exercise test, and the sum of four skin-folds was
assessed to indicate body fat. Relationships were studied using logistic
regression analyses. Of the participants, 63% had difficulties in daily
activities and 59% in social roles. Participants perceived lower physical HRQoL
than a Dutch reference population. Participants with higher levels of physical
activity and fitness had fewer difficulties in participating in daily activities
(odds ratio [OR]=8.8, p=0.02 and OR=29.7, p=0.02 respectively) and a higher
physical HRQoL (OR=4.8, p=0.02 and OR=30.2, p=0.006 respectively), but not mental
HRQoL. Body fat was not related to participation or HRQoL. In conclusion, a large
proportion of individuals with myelomeningocele had difficulties in participation
and perceived low physical HRQoL. Higher levels of physical activity and fitness
were related to fewer difficulties in participation and higher physical HRQoL.

Langue : ANGLAIS