Self-reported physical and psychological symptom burden in adults with cystic fibrosis

Pulmonary Function and Quality of Life in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis

PURPOSE

People living with cystic fibrosis (CF) experience impaired quality of life, but the extent to which pulmonary function is associated with quality of life in CF remains unclear METHODS: Using baseline data from a trial of specialist palliative care in adults with CF, we examined the association between pulmonary obstruction and quality of life (measured with the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Total Score).

RESULTS

Among 262 participants, median age was 33, and 78% were on modulator therapy. The median quality of life score was higher in those with mild obstruction (135, IQR 110-156) compared to moderate (125, IQR 109-146) and severe obstruction (120, IQR 106-136). In an unadjusted model, we observed a non-significant trend toward lower quality of life with increased obstruction-compared to participants with mild obstruction, those with moderate obstruction had quality of life score 7.46 points lower (95% CI -15.03 to 0.10) and those with severe obstruction had a score 9.98 points lower (95% CI -21.76 to 1.80). However, this association was no longer statistically significant in the adjusted model, which may reflect confounding due to sex, age, BMI, and modulator therapy. Comorbidities (depression and anxiety) and social determinants of health (financial insecurity and education) were also associated with quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Advancing our understanding of patient-centered markers of quality of life, rather than focusing on pulmonary function alone, may help identify novel interventions to improve quality of life in this patient population.

Palliative care needs among outpatient adults with cystic fibrosis: Baseline data from the Improving Life with CF trial

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the burden of illness experienced by people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) since the advent of CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator therapies. Studies that characterize the nature of illness burden are needed to inform the development and implementation of palliative care programs that can serve this population and address quality of life concerns.

METHODS

Adults with CF treated at five U.S. CF centers were surveyed to obtain baseline data for the Improving Life with CF primary palliative care implementation trial. Consenting patients completed the Integrated Palliative Care Outcome Scale (IPOS), a multidimensional measure of unmet needs for palliative care. Sociodemographic and clinical information was also obtained. The associations among these variables were examined through bivariate and multivariable analyses.

RESULTS

Among 256 adults, the most distressing symptoms included not feeling "at peace", communication difficulties with family/friends, anxiety over illness or its treatment, and a lack of energy. In the multivariable analyses, CFTR modulator use was associated with lower IPOS total and physical symptoms scores; female sex and increased hospitalizations were associated with higher scores. Increased age and history of distal intestinal obstructive syndrome were associated with higher IPOS physical symptoms scores.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings illuminate the nature of illness burden for pwCF in the era of CFTR modulator therapies. Although illness burden is positively affected by modulator therapy, there is a continuing need for palliative care to address physical, emotional, and spiritual distress, and the communication and practical needs experienced by adults with CF.

Clinician perspectives on barriers and solutions to symptom management in cystic fibrosis

People living with cystic fibrosis (PLwCF) experience high symptom burden. 146 clinicians completed online surveys regarding barriers and solutions to symptom management between September and October 2020. The surveys contained both closed-ended and free-text entries. The symptom management specialists that CF clinicians most wished to consult included mental health (88, 65%), palliative care (59, 41%), and pain specialists (48, 33%). Barriers to symptom management included concerns about controlled substances prescribed for symptom control causing addiction and precluding transplantation, a lack of trust and collaboration among clinical specialties, a lack of symptom management specialists with CF expertise, and a worry about the affordability of specialist-level symptom management care. Potential solutions included non-pharmacological approaches, expanding access to affordable specialist symptom management care, the creation of clinical care guidelines for symptom management in CF, and having CF clinicians and symptom management specialists work alongside each other in CF clinic to build interdisciplinary trust and education.

Addressing Symptom Burden and Palliative Care Needs in Cystic Fibrosis: A Narrative Review of the Literature

Among people with cystic fibrosis (CF), illness burden is multifaceted, and symptoms may fluctuate in intensity across a lifespan. Caregivers of people with CF may also experience distressing symptoms. Recent developments in CF care, including the availability of highly effective modulator therapies (HEMTs) and new palliative care guidelines promoting palliative care screening may help alleviate symptoms. The objective of this review was to present a narrative view of the recent literature on symptom burden in CF, new screening approaches informed by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) palliative care guidelines, and early data from studies examining the impact of HEMTs on CF symptom burden. A review of the relevant literature was conducted using Google Scholar and PubMed. Included articles covered approaches to burden assessment in CF and other chronic illnesses, epidemiology of CF symptom burden, the impact of HEMTs on symptom burden, and the CFF palliative care guidelines. A primary palliative care model implementing the CFF guidelines was also described. Results of this review show that while recent developments in CF care have led to a reduction in physical symptoms, mental health symptoms remain prevalent. Ongoing screening and triage can ensure that physical symptoms, psychological symptoms, social needs, practical problems, and communication concerns are addressed by care teams.

Development of the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised-8 Dimensions: Estimating Utilities From the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised

OBJECTIVES

Cystic fibrosis (CF) limits survival and negatively affects health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) may be used to make reimbursement decisions for new CF treatments; nevertheless, generic utility measures used in CEA, such as EQ-5D, are insensitive to meaningful changes in lung function and HRQOL in CF. Here we develop a new, CF disease-specific, preference-based utility measure based on the adolescent/adult version of the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised (CFQ-R), a widely used, CF-specific, patient-reported measure of HRQOL.

METHODS

Blinded CFQ-R data from 4 clinical trials (NCT02347657, NCT02392234, NCT01807923, and NCT01807949) were used to identify discriminating items for a classification system using psychometric (eg, factor and Rasch) analyses. Thirty-two health states were selected for a time trade-off (TTO) exercise with a representative sample of the UK general population. TTO utilities were used to estimate a preference-based scoring algorithm by regression analysis (tobit models with robust standard errors clustered on participants with censoring at -1).

RESULTS

A classification system with 8 dimensions (CFQ-R-8 dimensions; physical functioning, vitality, emotion, role functioning, breathing difficulty, cough, abdominal pain, and body image) was generated. TTO was completed by 400 participants (mean age, 47.3 years; 49.8% female). Among the regression models evaluated, the tobit heteroscedastic-ordered model was preferred, with a predicted utility range from 0.236 to 1, no logical inconsistencies, and a mean absolute error of 0.032.

CONCLUSION

The CFQ-R-8 dimensions is the first disease-specific, preference-based scoring algorithm for CF, enabling estimation of disease-specific utilities for CEA based on the well-validated and widely used CFQ-R.

Exploring the impact of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor treatment on opinions regarding airway clearance techniques and nebulisers: TEMPO a qualitative study in children with cystic fibrosis, their families and healthcare professionals

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition caused by variants in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene that primarily impacts the lungs. Treatments historically have been symptomatic to improve airway clearance and treat infection. However, CFTR modulator drugs have recently been developed that target the underlying defect. The triple combination of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor (ETI) was approved in 2020 in England for over 80% of people with CF aged over 12 years and in 2022 extended to those over 6 years. ETI treatment is associated with substantial improvements in lung function. The experience of children with CF starting on ETI or their views regarding future treatments have not been well studied. This study aimed to explore the opinions of children with CF, their parents/carers and healthcare professionals (HCPs) on the impact of ETI, airway clearance techniques (ACTs) and nebulised treatments.

Methods

Semistructured qualitative interviews were performed with 10 children with CF, 7 parents/carers and 10 HCPs. Audio recordings were transcribed and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Four main themes were identified: ‘Kaftrio changed my life’, ‘Your entire life is dictated by the CF timetable’, ‘Simplifying treatment-hopes and fears’ and ‘Kaftrio is a game-changer’ along with several subthemes and an overarching theme of ‘I still can’t get my head around how three tablets can do what Kaftrio done’.

Conclusions

Despite the highly positive impact of ETI on the health of children with CF some concerns remain about the longer-term outcomes of reducing ACTs or nebulised treatments. ETI has prompted a shift in treatment for many and offers an opportunity to personalise approaches.

Physical activity and its correlates in people with cystic fibrosis: a systematic review

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-shortening genetic disease, affecting multiple life domains including physical activity (PA). Although higher PA levels are associated with multiple health benefits, little insight exists on the PA level of people with CF (PwCF) compared to healthy peers. Evidence on the influencing factors (i.e. correlates) of PA in this clinical population is scarce, but essential to fully understand their PA behaviour. Therefore, the present review aims to provide an overview of the PA level of PwCF compared to healthy peers, and the correlates of PA in PwCF. A systematic search of three databases resulted in 46 included studies. Analysis of 16 studies showed that the CF population is equally active compared to healthy peers, but there is a trend towards less high-intensity PA in youths with CF. Furthermore, PA is positively associated with quality of life, lung function, (maximal) exercise capacity, bone mineral density and quadriceps force. Also, PA was lower on weekdays compared to weekend days and lower when experiencing pulmonary exacerbations. More high-quality research is required in PwCF, particularly longitudinal studies that further explore the correlates of PA, with PA investigated as a primary outcome and measured objectively.

Integrating specialist palliative care to improve care and reduce suffering: cystic fibrosis (InSPIRe:CF) - study protocol for a multicentre randomised clinical trial

Introduction

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-limiting genetic disorder estimated to affect more than 160 000 individuals and their families worldwide. People living with CF commonly experience significant physical and emotional symptom burdens, disruptions to social roles and complex treatment decision making. While palliative care (PC) interventions have been shown to relieve many such burdens in other serious illnesses, no rigorous evidence exists for palliative care in CF. Thus, this study aims to compare the effect of specialist palliative care plus usual CF care vs usual CF care alone on patient quality of life.

Methods and analysis

This is a five-site, two-arm, partially masked, randomised superiority clinical trial. 264 adults with CF will be randomly assigned to usual CF care or usual CF care plus a longitudinal palliative care intervention delivered by a palliative care specialist. The trial’s primary outcome is patient quality of life (measured with the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Palliative care instrument). Secondary outcomes include symptom burden, satisfaction with care and healthcare utilisation. Outcomes will be measured at 12 months (primary endpoint) and 15 months (secondary endpoint). In addition, we will conduct qualitative interviews with patient participants, caregivers, and palliative care and CF care team members to explore perceptions of the intervention’s impact and barriers and facilitators to dissemination.

Ethics and dissemination

Human subjects research ethics approval was obtained from all participating sites, and all study participants gave informed consent. We will publish the results of this trial in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN53323164.

Prevalence of unmet pain and symptom management needs in adults with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Although people living with CF (PLwCF) commonly report pain and other symptoms, little is known regarding their experiences of living with and accessing treatment for burdensome symptoms.

METHODS

PLwCF completed online questionnaires assessing symptom prevalence and distress and were also asked about experiences accessing pain and symptom treatment, using both closed-ended and free-text entries.

RESULTS

Pain was the most prevalent symptom experienced among the 55 participants (76%) and the symptom that most commonly caused distress (64%). PLwCF not on CFTR modulator therapy were likelier to endorse pain as distressing (p = 0.007). Respondents expressed that their pain was commonly underrecognized and undermanaged, they desired a multi-modal approach to treatment, and noted concerns about disease progression affecting their symptom management options.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that PLwCF often have unmet symptom management needs that may impair quality of life.

Developing an ecological approach to physical activity promotion in adults with Cystic fibrosis

Background

There are few examples of interventions designed to promote physical activity (PA) in adults with Cystic fibrosis (CF). Increasing levels of habitual PA may be more feasible and result in greater compliance than conventional exercise training inventions which give little or no attention to long-term PA behaviour. Despite this there is limited research exploring perceptions of PA among adults with CF. The study aimed to understand the ecological correlates of PA in adults with CF and to involve individuals with CF, their families (where applicable) and clinicians in a formative process to inform the development of an ecological approach to PA promotion in this population.

Methods

An iterative approach was utilised, whereby findings from earlier phases of the research informed subsequent phases. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore patients’ perceptions of PA, devised using the PRECEDE component of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model. Followed by, focus groups to discuss the perceived barriers, facilitators and opportunities for PA participation and how this information could inform the development and delivery of a PA intervention. Separate focus groups were conducted with individuals with CF (n = 11) and their families and CF MDT members. Thematic analysis was used to construct themes.

Results

Physical and mental wellbeing manifested as both barriers and facilitators of PA. CF is characterised by a progressive decline in physical function, which presents as a number of challenging symptoms and set-backs for an individual with CF. PA represents an opportunity for participants to slow the rate of this decline and manage the symptoms associated with the condition. Enjoyment was an important facilitator of PA. Exercise professionals and family reinforce PA behaviour, particularly during adolescence.

Conclusions

PA promotion should form part of routine CF care with additional exercise professional support during adolescence.

Identifying specific needs in adult cystic fibrosis patients: a pilot study using a custom questionnaire

Background

Adult patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) experience daily physical symptoms and disabilities that can be challenging to address for health care teams.

Methods

We sought to identify the most frequent topics that CF adults need to discuss with health care teams using a custom questionnaire including 62 items.

Results

Fifty patients were included, 70% men, mean age 27.6 years, with a mean body mass index of 21.8 kg/m². Mean FEV₁% was 64% of predicted value. Forty-two percent of patients selected at least one topic. The most frequently selected topics were fatigue (20%), professional or scholar worries (18%), procreation (16%), physical activities (16%) and evolution of CF disease (16%). Women were more frequently concerned about fatigue, procreation and profession/school.

Conclusions

Using a custom questionnaire, we identified that CF adults express various unmet needs that extend beyond usual respiratory and nutritional concerns or treatment adherence. The interest of this questionnaire by health care team for improving therapeutic management of CF patients remains to be validated.

Trial registration: The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02924818) on 5th October 2016.

Ataluren-Promising Therapeutic Premature Termination Codon Readthrough Frontrunner

Around 12% of hereditary disease-causing mutations are in-frame nonsense mutations. The expression of genes containing nonsense mutations potentially leads to the production of truncated proteins with residual or virtually no function. However, the translation of transcripts containing premature stop codons resulting in full-length protein expression can be achieved using readthrough agents. Among them, only ataluren was approved in several countries to treat nonsense mutation Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients. This review summarizes ataluren’s journey from its identification, via first in vitro activity experiments, to clinical trials in DMD, cystic fibrosis, and aniridia. Additionally, data on its pharmacokinetics and mechanism of action are presented. The range of diseases with underlying nonsense mutations is described for which ataluren therapy seems to be promising. What is more, experiments in which ataluren did not show its readthrough activity are also included, and reasons for their failures are discussed.

The measurement properties of tests and tools used in cystic fibrosis studies: a systematic review

There is no consensus on how best to measure responses to interventions among children and adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). We have systematically reviewed and summarised the characteristics and measurement properties of tests and tools that have been used to capture outcomes in studies among people with CF, including their reliability, validity and responsiveness. This review is intended to guide researchers when selecting tests or tools for measuring treatment effects in CF trials. A consensus set of these tests and tools could improve consistency in how outcomes are captured and thereby facilitate comparisons and synthesis of evidence across studies.

Psychological distress in adults with and without cystic fibrosis during the COVID-19 lockdown

BACKGROUND

Hundreds of papers have been published on the COVID-19 pandemic, and several of them on psychological themes connected with it, but very little is so far known on how adult patients with Cystic Fibrosis (pwCFs) are coping with this dramatic event.

METHODS

An online questionnaire was developed according to the Italian validated COVID-19 Peritraumatic Distress Index (CPDI) and addressed to the general population (GP). A similar questionnaire, augmented with CF specific questions, targeted pwCFs. The two web-based surveys were accessible for some weeks during the lockdown mandated by the Italian government.

RESULTS

The CF questionnaire was completed by 712 adult pwCFs (422 females), matched for sex and age with a 1/5 ratio to GP questionnaire respondents. Mild or medium distress affected 40.2% of pwCFs and 43.9% of GP controls, severe distress 5.3% of pwCFs and 6.2% of GP controls. The level of psychological distress was not correlated with the degree of pulmonary function impairment. When symptoms of anxiety and depression, and physical manifestations were independently analyzed, the control group featured a 55% higher level of mild-moderate anxiety symptoms. Signs of psychological distress, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and physical manifestations were significantly more frequent in female pwCFs compared to males, similarly to GP.

CONCLUSION

Adult pwCFs seem to have equal, and in some domains, lower levels of psychological distress than GP controls. This might be sustained by lifelong experiences in coping with the demands of their chronic disease. These results may orient future psychological interventions.

Development and evaluation of an internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy intervention for anxiety and depression in adults with cystic fibrosis (eHealth CF-CBT): An international collaboration

INTRODUCTION

Individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) are at increased risk for anxiety and depression, with negative consequences for adherence, health, and quality of life. New approaches to prevent and treat anxiety and depression that are tailored to the concerns of this population are needed. A CF-specific internet-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) intervention was developed to increase access to evidence-based mental health care and decrease cost and burden of care for people with CF.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the usability and acceptability of "eHealth CF-CBT," an internet-based program integrating therapist-guided online self-management modules with in-person or virtual sessions.

METHODS

Dutch adults with CF (N = 16) and CF health care providers (N = 16) systematically tested all sessions of the eHealth CF-CBT program, provided qualitative feedback, and completed measures including eHealth Impact Questionnaire (eHIQ), and System Usability Scale (SUS).

RESULTS

Patient and provider ratings of their overall impression of the eHealth CF-CBT program were high, with scores (mean; SD) of 8.3; 0.6 and 8.2; 0.8 respectively on a 10-point scale. Mean ratings of usability by patients (77.0/100) and providers (73.4/100) surpassed the SUS cut point for good favorability. Ratings (pooled mean; SD) on the assessed eHIQ domains Motivation and Confidence to Act (71.3; 10.0), Information and Presentation (78.9; 9.6), and Identification (62.0; 15.1) were positive, as were assessments of specific elements of session content and format.

CONCLUSIONS

eHealth CF-CBT is the first therapist-guided internet-delivered CBT-based intervention for adults with CF. Initial evaluation with key stakeholders demonstrated high levels of acceptability and usability and provided input that was integrated to strengthen the program. Effectiveness testing in the Netherlands will be the next step, as well as future international adaptation and dissemination.

A Cohort Study of Sleep Quality in Adult Patients with Acute Pulmonary Exacerbations of Cystic Fibrosis

INTRODUCTION

The impact of an acute pulmonary exacerbation of CF on sleep quality has not been established. Patients have greater burden of symptoms, higher intensity of therapy, and are often admitted to hospital outside of their usual sleeping environment.

METHODS

This prospective, observational study determined the prevalence of impaired sleep quality and associated factors in adult patients admitted to a single CF unit with an acute pulmonary exacerbation of CF. Sleep quality was defined by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), with >5 indicating poor sleep quality. Data was obtained through patient questionnaires, chart review, and examination.

RESULTS

Sixty-six percent of patients had impaired sleep quality. Patients with poor sleep had more sleep disruption due to pain (median response "mild sleep disruption" vs "no sleep disruption" p=0.003) and insomnia (mean insomnia severity index (ISI) 13 vs 5, p<0.001). In patients with symptoms of restless legs, poor sleepers had worse symptoms (mean IRLSS 15 vs 5, p=0.029). Univariate modelling showed relationships between PSQI and symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as with sleep disruption due to pain, general noise, and nursing observations. In a multivariable model, ISI was the only variable that remained significantly associated with PSQI. Mean PSQI score increased 0.58 units for each 1 unit increase in ISI (95% CI 0.42-0.73, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Poor sleep quality is common among patients admitted with an acute exacerbation of CF and is strongly associated with insomnia symptoms in this cohort. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Palliative care skills in CF: Perspectives of adults with CF, caregivers, and CF care team members

BACKGROUND

The role of cystic fibrosis (CF) care team members in delivering palliative care (PC) remains undefined. We aimed to understand the PC skills of CF care teams.

METHODS

CF care team members ("clinicians"), adults with CF ("patients"), and family caregivers ("caregivers") rated the ability of CF clinicians to provide aspects of PC using a five-point scale ("poor" to "excellent"). Median ratings were compared between groups.

RESULTS

A total of 70 patients, 100 caregivers, and 350 clinicians participated. Clinicians consistently rated their PC skills higher than patients or caregivers rated them, particularly for advanced PC skills. While clinicians, patients, and caregivers rated clinicians as "very good" at basic pain assessment and "good" at discussing prognostic uncertainty, clinicians rated themselves more highly at providing most skills, including simultaneous PC and standard CF care (P < .0001), basic depression assessment (P < .001), and discussing transplant, advance directives, end of life, code status, and hospice (all P < .0001). Respondents affiliated with adult CF care teams rated clinicians more highly than respondents affiliated with pediatric CF care teams at discussing lung transplant (P < .001), end of life (P = .006), advance directives (P < .001), code status (P = .012), and hospice (P = .016). Most patients (69%) and caregivers (60%) felt CF clinicians should receive more PC training.

CONCLUSIONS

Discrepancies exist among patient/caregiver and clinician perceptions of PC skills in CF, and skills of adult and pediatric teams may differ. Patients and caregivers feel clinicians' more advanced PC skills are lacking. CF clinicians may benefit from PC training to enhance skills and to understand how and when to utilize specialty PC services.

Improvements in frailty contribute to substantial improvements in quality of life after lung transplantation in patients with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

While lung transplantation (LTx) improves health-related quality of life (HRQL) in cystic fibrosis (CF), the determinants of this improvement are unknown. In other populations, frailty-a syndrome of vulnerability to physiologic stressors-is associated with disability and poor HRQL. We hypothesized that improvements in frailty would be associated with improved disability and HRQL in adults with CF undergoing LTx.

METHODS

In a single-center prospective cohort study from 2010 to 2017, assessments of frailty, disability, and HRQL were performed before and at 3- and 6-months after LTx. We assessed frailty by the short physical performance battery (SPPB). We assessed disability with the Lung Transplant Valued Life Activities scale (LT-VLA) and HRQL by the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form Physical and Mental Component Summary scales (SF12-PCS, -MCS), the Airway Questionnaire 20-Revised (AQ20R), and the Euroqol 5D (EQ5D). We tested the association of concurrent changes in frailty and lung function on disability and HRQL by linear mixed-effects models adjusted for sex and body mass index.

RESULTS

Among 23 participants with CF, improvements in frailty and lung function were independently associated with improved disability and some HRQL measures. For example, each 1-point improvement in SPPB or 200 mL improvement in FEV1 was associated with improved LT-VLA disability by 0.14 (95%CI: 0.08-0.20) and 0.07 (95%CI: 0.05-0.09) points and improved EQ5D by 0.05 (95%CI: 0.03 to 0.07) and 0.02 (95%CI: 0.01-0.03) points, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Improvement in frailty is a novel determinant of improved disability and HRQL in adults with CF undergoing LTx.

Active Video Games as a Training Tool for Individuals With Chronic Respiratory Diseases: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text.

Active video games offer an enjoyable way to exercise for patients with chronic respiratory disease. This review examined whether active video games can achieve comparable physiological and clinical effects as traditional exercise training in this population. Video game training induced peak heart rate and dyspnea levels comparable with traditional training.

Purpose:

Exercise is an effective treatment for reducing symptom severity and improving quality of life for patients with chronic respiratory diseases. Active video games offer a new and enjoyable way to exercise and have gained popularity in a rehabilitation setting. However, it is unclear whether they achieve comparable physiological and clinical effects as traditional exercise training.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was performed to identify studies that included an active video game component as a form of exercise training and a comparator group in chronic respiratory disease. Two assessors independently reviewed study quality using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and extracted data for exercise capacity, quality of life, and preference of exercise model.

Results:

Six studies were included in this review. Because of the heterogeneity of the populations, study designs, length of intervention, and outcome measures, meta-analysis could not be performed. Active video game training resulted in comparable training maximal heart rate and dyspnea levels to those achieved when exercising using a treadmill or cycle (n = 5). There was insufficient evidence (n = 3) to determine whether active video game training improved exercise capacity as measured by 6-min walk test or treadmill endurance walking.

Conclusions:

Although the quality of evidence was low, in a small number of studies active video games induced peak heart rates and dyspnea levels comparable with traditional exercise training. Larger and longer-term randomized controlled trials are needed to establish the impact of video game training for individuals with chronic respiratory diseases.

End-of-Life Care in Cystic Fibrosis: Comparing Provider Practices Based on Lung Transplant Candidacy

Background: The optimal timing to introduce palliative care (PC) and end-of-life (EOL) conversations into the lives of people with cystic fibrosis (CF) has not been established. Objective: Compare EOL care practices for people with CF who died without a lung transplant (LT), are living without an LT, and those who received an LT. Design: Retrospective chart review. Setting/Subjects: People with CF who received care from 2012 to 2017 at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Measurements: Primary outcomes were (1) EOL discussion with a pulmonologist, (2) time of EOL discussion before death or LT, (3) evaluation by PC, and (4) documentation of advanced directive or medical power of attorney. Results: Twenty-three patients died without LT, 40 patients received an LT, and 222 were living without an LT. Among LT recipients, 10% had EOL conversations compared with 74% of deceased patients and 5% of living patients without LT (p = 0.001). Among deceased patients, 39% had EOL conversations more than six months before death, while 5% of transplanted patients had EOL conversation more than six months before LT (p < 0.001). Deceased patients were more likely to have seen PC (57%) than either patients who received LT (2%) or those living without LT (3%, p = 0.0001). Conclusions: Patients who died without LT were more likely to have seen PC and had an EOL conversation than patients who received LT or who are living without LT. Further research should explore the optimal timing to discuss EOL care and the best timing to involve PC.

Sleep disorders in cystic fibrosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that leads to airway mucus accumulation, chronic inflammation, and recurrent respiratory infections - all likely impacting sleep. However, controlled studies of sleep in CF patients are limited, and have shown mixed results. We reviewed all publications on CF and sleep indexed in PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus through April 2019. In the meta-analysis, we calculated pooled weighted mean differences for sleep quality, sleepiness, oximetry, and polysomnographic (PSG) parameters, using fixed or random-effects models as appropriate. A total of 87 manuscripts were reviewed. Compared to controls, children with CF had lower nighttime oxygen saturation nadirs, decreased sleep efficiency and a higher respiratory event index, with no differences in the percentage of REM sleep. Adults with CF had lower oxygen saturation nadirs, with a trend towards reduced sleep efficiency and no differences in REM sleep. In addition, patients with CF cough more during sleep and experience painful events that interfere with sleep. Actigraphy and questionnaires suggest disturbed sleep and daytime sleepiness. Noninvasive ventilation appears to improve gas exchange and symptoms. We conclude that when sleep is evaluated objectively or subjectively in patients with CF, perturbations are common, emphasizing the importance of their identification and treatment and inclusion as part of routine care. Additional research, with larger sample sizes and standardized outcomes, are necessary.

Fatigue in childhood chronic disease

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Recently, in adults, the incidence and severity of fatigue was found to exist rather independently from the somatic diagnosis. Since fatigue is distressing when growing up with a chronic disease, we aim to investigate: (1) the prevalence and extent of fatigue among various paediatric chronic diseases and (2) the effect of fatigue on health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

DESIGN AND SETTING

Cross-sectional study in two children's hospitals.

PATIENTS

Children and adolescents 2-18 years of age with cystic fibrosis, an autoimmune disease or postcancer treatment visiting the outpatient clinic.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Fatigue and HRQoL were assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) multidimensional fatigue scale (with lower scores indicating more fatigue) and PedsQL generic core scales, respectively. Linear regression analysis and analysis of covariance were used to compare fatigue scores across disease groups and against two control groups. The effect of fatigue on HRQoL was calculated. Data were adjusted for age, sex and reporting method.

RESULTS

481 children and adolescents were assessed (60% participation rate, mean age 10.7±4.9, 42% men). Children and adolescents with chronic disease reported more fatigue than the general population (mean difference -6.6, 95% CI -8.9 to -4.3 (range 0-100)), with a prevalence of severe fatigue of 21.2%. Fatigue scores did not differ significantly between disease groups on any fatigue domain. Fatigue was associated with lower HRQoL on all domains.

CONCLUSIONS

Fatigue in childhood chronic disease is a common symptom that presents across disease, age and sex groups. Fatigue affects HRQoL. Our findings underscore the need to systematically assess fatigue. Future studies should determine possible biological and psychosocial treatment targets.

Addressing the burden of illness in adults with cystic fibrosis with screening and triage: An early intervention model of palliative care

BACKGROUND

Novel models that improve generalist-level palliative care for cystic fibrosis (CF) are needed to address the burden of this illness. A screening-and-triage model has the potential to identify clinical problems requiring immediate follow-up by CF professionals. This study describes such a model and its immediate impact on care delivery for CF patients during a two-year period.

METHODS

Eligible adults completed monthly online screening for sources of distress. If results revealed one or more "indicators of concern" on two consecutive screenings, this triggered an attempted triage by a social worker. Completed triages led to prompt follow-up by CF professionals for clinical problems, if indicated. Process data were summarized and generalized linear mixed models were used to evaluate baseline patient characteristics (symptom distress, quality of life, and sociodemographics) associated with the need for prompt follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 1,015 monthly surveys were completed by 74 patients; 634 (66 patients) had >1 indicators of concern; and 164 surveys (46 patients) had >1 indicators for two consecutive surveys (e.g., global distress, pain, dyspnea, and psychological symptoms). The 164 attempted triages yielded 84 completed triages (51.2%), of which 39 (46.4%) required prompt follow-up. In multivariable analyses, older patients and those with higher symptom distress at baseline were more likely to require prompt follow-up (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Web-based screening that assesses varied domains of distress or burden can identify a subset of CF patients whose clinical problems may benefit from immediate medical or psychological attention. Additional investigations should improve screening efficiency.

Symptom Burden and Unmet Existential Needs in Adults With Cystic Fibrosis

Although patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) experience many symptoms and impaired quality of life, little is known about existential distress. This multivariable logistic regression evaluated the relationship between symptom burden and five existential needs representing existential distress in 164 adults with CF. Eleven percent of participants reported no symptom burden, 61% mild burden, and 28% moderate/severe burden. The most prevalent existential needs were fears about CF worsening (50%) and uncertainty about the future (39%). Participants with moderate/severe symptom burden were likelier to report needing support with all five needs than participants with no or mild burden. For each six-point increase in burden, there was an increased odds of reporting need for support with learning to feel in control, feelings about death and dying, fears about CF worsening, uncertainty about the future, and concerns about worries of others. CF-specific palliative care support based on these prevalent unmet existential needs should be developed and provided.

Effects of a primary palliative care intervention on quality of life and mental health in cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Despite the significant impact of chronic symptoms on quality of life with cystic fibrosis (CF), the role of palliative care in management of this disease is not well defined. The coping, goal assessment, and relief from evolving CF symptoms (CF-CARES) model is a primary palliative care intervention designed to provide chronic symptom management at all stages of the disease. The goal of this pilot study was to estimate the effectiveness of the CF-CARES intervention on improving chronic symptoms and quality of life for people living with CF.

METHODS

A structured assessment was used to guide referral to supportive services intended to address burdensome symptoms. Follow-up assessments were performed approximately 3 and 6 months later. Longitudinal regression analyses of changes in symptoms and quality of life were performed for all participants regardless of utilization of supportive services. Subgroup analyses were performed for subjects participating in mental health and alternative health services.

RESULTS

Forty-one subjects completed assessment and referral processes. The mean number of CF-associated symptoms decreased over time, as did respiratory symptom-related distress and depressive symptoms. Subjects utilizing alternative health services reported less psychological distress at follow-up. Among subjects with severe disease, mental health, and quality of life improved, especially for those using mental health services.

CONCLUSIONS

The CF-CARES model resulted in significant mental health and quality-of-life benefits, suggesting the value of integrating symptom management interventions into routine CF care. Moreover, mental health services can play a key role in CF-specific primary palliative care, especially for those with advanced disease.

What is Symptom Burden: A Qualitative exploration of Patient Definitions

Current definitions of “symptom burden” are largely derived from clinicians, and there are many variations in the way the term is used, defined, and operationalized. The aim of this study was to explore patient perceptions of symptom burden in the context of advanced and incurable disease. A group of 58 cancer patients followed by a palliative care team answered a single open-ended question: “Please define ‘symptom burden.”’ Three authors independently coded and analyzed patient responses using a grounded theory approach. They identified six themes, the most frequently coded of which were: “can't do usual activities,” “psychological suffering,” and “specific severe symptoms.” Our findings indicate that the concept of symptom burden is complex and extends beyond numerical symptom-scoring systems. In addition to inquiring about specific symptoms, it may be important to directly ask patients about their overall burden or experience of symptoms.

Breathlessness catastrophizing relates to poorer quality of life in adults with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is the most common genetic disease affecting children and young adults in Canada. It is a multi-system disease, however lung disease is largely responsible for mortality. Treatment advances have resulted in increased life expectancy and a subsequent need to better understand psychosocial issues associated with quality of life in adults living with CF. Emerging research suggests that anxiety and depression are related to poorer health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in CF patients, but there is little research examining cognitive processes, such as breathlessness catastrophizing. The present study addresses this gap in the literature.

METHODS

Participants in this study are based on a convenience sample of patients recruited during their regular CF clinic appointments at a tertiary care center. Forty-five adults (M_age = 30.73 years) completed measures of lung function, depression, anxiety, pain, breathlessness catastrophizing, and HRQoL at one time point.

RESULTS

Results of a hierarchical multiple regression indicate that increased breathlessness catastrophizing was related to poorer HRQoL, after controlling for lung function, depression, anxiety, and pain (p < .05). Depression, pain, and breathlessness catastrophizing all emerged as significant unique predictors of HRQoL.

CONCLUSIONS

Breathlessness catastrophizing is a potential target for clinical intervention and might impact HRQoL. Further research on breathlessness catastrophizing in CF is warranted including longitudinal studies to examine the mechanisms by which breathlessness catastrophizing relates to HRQoL and treatment outcomes in CF.

Exploring knowledge and perceptions of palliative care to inform integration of palliative care education into cystic fibrosis care

BACKGROUND

Individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) face the challenges of managing a chronic, progressive disease. While palliative care is a standard of care in serious illnesses, there are no guidelines for its incorporation into CF care. Patients with CF, caregivers, and CF care providers may lack knowledge about palliative care and perceive barriers to integrated care.

OBJECTIVES

To: 1) explore knowledge and perceptions of palliative care among patients with CF, caregivers, and CF care providers; 2) solicit opinions about incorporating palliative care into routine CF care; and 3) solicit recommendations for CF-specific palliative care education for patients and caregivers.

METHODS

We conducted semi-structured interviews with adult patients with CF, parents of adolescents with CF, and CF care providers to assess knowledge and perceptions of palliative care. Discussion included suggestions for palliative care education and integration into CF care. The sample was characterized using summary statistics. Key themes were identified using qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

Ten patients with CF, ten parents, and eight CF care providers participated. Many had minimal knowledge of palliative care and endorsed the association with end of life as a barrier to palliative care, but after learning more about palliative care, thought it could be helpful, and should be introduced earlier.

CONCLUSIONS

In this single center study, many patients with CF, caregivers, and providers lacked knowledge about palliative care. These findings warrant replication in a larger, multisite study to inform palliative care educational interventions as a step toward consistent integration of palliative care into routine CF care.

Prevalence of severe fatigue among adults with cystic fibrosis: A single center study

BACKGROUND

With life expectancy increasing among patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), the prevalence of complications such as fatigue is also expected to increase. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence of severe fatigue among adults with CF and to identify factors associated with fatigue.

METHODS

Adult patients with CF receiving treatment at a single center were invited to complete three questionnaires. We then studied the associations between fatigue and clinically measured parameters and between fatigue and patient-reported outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 77 patients (age 19-54years; 56% males; mean FEV₁: 63%) completed the questionnaires (43% response rate). The prevalence of severe fatigue among these patients was 26%. The variance in fatigue was explained partially by clinically measured parameters. However, patient-reported outcomes were stronger independently associated with fatigue and included the patients' reported respiratory symptoms, emotional functioning, and social functioning.

CONCLUSIONS

Fatigue is a clinically important and highly prevalent issue among adults with CF and is associated with a significant reduction in health-related quality of life and participation in society. In addition, fatigue is associated more strongly with the patient's perception of symptoms and well-being than with clinically measured parameters.

Acute Pain Perception During Different Sampling Methods for Respiratory Culture in Cystic Fibrosis Patients

CONTEXT

Reliable identification of lower respiratory tract pathogens is crucial in the management of cystic fibrosis (CF). The multitude of treatments and clinical procedures are a considerable burden and are potentially provoking pain.

OBJECTIVES

As part of another study (NCT02363764), investigating the bacterial yield of three sampling methods, nasal swabs (NSs), cough swabs (CSs), and (induced) sputum samples ([I]SSs), in both expectorating patients (EPs) and non-expectorating patients (NEPs) with CF, the present study aimed to explore the prevalence of respiratory culture sampling-related pain as assessed by self-report within a cohort of children and adults.

METHODS

Literate patients with CF (aged six years or older) completed a questionnaire on pain perception related to the three aforementioned sampling methods (No/Yes; visual analogue scale for pain [VAS-Pain] [0-10 cm]). In addition, patients were asked to rank these methods by their own preference without taking into account the presumed bacterial yield.

RESULTS

In total, 119 questionnaires were returned. In the EPs-group, CS was most frequently (n%; mean VAS-Pain if pain [range]) reported as painful method: overall (n = 101; 12.9%; 1.8 [0.2-4.8]), children (n = 41; 22.0%; 1.4 [0.2-2.7]), and adults (n = 60; 6.7%; 2.5 [0.5-4.8]). Highest pain intensity scores were observed with NS overall (3.0%; 2.4 [0.3-6.2]) and in children (4.9%; 3.3 [0.3-6.2]), but not in adults (1.7%; 0.6 [-]).NEPs-children (n = 17) reported ISS most frequently and as most painful sampling method (17.6%; 2.0 [1.0-4.0]). The only NEP-adult did not perceive pain. NEPs preferred NS > CS > ISS (61.1%, 33.3%, 5.6%, respectively [P = 0.001]) as primary sampling method, whereas EPs preferred SS > NS > CS (65.7%, 26.3%, 8.1%, respectively [P < 0.0001]). Patients' preference for a specific method inversely correlated to pain perception and intensity in EPs (φ = -0.155 [P = 0.007] and ρ = -0.926 [P = 0.008], respectively), but not in NEPs (φ = -0.226 [P = 0.097] and ρ = -0.135 [P = 0.798], respectively).

CONCLUSION

A relatively large range of pain experiences was observed in patients with CF during respiratory culture sampling, which underlines the importance of individual pain assessment. Nevertheless, clinicians can confidently choose the sampling method based on validity over patients' preference.

Descriptions of the Pain Experience in Adults and Adolescents with Cystic Fibrosis

BACKGROUND

People living with cystic fibrosis experience pain that is associated with decreased quality of life, poorer health outcomes, and increased mortality. Though pain is highly prevalent as a symptom, it is currently unknown how persons with CF describe their pain experiences or the ways those experiences impact their lives.

AIMS

To explore and describe ways adolescents and adults with CF experience pain. Design/Setting/Subjects/Methods: An exploratory descriptive design was implemented to perform interviews with 10 individuals with CF and self-reported moderate to severe pain. The interviews explored their pain experiences within five domains: Pain Characteristics, Activities, Relationships, Work/School Life, and Health Care Team. Transcribed interviews underwent a content analysis with team-based constant comparisons.

RESULTS

Individuals with CF identify the disease as being painful; express how pain negatively affects all aspects of their lives, including loss of functionality and productivity; and are able to disclose their pain to those with whom they have relationships. Adolescents feel an emotional toll from the loss of socialization as a result of pain and feel their health care team adequately supports their pain. Adults express a unique emotional pain component to CF and feel stigmatized and unsupported by their health care team when asking for pain management solutions.

CONCLUSION

There are differences in how pain is perceived by adolescents and adults with CF that have otherwise not been reported in the current literature. Further explorations of pain across the lifespan and health care provider attitudes toward pain management are needed to guide the development of effective pain management interventions for those with CF.

Relationship between Physical Activity and Fatigue in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis

Purpose: We examined the relationship between the amount of physical activity and level of fatigue in adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). Method: Participants were recruited from the Toronto Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre at St. Michael's Hospital. Participants completed the Habitual Activity Estimation Scale, the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, and the Depression subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, in that order. Descriptive statistics and linear and multiple regressions were computed. Results: Over a 6-month period, 51 individuals were approached, and 22 (10 men, 12 women) participated in this study. The participants' median age was 33, and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁) was 64% predicted. When holding both FEV₁ and depression constant, a significant negative correlation was found between total active hours per weekday and general fatigue (β=-0.735, p=0.03); there was a negative trend between total active hours per weekday and physical fatigue (β=-0.579, p=0.09). Conclusions: This study is the first to demonstrate that among adults with CF, a higher level of physical activity is associated with a lower level of general and physical fatigue when controlling for lung function and level of depression. Physical activity may be used as a means of mitigating the levels of general and physical fatigue in people with CF.

Exploring Opportunities for Primary Outpatient Palliative Care for Adults with Cystic Fibrosis: A Mixed-Methods Study of Patients' Needs

BACKGROUND

Persons with cystic fibrosis (CF) experience high morbidity and mortality, yet little is known about their palliative care needs and how clinicians may address these needs.

OBJECTIVES

(1) To identify palliative care and advance care planning needs of patients with CF and their families; and (2) to identify clinicians' potential roles in meeting these needs.

METHODS

A mixed-methods study of adult patients (age ≥18 years) with moderate-to-severe CF [forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV₁) <65% predicted] were recruited from a CF Center. Semi-structured interviews (30-60 minutes) and questionnaires were administered in person or by phone. Grounded theory was used to analyze the interviews. Questionnaires were analyzed descriptively.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients (FEV₁ % range = 19%-63%) participated; the participation rate was 80% for eligible patients. Three main domains of palliative care needs were identified: (1) to be listened to, feel heard, and be "seen"; (2) understanding the context around CF and its trajectory, with the goal of preparing for the future; and (3) information about, and potential solutions to, practical and current circumstances that cause stress. In questionnaires, few patients (4.3%) reported talking with their clinician about their wishes for care if they were to become sicker, but mixed-methods data demonstrated that more than half of participants were willing to receive palliative care services provided those services were adapted to CF.

CONCLUSION

Patients expressed a need for and openness to palliative care services, as well as some reluctance. They appreciated clinician communication that was open, forthcoming, and attuned to individualized concerns.

Trajectories of caregiver burden in families of adult cystic fibrosis patients

ABSTRACTObjectives:Little is known about the experience of family caregivers of adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). This information is important for the identification of caregivers at risk for burden.

METHODS

This was a longitudinal analysis of survey data obtained from caregivers of adult CF patients participating in an early intervention palliative care trial. Caregivers completed the validated Brief Assessment Scale for Caregivers (BASC) repeatedly over a 28-month period. Mixed-effects modeling evaluated multivariate associations with positive and negative caregiver perceptions over time.

RESULTS

Of the 54 caregivers, 47.9% were spouses. The mean age was 50.9 years (SD = 13.2); 72.2% were women; 75.9% were married; and 63.0% were employed. At baseline, the BASC revealed large variations in positive and negative perceptions of caregiving. Although average scores over time were unchanging, variation was greater across caregivers than within caregivers (0.49 vs. 0.27, respectively). At baseline, the positive impact of caregiving in the sample was higher than the negative impact. Multivariate analysis revealed that patients' baseline pulmonary function and their full-time employment status predicted caregiver burden over time.

SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS

Caregivers of CF patients varied in their positive and negative caregiving experiences, although burden levels in individual caregivers were stable over time. When the disease was advanced, caregivers of CF patients experienced more overall burden but also more positive impact. This suggests that the role of caregivers may become more meaningful as disease severity worsens. In addition, full-time patient employment was associated with lower caregiver burden regardless of disease severity. This suggests that burden in CF caregivers may be predicted by financial strain or benefits conferred by patient employment. These associations require further investigation to determine whether highly burdened caregivers can be identified and assisted using tailored interventions.

End-of-life practice patterns at U.S. adult cystic fibrosis care centers: A national retrospective chart review

BACKGROUND

There are many challenges to providing end-of-life care (EOLC) to people with cystic fibrosis (CF).

METHODS

Chart abstraction was used to examine EOLC in adults with CF who died between 2011 and 2013.

RESULTS

We reviewed 248 deaths from 71 CF care centers. Median age at death was 29years (range 18-73). While median FEV1 was in the severe lung disease category (FEV1<40%), 38% had mild or moderate lung disease in the year preceding death. The most common location of death was the intensive care unit (ICU, 39%), and 12% of decedents were listed for lung transplant. Fewer of those dying in the ICU personally participated in advance care planning or utilized hospice or Palliative Care Services (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Adults dying with CF in the United States most commonly die in an ICU, with limited and variable use of hospice and Palliative Care Services. Palliative care and advance care planning are recommended as a routine part of CF care.

Symptom Experience in Late Pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the frequency, severity, distress, and correlates of common and rare symptoms reported by nulliparous women during the last month of pregnancy.

DESIGN

Secondary cross-sectional analysis of data obtained in a larger randomized clinical trial.

SETTING

San Francisco Bay area.

PARTICIPANTS

Nulliparous, ethnically diverse, predominantly low-income pregnant women 18 to 47 years of age (N = 151).

METHODS

Participants at or beyond 36 weeks gestation used the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale (MSAS) to provide self-reports of general symptom experience. Other symptom measures were also completed for comparison. Demographic characteristics, including gestational weight gain, were also collected. Gestational weight gain was categorized in relation to the Institute of Medicine's 2009 recommendations for weight gain during pregnancy.

RESULTS

Women endorsed an average of 10.6 ± 5.6 symptoms on the MSAS. Prevalent symptoms (reported by at least half the sample) included lack of energy, pain, difficulty sleeping, worrying, irritability, drowsiness, shortness of breath, and nervousness. Among the women who reported these symptoms, relatively few described them as occurring with high frequency or severity or as causing much distress. One of the most prevalent symptoms (reported by 68% of women) was difficulty sleeping, which also had among the greatest ratings for frequency, severity, and distress. Although few maternal characteristics were associated with symptom experience, women who gained more weight than the Institute of Medicine's recommendation had worse MSAS total scores than women who gained the recommended amount or less.

CONCLUSION

In nulliparas, symptom frequency, severity, and distress varied and were related to excessive gestational weight gain.

How Well Do Children with Cystic Fibrosis Sleep? An Actigraphic and Questionnaire-Based Study

OBJECTIVE

To measure sleep patterns and quality, objectively and subjectively, in clinically stable children with cystic fibrosis (CF) and healthy control children, and to examine the relationship between sleep quality and disease severity.

STUDY DESIGN

Clinically stable children with CF and healthy control children (7-18 years of age) were recruited. Sleep patterns and quality were measured at home with actigraphy (14 days). Overnight peripheral capillary oxygen saturation was measured via the use of pulse oximetry. Daytime sleepiness was evaluated by the Pediatric Daytime Sleepiness Scale (PDSS) and subjective sleep quality by the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children and Obstructive Sleep Apnea-18.

RESULTS

A total of 87 children with CF and 55 control children were recruited with no differences in age or sex. Children with CF had significantly lower total sleep time and sleep efficiency than control children due to frequent awakenings and more wake after sleep onset. In children with CF, forced expiratory volume in 1 second and overnight peripheral capillary oxygen saturation nadir correlated positively with total sleep time and sleep efficiency and negatively with frequency of awakenings and wake after sleep onset. Patients with CF had significantly greater Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (45 vs 35; P < .001), Obstructive Sleep Apnea-18 (35 vs 24; P < .001), and PDSS scores (14 vs 11; P < .001). There was a negative correlation between PDSS and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (r = -0.23; P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Even in periods of clinical stability, children with CF get less sleep than their peers due to more time in wakefulness during the night rather than less time spent in bed. Objective measures of sleep disturbance and subjective daytime sleepiness were related to disease severity. In contrast, parents of children with CF report high levels of sleep disturbance unrelated to disease severity.

Cytokine polymorphisms are associated with daytime napping in adults living with HIV

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND

Daytime napping longer than one hour has been associated with an increased risk for all-cause mortality. Associations between cytokine polymorphisms and daytime napping in chronic illnesses such as HIV, however, have not been well described. The purpose of this study was to examine cytokine polymorphisms associated with long daytime napping in adults living with HIV.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using a convenience sample of 257 adults living with HIV. Daytime napping was assessed with wrist actigraphy data collected over three days. Participants categorized as long nappers (≥60 min) were compared to short nappers and non-nappers (<60 min). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for 15 candidate genes involved in cytokine signaling were analyzed. Genes included: interferon-gamma (IFNG), IFNG receptor 1 (IFNGR1), interleukins (IL1B, IL1R, IL1R2, IL2, IL4, IL6, IL8, IL10, IL13, IL17A), nuclear factors of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B cells (NFKB1 and NFKB2), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFA).

RESULTS

After adjusting for relevant demographic and clinical characteristics, long daytime napping was associated with 12 SNPs from seven genes: 1) IFNG rs2069728; 2) IL1B rs1143642, rs1143627, and rs16944; 3) IL2 rs2069763; 4) IL6 rs4719714, rs1554606, and rs2069845; 5) IL17A rs3819024 and rs8193036; 6) NFKB1 rs4648110; and 7) NFKB2 rs1056890.

CONCLUSIONS

Cytokine genetic variations may have a role in physiological regulation of daytime napping as well as nocturnal sleep. Cytokine polymorphisms associated with long daytime napping could help identify adults with HIV who may benefit from targeted therapeutic interventions.

Yoga Therapy in Children with Cystic Fibrosis Decreases Immediate Anxiety and Joint Pain

This study was designed to determine whether yoga might alleviate symptoms of pain, sleep disturbance, anxiety, and depression in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). CF is the most common genetic, life-limiting chronic disease among Caucasian populations. It primarily affects the lungs but also many other secretory organs and consequently leads to significant morbidities. Research has shown that children with CF have significantly increased depression, anxiety, and pain compared to their healthy counterparts. Subjects participated in six one-on-one sessions over a 10-week period with a certified instructor who designed each yoga practice based on a preestablished list of 30 yoga asanas. Questionnaires evaluating pain, sleep disturbance, sustained anxiety, immediate anxiety, and depression were administered. Differences between premeasures and postmeasures were evaluated using a two-sided test. Twenty subjects were assessed (12 females/8 males), median age of 11 (7-20) years. Mean immediate anxiety scores decreased (before session to after session 29 to 23.6, respectively, p < 0.001). Joint pain improved (3.25 to 3.65, p = 0.028). CFQ-R emotion subscale improved from 79.2 to 85 (p = 0.073), and the respiratory subscale improved from 66.7 to 79.2 (p = 0.076). Other results were less notable. We conclude that yoga may reduce immediate anxiety and joint pain in patients with CF.

Physiotherapy for cystic fibrosis in Australia and New Zealand: A clinical practice guideline

Physiotherapy management is a key element of care for people with cystic fibrosis (CF) throughout the lifespan. Although considerable evidence exists to support physiotherapy management of CF, there is documented variation in practice. The aim of this guideline is to optimize the physiotherapy management of people with CF in Australia and New Zealand. A systematic review of the literature in key areas of physiotherapy practice for CF was undertaken. Recommendations were formulated based on National Health and Medical Research Council (Australia) guidelines and considered the quality, quantity and level of the evidence; the consistency of the body of evidence; the likely clinical impact; and applicability to physiotherapy practice in Australia and New Zealand. A total of 30 recommendations were made for airway clearance therapy, inhalation therapy, exercise assessment and training, musculoskeletal management, management of urinary incontinence, managing the newly diagnosed patient with CF, delivery of non-invasive ventilation, and physiotherapy management before and after lung transplantation. These recommendations can be used to underpin the provision of evidence-based physiotherapy care to people with CF in Australia and New Zealand.