title: Low exercise among children with asthma: a culture of over protection? A qualitative study of experiences and beliefs.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Research shows that children are insufficiently active in most affluent societies. Although children with asthma may particularly benefit from physical activity, they are less active than their peers.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To explore the reasons for low physical activity levels among children with asthma and to identify strategies to improve activity.
  
  
  METHODS
  A qualitative study using in-depth interviews and focus groups.
  
  
  METHODS
  Six GP practices, a Paediatric Respiratory Unit, and four schools in Tayside, Scotland.
  
  
  METHODS
  Purposive sampling identified 30 children with asthma, their parents (n = 38) and school staff (n = 28), who were interviewed or took part in focus groups. Data were examined using constant comparative analysis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The lower level of activity among children with asthma was supported by a climate of fear among parents and teachers about what was safe and possible for the child. Restrictions were imposed because of perceived dangers of exercising in the presence of 'triggers'. Physical activity was regarded as a threat to be managed rather than something beneficial. Teachers found it difficult to distinguish between children who were physically incapable of exercise due to asthma and those who were unmotivated. GPs were unknowingly drawn into the controversy by children and parents who cite medical advice to sanction exemption from exercise.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  GPs and asthma nurses need to provide clear management plans explaining what is appropriate and safe in terms of exercise on a child-by-child basis, to counter the considerable misunderstanding and disagreement among children, parents, and teachers.
authors.affiliation: Social Dimensions of Health Institute (University of Dundee and University of St Andrews), Airlie Place, Dundee, DD1 4HJ, Scotland UK. b.y.williams@chs.dundee.ac.uk.
authors.forename: Brian
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Williams
authors.forename: Gaylor
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Hoskins
authors.forename: Jannette
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Pow
authors.forename: Ron
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Neville
authors.forename: Somnath
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Mukhopadhyay
authors.forename: Joanne
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Coyle
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001249:Asthma / Q000209:etiology*; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002648:Child; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation
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