Barriers and enablers to physical activity in ILD: patients’ perspectives

People with interstitial lung disease (ILD) present lower levels of physical activity (PA), which further increases morbidity and mortality risks. Improving our knowledge about barriers and enablers to PA from patients’ own perspectives may allow the development of person-centred interventions, ultimately improving their quality of life. Thus, this study aimed to explore the perspectives of individuals with ILD about barriers and enablers to PA. A qualitative study nested in a larger trial evaluating the effects of a home-based physical activity programme (iLiFE – Lifestyle Integrated Functional Exercise for people with interstitial lung disease (<ext-link>NCT04224233</ext-link>) was conducted. Semi-structured interviews with people with ILD were conducted. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed in full and analysed by deductive thematic analysis. Eleven patients (6♀, 76±10 years; FVC%p 75.5±14.2, DLCO%p 43.2±20) participated. Three themes and 14 subthemes emerged: PA (self-perception, daily activities, impacts), challenges to PA (lack of motivation, weather, health status, societal stigma) and expectations & thoughts about the iLiFE (get better & live longer, wanting to know more, contributing to the future, support from others, design, willingness to improve) (Fig. 1). The identified barriers and enablers provide a basis for developing meaningful person-centred interventions to enhance PA levels in people with ILD. <fig><object-id>erj;64/suppl_68/OA3691/F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><graphic></graphic></fig>