The Impact of Exercises and Physical Activity Programs on Paediatric Patients Undergoing Haemodialysis in Africa: A Scoping Review

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease and kidney failure are associated with a decline in physical abilities resulting in severe health-related complications. Physical activities and exercise improve the quality of life of paediatric patients undergoing dialysis. This scoping review aims to evaluate existing literature on the impact of exercise programs on paediatric patients undergoing dialysis in Africa. Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases, including CINAHL, EBSCO, Medline, PubMed, and Scopus, was conducted to identify peer-reviewed articles focusing on the effects, impact and benefits of exercises and physical activity programs in paediatric patients undergoing dialysis. The selection process was done by two authors and included importing search results, removing duplicates, screening titles and abstracts based on a criterion, and analysed the reference lists of selected studies to ensure comprehensive coverage. Two peer-reviewed studies were eligible for final review. Results: Two exercise-based intervention studies focused on children receiving dialysis in Egypt, highlighting a narrow regional scope within Africa. The initial study demonstrated significant improvements in health-related quality of life after muscle stretching and isometric exercises. These improvements were particularly evident across multiple dimensions of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory. A subsequent study found reductions in psychological distress and positive biochemical changes after four and eight weeks. While there were no significant baseline differences in depression, anxiety, or stress, the exercise regimen showed emerging psychosocial benefits over time. A notable omission was the lack of detail regarding contraindications and precautionary measures. These are essential for informing clinical decision-making and ensuring exercises are both safe. Discussion: The findings underscore the importance of incorporating exercise into the standard care of paediatric patients undergoing dialysis to facilitate better health outcomes. Further research is needed to develop and implement effective exercise interventions tailored to other countries in Africa.