Exercise and hemophilia

Article Outline

• Copyright

The prognosis has been improving in adults with severe hemophilia who participate in sports activities at the same levels as healthy controls. In this issue of The Journal, Engelbert et al from the Netherlands found that boys with hemophilia compared with healthy controls had significantly reduced peak oxygen consumptions, heart rates, and work loads. Total muscle strength was normal, and there was virtually no impairment of joint function. Interestingly, 30% of the boys were overweight, although their self-reported physical activity was normal. Clearly, there is room for further studies of physical activity and obesity in this patient population.