Cardiovascular disease risk factors and cardiorespiratory fitness in persons with an intellectual disability: A seven-year observational follow-up

Background: Compared to the general population, persons with intellectual disabilities (ID) have an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and a lower life expectancy. Follow-up studies on CVD risk factors in persons with ID are lacking. Objectives: To examine long-term changes in CVD risk factors and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) over a seven-year period in adults with ID following participation in a prior short-term physical activity (PA) intervention. Methods: A cohort of 71 adults with ID was included in this seven-year follow-up study. Participants had the opportunity to engage in PA twice per week at a care facility. Objectively measured CVD risk factors and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) were assessed using a cycle ergometer physical work capacity (PWC) test. Results: After the seven-year follow-up, blood pressure (p=0.003), fat percentage (p<0.001) and cholesterol (p<0.001) values increased, while PWC decreased (p<0.001). However, the prevalence of inactivity decreased (p<0.001). Conclusion: Gains in CVD risk factors and CRF in persons with ID after a short-term PA intervention were not maintained after a seven-year follow-up. Although risk factors increased, the increase in blood pressure was not clinically relevant. Novel intervention strategies are needed to sustain improvements achieved after short-term interventions for people with ID.