Evaluation of submaximal endurance in young children living with HIV.

Background: There is growing concern about the long-term Objectives: Our study aimed to investigate the sub-maximal endurance of CLHIV compared to a non-infected comparison group. Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study 346 CLHIV, between ages five and eleven years, were assessed using the Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation were measured pre-test, immediately post-test and five minutes post-test. Clinical and anthropometric data were recorded. Height and weight were assessed using a stadiometer and a digital scale, respectively. Results: 175 CLHIV (52% female) and 171 children without HIV (46% female) participated. All children were Black African. The CLHIV all initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) at a young age (mean 8.7 months, standard deviation 6.7) and their disease was well controlled (viral load < 1000copies/ml). There were no statistically significant differences in submaximal endurance between the two groups ( Conclusion: CLHIV who initiate ART early with well-controlled disease are able to attain submaximal endurance levels similar to their uninfected peers. Clinical implications: Endurance and physical activity should be monitored in CLHIV. Submaximal endurance levels may improve with age and biological maturation.