Identification and characterization of phenotypes based on behavior for physical exercise in adolescents with asthma: a multicenter study.

Two distinct clusters based on motivational regulations and basic psychological needs for exercise were identified among adolescents with asthma.

• Cluster 1 was characterized by 'More autonomous behavior and High Perceived Support' (n=56)
• Cluster 2 was characterized by 'Less autonomous behavior and Low Perceived Support' (n=88)
• Classification was performed using hierarchical cluster analysis based on motivational regulations and basic psychological needs
• Total sample consisted of 144 participants with asthma aged 14 (SD: 2) years

Adolescents in Cluster 2 (less autonomous behavior and low perceived support) had significantly worse quality of life than those in Cluster 1.

• Quality of life scores: 71 (SD: 15) points in Cluster 2 vs 83 (SD: 15) points in Cluster 1
• Difference was statistically significant (P<0.0001)
• Quality of life was assessed as part of the broader outcome measures including asthma control and severity

Female adolescents were significantly more likely to be classified in Cluster 2 (less autonomous behavior and low perceived support).

• Cluster 2 had 50 girls (57%) compared to 18 girls (32%) in Cluster 1
• Difference was statistically significant (P=0.006)
• This sex-based difference was not observed for other variables

No significant differences in asthma control or disease severity were observed between the two behavioral clusters.

• Asthma control and severity were assessed as outcome variables and compared across clusters
• The paper states 'No significant differences were observed in the other variables between clusters'
• This indicates that behavioral phenotype did not differentiate participants on clinical asthma measures

The overall level of self-determination for physical exercise among adolescents with asthma was low.

• Mean self-determination score was 7.13 (SD: 7.88) points
• The high standard deviation relative to the mean suggests considerable variability in self-determination scores
• Sedentary lifestyle is described as common in people with asthma despite physical exercise being largely recommended

The study used a cross-sectional multicenter design to assess motivational and psychological determinants of exercise behavior in adolescents with asthma.

• Participants were assessed for anthropometric measures, motivational regulations, and self-determination for exercise
• Perceptions regarding the fulfillment of autonomy, competence, and relatedness to exercise were also measured
• Additional outcomes included quality of life, asthma control, and asthma severity
• Sample size was 144 participants with a mean age of 14 (SD: 2) years