This master’s thesis examined the impact of asthma, the most common chronic respiratory disease in childhood, on children’s daily activities and sports habits. Focus was placed on physical responses during exercise and on psychological and social factors shaping participation in sports and leisure activities.
The study included 64 children from the Gorenjska region, with a mean age of 11±1.22 years. Among them, 29 (45 %) had asthma and 35 (55 %) did not. Data was collected with an online 1KA questionnaire combining an adapted SHAPES instrument with additional items on asthma. Data were analyzed using basic descriptive statistics as well as selected parametric and nonparametric tests in SPSS.
Findings showed that children with asthma were less often engaged in organized, especially competitive, sports, though their overall activity levels did not differ significantly from peers. The most frequent symptoms during exercise—shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness—contributed to more absences from physical education. While most children reported positive emotions toward activity, a minority expressed fear, discomfort, or feelings of inferiority, which were linked to avoidance. Peer relations and class structure appeared as key sources of exclusion, whereas sports professionals were mostly seen as supportive.
In conclusion, asthma influences the quality and form of sports participation more than the total amount of activity. Tailored programs, professional understanding, and supportive environments are vital to ensure full inclusion of children with asthma in physical activity.
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