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Leisure time physical activity and glycemic control in type 1 and type 2 diabetes

Background: Diabetes mellitus has become a universal health problem with a rising prevalence worldwide. Guidelines for the management of diabetes consist of various self- management strategies, including physical activity and diet. Physical activity has been shown to improve outcomes such as insulin sensitivity, glycaemic control and glucose tolerance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between leisure- time physical activity (LTPA), glycemic control and hypoglycemic incidents in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Materials and methods: This cross- sectional study was conducted in collaboration with the primary health care physicians in the area of Osijek- Baranja County. The study involved 53 type 1 and 143 type 2 diabetic patients, with an average age of 42.8 years. LTPA was assessed by a validated 12- month questionnaire. Outcome measures were HbA1c and hypoglycemic incidents. Results: The slightest decrease in HbA1c (1.7%) was found in patients whose physical activity was significantly reduced in the past ten years. In patients whose physical activity was significantly increased, we found the biggest decrease in the level of HbA1c (4.0%). Hypoglycemic events associated with LTPA were significantly more frequent in type 2 diabetic patients than those with type 1 diabetes (Ficher' s exact test, p=0.024). Conclusion: Low levels of LTPA were associated with a poor glycemic control. Patients with type 1 diabetes were more physically active, with more vigorous exercises. Furthermore, the level of LTPA was not associated with an increase in hypoglycemic episodes in type 1 diabetic patients. This could be explained by better education of type 1 patients resulting in adequate adjustment of therapy and carbohydrate intake.

Diabetes mellitus ; Physical activity ; glycemic control

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