Promoting physical activity in people with type 2 diabetes

Kirk, A.F. and Mutrie, N. and MacIntyre, P. and Fisher, B.M. (2002) Promoting physical activity in people with type 2 diabetes. British Journal of Diabetes and Vascular Disease, 2. pp. 211-213. ISSN 1474-6514 (http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/14746514020020031301)

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Abstract

Extensive evidence demonstrates the benefits of physical activity in the management of type 2 diabetes. A recent meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials investigating the effect of exercise on glycaemic control concluded that exercise significantly reduced HbA1C values by 0.66%. This reduction is clinically significant and only slightly less than the difference between conventional and intensive glucose lowering therapy in the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS),2 which significantly reduced the development of diabetic complications. Recent studies have shown that changes in lifestyle can delay the progression of impaired glucose tolerance to type 2 diabetes,3,4 lifestyle changes being significantly more effective than therapy with metformin. Furthermore some research suggests physical activity is more effective for improving glycaemic control during earlier stages of diabetes. These studies suggest the need for an early emphasis of physical activity promotion in the management of type 2 diabetes.