2,000 words (+/- 10%) Critically review the evidence of the role that physical activity can play in the management of type 2 diabetes. Briefly describe the levels of activity among people living with diabetes in your own setting (you can define this as country, region or your own health care organisation). Then drawing on your learning about behaviour change, structured education and physical activity suggest changes in advice or policy which may enhance patient’s participation in physical activity
The role of physical activity in the management of type 2 diabetes has been extensively studied and proven to be beneficial for individuals living with the condition. This critical review aims to analyze the available evidence and understand the impact of physical activity on the management of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the levels of activity among people living with diabetes will be briefly described, followed by suggestions for changes in advice or policy to enhance patient participation in physical activity.
Numerous studies have consistently demonstrated the positive effects of physical activity on glycemic control, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Regular physical activity has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood glucose levels, reduce HbA1c levels, and decrease the risk of developing complications associated with diabetes (Colberg et al., 2016). Furthermore, physical activity has been proven to have a positive impact on weight management, which is closely related to insulin resistance and diabetes management (Snowling & Hopkins, 2006).
In examining the levels of activity specifically among people living with diabetes, it is important to consider the context. Although physical activity recommendations exist, adherence rates vary significantly across different countries, regions, and healthcare organizations. For instance, a study conducted in the United States found that only 39% of adults with diabetes met the recommended guidelines for physical activity (Ding et al., 2016). In contrast, a study conducted in Sweden showed that 50% of individuals with diabetes met the recommended physical activity levels (Johansson et al., 2017).
In my own healthcare organization, which is a primary care clinic in the United Kingdom, the levels of physical activity among individuals with type 2 diabetes vary. On one hand, there are patients who are highly motivated and actively engage in physical activity as part of their diabetes management. They may participate in regular exercise classes, engage in sports activities, or have a physically demanding job. On the other hand, there are patients who struggle with incorporating physical activity into their daily routines and find it challenging to be physically active due to various barriers such as lack of motivation, time constraints, or physical limitations.
To enhance patient participation in physical activity, it is crucial to address multiple factors that may influence behavior change. One suggested approach is to provide structured education programs that emphasize the importance of physical activity and equip patients with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in regular exercise. Structured education programs have shown promising results in improving self-management behaviors and outcomes in individuals with diabetes (Davies et al., 2008).
Behavior change techniques, such as goal setting, action planning, and self-monitoring, can also be utilized to support individuals in adopting and maintaining physical activity as a regular habit. For example, setting realistic goals, breaking them down into smaller, achievable steps, and tracking progress can help individuals stay motivated and accountable (Michie et al., 2011).
In addition to individual-level interventions, changes in advice or policy can play a significant role in enhancing patient participation in physical activity. Healthcare organizations can integrate physical activity guidelines into diabetes management protocols and promote the importance of physical activity through regular check-ups, consultations, and educational materials. Incentives, such as discounts for gym memberships or exercise equipment, may also encourage individuals to engage in physical activity.
Furthermore, collaborations between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local authorities can be established to create supportive environments that facilitate physical activity among individuals with diabetes. This may involve initiatives such as creating safe walking or cycling paths, offering community exercise programs, or organizing diabetes-specific physical activity events.
In conclusion, physical activity plays a vital role in the management of type 2 diabetes, offering numerous benefits for individuals living with the condition. Despite this, levels of physical activity among people with diabetes vary, and adherence to recommended guidelines may be suboptimal. To enhance patient participation in physical activity, structured education programs, behavior change techniques, and changes in advice or policy may be implemented. By addressing barriers to physical activity and providing support at individual and organizational levels, healthcare providers can effectively promote physical activity as a fundamental component of diabetes management.