Physical Inactivity among Diabetic Patients in Urban Tamilnadu: A Community-Based Study

Background: The prevalence of diabetes is on the increasing trend in India due to rapid urbanization and lifestyle modification. Physical inactivity plays a major role in increasing insulin sensitivity, thereby improving glycemic control and preventing complications, premature death and disability. But, only 55% of adults in India is physically active and there seems to exist various barriers for physical activity. Aims: To estimate the prevalence of physical inactivity among the diabetic patients in Thoothukudi Corporation. To identify the barriers for being physically active in the same population. Materials and methods: Cross sectional study was conducted among diabetic patients of Thoothukudi Corporation. Multi stage sampling method was used. Physical inactivity was assessed using Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) developed by WHO. Barriers to physical activity was assessed using CDC’s Barriers to physical activity questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS v.18. Results: Around 56% of diabetic patients were physically inactive. The prevalence of physical inactivity was significantly associated with gender, marital status, socio-economic class and educational level (p<0.05). Only 33% of them engaged in recreational activities. The study population spent an average of 7 hours per day on sedentary behaviour. The commonly perceived barriers for physical activity were lack of willpower, lack of energy, social influence and lack of time. Conclusion: More than half of the diabetic patients were physically inactive. Efforts should be made to promote physical activity, especially among women and patients with comorbidities and complications