Brazilians living with diabetes do not meet basic physical activity guidelines for health – a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction and aim. The purpose of this study was to describe the profile of physical activity (PA) of Brazilian adults living with diabetes mellitus living in large Brazilian urban centers, as well as to determine whether the practice aligns with the physical activity guidelines recommended for people with diabetes.

Material and methods. Cross-sectional data were acquired from the 2020 Surveillance System for Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Non-communicable Diseases, in which about 54,000 persons aged 18 and older in all Brazilian state capitals were contacted in a telephone survey. Participants reported on their engagement in recreational physical activity and active commuting to school and/or work in the three months preceding the interview, as well as the weekly frequency and duration of these activities. They also stated whether they were living with diabetes. A descriptive analysis was performed, and statistical significance was determined using Pearson’s chi-squared test.

Results. In 2020, 7.9% of the population identified themselves living with diabetes. There was a greater frequency among older women and those with less education. Walking, water aerobics, and general gymnastics were the most common kinds of physical activity reported by people with diabetes. Moreover, over half of them (54.5%) were inactive, and 15% matched the physical activity criteria. The majority (90%) practiced PA for 30 minutes or more per day, while 87% of those who were active and exercised 1 to 2 times per week did not meet the requirements of the Ministry of Health.

Conclusion. In 2020, 7.9% of the population identified themselves as having diabetes. There was a higher frequency among older women and those with less schooling. In the sample as a whole, approximately 70% of people living with diabetes were inactive (54.5%) or did not meet the minimum BP recommendations for people with diabetes. The duration of each session seemed to be in line with the recommendations, however, the lack of regularity caused by the low weekly frequency meant that the minimum recommended target could not be achieved. Efforts involving the continued monitoring of people living with diabetes and counseling in Primary Health Care to opt for a more physically active life, seem to be promising acts for a healthier life, pending a definitive resolution to the disease.