In a nutshell
This analysis reviewed the effects of physical activities on survival and cardiovascular diseases in individuals with diabetes mellitus.
Some background
Diabetes mellitus (DM) increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as heart failure, strokes and heart attacks. Conditions such as high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol levels, and obesity are also associated with the development of CVD. By controlling these risk factors helps DM patients to avoid or delay the development of CVD. Physical activity (PA) is known to reduce such risk factors in patients with diabetes. PA has also been proven to help reduce the expenses that patients with DM face in the management of their disease.
Methods & findings
This study included a group of 5859 patients with DM who were questioned about their physical activity practices. The authors of this study also analyzed the results of several studies that evaluated the effects of PA in patients with DM. This review and analysis found that CVD lowered survival by 28% in patients with DM. In one analysis, patients that classified themselves as "moderately active" had a 38% increase in survival. Walking only 2 to 4.5 hours a week reduced the risk of CVD by 46%. A second large analysis showed that individuals who participated in physical activities in their free time (leisure activity) had a 35% lower risk of CVD. Also, DM patients who practiced high levels of PA had a 40% higher survival compared to those who practiced low levels of PA.
The bottom line
In this study, physical activity was associated with increased survival and reduced risk of CVD in patients with diabetes mellitus.
The fine print
These studies collected information from patient reports. The validity of the information submitted was not confirmed.
What’s next?
Consult with your physician on how to incorporate physical activities into your daily routine.
Published By :
Archives of Internal medicine
Date :
Sep 24, 2012
