Factors affecting physical activity in children with type 1 diabetes

This study examined factors affecting physical activity in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D). It was found that fear of hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood glucose) and diversity of parental physical activity had the greatest impact.

Children and adolescents are recommended to do at least 1 hour of moderate to intense physical activity each day. Physical activity can reduce HbA1c levels (average blood glucose over the last 3 months), as well as the risk of complications and death in people with T1D.

Children with T1D tend to be less active than those without T1D. Fear of hypoglycemia has been found to prevent physical activity in adolescents with T1D. Parental encouragement tends to increase physical activity in children. The impact of parental physical activity and the method of insulin delivery (injections or insulin pump) is less certain.

188 children with T1D, aged 6-17 years, completed a questionnaire. This examined the amount of time they spent exercising, and the amount of time they spent performing activities such as watching TV or playing video games. Data on the method of insulin delivery, and history of hypoglycemia was also collected. The participants were also asked to list any factors that prevented them from exercising. One parent of each child who participated also completed a questionnaire about their own physical activity habits.

The method of insulin administration did not have an effect on the level of physical activity. The risk of hypoglycemia limited physical activity in 20.9% of patients using an insulin pump and 33.3% of patients using insulin injections. Other factors not related to diabetes, such as school/work schedule and weather, also limited physical activity. Participants with parents who performed a wide range of physical activities were found to be more active.

The study concluded that several factors limited exercise in children and adolescents with T1D. Diversity of parental physical activity increased physical activity in their children, while method of insulin delivery had no effect.

The data used in this study was self-reported by the participants. Data collected in this way is not always accurate.

Discuss the importance of physical activity with your physician and children. Always check with your child's doctor before starting a new exercise program.