The impact of physical activity on patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

This study assessed the effects of physical activity on cardiovascular complications and survival of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

T2DM increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs; diseases involving the heart and blood vessels) such as heart attacks and strokes, as well as micro-vascular complications (diseases arising due to damage of the small blood vessels) such as damage to the eyes, kidneys and the nervous system. Physical activity is known to reduce such risks, and is also known to increase survival among patients with T2DM. However, the exact long term effects, as well as the necessary amount of physical activity, are still under investigation.  

This study involved 11,140 patients diagnosed with T2DM and found to be at increased risk for cardiovascular complications. At the beginning of the trial, patients were asked how often they performed physical activity in the previous week, and of what intensity. 5113 patients reported performing moderate to vigorous intensity activities such as running, jogging, tennis, dancing and vigorous swimming for at least 15 minutes. 6027 patients reported participating in only mild or no physical activity. Mild physical activities included activities of minimal effort such as walking or bowling.

After 5 years, patients who reported that they were involved in moderate to vigorous physical activity at least once a week for 15 minutes experienced a 22% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular events, and a 26% reduction in the risk for all cause mortality. No difference was observed between patients reporting only mild activities and those reporting no activity at all.

In summary, this study concluded that moderate to vigorous physical activity, even when only performed once weekly,  is associated with increased survival and reduced risk of cardiovascular complications in patients with T2DM.

Results of this study are based on patient reports, which may be unreliable. In addition, patients reporting participating in moderate to vigorous activity were also shown to have a reduced risk of diabetic complications due to reduced body weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Consult with your physician regarding the importance of incorporating physical activities into your daily routine.