Physical activity in cognitive and practical competences of individuals with diabetes type 1

Background. Physical activity is an integral part of prevention and comprehensive diabetes management which prevents progression of carbohydrate metabolism disturbances in prediabetic states. The aim of the study was to evaluate the level of cognitive and practical competences in individuals with diabetes type 1 regarding the role of physical activity in their lives, including the benefits of physical activity, sources of information, frequency and type of undertaken activities, and barriers to physical activity. Methods. Overall, 128 persons participated in this internet-based diagnostic poll, and the analysis was based on 90 questionnaires filled by individuals with diabetes type 1. Results. Knowledge of benefits from physical activity was declared by 77.8% of the respondents. The most common sources of education regarding physical activity were internet resources (35.6%) and physicians (31.1%). Daily physical activity before the diagnosis was reported by 32.2% of the respondents, and after the diagnosis by 30.0% of the respondents. Activity for 30 minutes at least 3 times a week before the diagnosis was reported by 31.1% of the respondents, and after the diagnosis by 40.0% of the respondents. No physical activity was reported by 10.0% of the respondents. Conclusions. Most respondents declared knowledge of health benefits from undertaking physical activity by individuals with diabetes type 1. Internet websites and physicians are the major sources of education regarding physical activity in individuals with diabetes type 1. Most respondents reported being physically active daily or at least 3 times a week but one in ten respondents was not physically active at all. The major types of physical activity undertaken both before and after the diagnosis were walking and cycling. Hiking was undertaken more frequently after the diagnosis of diabetes. The respondents identified more barriers to physical activity after the diagnosis of diabetes type 1.