Comparison of Physical Activity Level and Functional Capacity in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Healthy Controls.

Background: Physical activity improves glycemic control in T2DM. It may also influence functional capacity and thus improve quality of life. Despite evidence of exercise benefits, majority of people with type 2 diabetes are physically inactive and are less likely to meet the recommendations for physical activity. However, there is no readily available literature demonstrating the functional capacity in Indian subjects diagnosed with T2DM. Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare physical activity level and functional capacity in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and healthy controls. Materials and Methods: In this study, 30 patients with T2DM and 30 age, gender and BMI matched healthy controls who met the inclusion criteria were recruited for the study after taking a written consent. The physical activity level was assessed using International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and functional capacity was assessed with 6 Minute Walk Distance (6MWD). The IPAQ score, IPAQ sitting hours and 6MWD were compared between the 2 groups. Data was tested for normality. Unpaired t test was used to compare Age and BMI between groups for matching. Unpaired t test was used to compare 6MWD between both the groups and Mann Whitney U test was used to compare IPAQ score and IPAQ sitting hours between both the groups. Results: The study demonstrates T2DM patients have reduced functional capacity as compared to control group. A difference of 68.4 meters in 6MWD [p=0.000] was observed with no difference in physical activity levels between the two groups. Conclusion: T2DM patients have reduced functional capacity as compared to control group. The mechanism of impaired functional capacity appears to be associated with the disease process. Therefore, early exercise prescription and physical fitness for improving glycemic control and functional capacity in T2DM patients is essential.