Adherence to physical activity among people living with type 2 diabetes attending regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam Tanzania

In Tanzania, about 10.3% of the people aged 20 to 79 are living with type 2 diabetes and the prevalence is rising. Effective management of type 2 diabetes relies on adherence to self-care behaviors, including physical activity. However, information on physical activity adherence among people living with type 2 diabetes in Tanzania is scarce. This study aimed to determine the adherence levels to physical activity among people living with type 2 diabetes in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A cross-sectional study among people living with type 2 diabetes attending clinics at regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam was conducted in June 2023. Respondents were recruited through systematic sampling, and their physical activity levels measured using the WHO STEPwise method for NCD risk factor surveillance. Data were analyzed using STATA-15. Among 264 respondents, overall adherence to sufficient physical activity was 47%. Only 16.7% met work-related, 30.3% transport-related, and 13.3% leisure-related activity recommendations, while 24.6% were sedentary. Older age (≥ 60 years) was associated with lower adherence (95%CI 0.01–0.88). Self-employment was associated with adherence (aOR 5.89, 95% CI 1.73–12.02). Diabetes duration of 6–10 years (aOR 0.42, 95% CI 0.19–0.90) and lack of family support (aOR 0.53, 95% CI 0.29–0.96) were associated with lower adherence. Leisure-related physical activity was lowest compared to travel and work domains. Targeted urban interventions are needed to improve adherence. Age-appropriate exercise, flexible or workplace programs, counselling for patients, strengthened family support can enhance physical activity and improve diabetes outcomes.