Frequency of physical activity and blood pressure levels among persons with type 2 diabetes at a public health center in Southwest Trinidad

Abstract

Aim: To determine the association between the frequency of physical activity and blood pressure (BP) levels among persons with type 2 diabetes at a public health center in Southwest Trinidad. Settings and Design: In 2011, the Penal Health Center, Diabetes Patient Self-Care Study enrolled 523 persons with type 2 diabetes in routine care in Southwest Trinidad aiming to obtain information on health status including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study was cross-sectional and included both males and females aged 25–87 years, having the exposure – physical activity and the outcome – BP levels. Subjects and Methods: Adults with type 2 diabetes aged 25–87 years with available information on physical activity and BP (n = 469). The main outcomes measures were systolic and diastolic BP (DBP) levels. Linear regression models examined the association between the frequency of physical activity (infrequent: <3x/week or frequent: ≥3x/week) and systolic BP (SBP)/DBP adjusting for potential confounders. Episodes of physical activity were defined as continuous physical activity, averaging ≥ 20 min/episode/week. Results: BP among hypertensive participants who exercise ≥ 3x/week was 5.3 mmHg lower than those who exercise <3x/week (Unadjusted β = −5.3, [95% confidence interval (CI) −10.0, −0.6], P = 0.026). DBP among hypertensive participants who exercise ≥3x/week was 0.4 mmHg lower than those who exercise <3x/week (Model 2: Adjusted β = −0.4, [95% CI – −3.5, 2.8], P = 0.818). Conclusion: Our findings may suggest an association between the frequency of physical inactivity and SBP levels in persons with type 2 diabetes.