Comparison of sleep and health behaviors among diabetic patients and non-diabetics in Phitsanulok, Thailand: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global public health problem. To avoid disease complications, diabetic patients have to control their blood glucose and maintain a healthy lifestyle including a healthy diet, weight control, moderate exercise and smoking cessation. Methods: This study aimed to survey sleep, eating and exercise behaviors of diabetic patients in Bang Rakam district, a rural community in Phitsanulok province, Thailand. The data on sleep and other health behaviors were taken from 1,385 T2DM patients and 1,394 non-T2DM controls, who were aged 30 - 85 years and were free from other chronic diseases. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Results: Compared to the control group, the diabetic group had a significantly higher body mass index (BMI). However, fewer of them were found to smoke cigarettes and drink alcohol. Most of the participants were ‘morning people’ who slept 7-9 hours per day. It was found that sleep ≥8 hours increased the risk of diabetes among women (OR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.03 - 1.56). The diabetic group reported eating chicken and vegetables more than the control group. They also avoided eating beef and eating more than a cup of rice per meal. However, the T2DM group did fewer physical activities, such as walking, biking or playing sports, during their leisure time. Conclusions: Compared to the control group, diabetic patients in a rural community of Thailand had healthier sleep, lifestyle and eating behaviors but not healthier exercise behaviors, especially among obese women. Diabetic prevention programs should emphasize and promote weight control and increasing levels of exercise.