Identifying Barriers to the Participation of Diabetic Patients in Khuzestan Province in Sports Activities

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Objective: Exercise and physical activity as an essential factor and an integral part in the prevention of standard management of diabetes, however, most people with diabetes are not active enough. The objective of this research was to identify the obstacles hindering the participation of diabetic patients in sports activities in Khuzestan province. Materials and Methods: The study followed an exploratory-applicative approach, utilizing a mixed qualitative-quantitative methodology. The qualitative section involved 18 knowledgeable experts, while the quantitative section included all diabetes patients in Khuzestan province. The sample size for the quantitative section was determined to be 384 patients, based on Morgan's table. Data collection in the qualitative part was conducted through semi-structured interviews, resulting in the extraction of 46 concepts, 19 sub-categories, and 8 main categories over three stages. In the quantitative part, a researcher-designed questionnaire was used, based on the interview findings. The reliability of the questionnaire was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient, which yielded a value of 0.90. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and Smart PLS software. Results: The findings indicated that various factors act as barriers to the participation of diabetic patients in sports activities, including self-actualization (7.79), environmental (6.10), educational and research (5.83), managerial (5.72), cultural (2.85), physical and supportive (2.8), time (2.62), and economic (2.15) factors. Conclusion: Therefore, it is recommended that sports and health officials in the province take measures to alleviate these obstacles and improve the quality of life for diabetic patients.