Physical Activity Advisement Practices in Diabetes Education Centres across Canada

Abstract

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To examine exercise advisement practices in Diabetes Education Centres (DECs) across Canada, and to review the educational materials used to promote exercise in comparison to national guidelines. METHODS Surveys were faxed to 310 DECs identified in the Canadian Diabetes Association 2000/2001 Professional Membership Directory. RESULTS The response rate was 27%. Fifty-four percent of DECs reported providing standard exercise information based on national recommendations. Fewer than 40% of DECs provided information individualized to address diabetes complications or other comorbid diseases, despite the fact that the majority of DECs reported significant cardiac disease (96.5% of DECs), arthritis (90.6%), kidney disease (78.1%) and/or neuropathy (32.3%) among patients. CONCLUSION DECs are translating research to practice when it comes to physical activity advisement, but DEC patients may require additional assessment and modifications to standard physical activity guidelines in order to enhance exercise participation. Materials designed to help DECs promote safe participation in physical activity are needed for this population.