The effects of objectively-measured, free-living daily ambulatory movement on mortality in a national sample of adults with diabetes

Abstract

Previous research demonstrates that self-reported physical activity is protective against premature mortality among the general population, as well as those with diabetes. This confirmatory research study examines the relationship between physical activity and all-cause mortality risk among a national sample of diabetics while employing an objective measure of physical activity (ActiGraph 7164). Data from the 2003–2006 NHANES were employed, with follow-up through 2011.Among the 712 diabetics, 134 died during the median follow-up period of 79months. For every 60min increase in daily ambulatory movement, adults with diabetes had a 29% reduced risk of premature all-cause mortality (HRadjusted=0.71; 95% CI: 0.60–0.85). These confirmatory findings underscore the importance of physical activity promotion among adults with diabetes.