Abstract
COVID-19 related restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus result in changes in daily routines and physical activity which can have a negative effect on eating and health habits. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with diabetes and their nutrition and health behaviours. A survey conducted in July 2020 included 124 individuals with type 1 (n = 90) and 2 (n = 34) diabetes mellitus from Poland. To assess nutritional and health behaviours, an online questionnaire covering basic information, anthropometric data, and details regarding physical activity, eating, and hygiene habits was used. Almost 40% of all respondents with type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) stated that their disease self-management had significantly improved. Over 60% of all participants declared that they had started eating more nutritious and regular meals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enhanced hygiene, in particular, during the period, a statistically significant increase in hand sanitiser use was reported by respondents (18% vs. 82%, p < 0.001). The study demonstrated that the pandemic had a significant impact on the behaviour of patients with DM. Improved disease self-management and making healthy, informed food and hygiene choices were observed.
Highlights
Since the emergence of SARS CoV-2, a new coronavirus known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2, at the end of 2019, the related disease called COVID-19 has spread rapidly around the world [1]
From 6 July to 22 July 2020, the period when the survey was conducted, the following regulations were in force in the country: nose-and-mouth coverings in confined public areas; closure of primary and secondary schools, and institutions of higher education; food and drink establishments were operational with enhanced sanitary measures in place; gyms and swimming pools were reopened on 6 June 2020; individuals were allowed to socialise indoors in small groups; in most places, access to specialist medical care was provided at outpatient clinics [3]
The aim of the present study was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the nutritional and health behaviours of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM)
Summary
Since the emergence of SARS CoV-2, a new coronavirus known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2, at the end of 2019, the related disease called COVID-19 has spread rapidly around the world [1]. 20 March 2020 the state of epidemic including home confinement was introduced in the country. At the time of writing, the peak number (599) of daily cases in Poland occurred on 8 June 2020. From 6 July to 22 July 2020, the period when the survey was conducted, the following regulations were in force in the country: nose-and-mouth coverings in confined public areas; closure of primary and secondary schools, and institutions of higher education; food and drink establishments were operational with enhanced sanitary measures in place (nose-and-mouth coverings required when not at the table, disinfecting tables, keeping a minimum distance of 1.5 m between patrons); gyms and swimming pools were reopened on 6 June 2020; individuals were allowed to socialise indoors in small groups; in most places, access to specialist medical care was provided at outpatient clinics [3].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
