Diabetes Lifestyle Intervention Study Slotervaarthospital

Objective: In patients with non-insulin dependent diabetes type 2, intensive, short term physical activity is associated with decreased blood glucose levels and number of cardiovascular complications. In patients who are insulin dependent however, the effects of physical activity are less clear. Moreover, short-term, intensive lifestyle interventions often fail to significantly improve physical activity in the long term. The aim of this study was to determine the sustainability and effects upon physical activity and effects on HbA1c levels and other clinical parameters of diabetes of a 2-year behavior intervention program in insulin dependent patients with diabetes type 2.

In patients with non-insulin dependent type 2 diabetes, intensive, short term physical activity is associated with decreased blood glucose levels and number of cardiovascular complications. In patients who are insulin dependent however, the effects of physical activity are less clear since few studies are conducted with only insulin dependent type 2 diabetes patients included. Moreover, short-term, intensive lifestyle interventions often fail to significantly improve physical activity in the long term because of high drop out rates. The aim of this study was to determine the sustainability and effects upon physical activity, HbA1c levels and other clinical parameters of type 2 diabetes of a 2-year, behavior intervention program in insulin dependent type 2 diabetes patients.

The inclusion period was 1 year, from juli 2005 until juli 2006.

Measurements of every individual were performed at baseline and after 1 and 2 years.

The study was finished in august 2008.

The intervention program was based on the PACE (Physician-based Assessment and Counseling for Exercise) program; to stimulate exercise in participants on low profile by written information, short personal advise and telephone follow-up.

The program consisted of 4 visits per year at the physiotherapist and a 15-minute telephone call 6 weeks after each visit.

In the first consult, the physiotherapist and the subjects made a personal exercise program together based on the persons¡¯ baseline exercise pattern, medical condition, exercise tolerance and personal preferences.

The goal was for the participants to exercise at a medium intensive level, 160-180 minutes per week and spread over at least three times per week, based on the Diabetes Prevention Program.

During the following contacts, the subjects were instructed and encouraged to achieve or maintain the intended goal.


Participants in the control group received no individual advice, no programs were provided and no additional appointments were scheduled, apart from the visits for the annual measurements.