Physical Activity and Diabetes-related Health Beliefs of Marshallese Adults

We sought to improve understanding of diabetes-related health beliefs and physical activity behaviors of Marshallese adults with and without type 2 diabetes (T2D).

We used tests of comparison and regression analyses to examine data from 376 Marshallese adults collected at church-based events.

One in 5 (20.2%) respondents had received a T2D diagnosis. About one-fourth of the respondents fell into one of 4 physical activity levels: zero times per week (28.7%), one time per week (19.4%), 2-3 times per week (24.7%) and ≥4 times per week (26.9%). Using logistic regression, we found T2D diagnosis status was not statistically associated with level of physical activity. However, having time to be physically active was significantly associated with being physically active ≥4 times per week. Being obese, having less than a high school education, not having time, and not having a comfortable place to exercise were significantly associated with never being physically active.

These findings help fill gaps in Pacific Islander health literature and will inform public health interventions to improve rates of physical activity among the Marshallese and other Pacific Islander communities.