Association of Questionnaire-Based Physical Activity Analysis and Body Composition Dynamics in Type 2 Diabetes: A...

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Health
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Physical activity (PA) significantly impacts glycemic control in type 2 diabetes (T2D).
• The relationship between PA and body composition changes in T2D patients remains underexplored.
• Body composition alterations are implicated in the pathophysiology of T2D.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between physical activity levels and body composition in T2D patients.
• To determine if physical activity is an independent predictor of body composition parameters in T2D.
• To analyze changes in bone mineral density, skeletal muscle mass, and fat content relative to PA levels.

Main Methods:

• 615 T2D patients were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-S).
• Body composition was evaluated using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), measuring bone mineral density (LSBMD, FNBMD, HBMD, TBMD), skeletal muscle index (ASMI), and fat percentages (B-FAT, T-FAT).
• Patients were categorized into low, medium, and high physical activity groups for comparative analysis.

Main Results:

• Decreased physical activity correlated with increased HbA1c, body fat (B-FAT, T-FAT), and bone turnover markers (β-CTX, TP1NP).
• Lower physical activity was associated with significantly decreased bone mineral density (LSBMD, FNBMD, HBMD, TBMD) and skeletal muscle index (ASMI).
• Multiple regression analysis confirmed that physical activity level independently predicts bone density, muscle mass, and fat content in T2D patients.

Conclusions:

• Lack of physical activity is an independent risk factor for adverse body composition changes in T2D.
• Reduced PA is linked to diminished bone mineral density and skeletal muscle mass.
• Inactivity contributes to increased fat accumulation in T2D patients.