Consensus-Driven Development of an Exercise Base Manual Programme for Prediabetic Patients: A Delphi Study

Area of Science:

• Exercise physiology
• Public health
• Metabolic disease management

Background:

• Prediabetes is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels.
• Lifestyle modifications, including exercise and diet, can reverse prediabetes.
• Exercise is crucial for managing hyperglycemia and improving insulin sensitivity in prediabetes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a consensus-driven, exercise-based manual program for individuals with prediabetes.
• Utilizing the Delphi Method to achieve expert and patient consensus on program recommendations.

Main Methods:

• A three-round Delphi study involving 40 panelists (20 patients, 20 experts).
• Initial recommendations derived from a systematic literature review.
• Panelists rated recommendations using a 5-point Likert scale, with opportunities for additional item suggestions.

Main Results:

• 36 panelists completed the study.
• Consensus was reached on a final set of recommendations after three rounds.
• A significant number of items achieved consensus, forming the basis of the exercise manual.

Conclusions:

• The developed exercise manual provides education on disease prevention, physical activity, and diet for prediabetes management.
• The program, combined with lifestyle modifications, aims to improve glycemic control and mitigate modifiable risk factors.
• This initiative contributes to public health by offering a community-level resource for prediabetes reversal.