Relationship between Health-Related Fitness and Quality of life in elderly with type 2 diabetes

An exploratory study in the province of Seville

Abstract

Objectives. To characterize the type 2 diabetic (DM2) population treated in primary care consultations in regard of Health-Related Fitness (HRF) and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL), and, on the other hand, to confirm if there is a relationship between HRF and HRQoL in DM2 patients.

Methods. A cross-sectional, observational, case-control study was performed to compare the HRF and HRQoL between 42 DM2 patients and 54 patients without DM2 and the relationship between these two concepts was revealed.

Results. In regard of HRF, statistically significant differences were found in the hand dynamometer test in favor of DM2 patients group (p=, 025) and statistically significant differences were achieved in favor of the reference group in sit and reach test (p=, 001). Pearson´s correlation coefficient revealed a moderate to high level of correlation between the different dimensions and index of EQ-5D-3L and strength, mobility and balance tests (p<,05).

Conclusions. This study showsthe relationship between EQ-5D-3L componentsand strength, mobility and balance tests in DM2 patients treated in primary care, key functional capacities to a correct development of daily activities in these patients.