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Open Access 01-12-2023 | Diabetes | Research

Factors affecting the support for physical activity in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a national survey of health care professionals’ perceptions

Authors: Emma J. Cockcroft, Eva L. Wooding, Parth Narendran, Renuka P. Dias, Alan R. Barker, Christopher Moudiotis, Ross Clarke, Robert C. Andrews

Published in: BMC Pediatrics | Issue 1/2023

Abstract

Background

Many children and adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) don’t meet the recommended levels of physical activity. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) have a key role in supporting and encouraging children and adolescents with T1DM to be physically active. This study aims to understand the perspectives of HCPs in relation to supporting physical activity and implementing guidelines relating to physical activity.

Methods

An online mixed methods survey was circulated to HCPs in pediatric diabetes units in England and Wales. Participants were asked about how they support physical activity in their clinic and their perceptions of barriers/enablers of providing physical activity support to children and adolescents with T1DM. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively. An deductive thematic approach was applied to the free text responses using the Capability Opportunity Motivation model of Behaviour (COM-B) as a framework.

Results

Responses were received from 114 individuals at 77 different pediatric diabetes units (45% of pediatric diabetes units in England and Wales). HCPs surveyed felt that the promotion of physical activity is important (90%) and advised patients to increase levels of physical activity (88%). 19% of the respondents felt they did not have sufficient knowledge to provide support. HCPs reported limited knowledge and confidence, time and resources as barriers to providing support. They also felt the current guidance was too complicated with few practical solutions.

Conclusion

Pediatric HCPs need training and support to be able to encourage and support children and adolescents with T1D to be a physical activity. In addition, resources that provide simple and practical advice to manage glucose around exercise are needed.

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Title: Factors affecting the support for physical activity in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a national survey of health care professionals’ perceptions
Authors: Emma J. Cockcroft
Eva L. Wooding
Parth Narendran
Renuka P. Dias
Alan R. Barker
Christopher Moudiotis
Ross Clarke
Robert C. Andrews
Publication date: 01-12-2023
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
Published in: BMC Pediatrics / Issue 1/2023
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2431
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12887-023-03940-3

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Factors affecting the support for physical activity in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a national survey of health care professionals’ perceptions

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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