Effect of Progressive Aerobic and Resistance Exercises on the Pulmonary functions of Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes in Nigeria

Background: The lungs are end organs that are adversely affected in Nigerian adults with type 2 diabetes. Assessment and monitoring of the progress of pulmonary functions postexercise prescription is paramount for optimal feedback on a patient’s progress.

Objective: This study was designed to investigate the pulmonary responses of individuals with T2DM to progressive aerobic exercises and resistance exercises (PAREs) and assess changes at specified points in the intervention period.

Patients and Methods: A total of 60 subjects (36 females and 24 males) aged 40-75 years were consecutively recruited into this randomized control study, which comprised a PARE and a control group. Outcome measures, which included pulmonary parameters (oxygen uptake (VO₂max), forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁)) and anthropometric parameters (body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist hip ratio (WHR)), were assessed at baseline and at the end of Weeks 4, 8, and 12 of the intervention period. Glycosylated hemoglobin level (HbA1c) was assessed at baseline and at the end of Week 12. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Level of significant was set at P < 0.05

Results: Mean VO₂max, FEV₁, and FVC increased as early as 4 weeks postintervention. Significant improvements in these variables were noted in subjects (P < 0.05). WC and HbA1C were significantly reduced (P = 0.03 and 0.001, respectively) following intervention. Significant changes in pulmonary variables occurred from Week 8 week following the post hoc analysis.

Conclusions: PARE is beneficial in the management of pulmonary complications in adult Nigerian T2DM patients. PARE for at least 4 weeks may improve the pulmonary function of individuals with T2DM. However, postexercise prescription assessment may be commenced 8 weeks post intervention.

Pulmonary complications in type 2 diabetes are a major health issue of concern. Management and progress monitoring post exercise
intervention is paramount for optimal feedback. Results of this article are useful for physiotherapist, endocrinologist, diabetes educators
and clinicians in cardiopulmonary field of study.

 

Osho OA, Akinbo SRA, Osinubi AAA, Olawale OA. Effect of Progressive Aerobic and Resistance Exercises on the Pulmonary Functions
of Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes in Nigeria. Int J endocrinol Metab. 2012;10(1): 411-7. DOI: 10.5812/ijem.3333