Perceived sufficiency of physical activity levels among adults at high risk of type 2 diabetes: the FIN-D2D study.

backgroundAny increase from a low level of physical activity reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. However, lack of awareness of one's physical activity level insufficiency may act as an obstacle to increased physical activity. PURPOSE: This study assessed the determinants of perceived physical activity levels (PALs) among adults at high risk of diabetes and the associations with self-reported physical activity.

methodsIn total, 10,149 adults participated in the FIN-D2D lifestyle intervention at baseline. Opportunistic screening was used in identifying high-risk individuals. Physical activity and perceived PAL sufficiency were assessed and compared. Key risk factors for diabetes and psychosocial and demographic characteristics were analyzed as determinants using logistic regression.

resultsPAL sufficiency was rated realistically by 73 % of men and 75 % of women. Perception of sufficient PAL was more likely among individuals with a smaller waist circumference, a higher level of perceived fitness, and no exercise intention. In men, a higher age, and in women, a lower education, and a lower occupational status, also increased the likelihood of perceiving PAL as sufficient. Out of all the participants, 65 % of men and 66 % of women were inactive. Among the inactive participants, 20 (men) and 16 % (women) overestimated their PAL sufficiency. In both genders, such overestimation was predicted by dyslipidemia, a lower waist circumference, a higher level of perceived fitness, and no exercise intention; also (among men) by a higher age and a family history of diabetes, and (among women) by a lower occupational status, and a lower BMI.

conclusionsIn diabetes prevention, it is important to recognize the groups that perceive their PAL as sufficient since they may not see increased PAL as a tool for decreasing their risk of diabetes.