Physical activity and the level of HbA1c in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus

Introduction
The correlation between physical activity and the level of HbA1c in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus is poorly understood. This study sought to assess the effects of physical activity on the level of HbA1c. The results draw attention to the benefits of physical activity regarding general metabolism and HbA1c levels. Decreased HBA1c levels are associated with health benefits in patients with diabetes patients and result in a lower risk for a variety of potential health complications.

Material and methods
The research was carried out in 2014 and included 92 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (50 girls and 42 boys) aged 7-20 with a mean disease duration of 6.5 years who were being treated in a diabetes clinic in Olsztyn. To assess physical activity the International Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children (HBSC) survey was administered. Physical activity level was determined using both minutes of moderate/vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and vigorous physical activity (VPA). The study participants were divided into the following groups: A – physically active boys and girls (3 days a week or more) and B – physically inactive boys and girls (less than 3 days a week).

Results
The analysis of correlations between MVPA, VPA and HbA1c revealed that there were no statistically significant differences between physically active and inactive girls. However, there were slight differences in HbA1c levels in favour of active girls. The results of boys regarding MVPA and HbA1c demonstrated statistically significant differences between active and inactive boys, in favour of the active group. While analysing the results concerning the correlation between VPA and HbA1c in boys, no statistically significant differences were noted; however, the level of HbA1c was lower in active boys.

Conclusions
Contrary to boys, the majority of girls manifested reluctance to do physical activity. Girls and boys who were active had a slightly lower level of HbA1c than inactive individuals. Physical activity of the study participants did not reduce the level of HbA1c significantly.