ABCD position statement on physical activity and exercise in diabetes

Abstract

The Association of British Clinical Diabetologists (ABCD) recognises the key importance of exercise and physical activity in the management of diabetes. This position statement by the ABCD aims to help health professionals working in diabetes to familiarise themselves with the issues surrounding the management of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. ABCD strongly supports that exercise and physical activity are key components of the initial and ongoing management of type 2 diabetes and can help to improve metabolic control and tackle cardiovascular risk factors. ABCD also believes that diabetes teams have an important role both in promotion of physical activity and in education of the key benefits to patients, carers and health professionals involved in the day to day management of this condition. ABCD also recognises that the issues in type 1 diabetes are very different and that, in this category of patients, the health benefits of exercise are not well documented - the issue is to help and support people to engage in physical activity or sports of their choice in a safe manner. This kind of support is not universally available at present and much needs to be done to achieve this. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons.