The Relationship Between Physical Activity and Treatment Adherence among Children with Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Diabetes is a widespread chronic disease among children and adolescents. Endocrinologists and diabetologists agree that effective diabetes management relies on the combination of three essential components: insulin therapy as the pharmacological treatment, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity. Together, these factors help prevent the complications associated with the disease.

The aim of this study was to better understand the impact of physical activity on treatment adherence in an 8-year-old girl with diabetes. A clinical interview was conducted during a period when she was not engaged in any physical activity, followed by another interview after she had begun participating in regular physical exercise. The findings showed that treatment adherence was better during the period in which the child practiced physical activity. In addition, her blood glucose levels were more stable, which contributed to better adaptation to her daily life.