Understanding the characteristics of exercise programmes used in self-management educational interventions for T2DM in the Middle East

Abstract

Abstract Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) continues to present itself as a global health problem that continues to deteriorate health, impact economic stability and place increasing pressure on health systems. While studies have often noted prevalence to increase in low-income countries, more studies are demonstrating increasing prevalence in Middle Eastern countries including UAE, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. While many diabetes self-management interventions have been introduced, there has often been a lack of understanding of the role of exercise characteristics in these interventions. Research Aim: The current review aimed to understand the effectiveness of exercise programs used in self-management educational interventions for T2DM in Middle Eastern countries. Method: The current review conducted a scoping review which utilised a PISCO framework. The review consulted several databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Medline, Scopus, CINAHL, PsychINFO and the Cochrane Database) and the academic search engine Google Scholar. The review focus on literature published from 2009 to 2021 and involved primary research conducted on Middle Eastern populations. Data was extracted into a Microsoft excel matrix which was utilised to appraise and synthesis. Effect sizes were calculated and interpreted using Cohen’s d. Results: The review identified 10 studies which met the selection criteria successfully following the sifting process. Arksey and O’Mallley framework was used to develop six-stage methodological framework. A PRISMA flow diagram was utilised in order to evaluate the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Discussion and Conclusion: The review demonstrates the characteristics of exercise program utilised in DSME intervention for T2DM in Middle Easter countries. It was found that aerobic and resistance exercises with 3-6 months duration were most important and effective programs to use in DSME intervention for T2DM. This can improve patients strengths and endurance of flexibility, and body composition and also effective for patients with health related complications. However, there is low adherence to exercise due to sedentary behaviour among patients in Middle Eastern countries which need to be improved by providing more knowledge and information about specified exercises for DSME intervention.