Activity trackers can be useful tools in managing diabetes – The University of Manchester

On average, the use of movement tracking devices increased the levels of physical activity among participants by around 1,700 steps a day. This number was greater when the use of pedometers and accelerometers was combined with regular face-to-face consultations with health professionals.

Commenting on the results, Dr Hodkinson, said; Receiving feedback and support by healthcare professionals, even if this is brief and through telephone, internet, or apps, is critical for ensuring that patients achieve the greatest benefits by using these devices.

Premature deaths could potentially be prevented by addressing very low levels of physical activity, more than any other risk factor such as smoking, alcohol or stress-related illnesses.

However, Dr Hodkinson notes that, while encouraging, these results remain below the targets set by clinical recommendations such as NICE.

Around 3.3 million people in the UK have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, the authors note, and many of them experience additional conditions such as raised blood pressure, and a heightened risk of developing thrombosis or CVD. The increasing prevalence of these conditions is estimated to account for over 20% of the NHS budget in the next 20 years.

The research was funded by theNIHR School for Primary Care Research Evidence Synthesis Working Group.

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Activity trackers can be useful tools in managing diabetes - The University of Manchester