Effect of implementation intention on walking in people with diabetes: an experimental approach

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of implementation intentions as an intervention strategy to promote walking in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

We conducted a controlled and randomized trial, with 12 months of follow-up, involving 65 people with T2DM recruited from primary health care units and allocated them in the control group (CG, n = 32) and intervention group (IG, n = 33). The IG received the implementation intention strategy to promote walking and the CG remained in follow-up for conventional treatment in primary health care. The researchers were blinded by anthropometric measurements and the filling of the instruments.

RESULTS

After twelve months of follow up, the IG presented a statistically significant increase in the leisure time physical activity when compared with the CG (p = 0.0413) and showed a significant decrease in waist circumference (p = 0.0061). No significant difference was observed regarding body mass index and glycated hemoglobin among groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation intention was effective in promoting walking and improving clinical indicators in adults with T2DM.

Diabetes Mellitus, prevention & control; Walking; Intention to Treat Analysis; Randomized Controlled Trial