Abstract

Objective: To investigate whether a pragmatic structured education programme with and without pedometer use is effective at promoting physical activity and improving glucose tolerance in those with impaired glucose tolerance.

Research Design and Methods: Overweight and obese individuals with impaired glucose tolerance were recruited from ongoing screening studies at the University Hospitals of Leicester, UK. Participants were randomized to one of three groups. Group one received a three-hour group-based structured education programme aimed at promoting walking activity using personalised steps-per-day goals and pedometers. Group two received a three-hour group-based structured education programme aimed at promoting walking activity using generic time-based goals. Group three received a brief information leaflet (control condition). Outcomes included an oral glucose tolerance test, standard anthropometric measures, ambulatory activity and psychological variables. Follow-up was conducted at 3, 6 and 12 months.

Results: 87 individuals (66% male, mean age 65 years) were included in this study. At 12 months significant decreases in 2-hour post-challenge glucose and fasting glucose of −1.31mmol/l (95% CI −2.20 to −0.43) and −0.32 mmol/l (95% CI −0.59 to −0.03) respectively were seen in the pedometer group compared to the control group. No significant improvements in glucose control were seen in those given the standard education programme.

Conclusions: This study suggests that a pragmatic structured education programme which incorporates pedometer use is effective at improving glucose tolerance in those with impaired glucose tolerance. This is likely to have important implications for future primary care based diabetes prevention initiatives.