Evaluating the global impact of low physical activity on type 2 diabetes: Insights from the global burden of disease 2019 study

Abstract Aim We aimed to assess the global implications of low physical activity (LPA) on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by utilizing data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019. Methods The analysis was conducted by examining the age‐standardized disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) rates over a 30‐year period. To assess the trends, we utilized estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs). Results The study revealed a notable increase in the burden of DALYs attributable to T2DM resulting from LPA, with an EAPC of 0.84 (95% confidence interval 0.78‐0.89). Among the regions examined, Oceania showed the highest burden, whereas Eastern Europe exhibited the lowest burden. Specifically, within the Central Asia region, a considerable increase in T2DM‐LPA DALYs was observed, with an EAPC of 3.18 (95% confidence interval 3.01‐3.36). The burden associated with T2DM‐LPA DALYs was found to be similar between genders and increased across all age groups, peaking in the 80‐84 years. Furthermore, there was a clear association between the socio‐demographic index (SDI) and the age‐standardized DALYs rate. Regions categorized as low‐middle and middle SDI experienced a substantial rise in burden. Conclusion This study highlights a substantial increase in the T2DM‐LPA DALYs in low‐middle and middle SDI regions, as well as among individuals aged 80‐84 years. These findings emphasize the importance of implementing comprehensive global health interventions that promote physical activity, particularly targeting high‐risk populations and regions.