Maintaining Physical Activity Is Associated with Reduced Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in People Newly Diagnosed with Diabetes

Background: We investigated the association between changes in physical activity and the risk of a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) in people with newly diagnosed diabetes. Methods: Using a nationwide database, we identified 8,596 people with newly diagnosed diabetes who underwent national health examinations within a year before and after a diabetes diagnosis. Cox proportional hazards models, hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (Cis) for MACE risks were calculated according to changes in physical activity before and after a diagnosis of diabetes. Results: During a median follow-up of 2.3 years, study participants who engaged in sustained physical activity after a diagnosis of diabetes had a 34% lower MACE risk compared to those with sustained inactivity (HR 0.66; 95% CI, 0.44-0.98). An advantage was observed in those with a history of cardiovascular disease, although this was of borderline statistical significance (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.40-1.01; P=0.054). In people considered obese, physical activity was significantly associated with a decreased risk of a MACE, regardless of the period preceding and following the diabetes diagnosis. Those who became inactive to active had the lowest risk of a MACE (HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.18-0.79). Conclusion: Maintaining active physical activity before and after a diagnosis of diabetes is essential to preventing cardiovascular disease. Early intervention strategies are necessary to promote physical activity and exercise routines after a diagnosis of diabetes in people with obesity and those with pre-existing cardiovascular disease.

Automated summary

This study investigated the association between changes in physical activity and the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in individuals with newly diagnosed diabetes. The results showed that maintaining active physical activity after a diabetes diagnosis significantly reduced the risk of MACE. This association was particularly beneficial for individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease and obesity.