Open AccessWhat the COVID-19 Pandemic Showed Us: Limited Time Resources as an Important Factor of Diabetes Management
Author(s) -
Zoe Pafili
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
kompass nutrition and dietetics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2673-5199
DOI - 10.1159/000512845
Subject(s) - pandemic , medicine , hygiene , covid-19 , diabetes mellitus , anthropometry , disease , environmental health , diabetes management , type 2 diabetes , gerontology , infectious disease (medical specialty) , endocrinology , pathology
COVID-19 related restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus result in changes in daily routines and physical activity which can have a negative effect on eating and health habits. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with diabetes and their nutrition and health behaviours. A survey conducted in July 2020 included 124 individuals with type 1 ( n = 90) and 2 ( n = 34) diabetes mellitus from Poland. To assess nutritional and health behaviours, an online questionnaire covering basic information, anthropometric data, and details regarding physical activity, eating, and hygiene habits was used. Almost 40% of all respondents with type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) stated that their disease self-management had significantly improved. Over 60% of all participants declared that they had started eating more nutritious and regular meals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enhanced hygiene, in particular, during the period, a statistically significant increase in hand sanitiser use was reported by respondents (18% vs. 82%, p < 0.001). The study demonstrated that the pandemic had a significant impact on the behaviour of patients with DM. Improved disease self-management and making healthy, informed food and hygiene choices were observed.