Factors influencing physical activity behavior among iranian women with type 2 diabetes using the extended theory of reasoned action

Findings of most studies indicate that the only way to control diabetes and prevent its debilitating effects is through
the continuous performance of self-care behaviors. Physical activity is a non-pharmacological method of diabetes treatment and
because of its positive effects on diabetic patients, it is being increasingly considered by researchers and practitioners. This study
aimed at determining factors influencing physical activity among diabetic women in Iran, using the extended theory of reasoned
action in Iran.
Methods: A sample of 352 women with type 2 diabetes, referring to a Diabetes Clinic in Khoy, Iran, participated in the study.
Appropriate instruments were designed to measure the desired variables (knowledge of diabetes, personal beliefs, subjective norms,
perceived self-efficacy, behavioral intention and physical activity behavior). The reliability and validity of the instruments were
examined and approved. Statistical analyses of the study were conducted by inferential statistical techniques (independent t–test,
correlations and regressions) using the SPSS package.
Results: The findings of this investigation indicated that among the constructs of the model, self efficacy was the strongest predictor
of intentions among women with type 2 diabetes and both directly and indirectly affected physical activity. In addition to
self efficacy, diabetic patients’ physical activity also was influenced by other variables of the model and sociodemographic factors.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the high ability of the theory of reasoned action extended by self-efficacy in forecasting
and explaining physical activity can be a base for educational intervention. Educational interventions based on the proposed model
are necessary for improving diabetics’ physical activity behavior and controlling disease