Physical Activity and BMI in Relation to Diabetic Neuropathy: Which Factor Plays a Greater Role?

Main Article Content

Indra B. Suta
Nurma Yuliyanasari
Laily Irfana
Detti N. Irawati

Abstract

Introduction: The rising prevalence of obesity indices, such as body mass index (BMI), alongside persistently low levels of physical activity, contributes significantly to the development of diabetic microvascular complications, including somatic and autonomic neuropathy. This study aims to analyse the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and physical activity with the incidence of diabetic neuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Method: This study employed a cross-sectional design in 55 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus in 2024 who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were selected using consecutive random sampling. The research instruments used were weight and height scales, the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ), and the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI). Results: The neuropathy-positive group had higher BMI (27.78 ± 4.708 vs. 23.70 ± 3.444, p < 0.05) and lower physical activity (905.05 ± 911.871 vs. 2,537.11 ± 2,126.107, p < 0.05). BMI status (r=0.461, p<0.05) and physical activity level (r=0.450, p<0.05) had a positive and moderate association with the incidence of diabetic neuropathy. Logistic regression results showed that physical activity (Wald = 8.167) and BMI (Wald = 5.530) had a more significant influence than BMI on the incidence of diabetic neuropathy. Conclusion: A significant relationship was identified between Body Mass Index (BMI) and physical activity with the incidence of diabetic neuropathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

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Indra B. Suta, Nurma Yuliyanasari, Laily Irfana, & Detti N. Irawati. (2026). Physical Activity and BMI in Relation to Diabetic Neuropathy: Which Factor Plays a Greater Role? . Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 22(3), 1591. https://doi.org/10.47836/mjmhs.v22i3.1591
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Original Articles

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