The “Active Hearts, Healthy Lives” study is a research study focusing on assessing how effective, feasible, and acceptable a health promotion intervention can be for Ugandan children and adolescents living with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM). This mixed-method, two-arm randomised controlled trial is designed to determine if a tailored program that combines physical activity and nutrition support can improve health outcomes in low-resource settings.
Type 1 diabetes mellitus is becoming a growing health concern in Uganda, with an estimated prevalence of 2%. Children and adolescents living with T1DM face increased risks of cardiovascular diseases due to factors such as physical inactivity and higher levels of adiposity. This study aims to address these risks by introducing a culturally sensitive intervention that focuses on improving physical activity, dietary habits, and body composition outcomes.
The study is being conducted at Wakiso Health Centre IV. This six-month study includes several key components. Participants have received educational materials highlighting the importance of physical activity and proper nutrition. They are also benefiting from personalised support through tailored diet plans and one-on-one counselling sessions. To encourage active lifestyles, physical activity plans have been customised for each participant. Additionally, monitoring assessments such as biolectrical impedance analysis are being used to assess body composition.
Participants were randomised into two groups: one receives the intervention, while the other group continues with standard diabetes care. After the study, the control group will also have access to the intervention. Baseline and follow-up assessments will measure changes in physical activity, dietary habits, and body composition.
The primary objectives of the study are to assess the baseline levels of physical activity and adiposity, implement the health promotion intervention, evaluate its effectiveness in improving health outcomes, and conduct qualitative assessments to explore its acceptability and feasibility.
This study aims to address the urgent need for effective and culturally appropriate health promotion strategies for children and adolescents with T1DM in Uganda.
The study is supported by a small research grant awarded to the principal investigator, Dr Jonathan Nsamba, by the Ramani Fund.
Staying active | Eating Healthy | Fighting Diabetes
