Physical Activity Levels and Prevalence of Hypertension Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in a Tertiary Care Centre in Kathmandu

Abstract

Physical inactivity is a major modifiable risk factor for hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), both of which increase cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, evidence regarding physical activity and hypertension among Nepalese patients with T2DM remains limited. To assess physical activity levels, determine hypertension prevalence, identify factors associated with hypertension among patients with T2DM. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 363 patients with T2DM attending Nepal Medical College Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal, from November 2025 to April 2026. Data were collected through structured interviews, medical record reviews, anthropometric measurements. Physical activity was assessed using the WHO Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (WHO-GPAQ) and expressed as metabolic equivalent (MET)-minutes/week. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg, or current antihypertensive medication use. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression.The mean age was 54.43 ± 11.86 years, and 55.1% were female. Hypertension was present in approximately one-third of participants. Significant associations were observed with age >53 years (p<0.001), diabetes duration >4 years (p<0.001), smoking (p<0.001), marital status (p=0.036), occupation (p<0.001), and BMI (p=0.006). Physical activity was not significantly associated with hypertension (p=0.152). Independent predictors included diabetes duration >4 years (AOR=76.94), age >53 years (AOR=15.46), smoking (AOR=4.36), and marital status (AOR=1.75). Hypertension is prevalent among patients with T2DM. Older age, longer diabetes duration, smoking, and higher BMI are important determinants. Lifestyle interventions promoting physical activity may improve cardiovascular health.