BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS IN UNIVERSITY OF BENIN TEACHING HOSPITAL,BENIN CITY, EDO STATE,NIGERIA.

Background and Objective: This study investigated the barriers and facilitators of physical activity among patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus(T2DM) attending the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 150 participants recruited via purposive sampling.Data were collected using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Barriers to Physical Activity Questionnaire (BPAQ), and Facilitators of Physical Activity Questionnaire (FPAQ), alongside clinical data such as Body Mass Index (BMI). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The cohort had a mean age of 60.2±11.43 years and was predominantly female (62.0%). Most participants were classified as engaging in a moderate level of physical activity (73.3%). The most significant barriers to physical activity were lack of willpower (56.7%), lack of energy (54.7%), lack of resources (54.0%), and lack of time (53.3%). Key facilitators, rated as "very important," included improved blood sugar control (49.3%), advice from healthcare providers (43.3%), and having a safe neighborhood for walking (44.7%). Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between age group and the perception of "flexible work schedule" as a facilitator (χ²=31.336, p=0.008), indicating age-related differences. Conversely, no significant gender differences were found in perceived barriers (χ²=0.860, p=0.835) or facilitators (χ²=3.869, p=0.276). The presence of co-morbidities was significantly associated with reporting "lack of time" as a barrier (χ²=9.709, p=0.021). Conclusion and Implications: The engagement in physical activity among T2DM patients is shaped by a complex interplay of psychological,social, environmental, and health-related factors. The findings underscore the necessity for comprehensive, tailored interventions that target motivational enhancement, improve resource accessibility, and foster supportive environments to improve physical activity adherence. The research also emphasizes the critical role healthcare providers play in promoting active life style