A study published in January 2026 has identified physical inactivity as a measurable contributor to serious complications among people living with type 2 diabetes. Researchers reported that up to 10% of major diabetes-related complications worldwide can be attributed to insufficient physical activity. In India, the proportion of heart failure cases among diabetics linked to inactivity exceeds 13%.1
The researchers analyzed data from more than 2.3 million adults with diabetes across several global regions, including South Asia. They examined how failing to meet recommended physical activity levels influenced the development of cardiovascular and microvascular complications.1
Using population attributable fraction models, the researchers estimated the proportion of complications directly associated with physical inactivity. Globally, they found that:
Approximately 10% of strokes among individuals with diabetes were linked to insufficient physical activity.
Nearly 9–10% of diabetic retinopathy cases were attributable to inactivity.²
Around 7% of heart failure cases were associated with sedentary behavior.²
Between 5% and 7% of coronary heart disease and other cardiovascular events were connected to low activity levels.
A separate report focusing on India indicated that more than 13% of heart failure cases among Indian adults with diabetes were attributable to physical inactivity. The same analysis linked inactivity to nearly 9–10% of coronary heart disease and other cardiovascular complications in this population.
As reported by EurekAlert, The lead author Jayne Feter, researcher in the School of Medicine at the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul said,
Diabetes complications are often seen as inevitable consequences of the disease. Our findings challenge this idea by showing that a meaningful proportion of these complications could be prevented through achievable increases in physical activity among people living with diabetes.Jayne Feter, Researcher, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul.
The study included data from multiple countries and regions. South Asia showed a notable burden of inactivity-related diabetes complications.² Women and individuals with lower educational attainment demonstrated higher proportions of complications attributable to insufficient physical activity.
India has one of the highest numbers of adults living with diabetes globally. Therefore, even modest reductions in physical inactivity could affect a large number of individuals at risk of cardiovascular and microvascular complications.1
Type 2 diabetes increases the likelihood of vascular damage through chronic hyperglycemia, endothelial dysfunction, and metabolic imbalance. Physical inactivity can worsen glycemic control, elevate blood pressure, and adversely affect lipid profiles.2
Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity and supports cardiovascular health. When individuals with diabetes do not meet recommended activity levels, these protective effects diminish, increasing the probability of complications such as stroke, heart failure, and diabetic retinopathy.2
The World Health Organization recommends that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity per week, including those living with chronic conditions. Moderate activities include brisk walking and cycling. The study defined physical inactivity as failing to meet these established guidelines.1
This study reframes physical activity as a core component of diabetes complication prevention. Promoting physical activity among people with diabetes could reduce hospitalizations, disability, and healthcare costs, while improving quality of life.Jayne Feter, Researcher, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul.
The findings provide epidemiological evidence that a measurable proportion of diabetes complications are linked to a modifiable behavioral factor. Integrating structured physical activity counseling into diabetes management may help reduce long-term cardiovascular and microvascular risks.
Public health strategies that promote safe and accessible opportunities for exercise could play a role in reducing the burden of preventable diabetes complications, particularly in high-prevalence countries such as India.
Feter, Jayne, et al. “Global, Regional and National Burden of Major Diabetes Complications Attributable to Physical Inactivity.” Journal of Sport and Health Science (2026). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jshs.2026.101123.
“Inactivity May Drive Up to 10% of Major Type 2 Diabetes Complications.” Diabetes.co.uk. February 2026. https://www.diabetes.co.uk/news/2026/feb/inactivity-may-drive-up-to-10-of-major-type-2-diabetes-complications.html.
(Rh/SS/MSM)