Participation in Special Olympics Linked to Reduced Risk of Diabetes Among Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
July 04 2024 - 1:38PM
New research led by the Faculty of Health Sciences at Ontario Tech
University and published in Diabetic Medicine, reveals
participation in Special Olympics programming is associated with a
significantly lower risk of diabetes among adults with intellectual
and developmental disabilities (IDD).
The study led by Dr. Meghann Lloyd at Ontario Tech, examines the
diabetes status of more than 35,000 young adults with IDD in
Ontario from 1995 to 2015.
The new long-term population level research utilizes statistical
modelling of Special Olympics registration data and administrative
health records held at ICES (https://www.ices.on.ca/). Adults with
intellectual and developmental disabilities were categorized into
participants and non-participants of Special Olympics. Diabetes
diagnosis rates among these groups were calculated and compared
over the 20-year study period, revealing significant results:
- People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)
have higher rates of diabetes compared to the general
population.
- This study finds a 15 per cent rate reduction in
diabetes for adults with IDD who participate in Special
Olympics, compared to adults with IDD who do not
participate, over a period of up to 20 years.
- Over the 20-year period, adults with IDD who do not participate
in Special Olympics had a rate of diabetes of 11.01 per 1000 person
years, compared to 8.41 per 1,000 person years for Special Olympics
participants.
- Age, sex, type of community (rural vs urban), affluence, and
morbidity of individuals did not influence the outcome of the
study.
- Special Olympics is a relatively low-cost
intervention (compared to the cost of treating diabetes),
and our results indicate a significant
health-promoting effect to participation.
“This is the first time that we have very strong,
population-level evidence for a significant physical health benefit
of participating in Special Olympics for adults with intellectual
and developmental disabilities,” says Dr. Meghann Lloyd, Lead
Author and Researcher with the Faculty of Health Sciences at
Ontario Tech University. “This ground-breaking study strongly
demonstrates that engagement in Special Olympics goes beyond mere
recreation. It provides compelling evidence that participation
fosters considerable health improvements, reinforcing the notion
that such inclusive sports programs are vital for the holistic
well-being of individuals with intellectual and developmental
disabilities. The health advantages observed underscore the
importance of supporting and expanding access to these programs.
Our findings advocate for the broader adoption of Special Olympics
as a critical component of public health strategies aimed at
improving the quality of life for this population.”
Research shows lower levels of physical activity as a primary
reason why adults with IDD are at a higher risk of developing
diabetes compared to their peers without IDD. Special Olympics
offers a unique opportunity for young adults with IDD to enhance
their physical activity levels while also gaining access to Special
Olympics Canada’s various health screenings and educational
resources, while fostering social connections in an inclusive
community. By comparing the diabetes rates among Special Olympics
participants with those who did not participate, the research finds
that the risk of diabetes was significantly lower among
participants.
"While we have long observed these positive outcomes for Special
Olympics athletes firsthand, it's gratifying to have research that
supports what we've always believed,” says Gail Hamamoto,
Chief Executive Officer, Special Olympics Canada. "Given that
diabetes is one of the most prevalent, debilitating and costly
diseases to the Canadian healthcare system, it's remarkable to
witness the impact of Special Olympics. This new study reveals that
Special Olympics athletes have a 15% reduced risk of diabetes
compared to non-participants. We now know that participation
in our programs not only enhances the overall well-being of
each Special Olympics athlete by promoting physical, mental and
emotional wellness through activity and social inclusion - but
could also bring significant socio-economic benefits for all
Canadians.”
The compelling findings underscore the critical role of
inclusive community-based physical activity programs in improving
the lives of individuals with IDD. Special Olympics Canada remain
committed to expanding access to these transformative programs,
fostering a healthier and more inclusive society for everyone.
The research article was published online on June 25th, 2024, in
Diabetic Medicine. http://doi.org/10.1111/dme.15393
Media interview opportunities include:
- Special Olympics athletes with lived
experience and their families
- Dr. Meghann Lloyd, Professor, Faculty of Health Sciences,
Ontario Tech University
- Gail Hamamoto, Chief Executive
Officer, Special Olympics Canada
ABOUT SPECIAL
OLYMPICS CANADA
Established in 1974, the Canadian
chapter of this global movement is dedicated to enriching the lives
of Canadians with an intellectual disability through the
transformative power and joy of sport. Operating out of sport clubs
in 12 Provincial and Territorial Chapters, this grassroots movement
reaches beyond the sphere of sport to empower individuals, change
attitudes and build communities. From two-year-olds to mature
adults, thousands of athletes with an intellectual disability are
registered in Special Olympics year-round programs
across Canada. For more information, visit specialolympics.ca
or follow @specialocanada on social media.
About Ontario Tech University: Celebrating 20
years
A modern, forward-thinking university, Ontario Tech advances the
discovery and application of knowledge to accelerate economic
growth, regional development and social innovation. We inspire and
equip our students and our graduates to make a positive impact in a
tech-focused world. For us, it’s not only about developing the next
tech breakthrough. Understanding and integrating the social and
ethical implications of technology differentiates us as a
university. Learn more at ontariotechu.ca.
For more information and interview opportunities, please
contact:
Brigitte KennyHype PRbrigitte@hypepr.ca 647.967.3272
Allie WiebeSpecial Olympics Canada
awiebe@specialolympics.ca647-676-7440
Bryan OliverCommunications and MarketingOntario Tech
Universitybryan.oliver@ontariotechu.ca289.928.3563 (mobile)