People diagnosed with prediabetes face a high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. This risk increases further if they are overweight or obese, have a family history of the disease, exercise less than three times a week, or have certain health conditions like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (MASLD) or a history of gestational diabetes.
However, two major studies—the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) and its long-term follow-up, the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study (DPPOS)—offer hope.
The DPP study, which lasted about two years, found that intensive lifestyle changes could reduce the risk of developing diabetes by nearly 60%. These changes included regular meetings with trained professionals, group and one-on-one counseling, healthier eating habits, and more physical activity.
The DPPOS followed participants for 21 years and confirmed that lifestyle changes continued to pay off. Over the long term, the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes dropped by 24%.
The key message from both studies: Don’t try to fight Type 2 diabetes alone. Participants who had support from healthcare providers and peer groups saw the best results.
Experts recommend talking to your doctor about referrals to a diabetes educator or a nutritionist. Also, consider teaming up with friends or family to track daily activity and stay motivated.
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