| Prevention of Diabetes |
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| Research studies have
found that lifestyle changes can prevent or delay the onset of type 2
diabetes among high-risk adults. These studies included people with
impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and other high-risk characteristics for
developing diabetes. Lifestyle interventions included diet and moderate-intensity physical activity (such as walking for 2 1/2 hours each week). In the Diabetes Prevention Program, a large prevention study of people at high risk for diabetes, the development of diabetes was reduced 58% over 3 years. Studies have also shown that medications have been successful in preventing diabetes in some population groups. In the Diabetes Prevention Program, people treated with the drug metformin reduced their risk of developing diabetes by 31% over 3 years. Treatment with metformin was most effective among younger, heavier people (those 25-40 years of age who were 50 to 80 pounds overweight) and less effective among older people and people who were not as overweight. Similarly, in the STOP-NIDDM Trial, treatment of people with IGT with the drug acarbose reduced the risk of developing diabetes by 25% over 3 years. Other medication studies are ongoing. In addition to preventing progression from IGT to diabetes, both lifestyle changes and medication have also been shown to increase the probability of reverting from IGT to normal glucose tolerance There are no known methods to prevent type 1 diabetes. Several clinical trials are currently in progress or being planned. Related Topics: What is Diabetes? Types of Diabetes Treatment of Diabetes Complications of Diabetes Insulin Devices Alternative Therapies Prediabetes Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |
| This fact sheet
describes some methods that may help prevent or delay diabetes. Additional
details about the symptoms, diagnosis, and causes of diabetes can be found
via the links at the bottom of this page. If you are currently
experiencing diabetic symptoms, be sure to consult your physician as soon
as possible. |
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| This document is
provided solely for educational and informational purposes. Be sure to consult your doctor before making any major medical decision. |
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