The U.S. Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) recently released findings from a 21-year follow-up study of a randomized clinical trial. The study revealed that the original intensive lifestyle intervention reduced the development of diabetes by 24%, while the medication metformin reduced diabetes development by 17%.
The initial DPP study, conducted over three years, showed significant results in reducing the onset of type 2 diabetes. The intensive lifestyle intervention, focused on moderate weight loss and increased physical activity, resulted in a 58% reduction in diabetes development, while metformin led to a 31% decrease compared to a placebo. Participants in the study were adults at a high risk of developing diabetes.
The long-term follow-up of 3,195 DPP participants, published in Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, highlighted the sustained benefits of the interventions in preventing diabetes development. Compared to the original placebo group, the median time without diabetes was extended by 3.5 years in the lifestyle group and 2.5 years in the metformin group.
The DPP trial, which began in 1996 with participants averaging 51 years of age, included 45% who identified as members of U.S. minority groups disproportionately affected by type 2 diabetes. The study demonstrated that the benefits of the interventions extended across all racial and ethnic groups involved.
Overall, the study showcased that the significant intervention effects observed in the early years of the trial translated into long-term reductions in diabetes development over 21 years, ultimately increasing the number of years lived without diabetes. Despite the challenges of maintaining long-term intensive lifestyle and medication interventions, even short-term interventions showed lasting benefits.
At the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, the DPP/DPPOS site continues to monitor 76 participants in the Baton Rouge area who have been part of the study for 26 to nearly 30 years. Dr. Owen Carmichael, the current site leader, praised the dedication and commitment of the participants in contributing to advancements in modern medicine.
The study, which has helped shape diabetes prevention strategies globally, underscores the importance of lifestyle interventions and metformin in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. The long-term follow-up highlights the enduring impact of these interventions and the potential for sustained benefits in preventing diabetes development.
For more information, the study was published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology and can be accessed through DOI: 10.1016/S2213-8587(25)00022-1. The findings underscore the significance of lifestyle changes and medication in addressing the growing diabetes epidemic.
The study was conducted by Louisiana State University, and further details can be found on their website. The research is a testament to the transformative impact of preventive interventions in mitigating the risk of type 2 diabetes and improving long-term health outcomes.
