DOC News October 1, 2004
Volume 1 Number 2 p. 22
© 2004 American Diabetes Association
Obese People with Type 2 Diabetes Show Greater Improvement with Dietitians
The prevalence of obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the U.S. and
is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Modest weight loss of 5%–10%
of body weight results in improved insulin sensitivity and decreased
cardiovascular risk factors in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle
treatment with modest weight loss has been shown to prevent type 2 diabetes.
Therefore, lifestyle treatment is vital to diabetes control in obese
individuals.
Researchers conducted a study to assess the effectiveness of a lifestyle
intervention program that can be readily translated into clinical practice for
obese patients with type 2 diabetes.
The study consisted of 147 health plan members with type 2 diabetes and
obesity. Participants were randomized to lifestyle case management or usual
care for 1 year. Case management consisted of individual and group education,
support, and referral by registered dietitians. The intervention cost was $350
per person. Individuals treated with the usual care received educational
materials. Both groups received ongoing primary care.
Results showed that case management resulted in weight loss, reduced waist
circumference, reduced glycated hemoglobin (A1C) levels, less use of
prescription medications, and improved health-related quality of life when
compared with the usual care.
Researchers concluded that moderate-cost, dietitian-led lifestyle case
management may improve diverse health indicators among obese patients with
type 2 diabetes.
Wolf AM, Conaway MR, Crowther JQ, et al: Translating
lifestyle intervention to practice in obese patients with type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes Care 27:1570–1576, 2004.[Abstract/Free Full Text]
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