Type 2 diabetes in people with learning disabilities: promoting behaviour change

Type 2 diabetes is a complex lifestyle-related condition in which numerous socioeconomic, demographic, environmental and genetic factors are at play. Diagnosing and treating the condition as early as possible is crucial to reduce the risk of complications and preserve cardiovascular, eye, kidney and lower limb health. The main modifiable risk factors for type 2 diabetes are overweight or obesity, consuming too many calories and physical inactivity. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is therefore essential to prevent the condition or, if it has developed, reduce the risk of associated adverse effects. Health inequities mean that people with learning disabilities are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. People with learning disabilities require education and empowerment to enable them to engage in positive behaviour change and reduce their risk factors for the condition. The framework offered by the five stages of the transtheoretical model of behaviour change, and evidence-based behavioural interventions and educational programmes, can be used to support behaviour change in relation to type 2 diabetes in people with learning disabilities.