Remission of Type 2 Diabetes: Can It Be the Goal of Diabetes Treatment?

The conventional treatment goals for diabetes have focused on glycemic control to prevent complications, based on the understanding that diabetes is an irreversible chronic condition. However, numerous studies have shown that significant weight loss achieved through intensive lifestyle interventions, low-calorie diets, metabolic surgery, and glucagon-like peptide-1–based medications is associated with a high rate of type 2 diabetes remission. Notably, remission is more likely to occur in the early stages of type 2 diabetes, particularly among younger individuals, those with a shorter duration of the disease, better glycemic control, and greater weight loss. Nevertheless, research on diabetes remission among Asian populations, including those in South Korea, remains limited, and further studies are needed. Additionally, the definition of diabetes remission requires ongoing discussion, emphasizing the need for expert opinions and consensus in this area.