Evidence-based diabetes prevention programmes in the public health sector

Abstract Relevance Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent non-communicable disease caused by lifestyle factors such as inadequate diet and physical inactivity. Public health systems must prioritise early prevention through evidence-based interventions to reduce the growing burden of T2DM. In BW, Germany, the KNPM is focussing to enhance diabetes prevention in the public health sector. Activities in the WG The working group pursues two main objectives: (a) to examine existing diabetes prevention interventions at the community level in BW and internationally to identify best practices, and (b) to analyse enabling factors and barriers in the development and implementation of prevention programmes. Based on these findings, evidence-based recommendations for action will be developed in collaboration with public health professionals, local authorities, and KNPM researchers. Impact For prevention efforts to be effective and sustainable, programmes must be both scientifically sound and practically feasible. One challenge is the gap between research, practice and policy, which can hinder the development and implementation of these programmes. A participatory approach helps to bridge this gap by encouraging collaboration between different stakeholders. In our presentation, we will demonstrate how participatory approaches can be strategically structured and how interdisciplinary collaborations can contribute to the translation of research findings into practical prevention strategies. Key messages Community-based diabetes prevention requires a holistic approach that integrates scientific evidence with local feasibility. Strengthening collaboration between researchers, practitioners, and policymakers is crucial to improving implementation and ensuring long-term public health benefits.