THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A PREDIABETES PROTOCOL FOR DIABETES PREVENTION

Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM) is a daunting diagnosis associated with multiple comorbidities. Prediabetes remains a major predisposing factor in the development of T2DM. Therefore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] (2021a) developed a Diabetes prevention program (DPP) to combat the increasing number of those diagnosed with T2DM. There has been sufficient evidence that supports the effectiveness of DPPs in preventing T2DM along with other benefits, including a decrease in weight, body mass index (BMI), and blood pressure. Yet, these programs remain under-used. This pilot DPP project aimed to improve the clinic's current process and evaluate the effectiveness of weekly classes on diabetes prevention based on the CDC's DPP. Participants included adults over the age of 18. Participant variables in the project included hemoglobin A1c (Hgb A1c), weight, BMI, blood pressure, and a self-reported questionnaire. Five out of seven participants completed the project. There was an overall decrease in weight, BMI, Hgb A1c, and blood pressure. Additionally, there was an increase in the questionnaire scores that reflected an increase in healthy eating habits, highlighting the importance of lifestyle changes in diabetes prevention and a healthy lifestyle overall.