Educational Interventions for Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Overweight or Obesity in Primary Care

Over the past decades, the number of patients with diabetes has increased steadily, with more than 90% of them have type 2 diabetes. A strong correlation has been established between elevated body mass index and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which underscores the need for a systematic approach to weight management as an element of pathogenetic therapy. As a chronic and progressive condition, diabetes requires long-term, lifelong treatment involving active patient participation. Since 1998, the World Health Organization has officially recognized patient education as an essential part of diabetes management strategies, making it an integral element in the care of people living with diabetes across many countries. Educational programs should include not only basic theoretical knowledge, but also focus on practical skills such as self-monitoring, correction of therapy, and lifestyle changes. At the Department of Family Medicine, General Practice and Ambulatory Therapy of the Odesa National Medical University, an interdisciplinary project is organized and successfully implemented “School of Diabetes and Overweight”. It is primary goal is to offer educational and practical support to both adult and children living with diabetes. Keywords: diabetes mellitus, overweight, obesity, patient education, lifestyle changes, diabetes school