DPP Finds Lifestyle Change, Metformin are Cost-Effective

Outcomes and Cost Analysis Published in Diabetes Care

Programs to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes in high-risk adults would result in fewer people developing diabetes and lower health care costs over time, researchers conclude in a new study funded by the National Institutes of Health. The programs were tested in the landmark Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) clinical trial over 10 years.

"We don’t often see new therapies that are more effective and at the same time less costly than usual care, as was the case with metformin in the DPP," said Griffin P. Rodgers, M.D., M.A.C.P., director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

Fraud Alert for People with Diabetes

People with diabetes are becoming targets in a scheme to steal their money and personal information. Criminals are calling people with diabetes to request financial data or Medicare account information with the promise of "free" diabetes supplies, like test strips, glucose meters, or lancets, among others. As part of the scam, the callers pretend to represent the Government, well-known diabetes organizations, or Medicare. Health and Human Services urges people not to share their information and to report the call to the Office of Inspector General 1-800-HHS-TIPS.

Weight Loss and Fitness Reduce the Risk of Lost Mobility

Weight loss and increased physical fitness nearly halved the risk of losing mobility in overweight or obese adults with type 2 diabetes, according to 4-year results from the Look AHEAD (Action for Health in Diabetes) trial funded by the National Institutes of Health. "This study of mobility highlights the value of finding ways to help adults with type 2 diabetes keep moving as they age. We know that when adults lose mobility, it becomes difficult for them to live on their own, and they are likely to develop more serious health problems, increasing their health care costs," said Mary Evans, Ph.D., project scientist for the study.

New and Updated Publications

• Am I at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes? Taking Steps to Lower Your Risk of Getting Diabetes
• Prevent diabetes problems: Keep your mouth healthy
• Type 2 Diabetes: What You Need to Know