Moderate Changes in Weight and Physical Activity Can Prevent or Delay the Development of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Susceptible Individuals

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is rising significantly, paralleling the increase in obesity observed around the world. Diabetes is a progressive disease that frequently results in serious complications including retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular disease. Early detection and treatment of hyperglycemia, the cornerstone of diabetes, can decrease the incidence of these sequelae. Moderate changes in both body weight and physical activity improve the control of hyperglycemia associated with diabetes. Recent studies indicate that similar lifestyle changes can help to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes in people at risk of developing this disorder.