Strategies for preventing type II diabetes

Non-insulin-dependent (type II) diabetes is a major target for prevention because of its staggering emotional and financial burdens on society. The theory behind preventive efforts is that individuals at high risk often show signs of impaired glucose tolerance before diabetes fully develops. Once identified, these patients may respond to several pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions that lower blood glucose levels and improve cardiovascular fitness with few adverse effects. However, the long-term efficacy of these approaches is uncertain. Information from the National Institutes of Health Diabetes Prevention Program should help clarify the impact of preventive measures and their cost-effectiveness.