Prevention

Studies show that people with prediabetes who participate in a structured diabetes prevention program can cut their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. For that to happen, participants must lose weight (minimum 5 to 7 percent) by healthy eating and being physically active for 30 minutes or more on most days. The risk is reduced by 58 percent and 71 percent for people over 60 years old.

In addition, lifestyle change programs can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke associated with prediabetes and improve participants’ overall health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains a national registry of organizations that offer quality, evidence-based Type 2 diabetes prevention programs. The programs are designed to help people at risk for Type 2 diabetes with healthy eating, active living, and weight reduction. All of these programs have agreed to use a CDC-approved curriculum that meets the duration, intensity, and reporting requirements described in the Diabetes Prevention Recognition Program Standards. [pdf]

Find a CDC-recognized diabetes prevention program near you.

Diabetes State Engagement Calls and Webinars

Organizations dedicated to implementing diabetes prevention programs are invited to participate in statewide teleconference calls and webinars. These are opportunities for peer-to-peer learning, sharing, and problem-solving.

For more information, please email diabetes@dshs.texas.gov.