Diabetes risk reduction in overweight first degree relatives of type 2 diabetes patients: effects of a low-intensive lifestyle education program (DiAlert) A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To test the efficacy of a low-intensive lifestyle education program (DiAlert) for overweight first degree relatives of type 2 diabetes patients aimed at reducing diabetes risk.

METHODS: Overweight first degree relatives of type 2 diabetes patients were randomly assigned to the DiAlert intervention (N=45) or control group who received leaflets (N=51). DiAlert consists of two group sessions and newsletters. Assessments were scheduled at baseline, three and nine months, with weight loss as primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included anthropometric, metabolic, behavioral and psychological measures. Comparisons were made over time and between groups.

RESULTS: Both groups showed modest weight loss with no difference between randomization groups. However, after DiAlert significantly more participants lost 5% of their weight compared to controls (P=0.03). Significant improvement of waist circumference sustained after 9 months in the intervention group (intervention: -4.33cm, P<0.01/control: -1.25cm, P=0.08). Systolic blood pressure improved within the intervention group (intervention: -8.77mmHg, P<0.01/control: -1.03mmHg, P=0.60). No effect was observed for biomedical and psychosocial outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: Our low-intensive structured lifestyle education program helps overweight relatives to improve waist circumference and supports relevant weight loss.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: The family approach provides opportunities to reach and engage relatives at risk in diabetes prevention education.