Is Weight Loss the Most Effective Method for the Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes? A Discussion in View of Evidence from Landmark Studies

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity are a continuum and intertwined in a complex way. Both these chronic conditions pose a significant challenge to the global health system, if the current trend continues, it is estimated that by 2045 the number of people affected globally will increase by almost 700 million. Considering the above, effective strategies have to be implemented to tackle this global pandemic. The main strategies discussed in the literature are lifestyle intervention (ESI) with or without weight loss and medication. This article looked at the evidence from the various landmark studies which include the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) and Diabetes Prevention Study (DPS) Outcomes of these studies suggest that ELSI with loss is superior to ELSI without weight loss and metformin in risk reduction of T2DM. The evidence from the Swedish obese subject study also concludes that weight loss achieved through bariatric surgery reduces the risk. Lifestyle modification programmes even without weight loss have greater health benefits but as far as risk reduction for T2DM the evidence is not conclusive. This review article concludes that reducing weight is paramount for preventing T2DM, especially in high-risk individuals, compliance plays a vital role in overcoming these challenges and stresses the importance of tailored strategies for person-to-person characteristics to overcome those challenges.