15 September 2015
Last month, two new publications were released that will help shape the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme (NHS DPP). A report compiled by PHE’s National Cardiovascular Health Intelligence Network (NCVIN) found that 5 million people in England are at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The report provides the most accurate and robust estimate of the number of people with non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, putting them at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
An evidence review – also published by PHE – shows programmes similar to the NHS DPP can be successful in preventing 26 per cent of people at high risk of Type 2 diabetes from going on to develop the condition.
Evidence review of Type 2 diabetes prevention programmes (PDF, 2MB)
NCVIN report on non-diabetic hyperglycaemia (PDF, 918KB)
The NHS DPP was announced in Autumn 2014 as a joint ambition of the NHS Five Year Forward View and Public Health England’s Evidence into Action. The long-term aim of the programme is to reduce the incidence of Type 2 diabetes through supporting people at high risk of the condition to make changes to their lifestyle and reduce their risk. In March 2015, 7 demonstrator sites were announced, which are collaborating on the co-design and evaluation of the programme and regularly sharing their learning to contribute to the development of the programme.
Development of the programme
Both reports published in August have shaped what the NHS DPP will offer – at least nine months of information, support, group and one-to-one sessions on weight loss, physical activity and diet. Those who are eligible for the programme will have non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, defined as having an HbA1c of 42 – 47 mm/mol (6.0 – 6.4%) or a fasting plasma glucose (FPG) of 5.5. – 6.9 mmol/mol, as well as modifiable risk factors. It is expected that participants will be identified through a variety of sources, for example those who have already been identified as having an appropriately elevated HbA1c (or FPG) and have been included on a GP register for this, or those identified through an NHS Health Check.
Get involved
It is important that the views of healthcare professionals help to shape the development of the programme, and clinicians, commissioners and others interested in the programme can share their views by responding to a current consultation on the programme and its procurement. The consultation is open for health economies and people at risk of Type 2 diabetes until. Visit theconsultation webpageto download the consultation guide and participate.
There is also the opportunity to express an interest in being part of the first wave of national roll-out of the programme. More information is available on theNDPP webpage. Forms must be returned by.
You can sign up for regular news on the NHS DPP or ask questions about the programme by contacting the programme team atdiabetesprevention@phe.gov.uk. Regular updates are posted on theNDPP webpage. Diabetes UK is a partner with PHE and NHS England on the NHS DPP so you can also contact us with questions about the programme athealthcare@diabetes.org.uk.
