title: The European perspective of type 2 diabetes prevention: diabetes in Europe--prevention using lifestyle, physical activity and nutritional intervention (DE-PLAN) project.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) has dramatically increased in Europe, and the age-at-diagnosis has become younger. Action is needed now to develop targeted prevention management program for T2D. The DE-PLAN ("Diabetes in Europe - Prevention using Lifestyle, Physical Activity and Nutritional intervention") project, led by the University of Helsinki is currently addressing this major public health concern in Europe.
  
  
  METHODS
  The DE-PLAN project aims at developing and testing models of efficient identification and intervention of individuals at high risk of type 2 diabetes in the community. It conducts a lifestyle modification intervention in people at high risk for T2D. Furthermore, it tests the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of the translation of the current research evidence about preventive intervention program into clinical settings within existing health care systems in 17 European countries.
  
  
  RESULTS
  This 3-year project spanning has commenced mid-2005. By now, 25 institutions from 17 countries are involved.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The development of efficient screening strategies for type 2 diabetes risk as well as the development of core intervention strategies for the primary prevention of type 2 diabetes should significantly enhance the ability of health care professionals to respond swiftly to the drastic increase of T2D and its burden to the society.
authors: Department of Medicine III, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus of the Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany. peter.schwarz@uniklinikum-dresden.de
authors: P E H
authors: PE
authors: Schwarz
authors: J
authors: J
authors: Lindström
authors: K
authors: K
authors: Kissimova-Scarbeck
authors: Z
authors: Z
authors: Szybinski
authors: N C
authors: NC
authors: Barengo
authors: M
authors: M
authors: Peltonen
authors: J
authors: J
authors: Tuomilehto
mesh_terms: D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000150:complications / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005060:Europe / Q000453:epidemiology; D015444:Exercise; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D009043:Motor Activity; D009752:Nutritional Status; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011634:Public Health; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors