The European perspective of type 2 diabetes prevention: diabetes in Europe--prevention using lifestyle, physical activity and nutritional intervention (DE-PLAN) project.
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.
Schwarz
P E H
PE
Department of Medicine III, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus of the Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany. peter.schwarz@uniklinikum-dresden.de
Lindström
J
J
Kissimova-Scarbeck
K
K
Szybinski
Z
Z
Barengo
N C
NC
Peltonen
M
M
Tuomilehto
J
J
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