Expanding Implementation of the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Lifestyle Intervention Across Montana

Objective: Implement programs statewide to translate the DPP curriculum in a group setting at health care facilities to promote weight loss and risk factor reduction through lifestyle change.

Methods: In 2007, the Montana Diabetes Prevention and Control Program (DPCP) secured state funding to pilot a statewide DPP translation project. Two, separate rounds of implementation at eight sites has taken place. Using an adapted DPP curriculum for group settings, intervention sites targeted overweight persons with risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Results: In 18 months, 1038 eligible persons have been enrolled and 829 (80%) have completed the 16 session core curriculum. Mean weight loss was 14.4±11.7 pounds, total percentage of weight loss was 6.6±4.8% and mean weekly physical activity minutes were 260±112 minutes. Comparisons of subsequent rounds of implementation have shown no difference in weight loss outcomes between rounds of implementation or urban versus rural programs. Total weight loss and percentage of weight loss was similar across all sites to those achieved in the original DPP.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest expansion of the DPP intervention from our original pilot site is both feasible and effective.