Abstract

Objective “Real world” implementation of lifestyle interventions is a challenge. The GOAL Lifestyle Implementation Trial was designed for the primary health care setting with lifestyle and risk reduction objectives derived from the major diabetes prevention efficacy trials. We report on the program's effectiveness as well as findings related to the program's reach, adoption and implementation.

Research Design and Methods 352 middle-aged participants with elevated Type 2 diabetes risk were recruited from the health care centers in Päijät-Häme Province in Finland. The intervention included six group counseling sessions, delivered by trained public health nurses. Measurement was conducted at baseline and 12 months. Clinical risk factors were measured by study nurses, and lifestyle outcomes were analyzed from self-reports. Lifestyle outcomes were compared with the outcomes achieved in relevant efficacy trials, and within-subject changes were tested for risk reduction.

Results At baseline, mean BMI was over 32, and 25% of the participants had impaired glucose tolerance. At 12 months, 20% of participants achieved at least 4 of the 5 key lifestyle outcomes, with these results being comparable to the reference trials. However, physical activity and weight loss goals were achieved significantly less frequently (65% vs. 86%; 12% vs. 43%, respectively). Several clinical risk factors decreased, more so among men than women.

Conclusions This trial demonstrates that lifestyle counseling can be effective and is feasible in “real world” settings for individuals with elevated risk of Type 2 diabetes. To increase program impact, program exposure and treatment intensity need to be increased.