The impact of multiple lifestyle interventions on remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus within a clinical setting

To assess the impact of multiple lifestyle interventions (LSI) in type 2 diabetes mellitus. (T2DM) T2DM subjects were enrolled in a one year LSI program consisting of diet, exercise, diabetes education and pharmacotherapy review with support from a diabetes educator (DE). Outcome measures were weight loss, medication and diabetes status. n = 45 Indian subjects with T2DM. Weight loss at the end of one year: >10% n = 12 (26.8%); 5–10% n = 9 (20%); <5% n = 20 (44.4%) (p < 0.05), weight gain (1–3 kg) n = 4 (8.8%). 41 participants gained 2.8 ± 0.9 kg in years 1–5. Remission of T2DM at one year n = 35 (77.8%) and at five years n = 21 (51.2%). Treatment cost savings at one year = $189/patient/year and $145/patient/year during years 1–5; an average saving of $765/patient over 5 years. Intensive LSI over one year resulted in weight loss, improved glycaemic control and T2DM remission in the majority of subjects. Medication costs were reduced. Over five subsequent years, diabetes remission persisted in the majority despite modest weight regain.