A community‐based, two‐week structured education programme

Published Date: 26th June 2019

Publication Authors: Gallagher CG

Aims

To determine the effectiveness of a community‐based structured education programme for Type 2 diabetes, measuring Hba1c and weight change over a four month period. ‘Diabetes and You’ is a structured education programme delivered by a specialist nurse and dietitian across Knowsley.

Methods

Participants were recruited between January and April 2018. Participants’ data (weight and HbA1c) were obtained from GP records following consent by participants and their GPs. Weight and HbA1c at the time of attending structured education was recorded‐ and data were collected again four months later. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire about their education experience at four months.

Results

65 participants took part (41 men, 24 women, age 34–79, BMI 24–57kg/m2). There was comparable weight data available for 56 (86%) participants. Mean weight change was ‐3kg (mean weight 103kg to 100kg at 4 months). 31 participants (55%) lost weight, 16 lost >5% of their initial body weight. 19% gained weight; 25% had no change.

HbA1c data were available for comparison in 51 (78%) partcipants. Mean HbA1c change was ‐7mmol/mol (mean HbA1c 61mmol/mol to 54mmol/mol at 4 months). 28 (55%) had a reduction in HbA1c and 18 participants reduced HbA1c to <53mmol/mol. In 19% HbA1c increased, with no change in 25%. 30 questionnaires were completed, all stated they would recommend the diabetes education programme.

Conclusion

Ourstructured education programme for Type 2 diabetes results in improvements in HbA1c and weight highlighting the benefit of offering our structured education sessions to people living with Type 2 diabetes.

Gallagher, C; Ooi, CO; Harvey, JH. (2019). A community‐based, two‐week structured education programme for people with Type 2 diabetes benefits HbA1c and weight . Diabetic Medicine. 36 (S1), 102

« Back