Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)
Make lasting lifestyle changes with coach-led support to help prevent type 2 diabetes.
Class Track
Location
In-person/Remote
Sessions
22
About the Class
The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is an evidence-based lifestyle change program designed for adults at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Led by a trained lifestyle coach, the program helps participants build healthier eating habits, increase physical activity, manage stress, solve problems, and stay motivated. Participants work toward achieving sustainable weight loss and long-term health improvements through group support and practical skill building.
Benefits of the class
Small lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in long-term health outcomes.
- Learn practical strategies for healthy eating
- Increase physical activity levels
- Lose weight and maintain healthier habits
- Build confidence making lifestyle changes
- Learn techniques for managing stress and staying motivated
- Receive support from a trained coach and peers
Why it works
DPP focuses on sustainable behavior change rather than short-term dieting. Participants develop practical skills that support long-term success.
- Evidence-based program developed by the CDC
- Combines education, coaching, accountability, and peer support
- Tracks physical activity and progress throughout the program
- Focuses on realistic lifestyle changes that can be maintained over time
- Proven effective across diverse populations
Evidence Snapshot
- Original clinical trial demonstrated a 58% reduction in progression to type 2 diabetes
- Outperformed metformin in the original Diabetes Prevention Program study
- YMCA implementation studies demonstrated average weight loss of approximately 5%
- Medicare-funded evaluations reported approximately $2,600 in savings per beneficiary
Stay Connected
“The class taught me how to eat and have a healthy lifestyle. To anyone considering the program, just do it. It changes everything.”
Phyllis Wikstrom, Diabetes Prevention Program participant
Frequently Asked Questions
Adults at increased risk for type 2 diabetes who meet eligibility guidelines for the program.
No. The program is designed for people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, not those who have already been diagnosed.
The program goal is typically a 5% reduction in body weight through sustainable lifestyle changes.
Classes are held weekly at first and then monthly, for a total of one year.
No. The focus is on sustainable lifestyle changes, healthy eating, increased activity, and long-term success.
For Clinicians
The Diabetes Prevention Program is an evidence-based intervention for adults at elevated risk of type 2 diabetes. Appropriate candidates include adults with obesity and laboratory evidence of prediabetes, including elevated A1C, fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, or a history of gestational diabetes.
The program emphasizes sustained weight loss, increased physical activity, and behavioral modification. Research has demonstrated a 58% reduction in progression to diabetes, outperforming metformin in the original trial.
Helpful referral language
Recommend DPP for adults with obesity and elevated diabetes risk who are motivated to make lifestyle changes and prevent progression to type 2 diabetes. The program is particularly valuable for patients who would benefit from structured coaching, accountability, and peer support.
Key outcomes
- Reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes
- Increased physical activity
- Sustainable weight loss
- Improved nutrition habits
- Increased confidence managing personal health
Related Content
Participant Stories
Diabetes Prevention Program Helps Keep Kathy Jacobson at Prediabetic Status
Kathy Jacobson says she has witnessed the horrors of diabetes. She lost her 62-year-old mother to the disease, and her brother was the same age when he passed away. “My brother had a lot of foot neuropathy, and other complications. I’ve been prediabetic for a while, and it was time to do something to prevent the same outcome for myself.”