Programs > National Diabetes Prevention Program

The National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP) is a lifestyle-change program that is proven to help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Research led by the National Institutes of Health has shown that structured lifestyle interventions can cut the risk of type 2 diabetes in half. These interventions included loss of 5 to 7% of their body weight through healthier eating and 150 minutes of physical activity each week.

Format

  • Face to face in small group workshops or online
  • A one-year program
  • During the first 6 months of the program, participants meet about once a week
  • During the second 6 months, participants meet once or twice a month

Settings

  • In-person classes are in community settings such as health clinics, hospitals, senior centers, worksites or churches

Participants

  • People who have or are at risk for having prediabetes

Topics and Skills Covered

During the first half of the program, these topics will be covered:

  • Eat healthy without giving up all the foods you love
  • Add physical activity to your life, even if you don’t think you have time
  • Deal with stress
  • Cope with challenges that can derail your hard work—like how to choose healthy food when eating out
  • Get back on track if you stray from your plan—because everyone slips now and then

During the second half of the program, these topics will be covered:

  • Tracking your food and physical activity
  • Setting goals
  • Staying motivated
  • Overcoming barriers