Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme is designed to stop or delay onset of Type 2 diabetes through a range of personalised lifestyle interventions. This includes education on lifestyle choices, advice on how to reduce weight through healthier eating and motivations to move with bespoke physical activity programmes.
From August this year, a digital version of the programme will be available; including wearable technologies and apps have been launched to help those at risk of Type 2 diabetes. This tech is designed to help those who find it difficult to attend face-to-face sessions because of work or family commitments; widening access to the Healthier You service.
Harry took action after his referral
Harry Matharu was referred onto his local Healthier You service at the age of 56, following an NHS Health Check. The check-up revealed he was borderline obese and that his blood sugar levels were in the pre-diabetic range.
Harry decided to take action. He reviewed his sedentary, slow-paced lifestyle, and lost over three stone after joining the programme.
Harry says: “The prevention programme has changed my life. I’ve gone through at least three different clothing sizes and from a waist 42 to a 28. Above and beyond the weight loss, I’m healthier and I’m happier. I’ve learnt so much; the programme has revolutionised the way I think about food and exercise. I’m 56 now and my next big goal is to get a six-pack by 60.”
Check your risk of Type 2 diabetes
Finding out your risk of Type 2 diabetes only takes a few minutes using the Diabetes UK Know Your Risk score at riskscore.diabetes.org.uk. If you are at risk, then you may be eligible to join your local Healthier You service. Ask at your local GP practice for more information.
More information
The Healthier You NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme is specifically for people at high risk of Type 2 diabetes. To date, over 250,000 people have been referred onto the scheme to get help to live healthier lives and reduce their risk of the condition. The programme, which gives advice on dieting, exercise and healthy lifestyle, will double in size over the next few years to treat around 200,000 people annually as part of the NHS Long Term Plan’s focus on prevention. So far, participants that have completed the programme have individually lost just over half a stone (3.5kg).
