Why Refer to a CDC-Recognized Lifestyle Change Program?

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CDC supports this lifestyle change program because research shows it works. A randomized, controlled clinical trialshowed that completing this lifestyle change program reduced program participants’ chances of developing type 2 diabetes by 58% compared to placebo (71% for individuals aged 60 and older), nearly twice as much as the reduction among the group taking metformin (31%).

The program focuses on life-long changes to certain habits and behaviors, which helps participants maintain healthy improvements over time. A 10-year follow-up studyExternalExternal showed that participants were still one-third less likely to develop type 2 diabetes a decade later than individuals who took a placebo. Those who did develop type 2 diabetes delayed the onset of the disease by about 4 years.

Check out a list of topics covered in the program Cdc-pdfCdc-pdf[PDF-179KB], including eating less fat and fewer calories; making healthy choices during holidays, vacations, and special events; and preventing relapse.

CDC-recognized lifestyle change programs are also convenient. Nearly 2,000 organizations offer CDC-recognized lifestyle change programs, many of which are in multiple languages or are offered fully online. There is likely a convenient option for your at-risk patients in their community.

Quality Assurance

CDC only recognizes programs that use trained coaches and an approved curriculum. To help organizations, CDC developed its own research-based curriculum, which it offers to organizations at no cost. Organizations that wish to use their own curriculum must submit it for CDC review to ensure it meets quality standards.

CDC also offers technical assistance and numerous resources to help ensure program success.

To further ensure quality, organizations seeking and holding CDC recognition are required to submit data on participant attendance, physical activity minutes, and changes in weight. Read more about the CDC Recognition Program Standards and Operating Procedures Cdc-pdf[PDF-702KB].

When you refer your patients to a CDC-recognized program, you know they will join a research-based program, delivered by professionals, and shown to significantly reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.