New standards in the prevention of type 2 diabetes: the IMAGE project

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes can be delayed or prevented among people who have impaired glucose tolerance by use of lifestyle interventions or medication – as shown by major clinical trials of diabetes prevention. However, it is a completely different issue to translate this message, derived from the lifestyle trials, to clinical practice.1 We are still learning how this challenge may be achieved at a population level. Optimally, every person with diabetes risk has the chance of having access to any kind of diabetes preventative initiative.2 Two European funded projects, DE-PLAN3 and IMAGE,4 have been addressing the implementation process. In particular, the IMAGE project was able to take a step ahead and to collate available information in a systematic manner, and developed practical, relevant standards for diabetes prevention.