An Exploratory Partner Approach to Participation in the National Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Change Program in Maryland.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe an exploratory partner approach to enrolling in the National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP), a proven 12-month lifestyle change program (LCP) for people at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. FHI360 and the University of Maryland Horowitz Center for Health Literacy created a "partner approach" to investigate whether people at risk for developing diabetes might be willing to join, complete, and be successful in the LCP if they intentionally go through the program with a partner who influences their lifestyle choices.

Methods: The research team analyzed aggregated participant self-reported weight and physical activity data, participant survey and focus group data, and lifestyle coach in-depth interview data to assess the retention, motivation, and acceptability of the partner approach.

Results: Across sites, retention of participants at risk of developing type 2 diabetes at the end of the year-long program was at 79%. Participants at the partner approach sites reported being motivated and successful. Lifestyle coaches reported that participants stayed in the program longer and adapted their lifestyle more than participants at other sites that did not offer the partner approach.

Conclusions: People at risk of developing type 2 diabetes may respond positively to participating in a National DPP LCP when they can join with engaged partners. Based on study results, the partner approach may be a way to attract people at risk for type 2 diabetes who are more comfortable joining with a partner.