L.G.P. Peters1, W.J. Pasman1, C. Berendsen1, S. Kristalijn2, E. Jeukens2, H. Muller3, R.A.J. Loek4, S. Wopereis1
1TNO, Sylviusweg 71, Leiden; 2Roche Diagnostics, Transistorstraat 41, Almere; 3World data Exchange, Zuid-Hollandlaan 7, ‘s Gravenhage; 4Vivica, Irenesingel 19, Haaksbergen
Background
People with overweight or obesity and prediabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Improvement of insulin sensitivity by changing lifestyle factors such as healthier food consumption, increased physical activity and losing weight may reduce this risk. A blended e-health lifestyle intervention was developed and tested in prediabetes patients in a general practitioner practice in The Hague.
Methods
Adult persons were invited by the general practitioner via a letter. Eligible persons were tested on prediabetes via HbA1c with levels between 39-53 mmol/mol. Participants followed a three-month blended lifestyle intervention with face-to-face meetings with a dietitian and group sessions. Digital support was provided using the Vivica user app containing lifestyle information and a chat to support shared decision-making. At baseline, after one month and at three months, anthropometry, body composition (InBody), dietary intake (questionnaire), blood HbA1c and lipid values were assessed (point of care measurements).
Results
Eight participants completed the lifestyle intervention. Preliminary results revealed that on average body weight was reduced with 3,5 ± 3,8 kg and HbA1c improved with 1,6 ± 1,5 mmol/mol after the three month intervention. Most participants actively followed the online program in the Vivica app weekly, but the sessions with the dietitian and the group sessions were most appreciated. The dietitian’s advices were rated as reliable, useful, and innovative. Participants scored a 6/10 indicating how satisfied they were with their participation in the lifestyle intervention.
Discussion/Conclusion
The use of the Vivica app in combination with face-to-face support from the dietitian helped participants with implementation of small changes in lifestyle habits and practical changes in daily food consumption. Two participants that were not active in the Vivica app showed less benefit. The lifestyle intervention enabled participants to adhere to a healthier lifestyle, shown by the reduction in body weight and improved HbA1c levels.