Endocrine Abstracts

A pre-diabetes state, Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT), is recognised as a natural stage in the development of diabetes with blood glucose levels gradually rising over time until levels consistent with diabetes are reached. In addition, people with IGT have a 2–3 times greater risk of macrovascular disease than euglycaemic subjects. Three recent studies demonstrate benefits of intensive lifestyle modification in people with IGT in preventing diabetes. Hence, education of people with the condition may be worthwhile. In 2004, expansion of HSE Dublin Mid-Leinster East Coast Area Diabetes Shared Care Programme resulted in the establishment of IGT group education sessions. Primary Care-based and hospital-based multi-disciplinary teams deliver these sessions (Diabetes Nurse Specialist, Dietitian, Exercise Physiologist). Lifestyle issues e.g. diet, exercise, weight management, alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking along with information regarding regular health status assessment and recognition of diabetes symptoms are covered at sessions. A recent evaluation of patient satisfaction with the service and knowledge gained demonstrates positive findings.

Main points which respondents said they would take home from the session included:

The effectiveness of annual group education in preventing the development of diabetes and reducing cardiovascular risk in patients with IGT needs be assessed.