A medicine may delay type 2 diabetes by up to 10 years?! Yes.

This is a great feat!  Although I should place a caveat that TWICE as effective as this medicine for preventing diabetes is lifestyle modification with diet and exercise (see below for specifics).

Metformin is a medicine that reduces the risk of developing diabetes in “at-risk” adults when compared to taking placebo pills.  This effect is likely effective for up to 10 years.

Who is  “at-risk”?  Those with…

  • Elevated fasting glucose (more than 100 on a fasting lab test),
  • Hemoglobin A1c test result 5.7-6.4,
  • History of gestation diabetes with a pregnancy,
  • Obesity (BMI of more than 25),
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome,
  • Family history of diabetes,
  • Hypertension,
  • Peripheral Vascular Disease,
  • High cholesterol.

Lifestyle modification is harder than taking a pill every day, but may also positively affect many other areas of your life.  This study showed that a modest weight loss of 7% body weight and exercising 150 minutes per week was greatly effective in decreasing the risk of converting to overt diabetes.

flickr.com/ photos/ widezoom/ 4627134131//

flickr.com/ photos/ widezoom/ 4627134131//

Why not take out your walking shoes today?

About drlesliegreenberg

I have been practicing as a family physician for over 20 years--as both an educator of physicians and clinician. From infancy to the elderly, I perform obstetrics and general medicine. I love my career and am passionate about my field of knowledge and my patients. Follow me on Facebook at Leslie Md Greenberg Medical Disclaimer The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.
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