New type 2 diabetes pilot prevention programme that used gamification and motivating digital technology resulted in increased physical activity levels and an unplanned high BAME uptake and retention rate

ABSTRACT

Aims: Historically the National Diabetes Prevention Programme (NDPP) has low retention rates which are accentuated in the BAME population. We aimed to design and deliver a fun, alternative type 2 diabetes prevention programme that would have an increased retention rate and increase participant's physical activity levels. The Diabetes Prevention Decathlon (DPD) structured education programme featured;weekly health and well-being workshops and physical activity sessions, gamification and the use of a mobile phone application that incentivised continued physical activity between sessions. Method: An innovation grant awarded the opportunity for collaboration between multiple partners within the NHS, public health, community charities, patient groups, and a digital enterprise. This resulted in the creation of the DPD which was piloted in a deprived South West London borough. The inclusion criteria for participants included a HbA1c between 42 and 47 mmol/mol (6.0-6.4%), indicative for non-diabetic hypoglycaemia. Referrals, retention rates, weight loss and physical activity data were recorded over the ten-week programme alongside key demographic markers. Results: With an 87% completion rate (n31), 39 kg group weight loss and 40% increase in activity levels, the programme yielded excellent results compared to the NDPP. Semi-structured interviews highlighted the importance of group interactions and regular opportunities to be physically active. Positive but unplanned outcomes were the high BAME uptake of 77% and subsequent retention 67%, and covid driven agile conversion to virtual delivery. Conclusions: The DPD successfully piloted a new and fun approach to diabetes prevention with further intentions to work with local communities to increase and improve BAME resources.