Tidelands Health Diabetes Prevention Program
For more information on joining a class, please call 843-520-8586
The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is a CDC-recognized lifestyle change program designed to help adults with prediabetes prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes. Led by a trained Lifestyle Coach using a CDC-approved curriculum, the program provides education, accountability, and group support over the course of one year.
Research has shown that participants who lose 5-7% of their body weight and achieve at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week can reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 58%. In addition to reducing diabetes risk, participation may help improve blood sugar levels, support weight loss, lower cardiovascular risk factors, and improve overall health and well-being.
Program Structure
The Diabetes Prevention Program is a 12-month program consisting of 26 sessions.
First Six Months: Core Phase
In the first six months (16 weekly sessions and 3 biweekly sessions), participants will learn how to:
- Eat a healthier, more balanced diet
- Increase physical activity
- Manage stress and cope with challenges
- Make healthier choices when dining out
- Identify and overcome barriers to success
- Get back on track after setbacks
- Build sustainable habits for long-term health improvement
At each session, participants track their progress and receive guidance, encouragement, and support from both their Lifestyle Coach and fellow group members.
Second Six Months: Maintenance Phase
During the final six months, participants attend monthly sessions focused on maintaining healthy lifestyle changes and preventing relapse.
Topics include:
- Setting and achieving health goals
- Tracking food intake and physical activity
- Maintaining motivation over time
- Overcoming obstacles and challenges
- Managing stress and life changes
- Building long-term healthy habits
- Sustaining weight loss and physical activity
These monthly sessions provide ongoing support, accountability, and problem-solving opportunities to help participants continue their success.
Program Benefits
Participants in the Diabetes Prevention Program can:
- Reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes
- Achieve and maintain healthy weight loss
- Increase physical activity and fitness
- Improve blood sugar levels
- Lower risk factors for heart disease and stroke
- Develop healthy eating habits
- Learn effective stress-management techniques
- Gain support from trained Lifestyle Coaches and peers
- Improve overall health and quality of life
Who Qualifies?
To participate in the Diabetes Prevention Program, individuals must:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or higher (23 or higher for Asian Americans)
- Not currently be pregnant
- Have no previous diagnosis of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
- Meet eligibility criteria for prediabetes or be identified as being at high risk for developing Type 2 diabetes through one of the following:
- A blood test indicating prediabetes
- A history of gestational diabetes
- A qualifying score on a CDC-recognized diabetes risk assessment
Take the First Step Toward Better Health
If you have prediabetes or are at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, the Diabetes Prevention Program can help you make lasting lifestyle changes that improve your health and reduce your risk of chronic disease. Through evidence-based education, personalized support, and a proven curriculum, you can gain the tools needed to achieve long-term success.
