Short-term effectiveness of an individual counseling program for impaired fasting glucose and mild type 2 diabetes in Japan: a multi-center randomized control trial.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the short-term effectiveness of our individual-based counseling program and tools among individuals in ordinary Japanese communities with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and mild type 2 diabetes. A total of 233 eligible participants (age 30-69 years) in 14 local study centers were randomly assigned to an intervention group (INT, N=119) and a control group (CONT, N=114). During the 4-month intervention, the INT received 4 individual counseling sessions and one reminder on life style modification. The CONT received only an explanation of blood test results and general information on diabetes. Baseline characteristics did not differ significantly between groups. Percentages of participants with desirable changes in glycemic level and weight were significantly higher in INT than CONT: fasting plasma glucose reduction of more than 10 mg/dL (39% in INT vs. 26% in CONT, p=0.045), hemoglobinA1c reduction greater than 0.3% (14% vs. 4%, p=0.01), and weight reduction of more than 4 kg (13% vs. 4%, p=0.025). Decreases in total energy intake and percentage of heavy alcohol drinkers (more than 46 g/day) were significantly greater in INT than CONT. The increase in percentages of participants who engaged in leisure time physical activity more than 12 times per month was significantly greater in INT than CONT. Our program resulted in life style modification and glycemic level improvement in the short-term among individuals with IFG and mild type 2 diabetes. Results indicated that the program was sufficiently effective and feasible for implementation in ordinary communities.

RCT Entities:   Population Interventions Outcomes