Although some molecules are effective in combating diabetes, patients are now recommended to change their lifestyle before taking them.
- In 2022, nearly 3.8 million people were being treated for diabetes in our country – or 5.6% of the French population.
- To better manage this disease, the HAS has issued new recommendations.
- “This is a major paradigm shift: lifestyle changes (physical activity, nutrition, combating a sedentary lifestyle) are a prerequisite for the possible implementation of drug treatment for hyperglycemia and must be maintained over time,” she says.
“Type 2 diabetes: non-drug therapies first!” In a press release, the High Authority of Health (HAS) has issued new advice on the management of diabetes in France.
Management of type 2 diabetes: “a major paradigm shift”
“These updated recommendations include non-drug strategies as a first step from the diagnosis,” first indicates the HAS. “This is a major paradigm shift: lifestyle changes (physical activity, nutrition, combating a sedentary lifestyle) are a prerequisite for the possible implementation of drug treatment for hyperglycemia and must be maintained over time.” she continues.
“The implementation of a nutritional program is recommended in order to improve glycemic balance”, public health experts also detail. “Physical activity has many therapeutic benefits such as improving insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of diabetes progression or cardiovascular complications.”they specify.
Type 2 Diabetes: ““to be part of a process of therapeutic education for the patient”
The HAS also points out that these lifestyle changes must be part of a therapeutic education approach for the patient.Personalized sessions with professionals can be offered to people to help them gradually gain autonomy in managing their diabetes,” explains the health agency. “For this “therapeutic alliance” to work, the professional team must take care to take into account the patient’s lifestyle and socio-economic situation” she adds.
“If lifestyle changes are not enough, then drug treatment should be offered to the diabetic,” she finishes.
Diabetes : nearly 3.8 million people treated in France
In 2022, nearly 3.8 million people were being treated for diabetes in our country, or 5.6% of the French population. In adults, this is type 2 diabetes in more than 90% of cases, which means that excess blood sugar results from poor use of insulin by the body’s cells.
This disease progresses over time and can lead to acute or chronic complications most often affecting the heart, arteries, kidneys, eyes, nerves and feet. Patient care aims to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with these difficulties and to improve their quality of life.
