Diabetes Prevention Program

Montgomery County Diabetes Prevention Program can help those at risk to prevent type 2 diabetes

One in three American adults has prediabetes. Without weight loss and moderate physical activity, many of them will develop type 2 diabetes within 3 years.

If you have prediabetes, the Montgomery County Diabetes Prevention Program lifestyle change intervention, offered by the Montgomery County Health Department, can help you make lasting changes to prevent type 2 diabetes. You will work in a group with a trained lifestyle coach to learn how to eat healthy, add physical activity to your life, manage stress, stay motivated, and solve problems that can get in the way of healthy changes.

“So many people in our community have prediabetes,” said Jan Chamness, Director of the Montgomery County Health Department. “This program offers a real chance to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes by adopting a healthier lifestyle.”

The Montgomery County Diabetes Prevention Program is part of the National Diabetes Prevention Program, led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and is proven to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.

The program is based on research that found people with prediabetes can cut their risk of developing type 2 diabetes in half by losing 5 to 7 percent of their body weight.

Metformin — The First Line of Defense

Metformin, a time-tested medication, has been the cornerstone of type 2 diabetes treatment for decades. It works by improving the body's sensitivity to insulin and reducing the amount of glucose released by the liver. Metformin not only helps in controlling blood sugar levels but also has been shown to have cardiovascular benefits and possibly prevent diabetes in those with prediabetes.

Ozempic — A New Era in Diabetes Management

Ozempic, with its active ingredient semaglutide, is a relatively new player in the field of diabetes management. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it works by stimulating insulin production and suppressing glucagon release, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. But its benefits extend beyond just glucose control. Ozempic has shown promising results in weight loss, a critical factor in managing or preventing type 2 diabetes.

The Combined Power of Ozempic and Metformin

For many individuals, a combination of Ozempic and Metformin offers a robust approach to managing diabetes. This dual therapy can effectively lower blood sugar levels and improve overall diabetes control. The weight loss effect of Ozempic complements Metformin’s ability to improve insulin sensitivity, making them a powerful duo in diabetes management.

Impact on Diabetes Prevention

While Metformin has been a long-standing recommendation for diabetes prevention in high-risk individuals, Ozempic also emerges as a potential game-changer. Its weight loss benefits can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in individuals with prediabetes or obesity.

Future in Diabetes Care

The integration of Ozempic and Metformin in diabetes care represents a significant leap forward. These medications not only offer better blood sugar control but also contribute to a holistic approach in managing the risk factors associated with diabetes. As we embrace these advancements, the hope for a future where diabetes can be effectively managed and even prevented grows stronger.