OBJECTIVE

Intensive lifestyle interventions have established efficacy, but translation to real-world settings has not been well demonstrated. Using the diffusion of innovations model, we describe the adoption of the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Lifestyle Intervention into a hospital-based program and report feasibility, acceptability, and outcomes.

DESIGN

Patients (N = 118; 72% female, mean age = 48.8, mean baseline body mass index = 43.3) were enrolled into 16 weeks of DPP.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Weight loss (kg) was measured at baseline and after treatment.

RESULTS

Mean weight loss after 16 weeks was 5.57 kg (SD = 4.6) or 4.6% of baseline weight, and 30% met the 7% weight loss goal. Outcomes are compared with those reported in the DPP trial. Most participants (90.4%) were satisfied with the service; however, only 56% were satisfied with their weight loss.

CONCLUSION

The DPP was successfully translated into a real-world clinic with some protocol modifications. Weight loss was modest among heavier patients with more comorbidities than the original DPP sample. Diffusion of innovations theory provides a useful framework for adopting evidence-based programs in the clinical setting.