43% of people participating in the ‘Cuido mi diabetes’ programme reduce their blood glucose until they stop taking their medication.

• This European project, based on healthy habits related to nutrition, physical activity and rest, has led to a reduction in the consumption of drugs in 31% of cases.
• The Principality of Asturias will begin the second phase of this initiative in October to improve the self-care of the population with this disease.

43% of people participating in the European “C4D.Cuido mi diabetes” programme have managed to reduce their blood glucose levels to the point where they have even managed to do without their medication for type 2 diabetes. This is one of the results obtained in the first phase of the initiative that has been carried out in Asturias since February and which has also achieved that nearly 31% of users have reduced their pharmacological treatment by following the recommendations to change their lifestyle.

In addition, eight out of ten people have reduced both their weight, with an average loss of 6 kg, and their abdominal circumference, with an average loss of 8.3 centimetres. The fat accumulated around some of the main organs causes alterations in cholesterol, increases the risk of diabetes, raises blood pressure and increases the risk of thrombosis, factors that favour the development of cardiovascular disease.

The Regional Ministry of Health is leading this project in which 12 European Union countries are involved, collaborating in the implementation of a good practice initiated in the Netherlands. This experience, which has scientific backing and extensive experience in the Netherlands, has shown that physical activity, an adequate diet, rest and the use of relaxation techniques improve the control of the disease, help patients to take an active role in the management of their ailment and reduce the consumption of drugs in a safe way.

In the first phase of the programme, around thirty people have participated, divided into two groups, who have completed the intensive period and show a high degree of satisfaction. The professionals who accompany them in the process in the different roles of medicine, nursing, nutritionist and coach are also very satisfied.

In October, The Regional Ministry of Health will start the second part of the self-care project for people with type 2 diabetes, with two new face-to-face groups of 20 people each, and in November, there will be another telematic proposal, for two more groups of 15 participants each. Those interested can find out more by emailing dgcuidados@asturias.org.

“C4D-Cuido mi diabetes” is aimed at the population diagnosed with type 2 diabetes for a maximum of 15 years and aged between 20 and 80. Participants must have a body mass index (BMI) of less than 40, have been on anti-diabetic medication for more than 3-6 months, have no severe comorbidities, operate glucose meters, have basic digital skills and motivation to change, and commit to the programme for one year.