Prioritising prevention: Implementation of IGT Care Call, a telephone based service for people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes

•We designed a telephone service for people with impaired glucose tolerance.•Outcomes were evaluated at 6 and 18 months.•Improvements in fasting blood glucose weight and BMI were achieved.•Telephone services may promote lifestyle changes to prevent type 2 diabetes.

AimTo design, deliver and evaluate IGT Care Call, a telephone service providing a 6 month lifestyle education programme for people with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT).MethodsAn observational study of IGT Care Call, a programme providing motivational support and education using electronic scripts. The service was delivered to 55 participants, all of whom completed the course (an information pack and at least five telephone calls over 6 months). Clinical measurements were undertaken in General Practice at baseline, on completion of the programme and one year later.ResultsAmong the 40 participants for whom we have complete data available, one year after discharge, participants showed improvements in fasting plasma glucose (0.29 mmol/l, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.51), weight (2.81 kg, 95% CI 1.20 to 4.42) and BMI (1.06 kg/m2, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.63). All differences were statistically significant (p < 0.01).ConclusionWhilst an uncontrolled observational study with a small sample size, this pilot suggests IGT Care Call may be effective in promoting positive and sustained lifestyle changes to prevent type 2 diabetes, which warrants further investigation. A telephone method of service delivery was acceptable, convenient and may have improved self confidence in how to reduce risk of type 2 diabetes.