Evaluating the Efficacy of Prediabetes Reversal Interventions: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Prediabetes is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels that do not yet meet the criteria for type 2 diabetes. Despite its high prevalence and associated risks of cardiovascular and renal diseases, the effectiveness of various interventions in reversing prediabetes remains unclear. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, SagePub, and ScienceDirect databases using keywords such as "prediabetes," "prevention," "regression," and "risk reduction." Results: The review includes five studies that assessed the effectiveness of various interventions. Findings indicate that lifestyle modifications, particularly improvements in diet and physical activity, are effective in reversing prediabetes. Pharmacological interventions, including alpha-glucosidase inhibitors and thiazolidinediones, also demonstrated efficacy, though to a lesser extent. Conclusions: Interventions for reversing prediabetes vary in their effectiveness, with lifestyle changes being the most consistently beneficial. The results have implications for clinical practice and health policy, particularly in managing prediabetes and reducing the risk of progression to type 2 diabetes.