Implementation of a successful lifestyle intervention programme for New Zealand Maori to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease

Lifestyle programmes have been shown to reduce the risk of type 2. diabetes in European populations. The participation of Maori in many mainstream health programmes is poor. This study evaluates a lifestyle intervention programme which is acceptable to Maori and which has objective outcome measures to determine the effectiveness of the programme. Thirty six Maori men and women were recruited for a 4 month programme involving modification of diet and exercise. Insulin sensitivity was measured using a euglycaemic insulin clamp, body composition using dual-energy-absorptiometry and fitness using a submaximal exercise test. Secondary outcome measures included anthropometry, blood pressure, fasting glucose and insulin levels, and lipid profiles. There was a 24% improvement in insulin sensitivity (from 5.1 to 6.3 G/mIU/L, P=0.03, N=29). This was associated with a reduction of 3.1 kg in weight (95% CI -4 to -2) and a reduction of 7 mmHg in systolic blood pressure (95% CI -13, -1). This approach successfully reduced risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in New Zealand Maori in the short term.