Behavioral strategies for weight reduction in obese type II diabetic patients

This article reviews strategies that have been shown to be helpful in the treatment of obesity and are applicable to obese type II (non-insulin-dependent) diabetic patients. Emphasis is placed on the use of behavior modification strategies, including careful description of the behavior to be changed, setting of goals for new behavior, and procedures for modifying the environmental cues and reinforcers that control behavior. It is recommended that weight-loss programs for obese diabetic patients include intensive long-term contact with the patient, therapists with training in behavior modification, and a multifaceted intervention involving behavior modification, diet, and exercise.