Unveiling Longitudinal Weight Dynamics in Type 2 Diabetes: Insights From a Comprehensive Care Program

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Health
• Diabetes Management

Background:

• Overweight and obesity are major contributors to type two diabetes (T2D) and associated health issues.
• Moderate weight loss is known to improve metabolic control and reduce cardiovascular risk in T2D patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with T2D who experienced weight changes following a multidisciplinary intervention.
• To understand predictors of weight gain, maintenance, and loss in this patient cohort.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 622 patients with T2D and 3-year follow-up data.
• Inclusion criteria: <5 years since diagnosis, no disabling chronic complications.
• Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, ANOVA/Kruskal-Wallis tests, and logistic regression for predictor identification.

Main Results:

• At 3 years, 35.5% lost weight, 33.9% maintained weight, and 30.5% gained weight; 16.6% achieved normal weight.
• Younger patients were more likely to gain weight.
• Higher baseline HbA1c and lower quality of life at 3 months predicted weight gain.
• Higher baseline BMI, longer diabetes duration, and iSGLT2 treatment predicted weight loss.

Conclusions:

• A significant proportion of T2D patients undergoing a multidisciplinary intervention did not achieve normal weight after 3 years.
• Predictors for weight change (gain vs. loss) were identified, highlighting potential targets for personalized interventions.
• Further research into tailored strategies is needed to optimize weight management in T2D care.