Primary prevention identifies and protects individuals at risk from developing diabetes. It therefore has an impact by reducing both the need for diabetes care and the need to treat diabetes-related complications.
Lifestyle changes aimed at weight control and increased physical activity are important objectives in the prevention of type 2 diabetes. The benefits of reducing body weight and increasing physical activity are not confined to type 2 diabetes; they also play a role in reducing heart disease, high blood pressure, etc.
Secondary prevention involves the early detection and prevention of complications, therefore reducing the need for treatment.
Action taken early in the course of diabetes is more beneficial in terms of quality of life and is more cost-effective, especially if this action can prevent hospitalization.
There is now conclusive evidence that good control of blood glucose levels can substantially reduce the risk of developing complications and slow their progression in all types of diabetes. The management of high blood pressure and raised blood lipids (fats) is equally important.