LIFESTYLE VS PHARMACOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS FOR GLYCEMIC CONTROL IN TYPE 2 DIABETES
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Keywords
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), Lifestyle Interventions, Pharmacological Treatment, Glycemic Control (HbA1c, FPG), Weight Management, and Integrated Care Approach
Abstract
The goal of this research is to assess the comparative impact of active lifestyle changes and medications on glycemic control for patients afflicted with type two diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This was achieved through a systematic meta-analysis review of peer-reviewed studies, which synthesised the evidence with respect to the reduction of HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose levels, weight, and the resultant long-term impacts of these variables. It was found that both of the interventions and their combination have a positive effect on glycemic levels; however, the results are not the same for every patient. This is attributed to differences in adherence levels and the different glycemic levels in the patient. Lifestyle changes remain effective in the early stages of diabetes, while medication is crucial for more severe cases that do not respond to lifestyle changes. This research emphasises the integrated approach, which requires adhering to lifestyle changes along with medication to optimally control T2DM.
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