Shraboni Ghosal
School of Primary , Community and Social Care
Weight Loss and Weight Management in Primary Care in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
The incidence of type 2 Diabetes mellitus ( T2DM ) is increasing and is a major public health burden . People with T2DM have increased blood sugar levels , which increases the risk of developing heart disease and other complications . Obesity is a major risk factor for diabetes . Weight loss may reduce blood sugar concentrations , improve quality of life and also help achieve normal glucose levels in people with T2DM and those at high risk of diabetes . This PhD study aims to use routinely recorded primary care data to first assess current primary care prescribing of recommended weight loss and anti-diabetic medications in overweight / obese adults with T2DM and people at high risk of diabetes and determine whether these reflect guidelines . The second aim is to investigate if prescribing of these medications are associated with sustained reductions in weight and improved blood sugar levels . The study will involve a systematic review of effectiveness of the most commonly prescribed weight loss medication ( Orlistat ) in diabetes and analysis of a large national UK primary care database ( CPRD ). This research may help facilitate improved clinical outcomes such as reduced weight and improved blood glucose levels in T2DM and high risk patients , which can reduce complications and costs .
Postgraduate Conference 2020 Page 23