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VCE Diabetes Prevention Program

The Diabetes Prevention Program offered by Virginia Cooperative Extension is a part of the National Diabetes Prevention Program led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This proven program can help you make modest lifestyle changes and cut your risk of type 2 diabetes by more than half.

Testimonial DPP

“Before the program, I was pre-diabetic and taking metformin, but now I am off the prescription medication and down twenty pounds. I feel so much better and I have more energy. Thank you. This was an awesome program!” Petersburg, VA

“I had a doctor’s appointment yesterday and learned I was no longer PRE-DIABETIC! It shows how well your guidance has worked, because this is the first time in years for a lower number! Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Frederick County, VA

"I am so glad I joined the DPP! Being part of the group has made me want to change my habits. The coach and the group have been so encouraging, with great advice & yummy recipes. My stamina has increased and I have switched to a healthier diet." - Karen, Roanoke, VA

“It really helps to travel this journey with a great group of people as a support system and to have an awesome lifestyle coach who offers us guidance & encouragement along the way!” - Donna, 51, Roanoke, VA

What our participants are saying...



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Virginia Cooperative Extension is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to fight the increasing rates of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Virginia by helping people prevent this chronic illness.

Prediabetes is a serious health condition where a person’s blood sugar (glucose) level is higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes. If you have prediabetes, you are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, as well as heart disease and stroke.

“One out of three American adults has prediabetes,
and most of them do not know it. ”
— Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Are You At Risk for Prediabetes?

It is important to know if you have prediabetes, so that you can take action to reverse it and prevent serious health problems. You are at increased risk for developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes if you:

  • Are 45 years of age or older;

  • Are overweight;

  • Have a family history of type 2 diabetes;

  • Are physically active fewer than three times per week;

  • Ever had diabetes while pregnant (gestational diabetes) or gave birth to a baby that weighed more than 9 pounds.

Your health care provider can do a simple blood test to see if you have diabetes or prediabetes. Visit our What is Type 2 Diabetes? page to learn more about blood tests.

Join the VCE Diabetes Prevention Program

Lower Your Risk of Developing T2D

How does the program work?

This proven, year-long program gives you the information, support, and practice to lower your risk of T2D.

The first step is to request a meeting with a VCE Lifestyle Coach. They will set up a time to talk and discuss your eligibility and program format.

Once enrolled, the VCE Diabetes Prevention Program provides continuous support for a full year. Groups meet weekly for the first 4 months, bi-weekly for 2 months, and then once a month for the next 6 months to maintain healthy lifestyle changes.

Each session is led by a trained lifestyle coach who guides you to make realistic and lasting lifestyle changes. Programs are offered locally in-person and remotely on Zoom!

Groups help each other to:

  • Eat healthily

  • Be more physical activity

  • Manage stress

  • Stay on track when eating out

  • Understand and respond to food cues

  • Stay motivated

  • Solve problems that can get in the way of healthy changes