DPP 30th Anniversary - DPPOS

Kathleen Graham

Participant

New York

"Over the years she has taken pride in helping produce data underscoring the advice that she and other medical professionals give to patients with diabetes."

[Kathleen Graham, a 56-year-old nurse in the Bronx] said that as part of that study, she had recently undergone tests and had her gait analyzed for early signs of any neurological problems. Over the years, she said, she has taken pride in helping produce data underscoring the advice that she and other medical professionals give to patients with diabetes.

Photo and text source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/18/nyregion/columbia-research-grants-trump.html?unlocked_article_code=1.404.Xobt.rEkq7tSb7q_E&smid=url-share

David Nathan

Research Team

Massachusetts General Hospital

"I was about the same age as our participants when we started DPP 30 years ago. I have aged along with them and share their concerns regarding healthy aging."

When the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) was being planned, the NIDDK, NIH had supported only one major clinical trial in the previous decade, the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial in type 1 diabetes. With the increasing epidemic of type 2 diabetes in the 80’s, it seemed only appropriate that our public health research institution, the NIH, would support a study directed at reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The DPP was planned and developed to address the epidemic and specifically recruited a diverse population that reflected the occurrence of type 2 diabetes in the US. From the very beginning, DPP was a collaborative, collegial project, from the investigators to the participants. The high level of participation was a product of the extraordinary commitment by investigators and the research volunteers alike. With the completion of DPP, one year ahead of schedule and with more than 92% completing the study, the roles of the lifestyle intervention and metformin in preventing - or at least delaying- diabetes were established. The rest of the world took note and interventions to prevent diabetes became firmly established world-wide. The close relationships among the Study Group and with our dedicated participants seemed too good to let them go and with far more to contribute to the understanding of prediabetes and diabetes, we continued our scientific journey together. The last 20 plus years have resulted in an avalanche of important scientific discoveries that have improved our understanding of prediabetes, diabetes and associated complications. Now with our population aging, the DPPOS looks like America. I was about the same age as our participants when we started DPP 30 years ago. I have aged along with them and share their concerns regarding healthy aging. Hopefully, DPP/DPPOS will help us all. Being able to participate in our great adventure has been one of the enduring pleasures of my life.

Bruce

Participant

North Carolina

"I wish the program had been available in my mother's and sister's lifetimes and I would encourage anyone with diabetes to investigate joining the program."

The Difference the Diabetes Prevention Program Made in My Life

How it began - and last for 40 years

My name is Bruce. I am 82 years old. In the mid-80s I worked for Boston Edison Co. My Office was in the Prudential Center and one day an announcement was circulated that Mass General was beginning a Diabetes Prevention Program and were looking for people who would be interested in joining a study. My mother and my older sister were diabetics, but I had never given much thought about how it might affect me. When I saw this announcement it was a wake-up call - I joined the DPP study group. I've been a part of the study group for about 40 years. My wife and I recently moved from Massachusetts to North Carolina. I'm hopeful that I will be able to continue in the DPPOS.

Learning about Type 2 

I soon learned, through the program, that my blood sugar levels were higher than they should have been. That and my family history made me a prime candidate for developing type 2 diabetes. When testing confirmed that I was positive for type 2 diabetes I wasn't very surprised, and I took comfort in knowing that I had joined a program that would monitor and guide me. I learned very quickly that type 2 diabetes cannot be "cured" but can be controlled by regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and by living a lifestyle that paid attention to diet and exercise. I was encouraged to sign up with a doctor who specialized in diabetes treatment, which I did. Over the years I passed along test results from DPP and DPPOS to my doctor, who was very appreciative of the information and added it to my file. 
It may seem to be a very simple thing to do but learning the importance of reading food labels and learning how to apply that information to insulin dosages is critical in controlling blood sugar level. Learning that weight control and exercise is critical. The program emphasized how vital these lessons were to my health. It took me awhile to get into the habit of checking food labels and being proactive rather than reactive in dosing. Those are important habits to develop and follow. I can't say that I never eat something I know is bad but at least I know when I'm not doing the right thing, what the impact should be and how to dose to minimize the slips and slides. 

Part of a Team

Being a part of the program makes me feel like I'm part of a team. Our goal is to control diabetes. I feel like I'd be ashamed to go in for my scheduled appointment and have a high A 1 C test result. I'd feel like I would be letting the team down. As silly as that may sound, it helps to keep me on the ball. At every appointment, in person or by phone, I have the feeling that the staff are every bit as concerned about my health as I am. 
I am convinced that being in the DPP and the DPPOS has played a major part in my being in mostly good health at 82 years old. I wish the program had been available in my mother's and sister's lifetimes and I would encourage anyone with diabetes to investigate joining the program. 

Sharon Edelstein

Research Team

George Washington University

"When my kids were little we would go on DPP walks together and we all talked about healthy grocery shopping and meal preparation."

Way back in 1993, I was working at UCSD in San Diego. My boss – Dr. Elizabeth Barrett-Connor – was submitting a grant in response to an RFA about diabetes prevention and asked me to help her write the statistical section. Nearly a year later when my family was about to move to the Washington DC area, I started applying for jobs. I interviewed at the George Washington University Biostatistics Center for a biostatistician job on a brand new study… the Diabetes Prevention Program! That grant I had helped write a year earlier! It was meant to be.

I was blessed to work on DPP for more than 30 years – helping design the original protocol, determining the primary outcome, tracking recruitment, retention, and study adherence, monitoring early results, and ultimately working on many many papers emanating from DPP and DPPOS. And what a blessing it's been – the science and practice changing study, the many hundreds of investigators and staff across the country who became not only my colleagues but my friends, and the direct impact DPP has had on me and my family.

When my kids were little we would go on DPP walks together and we all talked about healthy grocery shopping and meal preparation. When my husband and my father were each diagnosed with prediabetes, I sent them to their doctors with the original DPP primary outcome paper, and each of them insisted that they start taking metformin! Since then, my husband has embraced the lifestyle intervention and has lost about 40 pounds, maintaining a very active and healthy lifestyle. My now grown family is still all about DPP – all of them committed to a healthy lifestyle including daily exercise.

As for me, I spent over 30 years working on DPP and DPPOS, mostly focusing on everything related to data. When I retired in March 2025, I became a certified DPP lifestyle instructor and I'm now leading my first cohort of patients – continuing my DPP story from a whole new direction!! I've totally come full circle and for that I am forever grateful. Lastly, I am most appreciative to the nearly 4000 participants from across the country who literally have given their lives to be a part of this study. You are the true blessing.

~ Sharon Edelstein, DPPer 1994-2025

Joanie G

Participant

Pittsburgh

"I know we are helping lots of people to have a much better life."

How I came to DPP: My sister Donna got a card in the mail. She asked me to go with her for moral support. We both got tested. It was not her but me! So for over 20 years I've had great help and excellent care and testing. I learned a lot and changed because I was made aware of what I was doing and started taking better care of myself. I put me first! We got lots of support from DPP group experts of all kind to educate us. When DPP ended, I knew I would stay, I now go to TOPS - "Take off pounds sensibly" group on a regular basis. I am the publicity chairperson and group secretary for Carnegie, PA. I would encourage anyone to join. The staff who took care of me for years were excellent dedicated people. I can't say enough good things about this study. I know we are helping lots of people to have a much better life. Just learn/do/change for the better. It is a blessing to me to be a part of such a great organization. Keep up the good work! 

My name is Kris Melroe and I live in Seattle. I have been in this study for 30 + years. This study changed my life and is so valuable for other people in the future. I just happened to see a flyer at my clinic and called to join because of my own history and that other others in my family. I had gestational diabetes. I have aunts and a grandmother that also had diabetes. When I joined my A1C was high. At that times was boarderline. Now it would have been considered diabetic. I learned so much from the visits and annual dinners. I learned about the effects, how to monitor my eating and how to increase my exercise. I daly count my steps (using my smart phone) with a goal of 10,000 to 12,000 steps per day. I have achieved that goal for a couple of years now. Without this study I would definitely have diabetes at this point in my life. The quality of my life has been impacted for the good. The additional point is that have a longitude study gather information is so important. The length of the study really matters for the future of other people in my family and others. The information on medication and indicator are valuable to the broader public. Without having been a participant in this study, I an certain that I would have a shorter life span. The staff and their kindness is amazing. Research is critical for changing lives for the better. Thank-you

Jennifer Levatino

Research Team

Pennington Biomedical Research Center

"The relationships that I have developed with the study participants have meant the most to me, I am grateful for each of them."

I have had the privilege of working on the DPPOS study for 16 years and have been at Pennington Biomedical Research Center for 20 years. Of all the studies I have coordinated here at Pennington, the DPPOS study has been the most meaningful to me. The relationships that I have developed with the study participants have meant the most to me, I am grateful for each of them. The impact this study has had on research of Type 2 diabetes and how it impacts the world is outstanding. Along with the relationships I have developed with the study participants, I have also made many friends with my fellow research associates. I will be forever grateful for each of them and the scientists who have made the DPPOS Study so successful!

Trisha H

Participant

Washington, DC

"I participate in the DPP because diabetes is a terrible disease and I want to support any research efforts that give us a greater understanding of the disease and its prevention."

My introduction to DPP was a postcard from the New Orleans, LA location. I expressed interest and they referred me to the Washington, DC location, wince I live in MD. I did not have health insurance at the time and was grateful for any kind of health screening. I knew I was pre-diabetic, so this program seemed like a good fit. I got randomized into the lifestyle portion of the study. I was scared and hopeful at the same time. I was 200 lbs overweight and no diets or exercise programs had worked. Having a case manager, group support and a healthy lifestyle plan made all the difference. I was able to lose 170 lbs in a 2 year period. However, I managed to gain all the weight back in 3 years. I had to find a 12-step program for food addiction to fully address my challenges with eating healthy. With the help of that program I managed to lose over 200 lbs and have maintained that weight loss. I stopped being pre-diabetic and am so grateful to be happy and healthy. I continue to participate in the DPP because diabetes is a terrible disease and I want to support any research efforts that give us a greater understanding of the disease and its prevention. I lost a dear friend to diabetes complications during COVID. Thank you DPP! Sincerely, Trisha H

Pierre Kleiber

Participant

Honolulu

"A large measure of gratitude needs to go the other way, to all the DPP(OS) staff who are running a program that is a significant and positive part of my life"

This is a reminiscence about the annual DPP or DPPOS luncheons. These were splendid affairs ably organized for the participants by the clinic and research staff. The food was great and there was no diet-shaming about how much or what we chose to put on our plates (including desserts). There were other activities like games and prize drawings. I remember one luncheon where some of the staff persons announced from the podium words of much gratitude to the participants for their continued participation in DPP over the years. Hearing such high words of thankfulness, I as one of the participants was moved to rise to the podium and say that a large measure of gratitude needs to go the other way, to the all the DPP(OS) staff (researchers, clinicians, and secretaries) who are running a program that for me personally is a significant and positive part of my life and I suspect is the same for the other participants in the program.

Here are my husband and I with our 6 grandkids which provide me with great incentive to delay or prevent Type 2 diabetes.

Sybil A

Participant

MGH Boston, MA

"Today my HBA1C is 5.6 and I know it is all due to me gaining such life changing knowledge and being in this wonderful program."

When I joined the DPP in 1999, I knew I was at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes because my paternal grandmother had her leg amputated due to type 2 diabetes. Also I had gestational diabetes during two of my pregnancies. My HBA1C was 6.4.

I didn’t know much about how diet and exercise affected my chances of developing type 2 diabetes. At the DPP, l learned how being mindful of the food groups and caloric intake, as well as doing at least 150 minutes of activity a week could delay me from developing type 2 diabetes .

Today my HBA1C is 5.6 and I know it is all due to me gaining such life changing knowledge and being in this wonderful program. I also had the opportunity to interact with the research and clinical staff as well as other participants. Thank you all for helping me change my life for the better.

This is one of my favorite symbols for Diabetes.

Cathy Schouten

Participant

Michigan

"For anyone considering joining any Study Group today - your commitment to Research could be life-saving and life changing for someone someday."

In 1998 I was leaving the office of a specialty doctor at UCC Hospital and noticed a list of studies being done there - one being a study for Diabetic Prevention. All at once I thought of my grandfather and my aunt (Father and Daughter) who had developed diabetes. At that point I realized I had an opportunity to possibly be a participant in the Diabetes Prevention Program Study Group.

I have been involved in DPP and DPP-OS for 27 years. I remember the day I was accepted to the Study. A noisy bell rang loudly in the hall, which indicated my sugar level was above the normal limits and I qualified for the study.

I decided to commit to the study with a realization that my drive would be 1-hour from my home to the UCC Hospital. But I also began to think about the importance of any study and its impact on health problems and diseases and the impact the study could be for persons (adults and children) diagnosed with Diabetes.

The Grants that are received are another important part to a study and that encouraged me to continue on with the study knowing that the possibility of the work being done could help families in years to come.

During the study, I moved from Illinois to Michigan and my drive to UCC would be a 4-1/2 hour drive to the hospital. I was blessed that the Diabetes Study Doctor and the Study Coordinators let me continue with a remote connection that I could respond to the questions, have lab work done and provide the information they needed.

After the DPP Study was completed, I continued on in the DPP-OS Studies realizing the lifesaving opportunities and impact that could be available to the Physicians and their Patients.

My family has watched me take my blood sugar and blood pressure daily and adjusting my diet when needed for the Life Style Group I was in from the beginning of my involvement as a participant.

The Study has definitely been a commitment in a persons life and I commend all the people in our DPP Study Group for their involvement these past 30 years.

For anyone considering joining any Study Group today - your commitment to Research could be life-saving and life changing for someone someday.

Pamela

Participant

Washington, DC

“Historically, it has been difficult to get African Americans to participate in any research study. I realized if I don’t participate, scientists won’t have the critical data they need."

Pamela, a 72-year-old communications specialist who lives in the Washington, D.C., area and has written for both Reader’s Digest and McCall’s Magazine, had always lived an active lifestyle, having been an avid runner and even a member of a ski team. It’s not surprising she takes her health seriously since her mother, who had type 1 diabetes, always taught Pamela and her five siblings from a young age to value their health and made sure they recognized the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. So, in the summer of 1997 when Pamela received a postcard in the mail that invited her to be tested to see if she qualified for participation in a new research study on possible ways to delay or prevent the development of type 2 diabetes, she jumped at the chance. “I went in, got tested, and found out I had prediabetes, which qualified me for the study … so I signed up right away.” She was randomized to the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) lifestyle intervention group on October 1, 1997, and so her journey of participating in a clinical trial began.

After several months of diet and exercise with support from DPP clinicians, Pamela achieved her initial goals and even surpassed her 7 percent weight-loss target. She does admit, though, that it was not always easy. In the beginning, she did not quite care for documenting everything she ate, though she appreciated the study coordinators. As she puts it, “I was judging myself … but the study coordinators had no judgment. They were data-driven and incredibly supportive and encouraging to all of the participants.” She says the intervention changed the way she approached her daily activities—it forced her to pay close attention to exercise consistency, portion sizes, and reading nutrition labels.

After those initial months of the lifestyle intervention, the good results for Pamela just kept coming. She put in the effort and learned that, with the support of her DPP doctor and study coordinators, she had the power to change the course of disease. Part of that support included the fact that the DPP team organized group events, such as holiday dinners and baseball games, so that participants could meet and inspire each other. The study team even encouraged them to bring along friends, which turned out to be helpful to Pamela. “If I bring a friend to an outing, maybe the next day I recruit them for a run. It’s easier to exercise with a friend.”

Soon after the DPP came to an end, and the DPPOS was beginning, Pamela knew she would remain a participant. She had worked hard and had seen the fruits of her labor—losing weight and preventing her prediabetes from progressing to type 2 diabetes—but that wasn’t the only reason. She was also motivated by her mother’s fight with her illness, and she realized the significance of her participation in clinical research. “Historically,” she says, “it has been difficult to get African Americans to participate in any research study. I realized if I don’t participate, scientists won’t have the critical data they need…. Diseases manifest differently in different races and sexes … it’s so important.”

Beyond the recommended goals of weight loss and exercise, Pamela also noticed the DPP lifestyle program provided her with other health benefits like better stress management. Life has a way of handing you challenges, and it certainly did for Pamela. Throughout her years in DPP, she drove her mother to medical appointments because her job afforded her more flexibility than her siblings, and she helped her mother deal with many of the complications common to both major forms of diabetes. In 2002, Pamela’s region was rocked by a frightening development—a sniper began terrorizing the area at random. This effectively halted her outdoor runs. And, in 2008 the economic recession hit, which negatively impacted Pamela’s consulting job as a writer. But she looked to the knowledge she had gained about lifestyle change from being a DPP participant and was able to minimize her stress through breathing techniques, in addition to keeping her diet and exercise routine as healthy as possible when each change in circumstances arose.

Pamela has now been a participant in DPP/DPPOS for more than 23 years, a remarkable contribution to scientific research—and also to her own health. Today, not only has she prevented the development of type 2 diabetes, but she no longer has prediabetes and has achieved and maintained an impressive 12 percent weight loss—a testament to her incredible dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle as a DPP/DPPOS participant. When discussing her appreciation and respect for the DPP doctors and nurses, she goes so far as to say if she had to do it all over again, she would choose a career in science or medicine. “This is one of the best things to ever happen to me, to have had this opportunity to be part of this program…. Self-management is a discipline. It’s not always easy, but it’s something we need to strive for. It’s a journey, and DPP was the catalyst for me.”

Pamela is proud to have contributed to the DPP’s success, and when asked what she would tell someone considering participating in a similar clinical trial she doesn’t hesitate: “I’d tell them to do it! And, I’d even go with them!” Without Pamela and her fellow DPP/DPPOS participants, there might still be no proven way to prevent type 2 diabetes. Thanks to their efforts, a healthier world has become possible.

Thank you to NIDDK for sharing Pamela's story! To read stories from other NIDDK-funded research, visit their website.

Photo and text source: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/clinical-trials/personal-stories/contributing-type-2-diabetes-prevention-research

Anna R

Participant

Boston

"I am so grateful and blessed to be a part of the DPPOS all these years. The wonderful, caring, supportive staff have kept me grounded and I have been off Metformin for over 5 years!!"

My mother was an inpatient at MGH and I walked by a table in the lobby for research about diabetes. My mother was a diabetic on insulin, and I had a stroke and high blood pressure. I signed up for diabetes research since my blood surgar/A1C was high. My mom passed 9/24/2001 and I have been a participant ever since that day. I am so grateful and blessed to be a part of the DPPOS all these years. The wonderful, caring, supportive staff have kept me grounded and I have been off Metformin for over 5 years!! The testing, exercise programs, and access to such great events to support us have been exceptional!! The staff and program have made it so convenient for us to do appointments in person, on the phone + virtual. I really appreciate and support the cognitive testing that is done and MRI scans + bloodwork and hope this continues to help the next generation!

Sue Shapiro

Research Team

Washington, DC

"I have learned so much from this exceptionally loyal and dedicated group."

I was once asked what stands out as one of my most meaningful projects and without hesitation, I answered the landmark DPP/DPPOS study. I have had the privilege of working on this study since 1998 and it has been meaningful to me for many reasons both on a professional and personal level. The science behind the DPP/DPPOS and the significant impact the results have had in Type 2 Diabetes, and the Diabetes community at large speaks for itself, and I feel very proud to have contributed to its success.

On a personal level, it has been my interactions with the DPP/DPPOS study participants that have been the most meaningful. We have together built unique relationships over the years, and I feel as though I have an extended family of about 100 members. It is said it is the simple moments of human interconnectedness that are the bedrock of our existence, and I am so thankful for the many years of interconnectedness shared with my study participants. The participants tell me they are thankful for all the study has done for them, but it is I that am thankful for all they have done for me.

I have learned so much from this exceptionally loyal and dedicated group, mostly on aging gracefully and the importance of faith and a positive attitude.

It has been quite a colorful journey these past 27 years for which I will be forever grateful to have been an active participant.Thank you DPP/DPPOS!!

Rose

Participant

University of Pittsburgh

"My biggest accomplishment is MOVING whether it's a little or a lot. Without all of this practical advice, I'm certain that by the time I hit 60, I would have been wheelchair bound."

I am now 76 years old and joined DPP at the very beginning when I was 46 years old. Those ages are important because without DPP/DPPOS and all I have learned and accomplished with your help, I firmly believe I would not be here today. 

I was the poster child for couch potato. Over the years I have learned healthy habits of all sorts and regularly practice many of those - hey, no one is perfect! Thus was the driving detail of my life I needed to change - and 30 years ago I would have said "wanted to change" not needed - activity and actually eating and thinking healthy. I knew what to eat and not eat to lose weight but did not incorporate that into regular habits. DPP/DPPOS taught me how to eat well and wisely. 

My biggest accomplishment is MOVING whether it's a little or a lot. Without all of this practical advice, I'm certain that by the time I hit 60, I would have been wheelchair bound. 

• My biggest surprise is that I actually ENJOY MOVING and have found ways to add a few steps or stretches to my days:
• Print one copy of something in my office and walk to the copy machine to make all the other copies I need;
• Take an online weekly yoga class during Monday lunch hour: I am in Pittsburgh, PA, 2 ladies are in Burbank, CA, 1 participant is in Scottsdale, AZ, and the instructor is in Tuscaloosa, AL!
• Walk on a treadmill while reading my Kindle - I can get lost in a Nora Roberts/JD Robb story and am shocked to see I've mindlessly walked more than 30 minutes! 

Thank you, DPP/DPPOS. I could not have done any of the above without you!

Love,

Rose

My photo is from a recent trip to Florence, Italy, at a cooking class. Ravioli!

Diane Jennings

Participant

University of California San Diego

"I know that I am providing information for the research, but I have gained so much information to help me be healthy!"

I was working as a school secretary in 1997 and noticed a postcard inviting people with various symptoms to contact the UCSD DPP Research team. I had a few of those symptoms and after testing, was entered into the program. I knew from the start that being a part of this program would be life changing for me and so many others. At the end of DPP I was diagnosed with diabetes. I continued on with DPPOS and am so grateful for "my" team. All the research and clinical staff are amazing. Through the years because of the support I have received, I have been healthy and in control of my diabetes. My doctors have been impressed with my participation in such a professionally run research program. I know that I am providing information for the research, but I have gained so much information to help me be healthy! 

My husband was diagnosed with diabetes about 15 years ago and his doctor prescribed medication and a glucose monitor. He gave him absolutely no information on how to handle his diabetes. Fortunately, I was able to share some information with him based on what I have learned. 

A few months ago, I met a young man in Hawaii. He told me he was a team member at a facility in Alaska that is part of the Diabetes Prevention Program. I told him I am still a participant in this study and he was excited to talk with me! Wow! It was so exciting for me to meet someone working with this remarkable research!

 A very special shout out to Dr. Medalier and Karen Vejvoda and all the team at UCSD. Thank you to all for helping me to be a healthy woman!! 

Jane Lehmer

Participant

Washington

“I’m just pleased to be able to make a small contribution to this larger research effort.”

Lehmer first began quilting after her retirement in 2017, taking classes with the local guild in Republic, a small town in the Okanagan highlands of Washington, near the Canadian border. She bought a longarm sewing machine, which she kept in the loft of her home.

There are two phases to quilting, a fusion of art and craft. There is the construction of the quilt top, where the intricately designed patterns are sewn, then there is the layering of the top with the batting and backing fabrics.

“I basically draw figures and patterns while sewing the three layers together,” she says. “Some people have computerized machines, but mine is completely hand-guided.”

Lehmer quickly established a small business, moving the longarm into a small quilting cottage on her property, a dedicated space to focus on her craft. She stands as she works, often listening to murder mystery audiobooks.

Standing is important. As a participant in the Diabetes Prevention Program since 1998, Lehmer has prediabetes. “As an adopted child, I had no idea what my genetics were, so to find out that I’m prediabetic was very fortuitous,” she says. In addition to walking her dog and riding her recumbent bicycle, standing by her longarm is a key part of her daily exercise. “I’m just pleased to be able to make a small contribution to this larger research effort.”

To read more of Jane's story and learn about how she created the cover of Diabetes Care Volume 48, visit the October Issue's website.

Photo and text source: https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/48/10/1649/163433/About-the-Artist-Jane-Lehmer

Maria Montez

Research Team

Texas

"It was a wonderful experience meeting so many scientists, nurses, dietitians, and biostatisticians nationwide and the long-time friendships that are still on-going!"

This is Maria Montez, Program Coordinator for DPP since the beginning of DPP until my retirement in May 2018. It was a wonderful experience meeting so many scientists, nurses, dietitians, and biostatisticians nationwide and the long-time friendships that are still on-going! We provided research-based care to our many study participants and community service to our states nationwide! Congratulations DPP for 30 years of science and service to our states nationwide! Enjoying my retirement cruising around the world!

Drema W

Participant

University of Chicago

"There was no research being done during my mom's time and now that there is, so many people are benefiting, lives are being extended, and there is more awareness."

I attended a Health Fair in 1998 and stopped by the University of Chicago's DPP table. It was of interest to me because I have a family history of diabetes. So, I took the brochure, read it, did my research, contacted the UofC the following week, and the rest is history. Being in the DPP for the last 27 years has taught me how to take care of my health and to be intentional about it. My husband even benefited because when I changed my life, it also changed his. I have learned to eat healthy, exercise, and pay attention to my body. Over the course of the study, I learned how to lose weight and maintain that loss in a healthy way, and to pay attention to other health indicators such as cholesterol, kidney function, eyes, heart and feet. I feel this study was a godsend for me because my mom and 3 of her siblings had diabetes, as well as my grandmother. My grandmother, my mom and one of her sisters died as a result of diabetes. With that family history, I knew it would be a miracle if I did not get it. There was no research being done during my mom's time and now that there is, so many people are benefiting, lives are being extended, and there is more awareness. I am glad that I am a part of the study/research and hope that this study/research continues so that more people can become more educated and learn to take more control of their health. I am an advocate for my own health, and I will do anything to improve it, so I would tell anybody who is considering joining a research group, to just do it. What do you have to lose? The benefits will always outweigh the cons, and it may help save your life or at least improve it.

John

Participant

West Seattle, WA

"DPP has shown me how important it is to take good care of my body and has given me cause to lead a safe and healthy life."

Photo Caption: This is a copy of a flyer I distributed to be elected as a drivers representative on the metro employees union, in Seattle, where I served (local 587). I served 7 years as a shop steward and 18 years on the executive board, and those memories are very dear to me. It was actually a form of ministry. All the drivers I helped were usually guilty as charged and I got most of them off the hook. Then they would wait for me and tell me all their troubles and I would listen and give them advice.

Story: When I first joined DPP, we had a lot of meetings, with about 10 or 15 people and the speakers. We learned a lot about diabetes, diets, energies and one another. We often me on weekend to walk at Alke , Green Lake, etc. We also went to some restaurants with one of the teachers to experience ordering safe foods and different ethnic type restaurant – Asian, European and American. I felt that I was in a club of really good friends. Then, when this all slowed down I really missed my new found friends.

Now I’m happy to see that DPP is back in business again.

I joined DPP for a few reasons.
I wanted to contribute and belong to a study that would find some answers or medical science and help many people control this disease. Also, I wanted to learn about it and help the medical field come up with some answers.
DPP has helped me become aware of how important it is to have a healthy diet, the value of exercise and an interest to study and learn about health in general. I’ve changed my eating habits, I used to drink a lot of beer. Now I don’t drink any alcoholic beverages and only drink sugar free tea, coffee and soda pop. I’m very fortunate and lucky to be involved with DPP.

DPP has shown me how important it is to take good care of my body and has given me cause to lead a safe and healthy life and how medical research is very important for us to understand and deal with disease and health problems. My father died from diabetes at age 55. He was not a heavy drinker but he smoked heavily since he was 12 or 13 years old and got tuberculosis. The doctors had to amputate ¼ of one lung and give him new medication for healing. The medicine was very strong and ruined his kidneys. This is before dialysis was fully developed and he passed away. This really rattled us all.
Now my brother (87), has full blown type 2 diabetes and takes medication, not yet on dialysis. I have prediabetes, no meds. If someone asked me about joining a research study, I would tell him/her to jump right in ASAP.

Lillie Delores Benson

Participant

New York

"If I could help one person/family and myself weather this illness, then it would be worth it."

Hello, my name is Lillie Delores Benson. I am the youngest of 4 children born into an intact family in the 1950s. I grew up in the projects in Mount Vernon, NY, on the south side of town.

Growing up, my best friend was Valerie W. (the 2nd oldest of 4 children), we were as they say "2 peas in a pod." When I met Valerie, she was missing her left ring finger. Of course, as a curious child, I asked her what happened. She told me it had gotten infected, and they had to cut it off. She never mentioned the unspoken word diabetes or what was known in my community as "the sugar." We had a wonderful childhood filled with lots of memories. 

As we grew older, we drifted apart, I went to college, and Valerie stayed at home. We still remained in contact, but we're not as close. As the years passed, I learned that Valerie had passed away. At her funeral, her mother told me her foot got infected, and they wanted to remove her toe. Valerie knew the consequences of not getting her toe amputated.  She refused to get the operation and ultimately passed away. From Valerie's passing, I learned about diabetes and its effects.

When DPP was getting started, and they were looking for participants, my PCP at the time told me about the program and asked me if I wanted to participate. Valerie quickly came to mind, and I said, of course. It looked like I wasn't going to be eligible to participate until the very last day, the test results came back, and I was diabetic. If I could help one person/family and myself weather this illness, then it would be worth it.

This journey has not been easy. I have had my share of ups and downs, and through all the stages of this program, the main constant has been everyone involved with this valuable program. I have gained friends, gained knowledge about living with diabetes and hopefully helped/helping others with the results coming out of this study.

On a personal note, 2 of my other siblings had/have diabetes.  I have also learned that my mother was diabetic. I never knew this until my brother sent me an old picture of my mother who was very obese. She lost all of that weight and I never knew her to be that size.

Susan Gusé

Participant

VA Hospital, Seattle, WA

"The physicians and nurses and coaches were outstanding in encouraging me to keep up with my exercise and new eating regimen."

P.l How DPP made a difference in my life. November 19, 2025 I am pleased to relate some of my experiences as a participant in the Diabetes Prevention Program (hereafter referred to as DPP) with headquarters at the VA hospital in Seattle, Washington. My name is Susan Guse and I am 82 years of age. My first encounter with the DPP occurred over 20 years ago at a health fair at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle Washington where I was employed in a support category. At the fair, DPP had a booth offering blood glucose tests. My slightly elevated glucose level suggested I was pre-diabetic. I was told my blood glucose level made me eligible to participate in a long term DPP research study of diabetes prevention methods. The research population would consist of groups randomized into study groups. One group would have no intervention, one would have drug intervention and one would follow a program based on healthy eating habits and regular exercise. I felt that I was very lucky that the last group, healthy Life Style, was the one into which I was randomized. Over the years I participated in many offerings available to my Life Style research group. These included supervised visits to a private gym with my own coach, recording my food intake for a week at a time and twice yearly blood testing and body measurements to establish a baseline and changes over time. My "team" included not only the personal trainer at the gym but a nutrition and lifestyle coach. I was very satisfied with my personal coaches. They were dedicated, knowledgeable, had great senses of humor and made our team's hard work following new eating and exercise plans actually enjoyable. I made yearly visits to the VA Hospital in Seattle for recording data on my progress towards the goal of weight loss of 7%. I found the physicians and nurses and coaches were outstanding in encouraging me to keep up with my exercise and new eating regimen. Over time my new way of eating and exercising did pay off with better health, both physical and mental. I went from a starting weight of 188 to my present weight of under 150 pounds. I have maintained this weight loss for a long time. I attended yearly events where DPP researchers discussed their peer reviewed publications. There was clear evidence that the DPP dietary and exercise interventions followed by the Life Style group played a role in delaying or preventing type 2 diabetes. Then bad luck set in. When a very foolish choice by our government cut off the grant funds supporting research at the DPP. I was devastated. Diabetes is a very serious disease that affects many Americans. I told a lot of people I knew to write to their senators and representatives about the unwise choice. DPP is able to demonstrate that their programs of diet and exercise are very effective in delaying or preventing conversion to type 2 diabetes. Recently I received the good news that the funding was re­ instated. But, I suspect this good news is not totally good as some of the staff that provided such great service to all of us who were part of the study may be gone. For many years I have also been a part of the ACT research study on cognition in seniors. ACT provides no feedback to specific individuals in their study. DPP, on the other hand is more transparent. Results of findings published in peer reviewed manuscripts are available to participants who are not specifically identified. I appreciated being able to follow my journey towards Life Style goals with body measurements and blood work results sent to me in printouts after yearly exams at the Seattle VA. I hope to see my team friends and staff of the DPP program now that funding is re-instated. Thank you DPP for all your help and support over time. I am grateful that I was able to participate for over 20 years in the DPP program and I credit the DPP interventions with the fact that I have not converted to diabetes as of this date in 2025.

My parents' wedding, 75 years ago, with their parents and grandparents.

Nina Peskoe Peyser

Participant

New York

"We clearly felt that we were informing the field and our involvement would benefit the future."

My career as a health care administrator began 50 years ago, and at first it centered around treatment for people with substance abuse issues. Our primary drug treatment program involved methadone maintenance, a proven effective medication for heroin addiction. But our patients and our treatment program were often criticized by individuals who said we were just substituting one drug for another. We countered with the example of insulin for the treatment of diabetes. No one imposed value judgments on diabetic patients who couldn't manage their condition solely by diet and willpower, so why were patients being treated for substance abuse disparaged for taking medication that reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms?

The political climate at the time forced our program to have extensive waiting lists of people who wanted treatment but could not be admitted. Finally, when the HIV/AIDS epidemic hit New York, the public health leadership started to realize that getting injection drug users into treatment was a very effective way to reduce many of the risky behaviors that led to the spread of HIV. We extended the clinical program to embrace research projects, especially focused on the prevention of HIV/AIDS and the respectful treatment of people who had been exposed to the HIV/AIDS virus while they were actively using drugs.

This began my exposure to the clinical and epidemiological research field, and I created a department for research administration. Part of educating myself and my staff about human subjects research included learning about protections, regulations, informed consent, Institutional Review Boards, and ethical issues, and we decided that we would each enroll in some sort of research study to see how it felt to be a participant.

Several people in my extended family had been greatly affected by diabetes, including my grandmother (who lost a leg), my uncle (who played the piano professionally until diabetes-related neuropathy made that impossible), and my brother-in-law (who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes while in his 20s). So when I saw an announcement about participating in a research study to prevent diabetes, I jumped at the chance. I was so lucky that the Diabetes Prevention Study was at a nearby hospital, and that I was eligible based on my personal risk factors and my family history. I was able to see both sides of clinical research: the professional administrative processes (and, to be fair, some of the associated bureaucracy and hurdles) as well as the vantage point of a research subject (including what seemed like a lot of blood draws and questionnaires). I could tell that the research staff cared very much about the well-being of the participants.

We all were reminded that a research subject is not guaranteed any direct benefit from the study--but we clearly felt that we were informing the field and our involvement would benefit the future. We were treated with dignity and support, and even now, more than 25 years later, it is overwhelmingly clear that the research staff and investigators prioritize us.

The personal satisfaction that I get from knowing that my contributions have already resulted in improved knowledge and opportunities for preventing diabetes in other families would be reward enough. In my case, I have also been very fortunate in that I have not developed diabetes, and I am very sure that it was my early involvement in this study that happened to randomize me to the study medication arm that in fact prevented my progression to diabetes.

A picture of me and my four children

Robin Butler

Participant

University of Chicago

"The women in the program made all the difference. They listened, they encouraged, and they created a space where I felt understood."

My journey began during my first pregnancy. When I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, my doctor warned me to watch what I ate. Thankfully, my husband--who loved to cook--took charge of my meals, and my pregnancy went smoothly. After having three more children without any diabetes concerns, I thought I had moved past it.

Then one day, someone from the DPP program reached out. They explained that because I had gestational diabetes once, my risk of developing diabetes later in life was much higher. Even though I hadn't developed it yet, I decided to join the program after my fourth baby--and I'm so grateful I did.

DPP taught me how to recognize my risks, build healthier habits, and stay in control. I'm not perfect; I still get off track sometimes. But now I know exactly how to bring myself back to a healthier path.

The women in the program made all the difference. They listened, they encouraged, and they created a space where I felt understood. Because of their support, I now live a much healthier, cleaner lifestyle.

Joining DPP has been transformative for me, my family, and my community. Before this program, I knew almost nothing about diabetes--no one in my family had it, and I'd never seen research or education like this in my neighborhood. 

It's time for all communities to have access to the information, data, and support they need. I'm proud to be part of that change through the DPP program.

-Robin B.

Presenting results from the DPPOS at the American Diabetes Association meeting in 2025

Ashley Tjaden

Research Team

George Washington University

"Based on the study’s powerful results, I have encouraged family to start metformin to prevent development of diabetes & stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle."

My connection to the DPPOS began in 2012 when I joined the George Washington University Coordinating Center as a research assistant. I quickly learned that behind the landmark publications and life-changing results was a vast operation—the essential ""behind the scenes"" engine of a multi-center study. My role within DPPOS has always been at the heart of the data. Our team at the Coordinating Center manages many stages of the lifecycle of the study: developing study protocols, designing the forms used to collect critical information, creating the systems where data are entered, tracking participant retention and visit completion, and ultimately running the complex data analyses that pull the entire scientific story together. Though I haven't had the privilege of working with participants directly like our clinical staff, I have developed a close relationship with the data derived from each of their dedicated visits over the past 30 years. I am fortunate to work with this incredible treasure trove of data, elucidating findings that no single person could have achieved alone. Working on DPPOS inspired me to pursue a career in public health and epidemiology, and it has afforded me the chance to collaborate with and learn from world-renowned endocrinologists, diabetologists, and biostatisticians. The impact of the DPP has been personal too - Based on the study’s powerful results, I have encouraged family members to start taking metformin to prevent the development of diabetes and have stressed the importance of maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. I am grateful to the thousands of dedicated DPP participants. Their contributions are the real reason behind the study’s success and it is their participation that has led to better understanding of diabetes prevention. ~ Ashley Tjaden, DPP Coordinating Center since 2012

Susan M

Participant

Seattle, WA

"I'm proud of the work the research group has done and the results that have impacted so many people positively!"

I became a participant in the study way back in 1996, when I was a law school student and discovered that I had a high fasting blood sugar. The doctor at that time told me I had diabetes and prescribed oral medication, which I tossed! A friend was a nurse in the study and suggested that I see if I qualified, and I did - but as a prediabetic, not diabetic. Assigned to the lifestyle group, I was disappointed that I wasn't in a "quick fix medication section," but it turned out to be the best "accident" ever! Through the years, I was privileged to learn how to get my weight down and keep it controlled. I enjoyed many events that celebrated our successes, and I met some wonderful staff and study participants. At some point, the threshold for diabetes moved lower and I was "converted"; however, I never had to take medication, never had to monitor my blood glucose, and to this day, my numbers really haven't dramatically changed. I've been fortunate to have staff visit my home when I couldn't travel to the clinic for my appointments, and I feel really honored to contribute my experiences and my body's health to the study. I'm proud of the work the research group has done and the results that have impacted so many people positively!

Gary Sheehan

Participant

Boston MGH

"I am proud to have been in this program because I continue to learn things I would never have known about myself."

I sit here on Veterans Day morning. This week I received a request for my inputs on DPP.

Yes, I am a proud veteran of the Vietnam era. I am also a proud veteran of DPP. I joined the program in 1998 after being diagnosed with elevated blood sugar. You may say I failed when I crossed over to diabetes in 2000. However, I feel blessed because as the program doctors and nurses etc pointed out that I was diagnosed at the earliest possible time. That has helped me to better understand how my body was working.

I later in 2009 had a heart attack which required a stent to repair the blood flow to my heart. I still didn’t look at this as a failure. The success is that I am here to tell you about it. I have learned that Diabetes can lead to heart issues. I went to cardiac rehab for several weeks which included a segment on diet. It was amazing to me that the staff treated me like royalty because I was in the DPP program. At that time the program was still DPP and not yet DPPOS (outcome study). Today it is the benchmark around the world in type 2 diabetes treatment.

I am proud to have been in this program because I continue to learn things I would never have known about myself. I have been looking into why I have diabetes. I was asked to volunteer to help with controlling a large refinery fire while in the service. It burned for a couple of days before the professionals' replaced volunteers. It’s likely that the exposure there could have caused Insulin Resistance which over time leads to pre-diabetes and eventually diabetes.

So, staying healthy is my goal and staying active helps keep my numbers in check.

Connie Girtin

Participant

"I also meet some great participants. Carl ending up being my neighbor and he would drive me to activities. God Rest his soul. Sue and I still play Words with Friends."

"I was blessed when I became part of DPP. I was randomized into the Lifestyle group.

Marsha was my first of many wonderful case managers. I remember bringing my Blue books in to Marsha, and her asking me why I drank a Coke!! She scared me into losing weight!!!

Lisa Testaverde was another wonderful person I met. My husband loved talking sports with her.

I also met some great participants. Carl ending up being my neighbor and he would drive me to activities. God Rest his soul. Sue and I still play Words with Friends.

We did some crazy things like a scavenger search at the Cherry Creek Mall. Alexis and her husband taught us Tai Chi in the park. My daughter was 2 years old when I started and she was there on our walks and picnics.

It wasn't all fun and games; we had learning opportunities. Food diaries, cooking, and nutrition were a few of the lessons we learned.

When DPP evolved to DPPOS, we lost a lot of our contact time with our case managers but they still had time for us.

Thank you all for being a part of my life for 30 years."

Sharon Cumberland

Participant

Seattle, WA

"After almost 30 years I’ve avoided “converting” to diabetes while learning so much about healthy eating, cooking, and exercise."

I joined the DPP in 1998, when I found a flyer in my mailbox inviting people to volunteer for a program that might protect pre-diabetic people from developing a disease that was becoming a national health crisis. I didn’t know if I was prediabetic or not, but my mother had developed diabetes in middle age and I thought the same thing could happen to me. I figured I could at least apply to the program and find out if I qualified. I remember having a preliminary test that showed I was on the borderline of qualifying and was asked to come into the Veteran’s Hospital on Beacon Hill for a more extensive test. I was actually delighted to find out that I qualified as a prediabetic because I thought it might give me a chance to avoid a debilitating disease. Fortunately for me I was randomized into the Metformin group and have faithfully followed the guidelines. After almost 30 years I’ve avoided “converting” to diabetes while learning so much about healthy eating, cooking, and exercise. It’s been an honor to contribute something to science while being a beneficiary myself.  

At the start of the program in Seattle the DPP had a beautiful space in the Veterans hospital with a spectacular view of the city, and it was a pleasure to go there for testing. Over the years they have been moved around, but the doctors and scientists have stayed for very long times and I've enjoyed seeing them at every visit. I especially have enjoyed the annual dinners in interesting places around Seattle--once at Seahawks stadium, once on a docked boat, once at the top of the Smith Tower, once at the Seattle Aquarium and many other places. In the early days--to encourage people to stick with the program--we were given all kinds of gifts pertaining to health--blankets, tape measures, lap rugs--even a pair of walking shoes!  We were also rewarded with trophies to mark milestones with the program-a beautiful acrylic five-pointed star to mark a decade with the program, a "Certificate of Recognition" paperweight  to honor participation in the Outcomes study from 2002-2008, and several letters of appreciation. I have them on my windowsill and cherish the program, the people, and the chance I have been given to participate. I especially like being able to read about the many studies that have emerged from the data that the program provides.

It was heartbreaking to be be told that the program was being canceled  by the Trump administration after so many years of faithful and successful work by so many people. I was four days away from my appointment to participate in the brain scan study. I'll never forget seeing a news release featuring a woman at Columbia University weeping because a study  that she had been in for twenty one years was being canceled. I immediately knew that she was referring to the DPP-OS, and I was crying too.  I still had my prescription and took my metformin faithfully, so it was a relief and a joy when the program was restored. The DPP and DPP-OS have been with me for twenty-seven years now. I hope it will be with me for my entire life. I am extremely grateful to Dr. Khan and all the professional people who have taken care of us for so long.

 Sincerely,

Sharon Cumberland

12/17/2025

Carolyn

Participant

University of Pittsburgh

"I’ve been in the program for a long time, I’m so glad I’m still a part of it! DPPOS saved my life and I thank God for the program and awesome staff."

I remember when I first came in contact with DPP, I thought what an opportunity for me to learn about diabetes, since a lot of my family members had diabetes and died from the effects of it. I was ambitious to learn as much as I could. The day that I found out that I was pre-diabetic, I didn’t know it crossed over to type 2, I was in shock because I didn’t know. I learned so much from DPP that I didn’t learn from my doctor. The staff treated us like royalty. All kinds of information a pair of tennis shoes, various events - what a blessing. I’ve been in the program for a long time, I’m so glad I’m still a part of it! DPPOS saved my life and I thank God for the program and awesome staff.

I pray they keep in being a blessing and save more lives. They made a difference in my life!!

Jean

Participant

"It's hard to enumerate the many benefits I have gotten from being a participant in this study."

The difference the DPP/DPPOS has made in my life –

I was accepted into the DPP study in the fall of 1996 and randomized into the metformin group.

It's hard to enumerate the many benefits I have gotten from being a participant in this study. However, the most important one is that I am not even pre-diabetic even though the metformin was discontinued. I learned so much about diet and exercise from the study that has helped me reach almost 92 years of age. I still live alone and drive.

When I first entered the study my physician was skeptical about my taking medication that she thought I didn’t need.

In those days the limits of the pre-diabetes were much looser. In the subsequent years she agreed that my staying in the study had been the right decision. Doctors, as a result had started prescribing metformin for some pre-diabetic patients.

Since then metformin was discontinued from the study. Even so doctors still prescribe it because risks, as in all medication, outweigh the benefits.

Whatever benefits the study has gotten from my participation are far outweighed by the many medical, physical, and psychological tests they gave me. Those results were shared with my physicians and enabled them to provide me with a more complete range of care.

The staff and especially Susana “Sue” Shapiro have always been friendly, professional, and encouraging.

I’ll always be thankful I stumbled across the study and was accepted and stayed.

I'm Fiona, and I've been with the Diabetes Prevention Program and the ongoing study since around 1996. When I started, I wanted to do the lifestyle study, but I was put in the metformin and placebo study. I actually ended up taking metformin for many, many years. I have never had diabetes - I've never developed type 2 diabetes. I have been in the pre-diabetic range a few times and I've noticed over the years it's been when I've gained weight, significant weight. I know when I get my weight down that that changes. I'm very grateful for the program. I feel it's like an extra backup of professionals who look after my health. The Diabetes Prevention Program actually discovered I had first degree AV block by taking an EKG and that led to me being diagnosed with having a third degree block and getting a pacemaker. So, they actually ended up saving my life. And all I can say is this is a wonderful study. I hope it goes on for many, many years and that they discover even more wonderful things and help a lot more people, because in the 30 years that I've been in this study, the treatment of diabetes has changed significantly. And thank you. Thank you all.

I've been with the Diabetes Association for almost 30 years. I think I'm 88 years old today because of them. I watch my sugar - I'm a junkaholic! I like eating jelly beans and jelly donuts and everything, and I watch it! It's because I used to go to the meetings, and I saw all the papers they sent us - I still have all those papers, and I look at them. That's why all my diabetes is controlled. Because, on my father's side of the family, everybody had diabetes really bad - and I don't have it. I'm controlled. My numbers are great. And I think it's because I take metformin, and I pay attention to all the things that they taught me.

I am grateful for the opportunity to be a participant in the DPP program. It was my primary care physician who recommended me for this program many years ago. In its initial stage, I did not know if I was taking the placebo or metformin until it was unmasked. Over the years, I've been monitored by the exceptional DPP staff, for which I'm thankful, and I owe it to them for keeping me in the good health that I have been in for all these years. Thanks again to everyone for helping me to remain healthy.

Pedro Pinerio

Participant

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

"I truly believe that my visits to the clinic have been instrumental in my journey."

I am writing to offer my warmest congratulations to the entire DPPOS team on celebrating 30 years of dedicated service and support to our community in the management of diabetes.  

I have been a participant since the initial trials, during which time I transitioned from pre-diabetes to developing diabetes.  I truly believe that my visits to the clinic have been instrumental in my journey; they not only provided essential education on the condition but also helped me develop the discipline necessary to manage the disease effectively. 

Thanks to the guidance and support I received, I continue to attend my scheduled visits and remain non-insulin dependent to this day. 

Thank you for everything you do and for the profound impact you have had on my health and well-being.

Lorna Gonzalez

Participant

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

"This is one of my happy places, happy memories and remembrance of my younger days."

I joined DPP because of a friend – she came to me and said, “Lorna I added your name to a diabetes study” and I responded “why”? It was the best decision ever. I’ve learned so much about everything regarding diabetes.  The people are the kindest, my best memory is labs.  I’m a hard stick and Elsie was the first person to close her eyes and find the right spot.  The worst part is now I’m always afraid of DPPOS ending.  I’ll miss all my old friends. This is one of my happy places, happy memories and remembrance of my younger days.

JoAnn Roman

Participant

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

"I became diabetic but again I made a drastic lifestyle change and now my A1C is 5.6."

I  have been part of the DPP for 26 years. Throughout my time with them I have learned to change and modify my life. I became diabetic but again I made a drastic lifestyle change and now my A1C is 5.6.  I appreciate all the intervention and education they gave me.

Exercise hike - Sedona Vortex

Terri C

Participant

Orlando

"I am thankful for the decades of track records of my A1c."

I am thankful for the decades of track records of my A1c. I noticed my A1c going up 2 whole points. Told my PCP I was doing my same diet, lost 40 pounds last year, and exercised during pandemic. Why the increase? Turned out it was Breast Cancer developing. Took a year to get biopsied because they had to wait to compare screens. Yet a year sooner I told them my A1C indicated a problem. More research is needed!

(Currently a survivor.)

Anonymous

Participant

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

"I was introduced to the DPP by my primary doctor 28 years ago. I realized that it helped me to know where I stand with my numbers and how to manage diabetes."

I was introduced to the DPP by my primary doctor 28 years ago.  I realized that it helped me to know where I stand with my numbers and how to manage diabetes.  

Baffour Boasiako

Participant

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

"I am grateful to this program and all the staff. Especially Dr. Jill, Mrs. Janet, Nora, and Danielle."

I started with DPP in 1995 or 1996 and the medication helped to lower my blood sugar level.  Occasionally, whenever I ate sweets like honey and lemon, my blood sugar would spike up to 250-350.  But after 2 to 3 weeks, it went down.  I now have a doctor for diabetes, Dr. Kim, who I see regularly. I am grateful to this program and all the staff. Especially Dr. Jill, Mrs. Janet, Nora, and Danielle. 

Elizabeth M. Venditti

Research Team

University of Pittsburgh

"It has been a great privilege to watch our DPP participants manage their health and their lifestyle habits more effectively."

It has been a great privilege to watch our DPP participants manage their health and their lifestyle habits more effectively. Whether the 'wins' were big or small, it has been my pleasure to play a role in the learning process.

Karol Watson

Research Team

University of California, San Diego

"It feels more like family."

One of our long term participants at UCLA remarked that DPPOS staff had become "like family" to her and she thanked us for the many years of involvement and care. That exemplifies how most of our participants feel. It feels more like family. 

Karol Watson, MD, PhD

Jill Crandall

Research Team

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

"My experiences with DPP are truly the highlight of my career in diabetes research"

It has been a great privilege to be involved with DPP and DPPOS as an investigator, from the very beginning.  First, I was co-investigator (with Dr. Xavier Pi-Sunyer) at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital (1994-1996), then at Einstein (2001-now), taking over as PI from Dr. Harry Shamoon in 2003.  My experiences with DPP are truly the highlight of my career in diabetes research, for 3 important reasons: 1) the opportunity to contribute to a landmark study in diabetes - what could be more important than working to prevent a chronic disease that affects millions and causes so much suffering? 2) the opportunity to work with such a remarkable and collegial group of researchers – I have learned so much from them and made many life-long friends and 3) the opportunity to meet and learn from DPP participants, getting to know their life stories and marveling at their commitment to improving health for others.  My career is winding down now, but I look forward to the continuing contributions and scientific discoveries of DPP/DPPOS.

Jill Crandall, MD
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
DPP/DPPOS site PI (2003-2026) and Executive committee member (2013-2026)

Janet Brown-Friday

Research Team

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

"It has been an honor to be a part of the legacy that is the DPP and DPPOS. I cherish the memories of all our amazing participants and wonderful team members. "

It has been an honor to be a part of the legacy that is the DPP and DPPOS.   I cherish the memories of all our amazing participants and wonderful team members.  Happy Anniversary.

Luke Wander

Research Team

University of Washington

"The study has helped me feel connected to something big—science that helped us learn how to take better care of people at high risk of T2D"

Working as a research assistant for the DPP was my first job after I decided that I wanted to apply to medical school and my first real, professional glimpse into the world of science and medicine. Watching the DPP investigators at the Seattle site played an important role in my decision to become a physician-scientist. The study has helped me feel connected to something big—science that helped us learn how to take better care of people at high risk of T2D—and has been a big part of my whole career. 

Sherita Golden

Research Team

Johns Hopkins School of Medicine

"I was uplifted at my very first DPPOS Steering Committee meeting — embraced with warmth, compassion, and genuine love."

I joined the DPPOS as a PI in 2010 under difficult circumstances. My clinical diabetes mentor, Chris Saudek, had just passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness, and my scientific mentor, Fred Brancati, had recently been diagnosed with ALS. Though my heart was heavy with grief, I was uplifted at my very first DPPOS Steering Committee meeting — embraced with warmth, compassion, and genuine love.
It brought to mind Maya Angelou's words: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
That feeling has never left me. I have been blessed to be part of the DPP/DPPOS family for the past 16 years, working alongside remarkable colleagues and dedicated staff — including Tracy Whittington, who has been with the study almost since its inception. What a journey it has been.

Margaret Matulik

Research Team

University of Chicago

"I have learned as much and likely more from the participants than I have ever taught."

As the Program Coordinator for over two decades at the University of Chicago, I have enough memories to write my own book!  Most notable, I have learned as much and likely more from the participants than I have ever taught.  It was truly an honor and a blessing to work with all of them who I now consider friends.  My lessons learned
Getting old ain’t easy - don’t give up. Get a cane for now, because that hitch in your giddyup might be gone tomorrow
You’re never too old to learn - including digital photography when you’re in your 80’s
Commitment - driving in the snow, fasting, arriving early in the morning sometimes with it still dark outside, alll that bloodwork!, year after year. Sometimes you showed up walking, then a cane then a wheelchair.  You never relented from fulfilling your obligation as a most valuable participant.  For that I am truly grateful.  All that effort has changed public health policy and you should be extremely proud!  
Watch your portions - including bringing your perfect portions plate on a cruise
Laugh!  More often than not, I laughed till
I cried with sooo many of you!
I met spouses, kids and then grandkids.  I still remember their names.  
My last day of work was bittersweet.  I miss all of you!  You gave me the best job I ever had.  Thank you!

Carol Boschert (Percy)

Research Team

Southwest American Indian Center - Zuni

"When my sons were in medical school they would text me pictures of study results slides they were seeing during lectures and say, ‘Hey Mom, they’re talking about your study again’."

My favorite memories of working for DPP/OS were the opportunity for long relationships with participants, staff and the study group.  I felt so 
Iucky to work for years with a very stable group of people dedicated to study success.  The trust study participants gave me each time the study was continued, revised and each new procedure was added, meant we could find meaningful results together.  When my sons were in medical school they would text me pictures of study results slides they were seeing during lectures and say, ‘Hey Mom, they’re talking about your study again’.  That always made me chuckle.

I wish every person connected with DPP/OS could have been in the room when it was announced that both meformin and lifestyle delayed the development of diabetes.  There were thunderous applause and a standing ovation.  It brought tears to my eyes because almost every participant recruited told me they wanted to learn if diabetes could be prevented for their children.  And our participants showed the way.

I want to thank the participants’, clinic staff, the study group and everyone on the Navajo Nation and Pueblo of Zuni, who supported  our efforts to conduct the study in a culturally appropriate way.  It is remarkable that DPP/OS is still teaching us things 30 years later.

Danielle Powell

Research Team

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

"It has been a privilege to collaborate with staff and participants who are enthusiastic and share a positive attitude about research."

Congratulations on 30 years of DPP! It has been a privilege to collaborate with staff and participants who are enthusiastic and share a positive attitude about research. This outlook has been helpful in navigating unexpected challenges, embracing change, and moving forward with determination. Thank you for your dedication and consistent  excellence, it has led to meaningful contributions to diabetes management.

Sophie Choubai

Research Team

University of Colorado

"Stepping into a landmark study with such a rich 30-year legacy has been an honor."

I joined DPPOS as a research assistant in 2024, and stepping into a landmark study with such a rich 30-year legacy has been an honor. As one of our study’s newest program coordinators, I am amazed by the remarkable dedication of our participants. The study’s success is rooted in their decades-long commitment to advancing scientific knowledge. Over the years, this research has generated a wealth of longitudinal data, helping to shape public health practice in diabetes prevention. But what truly makes our study special is the people. The DPP has fostered enduring friendships and a unique community among all those involved. The most rewarding aspect of my role has been connecting with our participants, whose kindness, curiosity, and resilience inspire me every day. I am grateful to play even a small part in carrying the torch forward, and I am excited to contribute to the next chapter of this extraordinary study!

Juliet Sanguily

Research Team

University of Miami

"Our site is truly special because we have amazing participants that are grateful to be in this study still after 30 years."

Our site is truly special because we have amazing participants that are grateful to be in this study still after 30 years. Our clinic has very unique participants from many different cultures. After so many years, participants always seem to say the same thing “If it wouldn’t be for this study, I would not be as healthy as I am today, we are truly grateful”

Most even refer to us as their family and close friends because of the compassion and trust that they have received over the years.

Some even cried when we notified them of the closure and after reopening of our site, there main question was “Are you guys all back together in office?”

Gilda Trandafirescu Coni

Research Team

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

"DPPOS is a reminder that real scientific progress is never fast or easy. It is built slowly, on trust, consistency, and shared purpose."

What stays with me most is not just the science, but the great people I met during my years in Academia: incredible mentors who shaped the way I think about clinical research and patient care, the dedicated clinicians who always placed patients at the center of every decision and above all, the patients, who over the years became so much more than participants- they became family, showing extraordinary trust, resilience, and commitment over decades. 
DPPOS is a reminder that real scientific progress is never fast or easy. It is built slowly, on trust, consistency, and shared purpose. 30 years is not just a milestone; it is a living legacy of perseverance, partnership, and impact that continues to move forward.

Karla Temple

Research Team

University of Chicago

"I truly believe that I am a better person because of each and every one of our beloved study participants, and I hope to spend the next 30 years of my life giving back."

I consider myself somewhat of a newcomer to DPP/DPPOS, since I have only been with the study a little over 8 years, following the retirement of long-time coordinator Margie Matulik.  Although I was a little anxious about taking over the study and filling Margie’s shoes, the DPP/DPPOS study participants at the University of Chicago made me feel welcome from day 1!

During my time with the study, I have come to consider every one of our incredible participants a friend and family member. They are caring, warm-hearted and thoughtful people who have shared their lives with this study for the past 30 years.  They are passionate, energetic, loyal and dedicated to the DPP/DPPOS……..and have spoiled me so much that I don’t think I could ever work with another group of study participants!  I have learned so much during these 8 short years with the DPP/DPPOS, and I owe most of it to our extraordinary study participants.  These amazing individuals have taught me how to balance compassion, active listening, and empathy with friends and family members in my life outside of the study.  Having learned so much from our beloved participants, I have changed the guiding principles of my life and my core values, and how I navigate the world.  I truly believe that I am a better person because of each and every one of our beloved DPP/DPPOS study participants, and I hope to spend the next 30 years of my life giving back to the community, as they have taught me to.

Brenda Montgomery

Research Team

University of Washington

"My time in the DPP was the highlight of my career history and I am forever grateful for the memories, education, and relationships that I made."

Little did I know when I signed up for the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) how it would impact my life and eventually a world view. Our amazing and loyal participants joined the study that most people and healthcare providers had never heard of—Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT). The faith and dedication of these people continue to this day. The study continues to provide valuable scientific data about diabetes prevention and the effect of diabetes on people affected by this disease and those that care for them. DPP was able to message that diabetes, in fact, could be prevented if not delayed.
My time in the DPP was the highlight of my career history and I am forever grateful for the memories, education, and relationships that I made that continue to this day with an annual DPP reunion in Arizona.
It is a testament that a small group of people can and did change the world of diabetes. It surely changed mine.

Owen Carmichael

Research Team

Pennington Biomedical Research Center

" Our DPPOS participants have something else to be proud of—they helped to change the course of modern medicine."

Louisianians are proud of their home and proud of their place in the world. Our DPPOS participants have something else to be proud of—they helped to change the course of modern medicine.