Comparing digital and in-person programs to prevent diabetes

Effectiveness of Digital Versus In-Person Diabetes Prevention Programs

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10649501

This study is looking at whether a smartphone app that helps people at risk of type 2 diabetes can be just as effective as traditional in-person programs for losing weight, being more active, and managing blood sugar levels.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10649501 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how effective a digital diabetes prevention program (dDPP) is compared to traditional in-person diabetes prevention programs (ipDPPs) for adults at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It utilizes a mobile health platform that employs artificial intelligence to provide personalized lifestyle coaching and support. The study aims to determine if the digital approach can lead to significant improvements in weight loss, physical activity, and blood sugar levels, similar to those achieved through in-person counseling. Participants will engage with the program through a smartphone app that offers continuous feedback and self-monitoring.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are living with prediabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for diabetes or those who already have type 2 diabetes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more accessible and effective way for individuals at risk of diabetes to manage their health and prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary evidence from other studies suggests that digital health interventions can be effective, but this specific comparison of dDPPs and ipDPPs is novel.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (U.S.)
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.