Diabetes trial extended after 'encouraging' results

David Isaacs (left) and Mark Ratcliffe (right) were both on the trial

A programme of exercise and education courses for people with type 2 diabetes is being trialled for a second year after yielding "extremely encouraging" results.

The Refocusise trials were provided by University Hospitals Dorset’s (UHD) Diabetes Centre and Bournemouth Heart Club (BHC), and sponsored by Sport England.

The researchers said they were shown to improve the mental and physical health of people with the condition.

David Isaacs, one of the first patients to be enrolled on the programme, said it "completely changed my life".

People living with type 2 diabetes in Dorset can apply to join the 2024 Refocusise programme via a referral from their practice nurse or diabetes clinician.

Each course runs for eight weeks, with 20 patients per cohort, and consists of a pre and post-course health assessment and one-hour weekly exercise classes under the guidance of specialist instructors. 

There is then a Q&A education session, providing expert advice on diet, medicines and lifestyle - factors that can all help patients manage their diabetes better.

Samantha Whittle, UHD’s diabetes specialist community nurse and project lead, said she was "astounded" by the results of the trial.

"Average blood glucose levels, cholesterol and waist measurements were all significantly reduced," she said.

She also said the course left people better "equipped" with the knowledge of how to maintain the lifestyle changes long-term - something Mr Isaacs agreed with.

"Since completing the programme I’ve been going to the gym daily, walking more, and making better decisions with my diet," he said.

Another patient from the first cohort, Mark Ratcliffe, said he felt "amazing".

"The course has given me a positive outlook on living with diabetes now that I’ve been given the right tools and motivation, and I’m feeling so much better in myself both physically and mentally," he said.

Courses will run from the BHC at Royal Bournemouth Hospital throughout the coming year.