At a glance
CDC provides the approved PreventT2 curriculum at no cost to increase the number of organizations offering the lifestyle change program. Read on for answers to frequently asked questions about PreventT2.
What is the PreventT2 curriculum?
The PreventT2 curriculum, launched in March 2016, is based on the original 2002 Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) trial and follow-up studies for the prevention of type 2 diabetes. This curriculum promotes modest weight loss (5%–7%) and increased physical activity through a 12-month lifestyle change program. The curriculum also reflects new literature on self-efficacy, physical activity, and diet.
CDC wanted to provide an approved curriculum at no cost to increase the number of organizations offering the lifestyle change program. The original CDC curriculum is still valid, as are other curricula that have been approved through the Diabetes Prevention Recognition Program (DPRP). The PreventT2 curriculum is an additional option that meets current standards.
What's different about this curriculum?
The look and feel of the PreventT2 curriculum is different, building on lessons learned from the previous curriculum, including new topics proven to promote success. The order of modules has also changed. First and last module topics are the same, and there is a recommended sequence for the first 6 months. Then, Lifestyle Coaches can choose sequencing for months 7–12 based on interests and needs of participants.
Some modules have also been combined into fewer sessions: PreventT2 has 9 session options for months 7–12, compared to 16 possible sessions in the original National DPP curriculum. This change was made because data indicated that many organizations have been delivering nine sessions on average during months 7–12 even though more were provided.
Based on social science research, the English curriculum was written at the 6th-grade reading level, and the Spanish curriculum was written at the 5th-grade reading level, as were the accompanying Lifestyle Coach guides.
Are organizations required to use the curriculum?
No, you can use any CDC-approved National DPP curriculum. All previously approved CDC curricula are valid and can still be used.
When is the best time to switch to the curriculum?
The PreventT2 curriculum is available immediately. CDC recommends that you begin using PreventT2 when you start a new class of participants. This ensures that the same curriculum is being used throughout the duration of the 12-month lifestyle change program. However, if you would like to switch to the PreventT2 curriculum with an existing class of participants, CDC suggests switching after you complete months 1–6 and before you begin months 7–12.
Can I combine PreventT2 with the original CDC-approved curriculum?
Organizations should choose one CDC-approved curriculum for the full 12-month lifestyle change program. However, if you'd like to switch to the PreventT2 curriculum with an existing class of participants, CDC suggests switching after you complete months 1–6 and before you begin months 7–12.
Will my organization's DPRP recognition status change if we choose not to use the curriculum?
No, your DPRP recognition status doesn't depend on your choice of curriculum, as long as you use one that has been approved by CDC.
Is the curriculum for in-person delivery only?
The curriculum can be used for both in-person and online delivery. There isn't a specific online version of PreventT2 (or any CDC-approved curriculum). Organizations need to adapt the curriculum they choose to use for online delivery. Any adaptation for online use must strictly use PreventT2 curriculum content, since the content meets the current DPRP Standards and Operating Procedures.
Is the curriculum available in multiple languages?
Yes, the curriculum is available in English and Spanish. Organizations are welcome to deliver the curriculum in other languages as well but must adhere strictly to the content in the approved versions. Organizations are responsible for ensuring the accuracy and cultural appropriateness of their translation.
The Spanish version of the PreventT2 curriculum was developed independently, with significant input from native Spanish speakers. It incorporates culturally appropriate examples of food, food measurement, and physical activity. It is intended for Mexican American adults and other Spanish speakers in the United States.
What resources are provided with PreventT2?
The PreventT2 curriculum comes with a wealth of ready-to-use and adaptable promotional materials. Examples include fact sheets, brochures, print and web content and advertisements, social media content, video and photo testimonials from participants, and toolkits to help organizations reach out to health care providers and employers.
Both the English and Spanish versions of PreventT2 provide a list of recommended resources, including a calorie counter, a food tracker, and a weight tracker.
Will there be training for the curriculum? Is additional training required for Lifestyle Coaches?
Additional training is not required to use the PreventT2 curriculum. CDC is reaching out to training organizations that have a Memorandum of Understanding with us to walk them through the curriculum. These organizations can train other affiliates on the curriculum, if desired.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
Email questions to NationalDPPAsk@cdc.gov. State, city, and local health department grantees and national organization grantees should send questions to their respective CDC project officer. The appropriate CDC team member will respond as soon as possible.