Influences of decisions to attend a national diabetes prevention programme from people living in a socioeconomically deprived area

Aims To explore key influences of decisions in participants from a socioeconomically deprived area to attend the Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme (NHSDPP). The NHSDPP is a lifestyle behaviour change programme for adults with prediabetes living in England. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 35 participants who had attended the initial assessment, but not yet started the NHSDPP; 23 were classified as attenders, 12 as non-attenders after they were interviewed based on whether they had attended the first NHSDPP session or not. Transcribed interviews were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results Seven themes were derived from the data. The results demonstrate how understanding type 2 diabetes, making lifestyle changes, comparing themselves with others, having support and certain self-perceptions can all affect individuals' motivation to attend a diabetes prevention programme. Accessibility and practicalities also influenced both motivation and attendance. Conclusions This study identified a range of different influences on decisions to attend a diabetes prevention programme, which programme organisers and healthcare professionals should consider to maximise attendance. Initial communication from general practitioners (GPs) and initial assessments are key points where people's beliefs and understanding could be explored.

Automated summary

This study explores key influences on decisions to attend a diabetes prevention programme among participants from socioeconomically deprived areas. The results demonstrate that understanding diabetes, making lifestyle changes, comparing oneself with others, having support, and certain self-perceptions can all affect individuals' motivation to attend the programme.