For adults with prediabetes, lifestyle intervention lowered risk of developing multiple chronic conditions

June 15, 2026
0 min

National Institutes Of Health (Nih)

Overview

A long-term NIH-supported clinical trial found that lifestyle interventions significantly reduced the risk of developing multiple chronic conditions in adults with prediabetes compared to placebo. In contrast, metformin did not show a statistically significant benefit in reducing multimorbidity risk.

Background

Multimorbidity is a prevalent issue that complicates healthcare management and increases the burden on health systems. Effective interventions to prevent or delay the onset of multiple chronic conditions are crucial, especially for individuals with prediabetes, who are at heightened risk for developing diabetes and other chronic diseases. This study underscores the importance of lifestyle modifications in improving long-term health outcomes.

Data Highlights

Group	Risk Reduction for 2 Conditions	Risk Reduction for 3 Conditions
Lifestyle	21%	25%
Metformin	No significant reduction	No significant reduction
Placebo	Reference	Reference

Key Findings

Lifestyle intervention participants had a 21% lower risk of developing two chronic conditions compared to placebo.
Participants in the lifestyle group had a 25% lower risk of developing three chronic conditions compared to placebo.
82%, 85%, and 87% of participants in the lifestyle, metformin, and placebo groups, respectively, experienced multimorbidity.
Metformin did not result in a statistically significant reduction in multimorbidity risk.
The study tracked 15 chronic conditions, including hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes.
Findings suggest that lifestyle modifications can persistently lower the risk of developing multiple chronic conditions beyond diabetes.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should prioritize lifestyle interventions for patients with prediabetes to mitigate the risk of multimorbidity. Given the lack of significant benefits from metformin in this context, lifestyle changes should be emphasized as a primary strategy for prevention.

Conclusion

The findings from this study highlight the critical role of lifestyle interventions in reducing the risk of multiple chronic conditions in adults with prediabetes. This approach may lead to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.