Feasibility and potential impact of the adapted SLIM diabetes prevention intervention in a Dutch real-life setting: the SLIMMER pilot study

Abstract

Objective: Pilot-testing of the adapted Study on Lifestyle intervention and Impaired glucose tolerance Maastricht (SLIM) and to determine its feasibility and likelihood of achieving desired impact.

Methods: Pilot intervention study (a 10-month combined lifestyle intervention) using a one group pre-test post-test design with on-going process measures (i.e. reach, acceptability, implementation integrity, and applicability) and several health outcomes (e.g. body weight).

Results: In total, 31 subjects participated in the SLIMMER (SLIM iMplementation Experience Region Noord- en Oost-Gelderland) intervention. Participant weight loss was -3.5 kg (p=0.005). Both participants and health care professionals (i.e. practice nurses, dieticians, and physiotherapists) were satisfied with the intervention. The intervention was implemented as planned and appeared to be suitable for application in practice. Refinements have been identified and will be made prior to further implementation and evaluation.

Conclusion: Implementation of the SLIMMER intervention is feasible in a Dutch real-life setting and it is likely to achieve desired impact. Practising and optimising the intervention creates local support for SLIMMER among stakeholders.

Practice implications: Performing a pilot study on the basis of a structured approach is a meaningful step in the process of optimising the feasibility and potential impact of an evidence-based intervention in a real-life setting.

Keywords: Implementation; Lifestyle intervention; Pilot study; Prevention; Real-life setting; Type 2 diabetes mellitus.