The PRomotion Of Physical activity through structured Education with differing Levels of ongoing Support for those with pre-diabetes (PROPELS)
Type 2 diabetes is a common condition where the body cannot properly manage blood sugar. Many people have 'pre-diabetes', where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diabetes. Being active can help bring these levels down and stop diabetes from developing. The PROPELS study aims to find the best way to help people stay active over time. Adults diagnosed with pre-diabetes in the last five years will join one of three groups. One group gets an advice leaflet, while the other two receive group education sessions, with one also getting regular text messages and phone check-ins. Taking part lasts for four years and involves three hospital visits for simple health checks and blood tests. The goal is to see which level of support works best to keep people healthy in everyday life.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Type 2 diabetes affects millions of people across the UK. Before someone develops type 2 diabetes, their blood sugar usually stays higher than normal for several years. Doctors call this 'impaired glucose regulation' or pre-diabetes. If you have pre-diabetes, your body is giving you an early warning sign. Making changes to your daily habits, especially moving more and sitting less, can often stop pre-diabetes from turning into type 2 diabetes.
Even though most people know that exercise is good for them, keeping up new habits over months and years can be tough. The PROPELS study was designed to see what kind of coaching and support helps people stick with physical activity in the real world. Researchers want to know whether simple leaflets are enough, or if people need regular workshops, phone calls, and text reminders to stay on track.
Participants will be placed into one of three support groups at random. By comparing how healthy and active people stay over four years, the researchers hope to discover the most effective way for the NHS to support people at risk of diabetes in the future.
Key takeaways
- The study tests whether regular support helps people with pre-diabetes stay active.
- It aims to find the best way to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.
- Participation lasts four years and involves just three main clinic visits.
- No study drugs are involved—only lifestyle advice, workshops, and messages.
- Your health results will be shared directly with your GP surgery.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to adults who have been told by a doctor that they have pre-diabetes (impaired glucose regulation) within the past five years. Participants must be aged between 40 and 74 years old. People of South Asian background can join from age 25 to 74, as type 2 diabetes often develops at a younger age in this group.
Because the study focuses on walking and everyday movement, you must be able to take part in light physical activity.
You cannot take part if you already have type 2 diabetes, if you are pregnant, or if your blood sugar levels have always been in the completely normal range.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I have been told I have pre-diabetes (impaired glucose regulation) within the last 5 years.
- I am aged 40 to 74 (or 25 to 74 if from a South Asian background).
- I do not currently have a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.
- I am able to walk and take part in light everyday exercise.
- I am not currently pregnant.
What does participation involve?
If you take part, you will be in the study for four years and attend three clinic visits: one at the start, one after 12 months, and one after 48 months. During these visits, nurses will take your blood pressure, measure your height and weight, and carry out routine blood tests. You will also do an oral glucose tolerance test, where you drink a sugary drink and have your blood sugar checked before and after. You will fill out simple questionnaires about your diet, lifestyle, and wellbeing. You may also be offered an optional body scan to look at muscle and fat.
No trial medicines are used in this study. After your first visit, a computer will place you by chance into one of three groups. You might receive a helpful information booklet, attend yearly healthy living workshops, or receive the workshops alongside regular phone calls, text messages, and website support. Your GP will be kept updated with your health results throughout the study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Leicester Diabetes CentreUnverifiedLeicester, England
Common questions
What is pre-diabetes?
Pre-diabetes means your blood sugar levels are higher than usual, but not yet high enough to be called type 2 diabetes. It is a sign that you are at risk, but lifestyle changes can often reverse it.
Will I have to take any new medications?
No. This study does not test any drugs. It only looks at the benefits of advice, education, and lifestyle support to help you move more.
Why is the age range lower for South Asian people?
Medical research shows that people from South Asian backgrounds have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes at a younger age, so the study includes them from age 25.
Do I have to pay to take part?
No, taking part is completely free. The study is funded by the NHS National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).
What happens if I cannot attend a session?
The research team understands that everyday life gets busy and will work with you to arrange convenient times for your clinic visits and support sessions.
How to find out more
Kamlesh Khunti
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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