Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol

Weight loss strongly linked with T2DM remission

April 18, 2025

Study details: This systematic review and meta-regression analysis evaluated the relationship between bodyweight loss and T2DM remission, including data from 22 randomized controlled trials involving participants with T2DM and overweight or obesity. Primary outcomes were complete and partial diabetes remission based on changes from their baseline status ≥1 year post-intervention.

Results: There was a strong positive correlation between weight loss and diabetes remission. Complete remission rates were 0.7% for <10% weight loss, 49.6% for 20-29% weight loss, and 79.1% for ≥30% weight loss. Partial remission rates were 5.4% for <10% weight loss, 48.4% for 10-19% weight loss, 69.3% for 20-29% weight loss, and 89.5% for ≥30% weight loss. Each 1% decrease in bodyweight increased the likelihood of complete remission by 2.17 percentage points and partial remission by 2.74 percentage points.

Clinical impact: This study underscores the critical role of significant bodyweight loss in achieving T2DM remission, independent of age, diabetes duration, HbA1c, BMI, and type of intervention. Consider prioritizing weight loss interventions for patients with T2DM, as greater weight loss can significantly enhance remission rates and improve overall health outcomes.

Source:

Kanbour S, et al. (2025, April). Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. Impact of bodyweight loss on type 2 diabetes remission: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis of randomised controlled trials. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40023186/