Type 2 diabetes (T2D) presents a significant and growing public health challenge globally, with an especially high burden in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Despite the proven effectiveness of lifestyle interventions focusing on nutrition and physical activity in preventing T2D, there remains a substantial gap between controlled trial outcomes and real-world implementation. Recent studies have demonstrated the potential of these interventions to significantly reduce the incidence of T2D, yet their application in LMICs is often hindered by socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural barriers. Current research highlights the need for a deeper understanding of these barriers and the development of strategies to overcome them. While some progress has been made in identifying effective interventions, there is a pressing need for research that bridges the gap between evidence and practice, particularly in diverse and resource-constrained settings.

This research topic aims to explore the barriers and facilitators of implementing effective T2D prevention strategies in LMICs. The study population can also be culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) populations in developed countries. The goal is to generate actionable knowledge that can inform policy, practice, and future research, ultimately contributing to the reduction of T2D incidence in LMICs. By focusing on implementation outcomes and the unique needs of CALD populations, we hope to foster more inclusive and effective public health interventions.

To gather further insights in the implementation of lifestyle interventions for T2D prevention in LMICs and CALD populations, we welcome original research, reviews, case studies, and perspective articles that address the following themes:

- Effectiveness of Nutrition and Physical Activity Interventions: Examination of tailored interventions and comparative effectiveness studies in real-world settings.
- Implementation Science and Outcomes: Analysis of strategies, barriers, facilitators, and local adaptations of T2D prevention programs.
- Cultural and Linguistic Adaptation: Research on program adaptation for CALD populations and community engagement approaches.
- Policy and Health System Integration: Evaluation of supportive or hindering policies and strategies for integrating interventions into health systems.
- Technology and Innovation: Role of digital health technologies and innovative approaches in supporting and evaluating intervention implementation.

We welcome submissions from a multidisciplinary perspective, including but not limited to public health, nutrition, exercise science, health policy, and implementation science. Authors are encouraged to provide practical insights and recommendations for bridging the gap between research and practice, ensuring that effective T2D prevention strategies reach those most in need.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Bridging the Gap: Implementing Effective Lifestyle Interventions Focusing on Nutrition and Physical Activity for Type 2 Diabetes Prevention in Low and Middle-Income Countries