Thai Diabetes Association Launches Remission Program
The Thai Diabetes Association launched an e-learning program to help type 2 diabetes patients achieve remission through weight loss and lifestyle changes, as cases in Thailand rise to approximately 6 million with 100,000-200,000 new patient
The Thai Diabetes Association, in collaboration with WHO-CCS NCDs, the Ministry of Public Health, and partner agencies, is expanding a model for managing type 2 diabetes remission through an e-learning program. Prof. Wanni Nithiyananth, chair of the Thai Diabetes Association, presented the DM Remission project results at Bangkok City Hall 2, aiming to develop service frameworks that help type 2 diabetes patients achieve remission in the Thai context.
According to Prof. Nithiyananth, diabetes remains a serious concern in Thailand. Physical examination surveys show prevalence increasing from 6.6% in 2004 to 10.6% in 2567-2568, with only one in three patients maintaining good blood sugar control. Behavioral changes that reduce blood sugar to non-diabetic levels without medication represent sustainable health promotion, reduce medical staff burden, lower state healthcare costs, and support WHO goals to halt rising diabetes cases and reduce premature non-communicable disease deaths by one-third by 2030.
"The key principle for achieving diabetes remission is reducing body weight by at least 10% in obese type 2 diabetes patients through appropriate dietary management combined with physical activity—both aerobic and resistance exercise—under medical supervision," Prof. Nithiyananth explained.
Assoc. Prof. Petch Rodaree, First Vice Chair of the Thai Diabetes Association, noted that diabetes cases in Thailand continue rising, with approximately 6 million current patients and 100,000-200,000 new cases annually. Without intervention, accumulating cases risk increases in diabetic kidney disease and kidney failure.
"Managing diabetes toward remission, particularly in patients within five years of diagnosis, requires strict behavioral modification through diet and exercise to achieve 10% weight loss. This restores pancreatic function and reduces insulin resistance in obese patients, addressing the disease's root cause and reducing treatment and medication expenses while improving long-term public health," Assoc. Prof. Petch said.
Assoc. Prof. Petch added that recognizing diabetes's behavioral origins, the Association recognizes that health behavior change requires multidisciplinary expertise and care system management for diabetes remission programs. This demands more patient engagement and closer monitoring than traditional treatment, necessitating information system development, staff training, Ministry of Public Health policy support, and budget allocation from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation for research projects like Eliminate DM. These efforts ensure comprehensive coverage, patient accessibility, and clinical and health economic evidence.
Dr. Kritsada Hanbanjerd, WHO-CCS NCDs consultant and chair, noted the program supported development of guidelines for diabetes remission, remote e-learning systems, and information systems tracking blood pressure, weight, diet, steps, and blood sugar levels.
