DiRECT-Aus is supported by funding from the Sydney North Health Network, Diabetes Australia (Diabetes NSW & ACT), Western Sydney Primary Health Network, South Western Sydney Primary Health Network, North Coast Primary Health Network and Western NSW Primary Health Network.

DiRECT-Aus and type 2 diabetes remission

DiRECT-Aus is an Australian research study replicating the DiRECT study conducted in the UK. This study showed that type 2 diabetes remission could be achieved through a structured weight management program delivered in primary care.

It was previously thought that a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes was permanent. But recent evidence suggests that type 2 diabetes may be able to be put into remission through significant weight loss. The DiRECT-Aus study is hoping to show that diabetes remission is possible and that it can be achieved through a structured weight management program delivered within general practice.

The DiRECT-Aus study wrapped up in July 2022.

Outcomes from previous diabetes remission studies have shown that 66% of participants losing 10kg or more are able to put their diabetes in remission. While not all participants are able to put diabetes in remission, there are many important benefits beyond diabetes remission. Participants may lower blood pressure, reduce their diabetes medication, receive support to aid in weight loss and make healthier lifestyle choices.

If outcomes from DiRECT-Aus are positive, it may add to the growing body of evidence that type 2 diabetes can be put into remission. That is great news for people living with type 2 diabetes, those at risk and newly diagnosed. It may provide alternative treatment options for people living with type 2 diabetes as well as hope and motivation and a renewed sense of action after a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.

Who conducted DiRECT-Aus?

DiRECT-Aus was conducted through a collaboration between Diabetes NSW & ACT, five Primary Health Networks (PHN) including Sydney North Health Network, South Western Sydney Primary Health Network, Western Sydney Primary Health Network, Western NSW Primary Health Network and North Coast Primary Health Network. The research partner is the Boden Collaboration with the University of Sydney.