Guilford County Life in 24, also known as the Minority Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP), is a 12-month, evidence-based lifestyle change program designed for adults with pre-diabetes or at high risk for type 2 diabetes who want to lower their risk and are racial and ethnic minorities. Participants work towards achieving and maintaining a healthy weight and reducing their risk for developing type 2 diabetes. 

Life in 24 participants work with a lifestyle coach learn simple steps for healthier living, including adopting nutritious eating habits, incorporating regular physical activity, attend classes online or in person, identify ways to manage stress and receive support from peers. Each lesson includes simple steps that help people to eat healthy and be active. Participants meet weekly during the first six months and monthly for the remaining six months to provide ongoing support and accountability. 

To qualify for the program, individuals must be pre-diabetic, and the program offers free A1c screenings throughout Guilford County to identify those who meet the criteria. These screenings not only provide valuable health insights but also serve as a critical entry point for community members to join the program.

This program is part of the North Carolina Minority Diabetes Prevention Program, funded by the North Carolina General Assembly. It is also part of the National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) created in 2010 to address the increasing burden of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes in the United States. This national effort created partnerships between public and private organizations to offer evidence-based, cost-effective ways to help prevent type 2 diabetes. DPP brings together community organizations, government agencies, health care organizations, private insurers, employers, and faith-based organizations to reduce type 2 diabetes.

For more information about Life in 24, contact Rebecca Oakes at roakes2@guilfordcountync.gov or 336-641-7537.

• In 2024, the Life in 24 Program, also referred to as the Minority Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP), continued to make meaningful progress in addressing prediabetes and supporting healthier lifestyles within Guilford County. Two class series were conducted during the year. 
• The first class series, which concluded over the summer, enrolled 12 participants, with 10 completing the program in its entirety, an excellent retention rate that reflects the program’s value and impact. A second class series launched in the fall, offering another opportunity for community members to engage in diabetes prevention efforts. 
• 16 A1c screening events were hosted across the county, providing free screenings to 107 individuals. These events increased awareness about diabetes prevention and served as a key referral pathway, connecting qualified individuals to Life in 24 classes and other resources. Through these efforts, the program strengthened its outreach and reinforced its commitment to improving community health for Guilford County citizens.

• In 2025, the Life in 24 Program (Minority Diabetes Prevention Program, MDPP) continued to advance efforts to address prediabetes and encourage sustainable, healthy lifestyle changes among Guilford County residents. One class series was implemented during the year, offering participants education, accountability, and practical strategies to reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• The 2025 class series included 8 participants, 7 of whom completed the class in its entirety. This high level of retention reflects strong participant engagement and consistent attendance throughout the course. Continued participation allowed individuals to fully benefit from the curriculum, build sustainable health behaviors, and receive ongoing support in their efforts to reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Upon completion, 50% of 2025 program participants lowered their A1c within normal range, meaning these individuals would no longer be classified as being prediabetic. Achieving normal A1c levels helps these individuals avoid future diabetes-related health complications and supports overall wellbeing.
• In 2025, 9 A1c screening events were held across Guilford County, offering free diabetes screenings to a total of 78 individuals. These events raise awareness about diabetes prevention and serve as a primary referral pathway to the Life in 24 program and other supportive resources. These focused outreach and screening efforts also continue to strengthen community connections and advance our commitment to improving health outcomes for Guilford County residents.