The onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with various modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, including lifestyle factors. Obesity is the principal lifestyle factor associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It is essential for nurses to have an understanding of the pathophysiology associated with factors that contribute to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, particularly those associated with obesity. Nurses who have an understanding of the interaction between obesity and the onset of type 2 diabetes are better equipped to discuss the importance of weight loss and other necessary lifestyle adjustments in the prevention and management of obesity and diabetes associated with obesity, to implement evidence-based practice and to support patients to manage their health effectively.
Nursing Standard. 31, 22, 59-71. doi: 10.7748/ns.2017.e10672
Correspondence Peer reviewThis article has been subject to external double-blind peer review and checked for plagiarism using automated software
Conflict of interestNone declared
Received: 30 August 2016
Accepted: 16 September 2016
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