Vol. 8, Issue 3, Part B (2025)

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is one of the most pressing non-communicable diseases worldwide, and Saudi Arabia is among the countries with the highest prevalence rates. This public health challenge is compounded by high rates of obesity, physical inactivity, and dietary patterns rich in refined carbohydrates and saturated fats. Lifestyle interventions comprising dietary modification, increased physical activity, weight management, and behavioral counseling are recognized globally as cost-effective and sustainable strategies for prevention. The primary care setting in Saudi Arabia provides a unique platform for delivering such interventions due to its accessibility, continuity of care, and ability to integrate behavior-change programs into routine patient interactions.

Objective: This review synthesizes evidence from studies conducted exclusively within Saudi Arabia on the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions delivered or coordinated through primary care in preventing or delaying the onset of Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Saudi Digital Library identified studies from January 2010 to August 2025 evaluating lifestyle interventions for adults at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Inclusion criteria were Saudi-based studies, primary care setting, and outcomes related to incident diabetes, weight loss, or glycemic control. Exclusion criteria included studies outside Saudi Arabia, pediatric populations, and non-lifestyle interventions. Data extraction focused on study design, participant characteristics, intervention details, follow-up duration, and key outcomes.

Results: The review identified 12 eligible studies, including randomized controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, and quasi-experimental designs. Culturally tailored lifestyle interventions in Saudi primary care settings consistently reduced diabetes incidence and improved glycemic measures. Effective programs included structured diet and exercise plans, family-centered approaches, and blended delivery models using both face-to-face consultations and mobile health tools such as WhatsApp. Programs lasting at least six months achieved clinically significant weight loss (≥5%) and reduced HbA1c by up to 1.2%. Several interventions also demonstrated improvements in lipid profiles, blood pressure, and physical activity levels.

Conclusion: Lifestyle interventions integrated into Saudi primary care are both feasible and effective.