Novo Nordisk joins the Diabetes Prevention and Control Alliance

MINNETONKA, Minn. Drug maker Novo Nordisk joined a national partnership that provides access to community- and evidence-based interventions to help prevent and control diabetes, prediabetes and obesity.

The Diabetes Prevention and Control Alliance, developed by UnitedHealth Group, is committed to fighting an epidemic following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's proven, evidence-based guidelines, UnitedHealth Group said.

Diabetes Prevention and Control Alliance programs launched initially in eight markets in six states: Cincinnati, Columbus and Dayton, Ohio; Indianapolis; Oklahoma City; Albuquerque, N.M.; Phoenix; and in Minneapolis-St. Paul for participants in self-insured employer-provided health plans purchased from Medica. The programs will roll out nationally through 2012.

"The Diabetes Prevention and Control Alliance is a groundbreaking approach aimed at reducing risks and improving clinical outcomes for the millions of Americans living with, or at risk of, diabetes," said Alan Moses, VP and global chief medical officer of Novo Nordisk. "By leveraging the collective skills and resources of Novo Nordisk, UnitedHealth Group, the CDC, doctors, pharmacists and our communities, we believe that collectively we can make a difference in the lives of people with prediabetes, as well as those already coping with the disease. We will work together to increase awareness of meaningful lifestyle changes and opportunities afforded by greater access to the tools and information needed to avoid the disease or manage it more effectively."