Type 2 diabetes is a progressive condition that in many cases ultimately requires treatment with insulin to ensure good glycaemic control. A number of different insulins and regimens are available, allowing treatment to be tailored to an individual’s therapeutic needs. Premixed human insulins are one option and are used by many people with type 2 diabetes. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Mixtard® 30 (biphasic human insulin 30/70) has announced that, from the end of 2010, this insulin will no longer be available in the UK. This article offers practical solutions for switching people currently treated with Mixtard® 30 to other insulin treatment regimens, including human premixed insulins, analogue premixed insulins, long-acting basal insulins or a basal–bolus regimen. ...

The prevalence of obesity is increasing and is strongly associated with mortality, asthma morbidity, the development of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia, cancer and type 2 diabetes (Avenell et al, 2004; Pischon et al, 2008; Sun et al, 2009). Motivational interviewing (MI) uses a person-centred counselling style to explore an individual’s motivations and barriers to change. This article reviews recent evidence about the use of MI interventions to promote changes in diet and physical activity and discusses ways of enhancing and adapting MI interventions for primary care....