Diabetes Device Use in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: Barriers to Uptake and Potential Intervention Targets

Improvement in Patient-Reported Outcomes in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes Treated with Sotagliflozin plus Insulin Versus Insulin Alone

Background: Diabetes-related distress is common among persons affected by diabetes and is associated with suboptimal glycemic control and complications, thus constituting a relevant patient-report outcome (PRO). Improving glycemic control may reduce diabetes distress and improve treatment satisfaction. This post hoc analysis evaluated PRO data for a pooled cohort of adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) receiving sotagliflozin as adjunct to optimized insulin in the inTandem1 and inTandem2 studies. Methods: Clinically meaningful changes in the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire status version (DTSQs) and the two-item Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS2) total and individual scores were examined in the pooled data from the first 24 weeks of the studies. Results: In the cohort of patients with a baseline DTSQs total score ≤32 (∼76% of entire cohort), nearly twice as many patients treated with sotagliflozin 200 (45.9%) or 400 mg (42.3%) experienced a >3-point improvement from baseline versus those treated with placebo (24%). Treatment with sotagliflozin led to statistically significant (P < 0.05) improvements across all DTSQs items. Approximately 42% of all patients were considered to have a high risk of diabetes distress (total DDS2 score ≥6) at baseline following insulin optimization. More patients shifted from high to low risk with sotagliflozin compared with placebo (∼40% vs. 23%; P ≤ 0.0002). The baseline-adjusted difference in DDS2 from placebo was significantly (P < 0.001) reduced by -0.5 and -0.6 for sotagliflozin 200 and 400 mg, respectively. Conclusions: Patients with T1D treated with sotagliflozin in addition to optimized insulin therapy reported meaningful improvements in treatment satisfaction and diabetes distress. NCT02384941 and NCT02421510.

Glycaemia and utilisation of technology across the lifespan of adults with type 1 diabetes: Results of the Australian National Diabetes Audit (ANDA)

AIMS

To evaluate the utilisation of technologies and associated glycaemia among adults with type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

De-identified data from adults with type 1 diabetes (≥18 years old) in the Australian National Diabetes Audit (ANDA)-2019 were analysed. Proportions using insulin pumps or injections with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) or capillary-glucose testing were compared. Technology use among adults was compared to young people (<21 years old) with subsidised CGM. Glycaemia and complication-burden were assessed across management strategies.

RESULTS

1,693 adults were analysed. Mean(±SD) age, diabetes duration, and HbA1c were 43.3 ± 17.0 years, 20.3 ± 14.3 years and 8.4% ± 1.7 [68 ± 19 mmol/mol], respectively. Among adults, 40% used at least one device, 27% used insulin pumps, and 23% used CGM. CGM was used by 62% of young people with subsidised access. Mean HbA1c was consistently lower among adults using CGM, insulin pumps, or combined insulin pump and CGM compared to standard care (8.3% ± 1.6 [67 ± 18 mmol/mol], 8.2% ± 1.4 [66 ± 15 mmol/mol], and 7.8% ± 1.4 [62 ± 15 mmol/mol] respectively compared to 8.6% ± 1.8 [70 ± 20 mmol/mol], p < 0.001). Technology use was not associated with diabetic ketoacidosis but CGM was associated with more hypoglycaemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Government subsidy is an important consideration for utilisation of technologies among adults with type 1 diabetes. Technology use across the adult lifespan was associated with lower HbA1c than insulin injections and capillary-glucose testing.

Wearable Woes: Allergens in Diabetic Devices

Novel diabetic devices are being developed to help manage diabetes and improve the quality of life of patients with diabetes. Both insulin pumps and glucose monitors are becoming increasingly convenient, long-lasting, and discrete for patients, but this often requires the use of strong external cutaneous adhesives and increased contact time with the skin. As a consequence, these devices have been associated with a variety of dermatologic reactions, namely, irritant and allergic contact dermatitis. Some of these reactions can be severe, precluding the use of these devices, which puts patients' long-term health at risk. Herein, we review the history of diabetic devices and reported cutaneous reactions to diabetic devices and commonly cited allergens.

Intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring is associated with high satisfaction but increased HbA1c and weight in well-controlled youth with type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

We undertook a 24-month prospective observational single-center real-world trial to study impact of access to intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) on quality of life (QOL) and glycemic control of youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

Between September 2016 and November 2017, 138 children and adolescents with T1D were recruited. Demographic, metabolic, and QOL data were collected during 24 months of routine follow-up. Primary endpoint was the evolution of QOL, with secondary outcomes change in HbA1c, occurrence of acute diabetes complications, and school absenteeism.

RESULTS

Ninety-two percent of participants found isCGM more user-friendly than capillary finger-stick tests and had high treatment satisfaction, without change in diabetes-specific QOL. HbA1c significantly increased from 7.2% (7.0-7.3) (55 mmol/mol [53-56]) at baseline to 7.6% (7.4-7.8) (60 mmol/mol [57-62]) at 12 months (P < .0001) and was unchanged up to 24 months. Overall increase was mainly driven by children with baseline HbA1c <7.0% (<53 mmol/mol). Additionally, BMI adjusted for age was higher at study end. In year before isCGM, 228 days per 100 patient-years of school absenteeism were reported, which dramatically decreased to 13 days per 100 patient-years (P = .016) after 24 months. Parents of children also reported less work absenteeism (P = .011).

CONCLUSION

The use of isCGM by T1D pediatrics is associated with high treatment satisfaction and fewer days of school absence. However, increased HbA1c and weight may reflect a looser lifestyle, with less attention to diet and more avoidance of hypoglycemia. Intensive education specifically focusing on these points may mitigate these issues.

Six Months of Hybrid Closed-Loop Versus Manual Insulin Delivery With Fingerprick Blood Glucose Monitoring in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To investigate glycemic and psychosocial outcomes with hybrid closed-loop (HCL) versus user-determined insulin dosing with multiple daily injections (MDI) or insulin pump (i.e., standard therapy for most adults with type 1 diabetes).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Adults with type 1 diabetes using MDI or insulin pump without continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) were randomized to 26 weeks of HCL (Medtronic 670G) or continuation of current therapy. The primary outcome was masked CGM time in range (TIR; 70-180 mg/dL) during the final 3 weeks.

RESULTS

Participants were randomized to HCL (n = 61) or control (n = 59). Baseline mean (SD) age was 44.2 (11.7) years, HbA_1c was 7.4% (0.9%) (57 [10] mmol/mol), 53% were women, and 51% used MDI. HCL TIR increased from (baseline) 55% (13%) to (26 weeks) 70% (10%) with the control group unchanged: (baseline) 55% (12%) and (26 weeks) 55% (13%) (difference 15% [95% CI 11, 19]; P < 0.0001). For HCL, HbA_1c was lower (median [95% CI] difference -0.4% [-0.6, -0.2]; -4 mmol/mol [-7, -2]; P < 0.0001) and diabetes-specific positive well-being was higher (difference 1.2 [95% CI 0.4, 1.9]; P < 0.0048) without a deterioration in diabetes distress, perceived sleep quality, or cognition. Seventeen (9 device-related) versus 13 serious adverse events occurred in the HCL and control groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In adults with type 1 diabetes, 26 weeks of HCL improved TIR, HbA_1c, and their sense of satisfaction from managing their diabetes compared with those continuing with user-determined insulin dosing and self-monitoring of blood glucose. For most people living with type 1 diabetes globally, this trial demonstrates that HCL is feasible, acceptable, and advantageous.

Closed-loop insulin delivery systems in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes

Introduction: Optimal glycemic control remains challenging in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes due to highly variable day-to-day and night-to-night insulin requirements. This hurdle could be addressed by glucose-responsive insulin delivery based on real-time continuous glucose measurements.Areas covered: This review summaries recent advances of closed-loop systems in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes, using both single- and dual-hormone closed-loop systems. The main outcomes, proportions of time spent in target range 70-180 mg/dl, and time spent in hypoglycemia below 70 mg/dl, are assessed particularly during unsupervised free-living randomized controlled trials.Expert opinion: Noteworthy and clinically meaningful translation of experimental investigations from controlled in-hospital settings to unrestricted home studies have been achieved over the past years, resulting in the regulatory approval of the first hybrid closed-loop system also in the pediatric population and with several other advanced devices in the pipeline. Large multinational and pivotal clinical trials including broad age populations are underway to facilitate the use of closed-loop systems in routine clinical practice.

Barriers to Continuous Glucose Monitoring in People With Type 1 Diabetes: Clinician Perspectives

The purpose of this study was to determine clinician attitudes about the distinct barriers to uptake of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) among people with diabetes. Survey data were collected measuring individual barriers, prerequisites to CGM, confidence in addressing barriers, and clinic staff resources. Results show that clinicians commonly report barriers to using CGM among people with diabetes in their clinic. Furthermore, clinicians who report a high number of barriers do not feel confident in overcoming the barriers to CGM. Interventions that attempt to empower clinicians to address concerns about CGM among people with diabetes may be warranted because low uptake does not appear to be directly related to available resources or prerequisites to starting CGM.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of a Hybrid Closed-Loop System Versus Multiple Daily Injections and Capillary Glucose Testing for Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

Background: Hybrid closed-loop systems may offer improved HbA1c levels, more time-in-range, and less hypoglycemia than alternative treatment strategies. However, it is unclear if glycemic improvements offset this technology's higher acquisition costs. Among adults with type 1 diabetes in Australia, we sought to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a hybrid closed-loop system in comparison with the current standard of care, comprising insulin injections and capillary glucose testing. Methods: Cost-effectiveness analysis was performed using decision analysis in combination with a Markov model to simulate disease progression in a cohort of adults with type 1 diabetes and compare the downstream health and economic consequences of hybrid closed-loop therapy versus current standard of care. Transition probabilities and utilities were sourced from published studies. Costs were considered from the perspective of the Australian health care system. A lifetime horizon was considered, with annual discount rates of 5% applied to future costs and outcomes. Uncertainty was assessed with probabilistic and deterministic sensitivity analyses. Results: Use of a hybrid closed-loop system resulted in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of Australian dollars (AUD) 37,767 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. This is below the traditionally cited willingness to pay a threshold of $50,000 per QALY gained in the Australian setting. Sensitivity analyses that varied baseline glycemic control, treatment effects, technology costs, age, discount rates, and time horizon indicated the results to be robust. Conclusions: For adults with type 1 diabetes, hybrid closed-loop therapy is likely to be cost-effective compared with multiple daily injections and capillary glucose testing in Australia.

Clouds and Silver Linings: COVID-19 Pandemic Is an Opportune Moment to Democratize Diabetes Care Through Telehealth

With the recent pivot to telehealth as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an imperative to ensure that access to affordable devices and technologies with remote monitoring capabilities for people with diabetes becomes equitable. In addition, expanding the use of remote Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) and Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) services will require new strategies for achieving long-term, effective, continuous, data-driven care. The current COVID-19 pandemic has especially impacted underserved US communities that were already disproportionately impacted by diabetes. Historically, these same communities have faced barriers in accessing timely and effective diabetes care including access to DSMES and MNT services, and diabetes technologies. Our call to action encourages all involved to urge US Federal representatives to widen access to the array of technologies necessary for successful telehealth-delivered care beyond COVID-19.

Insulinpumpe, kontinuierliche und kapilläre Glukosemessung bei Kindern, Jugendlichen und Erwachsenen mit Diabetes mellitus: Daten des DPV-Registers zwischen 1995 und 2019

Ziel dieser Beobachtungsstudie ist die Beschreibung der aktuellen Nutzung von Diabetestechnologien bei Patienten/-innen mit Diabetes mellitus.

Methode Auswertung von Daten des DPV-Registers zur Nutzung der Insulinpumpentherapie (CSII), kontinuierlicher Glukosemessung (CGM) und der Selbstmessung der Blutglukose (SMBG) aus 497 teilnehmenden Zentren in Deutschland, Österreich, Luxemburg und der Schweiz zwischen 1995 und 2019. Die Daten wurden bei Patienten/-innen mit Diabetes Typ 1 (Alter ≥ 0,5 Jahre) für 5 Altersgruppen ausgewertet. Zusätzlich wurden aktuelle (zwischen 2017 und 2019) Geschlechtsunterschiede in der Verwendung von Diabetestechnologie bei Typ-1-Patienten/-innen untersucht, ebenso wie die Nutzung von Insulinpumpen und CGM für Patienten/-innen mit Insulintherapie bei Typ-2-DM, bei zystischer Fibrose (CFRD), bei anderen Pankreaserkrankungen, neonatalem Diabetes und Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY).

Ergebnisse Es zeigte sich bei Patienten/-innen mit Diabetes Typ 1 ein Anstieg der CSII-Nutzung von 1995 bis 2019 von 1 % auf 55 % (2019: < 6 Jahre: 89 %; 6–< 12 Jahre: 67 %; 12–< 18 Jahre: 52 %; 18–< 25 Jahre: 48 %; ≥ 25 Jahre: 34 %). Die CGM-Nutzung erhöhte sich ab 2016 bis 2019 von 9 % auf 56 % (2019: 67 %; 68 %; 61 %; 47 %; 19 % der jeweiligen Altersgruppe). Die SMBG nahmen von 1995 bis 2015 insbesondere in den jüngeren Altersgruppen zu, gefolgt von einem Rückgang seit dem Jahr 2016 (Alle Patienten: 1995: 3,3/Tag; 2016: 5,4/Tag; 2019: 3,8/Tag). Weibliche Patienten mit Typ-1-Diabetes führten häufiger eine CSII und mehr SMBG als männliche Patienten durch (56 %/48 %, jeweils p-Wert: < 0,0001), während sich bei der CGM-Nutzung keine signifikanten Unterschiede zeigten.

Zwischen 2017 und 2019 erfolgte eine Nutzung von Insulinpumpen und CGM bei neonatalem Diabetes (CSII 87 %; CGM 38 %), bei MODY (CSII 14 %; CGM 28 %) und bei CFRD (CSII 18 %; CGM 22 %). CGM und CSII wurden dagegen nur selten von Menschen mit Insulintherapie und Diabetes Typ 2 (CSII < 1 %; CGM 1 %) und bei anderen Pankreaserkrankungen (CSII 3 %; CGM 4 %) genutzt.

Schlussfolgerung Moderne Diabetestechnologien werden derzeit insbesondere von pädiatrischen Patienten/-innen mit Diabetes Typ 1, aber auch von Menschen mit neonatalem Diabetes breit genutzt, von Patienten/-innen mit MODY und CFRD sowie Erwachsenen mit Diabetes Typ 1 in etwas geringerem Maße mit ansteigendem Trend. Dagegen sind diese Technologien in der Therapie des Typ-2-Diabetes und bei anderen Pankreaserkrankungen zurzeit nur wenig verbreitet.

Cost, Hassle, and On-Body Experience: Barriers to Diabetes Device Use in Adolescents and Potential Intervention Targets

Background: Adolescents with diabetes have the highest A1cs of all age groups. Diabetes devices (insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors [CGM]) can improve glycemic outcomes, and although the uptake of devices has increased, they remain underutilized in this population. This study characterizes adolescent-reported barriers to diabetes device use to determine targets for clinician intervention. Methods: We surveyed 411 adolescents with type 1 diabetes (mean age 16.30 ± 2.25 years) on barriers to diabetes device use, technology use attitudes (general and diabetes specific), benefits and burdens of CGM, self-efficacy for diabetes care, diabetes distress, family conflict, and depression. We characterize barriers to device uptake; assess demographic and psychosocial differences in device users, discontinuers, and nonusers; and determine differences in device use by gender and age. Results: The majority of adolescents used an insulin pump (n = 307, 75%) and more than half used CGM (n = 225, 55%). Cost/insurance-related concerns were the most commonly endorsed barrier category (61%) followed by wear-related issues (58.6%), which include the hassle of wearing the device (38%) and dislike of device on the body (33%). Adolescents who endorsed more barriers also reported more diabetes distress (P = 0.003), family conflict (P = 0.003), and depressive symptoms (P = 0.014). Pump and CGM discontinuers both endorsed more barriers and more negative perceptions of technology than current users, but reported no difference from device users in diabetes distress, family conflict, or depression. Gender was not related to the perceptions of devices. Conclusions: Clinicians can proactively assess attitudes toward diabetes technology and perceptions of benefits/burdens to encourage device uptake and potentially prevent device discontinuation among adolescents.

Parental Perspectives: Identifying Profiles of Parental Attitudes and Barriers Related to Diabetes Device Use

Background: Despite the demonstrated benefits of diabetes device use, uptake of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) remains quite low. The current study aimed to identify profiles of parents of youth with type 1 diabetes based on their attitudes toward diabetes-specific technology and barriers to diabetes technology uptake. Methods: Online survey data were collected from 471 parents in the T1D Exchange Clinic Network (child's age = 12.0 ± 3.2 years; diabetes duration = 7.0 ± 2.9 years; A1c = 8.4% ± 1.3; 75% using insulin pump; 27% using CGM). Results: K-means cluster analyses revealed five parent profiles: Embracers (50.7%), Burdened (15.7%), Hopeful but Hassled (14.2%), Distrusting (12.7%), and Data Minimalists (6.6%). ANOVAs and chi-square tests identified differences between groups based on diabetes distress, worry over hypoglycemia, device use, and demographic characteristics. Conclusions: Providers encouraging device uptake may benefit from tailoring their approaches based on these distinct groups and their corresponding concerns and needs.

Exposure to Closed Loop Barriers Using Virtual Reality

BACKGROUND

Closed loop (CL) automated insulin delivery systems are demonstrated to be safe and effective in regulating glucose levels and reducing cognitive burden in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, given the limited market options and the do-it-yourself nature of most systems, it can be difficult for potential users to shape their expectations fitting them into daily lives and management routines. As such, we examined the potential feasibility of a virtual reality (VR) intervention.

METHODS

A four-part VR intervention was created to expose adults with T1D to expected CL system barriers: body image, perceived hassles of using CL, deskilling fears, and unwanted social attention. Goals of the pilot were to assess feasibility and expose patients to CL. Surveys were conducted pre- and postparticipating in the VR experience.

RESULTS

A total of 20 adults with T1D completed the pilot. Average time to complete the experience was 14.1 minutes (8.8-39.9). Reported VR sickness was low. Willingness to use VR was maintained in 90% (n = 18) and did not change expectations of CL in 95% (n = 19). Virtual reality changed perceived hassles of CL in 25% (n = 5) with four concerned over alarms and one connectivity issues: positive diabetes technology attitudes, confidence in managing hypoglycemia, overall perceptions of appearance, and positive affect maintained after the VR intervention. Negative affect significantly decreased after exposure and perceptions of being overweight trended toward significance.

CONCLUSION

This pilot VR intervention demonstrated high potential in addressing expected barriers to uptake and usage of CL systems without decreasing enthusiasm or changing expectations of CL.

Cost-effectiveness of health technologies in adults with type 1 diabetes: a systematic review and narrative synthesis

BACKGROUND

With the rapid development of technologies for type 1 diabetes, economic evaluations are integral in guiding cost-effective clinical and policy decisions. We therefore aimed to review and synthesise the current economic literature for available diabetes management technologies and outline key determinants of cost-effectiveness.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in April 2019 that focused on modelling or trial based economic evaluations. Searched databases included Medline, Medline in-process and other non-indexed citations, EMBASE, PubMed, All Evidenced Based Medicine Reviews, EconLit, Cost-effectiveness analysis Registry, Research Papers in Economics, Web of Science, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and PROSPERO from inception. We assessed quality of included studies with the Questionnaire to Assess Relevance and Credibility of Modeling Studies for Informing Health Care Decision Making an ISPOR-AMCP-NPC good practice task force report. Screening of abstracts and full-texts, appraisal, and extraction were performed by two independent researches.

RESULTS

We identified 16,772 publications, of which 35 were analysed and included 11 health technologies. Despite a lack of consensus, most studies reported that insulin pumps (56%) or interstitial glucose sensors (62%) were cost-effective, although incremental cost-effectiveness ratios ranged widely ($14,266-$2,997,832 USD). Cost-effectiveness for combined insulin pumps and glucose sensors was less clear. Determinants of cost-effectiveness included treatment effects on glycosylated haemoglobin and hypoglycaemia, costing of technologies and complications, and measures of utility.

CONCLUSIONS

Insulin pumps or glucose sensors appeared cost-effective, particularly in populations with higher HbA1c levels and rates of hypoglycaemia. However, cost-effectiveness for combined insulin pumps and glucose sensors was less clear.

REGISTRATION

The study was registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42017077221.

Advanced Diabetes Management Using Artificial Intelligence and Continuous Glucose Monitoring Sensors

Wearable continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensors are revolutionizing the treatment of type 1 diabetes (T1D). These sensors provide in real-time, every 1-5 min, the current blood glucose concentration and its rate-of-change, two key pieces of information for improving the determination of exogenous insulin administration and the prediction of forthcoming adverse events, such as hypo-/hyper-glycemia. The current research in diabetes technology is putting considerable effort into developing decision support systems for patient use, which automatically analyze the patient's data collected by CGM sensors and other portable devices, as well as providing personalized recommendations about therapy adjustments to patients. Due to the large amount of data collected by patients with T1D and their variety, artificial intelligence (AI) techniques are increasingly being adopted in these decision support systems. In this paper, we review the state-of-the-art methodologies using AI and CGM sensors for decision support in advanced T1D management, including techniques for personalized insulin bolus calculation, adaptive tuning of bolus calculator parameters and glucose prediction.

Clinical use of a 180-day implantable glucose sensor improves glycated haemoglobin and time in range in patients with type 1 diabetes

AIMS

This real-world study evaluated the changes in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) metrics associated with use of the implantable 180-day Eversense CGM System (Eversense) in patients with type 1 diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective, multicentre, observational study among adult participants aged ≥18 years with type 1 diabetes across seven diabetes-care centres in Italy who had Eversense inserted for the first time. HbA1c was measured at baseline and at 180 days. Changes in time in range [TIR (glucose 70-180 mg/dL)], time above range [TAR (glucose >180 mg/dL)], time below range [TBR (glucose <70 mg/dL)] and glycaemic variability were also assessed. Data were also analysed by previous CGM use and by mode of insulin delivery.

RESULTS

One-hundred patients were enrolled (mean age 36 ± 12 years, mean baseline HbA1c 7.4 ± 0.92% [57 ± 10 mmol/mol]). Fifty-six per cent of patients were users of the continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pump and 45% were previous users of CGM. HbA1c significantly decreased in patients after 180 days of sensor wear (-0.43% ± 0.69%, 5 ± 8 mmol/mol, P < 0.0001). As expected, CGM-naïve patients achieved the greatest reduction in HbA1c (-0.74% ± 0.48%, 8 ± 5 mmol/mol). TIR significantly increased and TAR and mean daily sensor glucose significantly decreased while TBR did not change after 180 days of sensor wear.

CONCLUSIONS

Real-world clinical use of the Eversense CGM System for 180 days was associated with significant improvements in HbA1c and CGM metrics among adults with type 1 diabetes. The study is registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04160156).

Low uptake of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy in people with type 1 diabetes in Ireland: a retrospective cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The uptake of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy in those with type 1 diabetes varies internationally and is mainly determined by the national healthcare reimbursement systems. The aim of this study is to estimate national and regional uptake of CSII therapy in children, adolescents and adults with type 1 diabetes in Ireland.

METHODS

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing the national pharmacy claims database in 2016. Individuals using CSII were identified by dispensing of infusion sets. The uptake of CSII was calculated as the percentage of people with type 1 diabetes claiming CSII sets in 2016, both in children and adolescent (age < 18 years) and adult populations (≥ 18 years). Descriptive statistics including percentages with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) are presented, stratified by age-groups and geographical regions, and chi-square tests used for comparisons.

RESULTS

Of 20,081 people with type 1 diabetes, 2111 (10.5, 95% CI: 10.1-10.9%) were using CSII in 2016. Uptake was five-fold higher in children and adolescents at 34.7% (95% CI: 32.9-36.5%) than in adults at 6.8% (95% CI: 6.4-7.2%). Significant geographical heterogeneity in CSII uptake was found, from 12.6 to 53.7% in children and adolescents (p < 0.001), and 2 to 9.6% in adults (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Uptake of CSII in people with type 1 diabetes is low in Ireland, particularly in those ≥18 years. Identification of barriers to uptake, particularly in this group, is required.

Changes in the utilization of blood glucose test strips among patients using intermittent-scanning continuous glucose monitoring in Germany

AIM

To compare the daily consumption of blood glucose test strips (BGTSs) prior to and after the initiation of intermittent-scanning continuous glucose monitoring (iscCGM).

METHODS

This study included 1343 adults (≥18 years) with type 1 (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D; mean age 51.4 years; 39.1% women) from the IMS Disease Analyzer database with an initial prescription of iscCGM in Germany between January 2015 and July 2018 (index date). We compared the average daily BGTS consumption after the index date versus prior to the index date. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to investigate the association between predefined variables and the probability of no longer using BGTSs after the index date.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) daily BGTS consumption per patient decreased from 2.7 (3.0) prior to the index date to 1.4 (2.4) after the index date, and was similar in patients with T1D and those with T2D, in women and men, and across different age groups, as well in patients treated in diabetologist practices and those treated in general practices. In total, 40% of patients continued to use BGTSs, and 30% used them at least once daily. Male sex and glycated haemoglobin concentration (<6.5%), as well as less frequent use of BGTSs prior to the index date, were positively associated with non-use of BGTS after the index date.

CONCLUSION

The daily consumption of BGTS was greatly reduced after the initiation of iscCGM use in patients with diabetes. However, some patients still used BGTSs in addition to iscCGM.

The Efficacy of Technology in Type 1 Diabetes: A Systematic Review, Network Meta-analysis, and Narrative Synthesis

Background: Existing technologies for type 1 diabetes have not been compared against the full range of alternative devices. Multiple metrics of glycemia and patient-reported outcomes for evaluating technologies also require consideration. We thus conducted a systematic review, network meta-analysis, and narrative synthesis to compare the relative efficacy of available technologies for the management of type 1 diabetes. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, MEDLINE In-Process and other nonindexed citations, EMBASE, PubMed, All Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and PROSPERO (inception-April 24, 2019). We included RCT ≥6 weeks duration comparing technologies for type 1 diabetes management among nonpregnant adults (>18 years of age). Data were extracted using a predefined tool. Primary outcomes were A1c (%), hypoglycemia rates, and quality of life (QoL). We estimated mean difference for A1c and nonsevere hypoglycemia, rate ratio for severe hypoglycemia, and standardized mean difference for QoL in network meta-analysis with random effects. Results: We identified 16,772 publications, of which 52 eligible studies compared 12 diabetes management technologies comprising 3,975 participants in network meta-analysis. Integrated insulin pump and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems with low-glucose suspend or hybrid closed-loop algorithms resulted in A1c levels 0.96% (predictive interval [95% PrI] 0.04-1.89) and 0.87% (95% PrI 0.12-1.63) lower than multiple daily injections with either flash glucose monitoring or capillary glucose testing, respectively. In addition, integrated systems had the best ranking for A1c reduction utilizing the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA-96.4). While treatment effects were nonsignificant for many technology comparisons regarding severe hypoglycemia and QoL, simultaneous evaluation of outcomes in cluster analyses as well as narrative synthesis appeared to favor integrated insulin pump and continuous glucose monitors. Overall risk of bias was moderate-high. Certainty of evidence was very low. Conclusions: Integrated insulin pump and CGM systems with low-glucose suspend or hybrid closed-loop capability appeared best for A1c reduction, composite ranking for A1c and severe hypoglycemia, and possibly QoL. Registration: PROSPERO, number CRD42017077221.

How Do the Challenges of Emerging Adulthood Inform our Understanding of Diabetes Distress? An Integrative Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Emerging adulthood (ages 18-29) presents many emotional, social, and developmental challenges that can contribute to an increased sense of burden when managing type 1 diabetes (T1D). Diabetes distress (DD) is the concept that captures the emotional burden, frustrations, and worries resulting from living with T1D. This integrative review sets out to examine the impact of developmental context by answering this question: How do the challenges of emerging adulthood inform our understanding of DD?

RECENT FINDINGS

DD is highly prevalent in emerging adults and occurs at higher rates than in other age groups. Qualitative studies reveal that DD is embedded within the developmental challenges specific to living with T1D during this stage. Quantitative studies reveal the prevalence and correlates of DD in this age group, and qualitative studies augment these findings by capturing the scope and complexity of the emotional burden of living with T1D as an emerging adult.

Exploring parental perspectives after commencement of flash glucose monitoring for type 1 diabetes in adolescents and young adults not meeting glycaemic targets: a qualitative study

AIMS

To explore parental perspectives after flash glucose monitoring commencement in adolescents and young adults with type 1 diabetes who were not meeting glycaemic targets.

METHODS

Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted among parents of adolescents and young adults between the ages of 14 and 20 years (inclusive) with type 1 diabetes and not meeting glycaemic targets [HbA_1c 81-130 mmol/mol (9.6-14.0%)] participating in a randomized controlled trial. Interviews were transcribed, then thematic analysis was performed to identify themes regarding parental experiences.

RESULTS

Four key themes were found: flash glucose monitoring improved parental emotional well-being; flash glucose monitoring reduced diabetes-specific conflict within families; flash glucose monitoring facilitated the parental role in diabetes management; and sensor-related challenges, particularly sensors falling off, interfered with using flash glucose monitoring for diabetes management. The cost of self-funded sensors was the only barrier to continuing flash glucose monitoring that parents reported.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides new insights into the potential benefits and challenges of flash glucose monitoring use, drawn from the perspective of parents of adolescents and young adults not meeting glycaemic targets. As parents are often key partners in obtaining or purchasing this technology, these findings can be used to further inform parental expectations of this technology.

Is it possible to constantly and accurately monitor blood sugar levels, in people with Type 1 diabetes, with a discrete device (non-invasive or invasive)?

Real-time continuous glucose monitors using subcutaneous needle-type sensors continue to develop. The limitations of currently available systems, however, include time lag behind changes in blood glucose, the invasive nature of such systems, and in some cases, their accuracy. Non-invasive techniques have been developed, but, to date, no commercial device has been successful. A key research priority for people with Type 1 diabetes identified by the James Lind Alliance was to identify ways of monitoring blood glucose constantly and accurately using a discrete device, invasive or non-invasive. Integration of such a sensor is important in the development of a closed-loop system and the technology must be rapid, selective and acceptable for continuous use by individuals. The present review provides an update on existing continuous glucose-sensing technologies, and an overview of emergent techniques, including their accuracy and limitations.

The Impact of Externally Worn Diabetes Technology on Sexual Behavior and Activity, Body Image, and Anxiety in Type 1 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

We aimed to explore the impact of externally worn diabetes technologies on sexual behavior and activity, body image, and anxiety in adopters and nonadopters of these devices.

METHODS

People with type 1 diabetes aged 16-60 years living in Western Australia were invited to complete an online survey.

RESULTS

Of the 289 respondents (mean age 34.3 years), 45% used continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and 35% used continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Approximately half of CSII users stated that the pump interferes with sex. Of these, 75% disconnect their pump during sexual activity to avoid this issue. Comfort during sex influenced the location of the CSII insertion site in 22% of respondents, with the abdomen being preferred. One in four non-CSII users cited sex-related concerns as a factor for not adopting the technology. CGM interfered with sexual activity in 20% of users, but did not commonly affect CGM placement (only 18%). Sexual activity was reported as a factor for not adopting the technology in 10% of non-CGM users. No differences in body dissatisfaction (P = .514) or anxiety (P = .304) between CSII and non-CSII users were observed. No differences in sexual activity and behavior between technology users and nontechnology users were observed.

CONCLUSION

Wearable technologies impact upon sexual activity and this influences the decision to adopt the technology. Despite this, technology users are similar in terms of sexual behavior, anxiety, and body image compared to nontechnology users. Where appropriate, these data can be used to identify potential concerns, address strategies to mitigate them, and inform people with diabetes when considering adopting external technologies.

The Development and Psychometric Validation of the Diabetes Impact and Device Satisfaction Scale for Individuals with Type 1 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

With the rapid development of new insulin delivery technology, measuring patient experience has become especially pertinent. The current study reports on item development, psychometric validation, and intended use of the newly developed Diabetes Impact and Device Satisfaction (DIDS) Scale.

METHOD

The DIDS Scale was informed by a comprehensive literature review, and field tested as part of two focus groups. The finalized measure was used at baseline and 6 months post-assessment with a large US cohort. Exploratory factor analyses (EFAs) were conducted to determine and confirm factor structure and item selection. Internal reliability, test-retest reliability, and convergent/divergent validity of the emerged factors were tested with demographics, diabetes-specific information, and diabetes behavioral and satisfaction measures.

RESULTS

In all, 778 participants with type 1 diabetes (66% female, mean age 47.13 ± 17.76 years, 74% insulin pump users) completed surveys at both baseline and post-assessment. EFA highlighted two factors-Device Satisfaction (seven items, Cronbach's α = 0.85-0.90) and Diabetes Impact (four items, Cronbach's α = 0.71-0.75). DIDS Scale demonstrated good concurrent validity and test-retest reliability.

CONCLUSION

The DIDS Scale is a novel and a brief assessment tool with robust psychometric properties. It is recommended for use across all insulin delivery devices and is considered appropriate for use in longitudinal studies. Future studies are recommended to evaluate the performance of DIDS Scale in diverse populations with diabetes.

Psychosocial Aspects of Diabetes Technology: Adult Perspective

The success of diabetes technologies depends on the attitudes and behavior of the individuals who choose to adopt them. Real-time continuous glucose monitoring, continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion, and sensor-augmented pump systems may positively affect diabetes-related quality of life (QOL), although the influence on QOL outcomes seems to be modest and the results from randomized controlled trials are limited and controversial. In contrast, more consistently positive QOL-related responses are apparent from observational data. The newer generations of devices hold the promise for more strongly enhancing diabetes-related QOL. Appropriate training and ongoing support are likely to be the key to successful uptake.

Differences for Percentage Times in Glycemic Range Between Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Capillary Blood Glucose Monitoring in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: Analysis of the REPLACE-BG Dataset

Background: Self-monitored blood glucose (SMBG) and real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rtCGM) are used by people living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) to assess glucose and inform decision-making. Percentage time in range (%TIR) between 3.9 and 10 mmol/L has been associated with incident microvascular complications using historical SMBG data. However, the association between %TIR calculated from rtCGM data has not been identified. This study investigates whether %TIR values generated from rtCGM and SMBG data significantly differ from each other in adults with T1D. Materials and Methods: rtCGM and SMBG data from the REPLACE-BG study were obtained and analyzed. The dataset contained rtCGM (Dexcom G4 Platinum) and SMBG (Contour Next) values for 226 participants during a run-in phase lasting up to 10 weeks, followed by the 26-week trial. Percentages times in hypoglycemic, euglycemia and hyperglycemic ranges were generated from rtCGM and SMBG data using last observation carry forward method (zero-order hold) and linear interpolation (first-order hold). Results: Participants had a median (interquartile range [IQR]) age of 43.0 (31.0-55.0) years, and hemoglobin A1C of 53 (49-57) mmol/mol [7.0 (6.6-7.4)%]. The median (IQR) %TIR was significantly higher with rtCGM than with SMBG; 63.0 (55.9-71.0)% versus 54.6 (45.6-63.0)%, respectively, P < 0.001. Median %times in hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia were significantly different with SMBG than rtCGM (P < 0.001). SMBG-derived data using linear interpolation significantly differed from the carry forward method (P < 0.001 for all glycemic ranges). Differences reported were greater at night than during the day (P < 0.001 for all glycemic ranges). Conclusion: The %time in all glycemic ranges reported by SMBG and rtCGM differ significantly, suggesting relationships between times in ranges, and complication status may be different between monitoring modalities. In addition, varying methods of calculating %TIR from SMBG-derived data provide significantly differing results. %TIR targets may therefore vary by monitoring choice and methods of calculation and harmonization of TIR standards may be challenging.

Real world hybrid closed-loop discontinuation: Predictors and perceptions of youth discontinuing the 670G system in the first 6 months

OBJECTIVE

To describe predictors of hybrid closed loop (HCL) discontinuation and perceived barriers to use in youth with type 1 diabetes.

SUBJECTS

Youth with type 1 diabetes (eligible age 2-25 y; recruited age 8-25 y) who initiated the Minimed 670G HCL system were followed prospectively for 6 mo in an observational study.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Demographic, glycemic (time-in-range, HbA1c), and psychosocial variables [Hypoglycemia Fear Survey (HFS); Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID)] were collected for all participants. Participants who discontinued HCL (<10% HCL use at clinical visit) completed a questionnaire on perceived barriers to HCL use.

RESULTS

Ninety-two youth (15.7 ± 3.6 y, HbA1c 8.8 ± 1.3%, 50% female) initiated HCL, and 28 (30%) discontinued HCL, with the majority (64%) discontinuing between 3 and 6 mo after HCL start. Baseline HbA1c predicted discontinuation (P = .026) with the odds of discontinuing 2.7 times higher (95% CI: 1.123, 6.283) for each 1% increase in baseline HbA1c. Youth who discontinued HCL rated difficulty with calibrations, number of alarms, and too much time needed to make the system work as the most problematic aspects of HCL. Qualitatively derived themes included technological difficulties (error alerts, not working correctly), too much work (calibrations, fingersticks), alarms, disappointment in glycemic control, and expense (cited by parents).

CONCLUSIONS

Youth with higher HbA1c are at greater risk for discontinuing HCL than youth with lower HbA1c, and should be the target of new interventions to support device use. The primary reasons for discontinuing HCL relate to the workload required to use HCL.

High-intensity interval exercise and hypoglycaemia minimisation in adults with type 1 diabetes: A randomised cross-over trial

AIMS

We aimed to examine the feasibility and safety of undertaking high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) with evening basal insulin dose reduction on exercise-related hypoglycaemia following an afternoon bout of HIIE, compared with moderate-intensity continuous exercise and a non-exercise control day in adults with type 1 diabetes in a free-living environment.

METHODS

Twelve adults with type 1 diabetes participated in a randomised, crossover trial (9 female/3 male, mean age 40.4 ± 9.9 years, duration 16.5 ± 9.8 years, HbA1c 8.0 ± 0.8%). Each participant undertook five conditions: a non-exercise day, and four exercise conditions on separate afternoons: a moderate-intensity continuous exercise bout; and three HIIE bouts with 10%, 20% and 30% evening basal insulin reduction. Post-exercise glucose response was measured for 24 h by continuous glucose monitoring and compared across conditions.

RESULTS

HIIE with 10%, 20% and 30% evening basal insulin dose reduction was not associated with an increase in hypoglycaemia compared with moderate-intensity continuous exercise, or the non-exercise day. There was no difference in hyperglycaemia, time-in-range or glucose variability across all exercise regimens and the non-exercise day (p > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise-related hypoglycaemia was not increased following afternoon HIIE when diabetes management strategies incorporating evening basal insulin dose reduction were utilised.

Glycemic control and self-rated health among ethnically diverse adolescents with type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Patient-reported outcomes have received increased attention as treatment outcomes and indicators of wellbeing. A1c has been criticized as lacking patient-centered relevance because individuals are often unaware of their A1c, and studies also often fail to show a benefit of intensive control on quality of life. The goal of the present study was to examine self-rated health (SRH) in relation to diabetes self-care behaviors, socioeconomic factors, treatment regimen characteristics, and glycemic control among predominately Hispanic and African American adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

Adolescents with T1D (N = 84) were recruited for a cross-sectional study evaluating psychosocial factors and identity development. SRH, self-care behaviors, treatment regimen, and demographic variables were collected through self-report while glycemic control (A1c) was determined through chart review.

RESULTS

Participants were predominantly racial and ethnic minorities (48% Hispanic, 27% African American; 52% female, M age 15.9, M diabetes duration 6.8, M A1c 10% [86 mmol/mol]). Significant bivariate relationships emerged between SRH and sex, A1c, self-care behavior, and insulin delivery method. Covariate-adjusted regression models showed only A1c was significantly and independently related to SRH. Mediation analyses illustrated a significant indirect effect for A1c between self-care and SRH.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest glycemic control is associated with self-ratings of health among ethnically diverse adolescents with T1D. SRH appears to be an appropriate patient-reported outcome that is sensitive to glycemic control in this population.

Positioning time in range in diabetes management

Recent upswings in the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technologies have given people with diabetes and healthcare professionals unprecedented access to a range of new indicators of glucose control. Some of these metrics are useful research tools and others have been welcomed by patient groups for providing insights into the quality of glucose control not captured by conventional laboratory testing. Among the latter, time in range (TIR) is an intuitive metric that denotes the proportion of time that a person's glucose level is within a desired target range (usually 3.9-10.0 mmol/l [3.5-7.8 mmol/l in pregnancy]). For individuals choosing to use CGM technology, TIR is now often part of the expected conversation between patient and healthcare professional, and consensus recommendations have recently been produced to facilitate the adoption of standardised TIR targets. At a regulatory level, emerging evidence linking TIR to risk of complications may see TIR being more widely accepted as a valid endpoint in future clinical trials. However, given the skewed distribution of possible glucose values outside of the target range, TIR (on its own) is a poor indicator of the frequency or severity of hypoglycaemia. Here, the state-of-the-art linking TIR with complications risk in diabetes and the inverse association between TIR and HbA_1c are reviewed. Moreover, the importance of including the amount and severity of time below range (TBR) in any discussions around TIR and, by inference, time above range (TAR) is discussed. This review also summarises recent guidance in setting 'time in ranges' goals for individuals with diabetes who wish to make use of these metrics. For most people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, a TIR >70%, a TBR <3.9 mmol/l of <4%, and a TBR <3.0 mmol/l of <1% are recommended targets, with less stringent targets for older or high-risk individuals and for those under 25 years of age. As always though, glycaemic targets should be individualised and rarely is that more applicable than in the personal use of CGM and the data it provides.

Digital pills: a scoping review of the empirical literature and analysis of the ethical aspects

BACKGROUND

Digital Pills (DP) are an innovative drug-device technology that permits to combine traditional medications with a monitoring system that automatically records data about medication adherence as well as patients' physiological data. Although DP are a promising innovation in the field of digital medicine, their use has also raised a number of ethical concerns. These ethical concerns, however, have been expressed principally from a theoretical perspective, whereas an ethical analysis with a more empirically oriented approach is lacking. There is also a lack of clarity about the empirical evidence available concerning the application of this innovative digital medicine.

METHODS

To map the studies where DP have been tested on patients and discuss the ethically relevant issues evident therein, we performed a scoping review of the empirical literature concerning DP.

RESULTS

Our search allowed us to identify 18 papers reporting on studies where DP were tested on patients. These included studies with different designs and involving patients with a variety of conditions. In the empirical literature, a number of issues with ethical relevance were evident. At the patient level, the ethical issues include users' interaction with DP, personal sphere, health-related risks and patients' benefits. At the provider level, ethically relevant issues touch upon the doctor-patient relationship and the question of data access. At the societal level, they concern the benefits to society, the quality of evidence and the dichotomy device-medicine.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that evidence concerning DP is not robust and that more research should be performed and study results made available to evaluate this digital medicine. Moreover, our analysis of the ethically relevant aspects within empirical literature underscores that there are concrete and specific open questions that should be tackled in the ethical discussion about this new technological solution.

Monitoring of Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes

Regular self-monitoring of blood glucose levels, and ketones when indicated, is an essential component of type 1 diabetes (T1D) management. Although fingerstick blood glucose monitoring has been the standard of care for decades, ongoing rapid technological developments have resulted in increasingly widespread use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). This article reviews recommendations for self-monitoring of glucose and ketones in pediatric T1D with particular emphasis on CGM and factors that impact the accuracy and real-world use of this technology.

RT-CGM in adults with type 1 diabetes improves both glycaemic and patient-reported outcomes, but independent of each other

AIMS

To examine in adults with type 1 diabetes (a) the effect of initiation of real-time continuous glucose monitoring (RT-CGM) on glycaemic and patient-reported outcomes (PROs), and (b) factors related to clinically relevant improvements and sustained device use.

METHODS

60 persons initiating RT-CGM completed questionnaires at device start and six months later. Demographics and clinical characteristics including (dis)continuation up until July 31st 2018 were obtained from medical records.

RESULTS

After six months, 54 adults were still using RT-CGM. Short-term discontinuation (10%) was mainly related to end of pregnancy (wish). Longer-term discontinuation in those with an initial non-pregnancy indication was related to changes in the medical condition and behavioural/psychological reasons. After six months, HbA_1c, diabetes-specific worries and self-efficacy improved (range d = |0.4|-|0.8|), while hypoglycaemia rate or awareness and more general distress did not change. More suboptimal scores at baseline were related to meaningful improvements in HbA_1c (≥10 mmol/mol; 0.9%) and PROs (≥0.5 SD). Changes in glycaemic variables and PROs were not related.

CONCLUSIONS

People with more suboptimal HbA_1c and PRO values appear to benefit most from RT-CGM. Given the lack of association between improvements in medical outcomes and PROs, both should be included in evaluations of RT-CGM therapy on an individual level.

Realizing a Closed-Loop (Artificial Pancreas) System for the Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes

Recent, rapid changes in the treatment of type 1 diabetes have allowed for commercialization of an "artificial pancreas" that is better described as a closed-loop controller of insulin delivery. This review presents the current state of closed-loop control systems and expected future developments with a discussion of the human factor issues in allowing automation of glucose control. The goal of these systems is to minimize or prevent both short-term and long-term complications from diabetes and to decrease the daily burden of managing diabetes. The closed-loop systems are generally very effective and safe at night, have allowed for improved sleep, and have decreased the burden of diabetes management overnight. However, there are still significant barriers to achieving excellent daytime glucose control while simultaneously decreasing the burden of daytime diabetes management. These systems use a subcutaneous continuous glucose sensor, an algorithm that accounts for the current glucose and rate of change of the glucose, and the amount of insulin that has already been delivered to safely deliver insulin to control hyperglycemia, while minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia. The future challenge will be to allow for full closed-loop control with minimal burden on the patient during the day, alleviating meal announcements, carbohydrate counting, alerts, and maintenance. The human factors involved with interfacing with a closed-loop system and allowing the system to take control of diabetes management are significant. It is important to find a balance between enthusiasm and realistic expectations and experiences with the closed-loop system.

Disordered eating behaviours, body image and social networking in a type 1 diabetes population

The purpose of this study was twofold: to examine predictors of disordered eating behaviours and body image dissatisfaction, including social networking, among type 1 diabetes population, and to qualitatively explore the relationship between type 1 diabetes management and body image. A convenience sample of 121 type 1 diabetes patients (F = 106; M_age = 36 ± 6.5) was collected via online questionnaires, of which 98 patients responded to two open-ended questions. Young age and negative body image explained 58.8 per cent of disordered eating variance, while body weight and social networking negatively contributed to poor body image (29.9%). Qualitative analysis revealed three themes: no control over body weight, limitation in clothing options and discomfort towards medical equipment.

Has Technology Improved Diabetes Management in Relation to Age, Gender, and Ethnicity?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the current state of diabetes technology adoption and describe impact on outcomes in the context of age, gender, and ethnicity. We will discuss barriers and propose solutions that may help facilitate the adoption.

RECENT FINDINGS

We are witnessing rapid evolution and increase in adoption of diabetes technology in all its forms, including insulin delivery and glucose monitoring devices, mobile medical applications, and telemedicine. This technology has a great potential to improve diabetes-related outcomes, including acute and chronic complications as well as quality of life for people living with diabetes. However, currently available outcome data are showing modest efficacy and evidence for disparities when it comes to age, gender, and ethnicity. Despite multiple barriers, the adoption of technology is steadily increasing. It is clear that disparities exist in terms of access to and use of technology, but they may be at least in part driven by unmet needs of end users and as such are not unsurmountable. While more research is needed to identify the specific causes for the disparities, future development of diabetes technology that is based on adaptation of behavioral theories has a potential to address the gaps. The disparities can be lessened by understanding the needs of end users and with improvement in personalization of technology, allowing the right device to be used by the right patient. Targeted interventions to increase awareness and education and help navigate the processes involved in currently available technology may help diminish the gaps in health equity.

Decisions in the Psychology of Glucose Monitoring

This commentary aims to discuss the parallels between nonadherence to continuous glucose level monitoring and nonadherence to medication in people with diabetes and to investigate specific reasons for the difficulties involved in glucose monitoring. To this end, examples are given from both continuous and discontinuous glucose monitoring (CGM and SMBG, respectively).

Temporal Trends and Contemporary Use of Insulin Pump Therapy and Glucose Monitoring Among Children, Adolescents, and Adults With Type 1 Diabetes Between 1995 and 2017

OBJECTIVE

To investigate temporal trends and contemporary use of insulin pump therapy and glucose monitoring in type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In a population-based study, we analyzed the use of insulin pump therapy, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), and self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) from 1995 to 2017 in patients with type 1 diabetes identified from the Diabetes Prospective Follow-up (DPV) database in Germany and Austria. Patients were stratified by age, sex, migration background, and country.

RESULTS

Among 96,547 patients with type 1 diabetes (median age 17.9 years, 53% males), the percentage using insulin pump therapy increased from 1% in 1995 to 53% in 2017, with the highest rates in the youngest patients (92% in preschoolers, 74% in children, 56% in adolescents aged <15 years, 46% in adolescents aged ≥15 years, 37% in adults). The percentage of patients using CGM increased from 3% in 2006 to 38% in 2017, with the highest rates in the youngest patients (58%, 52%, 45%, 33%, and 15% of respective age-groups). Daily SMBG frequencies increased from 1995 to 2016 and decreased afterward, most prominently in the youngest patients. Between 2015 and 2017, pump therapy was more frequently used in female versus male adolescents and adults (all P < 0.001), while no sex differences were observed for pump use in children <10 years (all P = 1.0) and for CGM use in all age-groups (all P = 1.0).

CONCLUSIONS

Since 1995, insulin pump use has continuously increased, and insulin pump therapy is now standard in patients aged <15 years. CGM use sharply rose in recent years, particularly in young children.

CGM Benefits and Burdens: Two Brief Measures of Continuous Glucose Monitoring

BACKGROUND

Continuous glucose monitors (CGM) are underutilized by individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D), particularly during the adolescent years. Little is known about perceptions of CGM benefit and burdens, and few tools exist to quantify this information.

METHODS

Two questionnaires were developed and validated-Benefit of CGM (BenCGM) and Burdens of CGM (BurCGM)-in a sample of adolescents ages 12-19 years involved in the T1D Exchange Registry. We chose to start the validation process with adolescents given their low CGM uptake and high risk for suboptimal glycemic outcomes. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to confirm factor structure and select items. The resultant scales were tested for internal reliability and convergent/divergent validity with critical diabetes and quality of life outcomes: age, depression, diabetes distress, self-efficacy, technology attitudes, and diabetes technology attitudes.

RESULTS

A total of 431 adolescents with T1D completed the questionnaires (51% female, mean age 16.3 ± 2.26, 83% white non-Hispanic, 70% having used CGM). Two single factor scales emerged, and scales were reduced to 8 items each. Those who perceived higher benefit of CGM exhibited lower diabetes distress, higher self-efficacy, and more positive attitudes toward technology. Those who perceived higher burden of CGM exhibited higher diabetes distress, lower self-efficacy, and less positive technology attitudes.

CONCLUSION

The BenCGM and BurCGM questionnaires each comprise 8-items that demonstrate robust psychometric properties for use in adolescents with T1D, and can be used to develop targeted interventions to increase CGM wear to improve diabetes management.

Flash Continuous Glucose Monitoring: Implications for Use of Continuous Data in Daily Diabetes Management

Full realization of the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) depends on addressing barriers such as cost, accuracy, burdens of daily use, and uncertainty about applying the data. Lack of systematic education has also hampered widespread adoption among patients and health care professionals. This article describes the practical application of an affordable and intuitive category of CGM called "flash" that requires users to scan the sensor with a handheld reader for on-demand access to continuous data. The data may be used for in-the-moment therapy adjustment, retrospective review of glucose patterns, and observation of glucose trending in response to behavior. Higher rates of flash CGM scanning have been associated with increased time in the glycemic target range and reduced time in hyper- and hypoglycemia. Growing interest in this technology suggests new opportunities for helping more patients incorporate CGM into their daily self-care.

Human Factors Associated with Continuous Glucose Monitor Use in Patients with Diabetes: A Systematic Review

Consistent continuous glucose monitor (CGM) use is associated with substantial improvements in glycemic control, yet the uptake and continued use of these technologies remains low. This systematic review aims to identify and summarize the state of science on human factors and their association with CGM use to inform training methods and best practices that support adherence to CGM use and automated insulin delivery systems. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, and PsychInfo databases using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines to identify studies that reported psychological human factors related to CGM or sensor-augmented pump use in patients with type 1 diabetes. In total, 389 records were identified through our database search and 26 studies published between 2010 and 2017 were included. Articles underwent quality appraisal using the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool and were categorized according to study outcomes. Identified human factors with a potential association with CGM use were treatment satisfaction, quality of life, emotional distress, and self-efficacy. Eight patient-reported barriers to CGM use were identified as a subcomponent of satisfaction. To date, studies of human factors associated with CGM use generally lack standardized measures and sufficient methodological rigor necessary to establish causation. A more robust understanding of how identified human factors influence CGM use is necessary. Future studies should test interventions that target human factors to improve consistency of use and establish best practices for enhancing patients' experience and acceptance of these technologies, especially within adolescents and young adults.

MiniMed 670G hybrid closed loop artificial pancreas system for the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus: overview of its safety and efficacy

Introduction: Automated insulin delivery for people with type 1 diabetes has been a major goal in the diabetes technology field for many years. While a fully automated system has not yet been accomplished, the MiniMed™ 670G artificial pancreas (AP) system is the first commercially available insulin pump that automates basal insulin delivery, while still requiring user input for insulin boluses. Determining the safety and efficacy of this system is essential to the development of future devices striving for more automation. Areas Covered: This review will provide an overview of how the MiniMed 670G system works including its safety and efficacy, how it compares to similar devices, and anticipated future advances in diabetes technology currently under development. Expert Opinion: The ultimate goal of advanced diabetes technologies is to reduce the burden and amount of management required of patients with diabetes. In addition to reducing patient workload, achieving better glucose control and improving hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) values are essential for reducing the threat of diabetes-related complications further down the road. Current devices come close to reaching these goals, but understanding the unmet needs of patients with diabetes will allow future technologies to achieve these goals more quickly.

High Prevalence of Diabetes Distress in a University Population

Context

Diabetes distress is an affective condition that addresses an individual's frustrations, worries, and concerns about living with diabetes. It is associated with fewer self-care behaviors, suboptimal glycemic control, and lower quality of life (QOL). For these reasons, diabetes care guidelines recommend routine assessment of diabetes distress.

Objective

To assess diabetes distress in a university population.

Methods

This study was conducted using a descriptive, cross-sectional design. Researchers assessed diabetes distress and other psychosocial factors via an electronic anonymous survey among students, faculty, and staff at a large university in the Midwest.

Results

A total of 173 participants completed the survey (mean [SD] age, 35.1 [16.7] years), with 108 [62.4%] female and 142 [82.1%] white participants). Eighty-five participants had type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), and 88 had type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Of the 85 T1DM participants, 23 (27.4%) reported high diabetes distress, and 27 (30.7%) T2DM participants reported high diabetes distress. Sixteen T1DM (18.8%) and 15 T2DM (17.0%) participants screened positive for severe depression. Severe depression was associated with high distress for both T1DM and T2DM participants (T1DM: χ2=28.845, P<.001; T2DM: χ2=20.679, P<.001). Participants with T1DM reported more frequent self-care behaviors (mean [SD], 62.3 [17.1] vs 52.2 [19.2]; P<.001), but lower diabetes QOL (63.3 [14.1] vs 68.5 [15.5]; P=.021) compared with T2DM participants. No differences were observed in depressive symptoms, diabetes self-efficacy, and coping styles. Linear regression models showed that high diabetes distress scores (standardized β=.323, P=.025; standardized β=.604, P<.001) were independently associated with higher hemoglobin A1C levels and lower diabetes QOL after controlling for depressive symptoms, age, and gender in T1DM participants. Similarly, high diabetes distress scores (standardized β=.434, P<.001) were associated with lower diabetes QOL in T2DM participants after controlling for the same variables.

Conclusion

High diabetes distress levels were associated with lower diabetes QOL for both T1DM and T2DM participants. These findings suggest that attending or working at a university may be associated with high diabetes distress scores and lower diabetes QOL. Additional research with a larger, more diverse sample from multiple universities is needed to confirm these findings.

A Clinical Overview of Insulin Pump Therapy for the Management of Diabetes: Past, Present, and Future of Intensive Therapy

IN BRIEF Insulin pump therapy is advancing rapidly. This article summarizes the variety of insulin pump technologies available to date and discusses important clinical considerations for each type of technology.

A Technological Revolution: The Integration of New Treatments to Manage Type 1 Diabetes

Intensive insulin treatment and frequent self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) have been recognized as pillars of diabetes treatment. Many patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) struggle to achieve targeted glycemic control. Technology has vastly changed how these tenets to treatment can occur. Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) pumps and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) can be used in place of their counterparts, multiple daily injections and SMBG. We present a review of CSII, CGM, and of different levels of integration among these two therapies, ranging from low glucose suspension devices to hybrid closed loop insulin delivery. Analysis of the various tools, their effect on glycemic control, and a guide to integrate them into pediatric clinical practice is presented. Although a cure for T1D remains the ultimate goal, technology holds the promise of keeping youth with T1D in targeted control and minimize the burden of this chronic medical condition. [Pediatr Ann. 2019;48(8):e311-e318.].

Continuous Glucose Monitoring Sensors for Diabetes Management: A Review of Technologies and Applications

By providing blood glucose (BG) concentration measurements in an almost continuous-time fashion for several consecutive days, wearable minimally-invasive continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensors are revolutionizing diabetes management, and are becoming an increasingly adopted technology especially for diabetic individuals requiring insulin administrations. Indeed, by providing glucose real-time insights of BG dynamics and trend, and being equipped with visual and acoustic alarms for hypo- and hyperglycemia, CGM devices have been proved to improve safety and effectiveness of diabetes therapy, reduce hypoglycemia incidence and duration, and decrease glycemic variability. Furthermore, the real-time availability of BG values has been stimulating the realization of new tools to provide patients with decision support to improve insulin dosage tuning and infusion. The aim of this paper is to offer an overview of current literature and future possible developments regarding CGM technologies and applications. In particular, first, we outline the technological evolution of CGM devices through the last 20 years. Then, we discuss about the current use of CGM sensors from patients affected by diabetes, and, we report some works proving the beneficial impact provided by the adoption of CGM. Finally, we review some recent advanced applications for diabetes treatment based on CGM sensors.

Personal Versus Professional Continuous Glucose Monitoring: When to Use Which on Whom

IN BRIEF With the introduction of intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems to the marketplace, providers and patients now have several options to continuously monitor glucose levels. This article addresses appropriate patient selection criteria for using patient- or practice-based CGM systems and the barriers to achieving optimal benefits from this technology. The authors have developed a flowchart to guide clinicians and patients in decision-making regarding the most appropriate type of CGM to use in various circumstances.