Worldwide estimates of incidence, prevalence and mortality of type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents: Results from the International Diabetes Federation Diabetes Atlas, 9th edition

Prenatal and early life factors and type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of type 1 diabetes is increasing worldwide, suggesting that unknown environmental factors are becoming increasingly important in its pathogenesis.

AIM

The aim of the study was to investigate the possible role of a number of prenatal and perinatal factors in the aetiology of type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

Mothers of patients diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (cases) and mothers of children born on the same day and of the same sex as type 1 diabetes patients (controls) were interviewed on a number of prenatal and perinatal factors of interest.

RESULTS

Hand washing prior to eating, frequency of bathing and total stress score were found to be positively associated with the development of type 1 diabetes on univariate analyses. Hand-washing prior to eating and frequency of house cleaning were independently associated with an increased risk of type 1 diabetes, whilst getting dirty was associated with a reduced risk in multivariate analyses. There was no association of type 1 diabetes to removing of outdoor shoes indoors or to the age of first attendance to school or pre-school. There were also no significant associations to parental smoking, parental age, birth order, infant feeding, antibiotic use, mode of delivery or birth weight.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that factors that affect the skin or gut microbiome might be more important than infections or factors affecting the microbiome at other sites.

Burden of type 1 diabetes mellitus in the North Africa and Middle East Region, 1990-2019; findings from the global burden of disease study

AIMS

We aimed to report the burden of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in the North Africa and Middle East region and its 21 countries from 1990 to 2019.

METHODS

Information related to incidence, prevalence, mortality, disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), and years lived with disability (YLDs) of T1DM was acquired from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease study. The burden was estimated by sex, age groups, and socio-demographic index (SDI) in 21 countries.

RESULTS

Over the past 30 years, regional incidence, prevalence, mortality, and DALYs of T1DM increase by 188.7%, 304.8%, 43.7%, and 71.6%, respectively. While the age-standardized incidence and prevalence rates increased by 84% and 91%, the mortality and DALYs rates decreased by 34% and 13%. During these years, the contribution of YLDs to total DALYs increased considerably (from 17% to 42%). The highest increase in the incidence and prevalence rates occurred in high SDI countries. Moreover, the Mortality to Incidence Ratio (MIR) decreased in the region countries.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite progress made in diabetes care, there is a persistently increasing burden of T1DM in the region countries. This indicates that T1DM is still one of the major health challenges in the region countries, especially in high SDI Arab countries.

Risk Factors and Laboratory Findings Associated With Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Hospitalized Pediatric Patients

Background: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the most serious and acute complication of type 1 diabetes, has an incidence of 6%-8% among known pediatric type 1 diabetes patients, although risk factors associated with severe DKA in the pediatric population are poorly understood [1].

Method: A single-institution, retrospective chart analysis of pediatric DKA patients admitted to our pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) was conducted in South Alabama between October 2017 and April 2021. Laboratory findings were obtained from venous samples collected from the patients on admission.

Results: Of 429 admissions, 256 unique patients were admitted with DKA to PICU during the 3.5-year period; 55.9% of them were males. The median (IQR) age of the patients was 12 (10-15) years, and their median HbA1c level was 11.02 (10%-12%), which was similar to Medicaid and private insurance statistics (11.1 [9.87-12.2] vs 11 [9.65-12], p = 0.4). Serum pH on presentation was 7.17 (7.08-7.25), and serum bicarbonate was 10 (7-14) mmol/L. White blood cell (WBC) count, platelet count, and mean platelet volume (MPV) had a negative correlation with serum pH (r = -0.52, p < 0.001, r = -0.25, p = 0.01 and r = -0.11, p = 0.03, respectively). The blood urea nitrogen (BUN):creatinine ratio had a positive correlation with serum pH (r = 0.16, p < 0.001). Twenty-nine admissions (6.8%) with a median age of 16 (13-17) years required imaging for altered mental status, and none of these patients were diagnosed with cerebral edema.

Conclusion: DKA is associated with noncompliance among pediatric patients, irrespective of their type of insurance. Markers of oxidative stress (WBC, platelets, and MPV) were associated with increased severity of DKA. The BUN:creatinine ratio may not provide accurate hydration status among DKA patients. Clinicians need to have a lower threshold for head imaging among younger patients.

Metabolites of Gut Microbiota and Possible Implication in Development of Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is characterized by having a disorder of glucose metabolism. The types of diabetes mellitus include type 1 diabetes mellitus, type 2 diabetes mellitus, gestational diabetes mellitus, and other specific types of diabetes mellitus. Many risk factors contribute to diabetes mellitus mainly including genetics, environment, obesity, and diet. In the recent years, gut microbiota has been shown to be linked to the development of diabetes. It has been reported that the gut microbiota composition of diabetic patients is different from that of healthy people. Although the mechanism behind the abnormality remains to be explored, most hypotheses focus on the inflammation response and leaky gut in relation to the changes in production of endotoxins and metabolites derived from the intestinal flora. Consequently, the above-mentioned abnormalities trigger a series of metabolic changes, gradually leading to development of hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and diabetes. This review is (i) to summarize the differences in gut microbiota between diabetic patients and healthy people, (ii) to discuss the underlying mechanism(s) by which how lipopolysaccharide, diet, and metabolites of the gut microbiota affect diabetes, and (iii) to provide a new insight in the prevention and treatment of diabetes.

Triglyceride glucose index exacerbates the risk of future cardiovascular disease due to diabetes: evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS)

Objective

We aimed to investigate the effect of the triglyceride glucose (TyG) index on the association between diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

Data from 6,114 individuals were extracted and analyzed from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS) from 2011 to 2018. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the relationship between diabetes and CVD across the various TyG index groups. The statistical method of subgroup analysis was used to determine the correlation between diabetes and CVD for each TyG index group by sex, history of hypertension and dyslipidemia, smoking, and drinking.

Results

Diabetes was positively associated with CVD risk after adjustment in 2011(odds ratio (OR) 1.475, 95% CI 1.243–1.752, P < 0.001). There was a gradient increase in the OR for new-onset CVD in 2018 due to diabetes at baseline across the value of the TyG index based on a fully adjusted model (P for trend < 0.05). The ORs of diabetes at baseline for CVD in 2018 were 1.657 (95% CI 0.928–2.983, P = 0.098), 1.834(95% CI 1.064–3.188, P = 0.037) and 2.234(95% CI 1.349–3.673, P = 0.006) for T1, T2 and T3 of the TyG index respectively. The gradient of increasing risk of CVD still existed among those with hypertension and nondrinkers in the subgroup analysis.

Conclusion

Elevated TyG index strengthens the correlation between diabetes mellitus and CVD in middle-aged and elderly Chinese adults.

Parental socio-economic position and the risk of type 1 diabetes in children and young adults in Denmark: A nation-wide register-based study

AIM

Diabetes mellitus type 1 is one of the most common serious chronic diseases in childhood and the incidence is increasing. Insight into risk factors may inform our etiologic understanding of the disease and subsequent prevention. Any socio-economic gradient in disease risk indicates a potential for prevention, since this points towards socially patterned environmental risk factors. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between measures of parental socio-economic position and the onset of type 1 diabetes in offspring based on individual data in the entire Danish population.

METHODS

In a study population of all children born in Denmark between 1 January 1987 and 31 December 2010, we examined the association between parental socio-economic position and the risk of type 1 diabetes up to the age of 25 years. The risk of type 1 diabetes was estimated according to maternal education, paternal education and household income using Cox proportional hazards regression, with adjustments for the a priori selected confounding variables: year of birth, maternal age at birth and parental type 1 diabetes.

RESULTS

In the study population of 1,433,584 children, a total of 4610 developed type 1 diabetes. We found no clear pattern in type 1 diabetes risk according to parental educational attainment or parental household income.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large population covering study of the risk of type 1 diabetes according to individual-level parental socio-economic position, we found no strong indication of a socially patterned disease risk.

Increasing trend of type 1 diabetes incidence in the pediatric population of the Calabria region in 2019-2021

BACKGROUND

Although type 1 diabetes (T1D) represents one of the most common chronic diseases in pediatric age, few studies on the epidemiology of T1D exist globally and the exact prevalence and incidence rates of the disease are unknown. In many countries, including Italy, national registries are missing.

METHODS

This study aims to assess T1D incidence in the pediatric population of the Calabria region (southern Italy) in the period 2019-2021. The secondary objective was to describe the main demographical, clinical and immunological features of incident cases. Case ascertainment and all clinical data were assessed by retrospectively reviewing the electronic medical records of children and adolescents diagnosed with diabetes at any Pediatric Diabetes Center belonging to the Rete Diabetologica Calabrese (Calabria Region Diabetes Network), from January 2019 to December 2021. The incidence of T1D was estimated for the entire region and was stratified according to age group (0-4 years, 5-9 years, and 10-14 years) and gender. Standardized incidence ratios for each province in the region were also calculated.

RESULTS

The crude incidence of T1D was 20.6/100,000 person/years. Incidence rates were higher among females and children aged 5-9 years. The crude incidence of T1D was higher in the province of Reggio Calabria (26.5/100,000 person-years). The provinces of Crotone, Catanzaro, and Vibo Valentia showed significantly lower standardized incidence ratios. The annual incidence in the region progressively increased by 43% during the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed a relatively high incidence in the Calabria region. The marked increasing incidence trend over the past two years could be related to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but further long-scale population-based studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Maximal Oxygen Uptake, VO2 Max, Testing Effect on Blood Glucose Level in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Assessing maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) is generally considered safe when performed properly for most adolescents; however, for adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), monitoring glucose levels before and after exercise is critical to maintaining euglycemic ranges. Limited guidance exists for glucose level recommendations for the pediatric population; therefore, the purpose of this retrospective clinical chart review study was to determine the effects of VO2 max testing on blood glucose levels for adolescents with T1DM. A total of 22 adolescents (mean age = 15.6 ± 1.8 years; male = 13, 59.1%) with a diagnosis of T1DM participated in a Bruce protocol for VO2 max from January 2019 through February 2020. A statistically significant reduction in glucose levels between pretest (<30 min, mean = 191.1 mg/dL ± 61.2) and post-test VO2 max (<5 min, mean = 166.7 mg/dL ± 57.9); t(21) = 2.3, p < 0.05) was detected. The results from this current study can help guide health and fitness professionals in formulating glycemic management strategies in preparatory activities prior to exercise testing and during exercise testing.

The impact of type 1 diabetes mellitus in childhood on academic performance: A matched population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The impact of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) on academic performance is inconclusive. This study aims to compare scholastic performance and high-school completion in young people hospitalized with T1D compared to matched peers not hospitalized with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN

Retrospective case-comparison cohort study.

METHOD

A population-level matched case-comparison study of people aged ≤18 hospitalized with T1D during 2005-2018 in New South Wales, Australia using linked health-related and education records. The comparison cohort was matched on age, gender, and residential postcode. Generalized linear mixed modeling examined risk of school performance below the national minimum standard (NMS) and generalized linear regression examined risk of not completing high school for young people hospitalized with T1D compared to peers. Adjusted relative risks (ARR) were calculated.

RESULTS

Young females and males hospitalized with T1D did not have a higher risk of not achieving the NMS compared to peers for numeracy (ARR: 1.19; 95%CI 0.77-1.84 and ARR: 0.74; 95%CI 0.46-1.19) or reading (ARR: 0.98; 95%CI 0.63-1.50 and ARR: 0.85; 95%CI 0.58-1.24), respectively. Young T1D hospitalized females had a higher risk of not completing year 11 (ARR: 1.73; 95%CI 1.19-2.53) or 12 (ARR: 1.65; 95%CI 1.17-2.33) compared to peers, while hospitalized T1D males did not.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no difference in academic performance in youth hospitalized with T1D compared to peers. Improved glucose control and T1D management may explain the absence of school performance decrements in students with T1D. However, females hospitalized with T1D had a higher risk of not completing high school. Potential associations of this increased risk, with attention to T1D and psycho-social management, should be investigated.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a 7 Year Old Girl

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease due to insulin resistance resulting in hyperglycemia. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing worldwide in the pediatric population. In the pediatric population, type 2 diabetes typically develops around adolescence; however, patients with a younger age of onset are now being reported. Earlier onset of type 2 diabetes is associated with a more aggressive course of disease and earlier comorbidities, although data on this is limited. We report a child from Qatar with type 2 diabetes that was diagnosed at 7 years of age, along obesity with a BMI of 26.8 kg/m². Elevated liver enzymes, c-peptide, and insulin levels were observed along with fatty liver on an ultrasound. The child had severe acanthosis nigricans with increased appetite. There was a positive family history for type 2 diabetes. Testing for type 1 diabetes autoantibodies, monogenic obesity, and monogenic diabetes screening was negative. This is the second youngest child reported to have type 2 diabetes. Accurate diagnosis, early reporting, and long-term follow-up of such cases is necessary to bring more attention to the subgroup of type 2 diabetes in very young patients.

Prevention and Management of High-Burden Noncommunicable Diseases in School-Age Children: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are chronic conditions requiring health care, education, social and community services, addressing prevention, treatment, and management. This review aimed to summarize and synthesize the available evidence on interventions from systematic reviews of high-burden NCDs and risk factors among school-aged children.

METHODS

The following databases were used for this research: Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and the Campbell library. The search dates were from 2000 to 2021. We included systematic reviews that synthesized studies to evaluate intervention effectiveness in children aged 5 to 19 years globally. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed methodological quality of included reviews using the AMSTAR 2 tool.

RESULTS

Fifty studies were included. Asthma had the highest number of eligible reviews (n = 19). Of the reviews reporting the delivery platform, 27% (n = 16) reported outpatient settings, 13% (n = 8) home and community-based respectively, and 8% (n = 5) school-based platforms. Included reviews primarily (69%) reported high-income country data. This may limit the results' generalizability for school-aged children and adolescents in low- and middle- income countries.

CONCLUSIONS

School-aged children and adolescents affected by NCDs require access to quality care, treatment, and support to effectively manage their diseases into adulthood. Strengthening research and the capacity of countries, especially low- and middle- income countries, for early screening, risk education and management of disease are crucial for NCD prevention and control.

Incidence of type 1 diabetes among children and adolescents during peace and war times in Yemen

AIM

To calculate a 30-year incidence rates of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in Sana'a city, Yemen during peace and wartimes.

METHODS

A total of 461 patients aged between 8 months and 18 years with newly diagnosed diabetes were registered between 1989 and 2018. We used a standardized protocol for counting cases over time. The annual incidence rates (cases/100,000/year) were calculated from the number of new reported cases for each year divided by the estimated number of person-years "at risk" resident in Sana'a city, Yemen according to age and sex of the participants of that year.

RESULTS

The mean annual incidence rate of T1D in children aged 0-14 years was 1.83/100,000/year. With the use of 3-year time-periods, the mean annual incidence rate was (5/100,000/year) in the first time-period, fluctuated between 1.2 and 2.3 during subsequent seven time-periods, and declined to (0.5/100,000/year) during the conflict years. The age-specific mean annual incidence rates for age-groups 0-4, 5-9, 10-14, and 15-18 years were 0.83, 1.82, 3.14, and 2.31/100,000/year, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The mean annual incidence rate of T1D in children and adolescents over the observation period in Sana'a city was low. In children aged 0-14 years in particular, the incidence declined to a very low rate during wartime. Interpretation is partly limited by lack of recent census data, and the possibility of death from nondiagnosis at onset.

Global, regional, and national burden and quality of care index in children and adolescents: A systematic analysis for the global burden of disease study 1990-2017

PURPOSE

To express a global view of care quality in major causes of mortality and morbidity in children and adolescences.

METHODS

We used primary epidemiologic indicators from the Global Burden of Disease 1990-2017 database. We have created four secondary indices from six primary indices in order to assess the care quality parameters. We conducted a principal component analysis on incidence, prevalence, mortality, Years of Life Lost (YLLs), Years Lived with Disability (YLDs), and Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) to create an index presented by quality-of-care index (QCI) to compare different countries.

RESULTS

The global QCI scores of respiratory infection, enteric infection, leukemia, foreign body aspiration, asthma, epilepsy, diabetes mellitus, dermatitis, road injury, and neonatal disorders have improved remarkably. These causes showed equal distribution of qualified care for both sexes. The global trend of QCI score for mental health showed a steady pattern during the same time and disparities favoring females was evident. The quality of care for these causes was notably higher in developed areas.

CONCLUSIONS

The global QCI revealed a universal growth in major causes of death and morbidity in <20y during 28 years. Quality of care is an associate of the level of country's development. Despite effective interventions, inequities still remain. Implementation of policies to invest in quality improvement and inequality elimination is needed.

Dendritic Cells and Their Immunotherapeutic Potential for Treating Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) results from the destruction of pancreatic beta cells through a process that is primarily mediated by T cells. Emerging evidence suggests that dendritic cells (DCs) play a crucial role in initiating and developing this debilitating disease. DCs are professional antigen-presenting cells with the ability to integrate signals arising from tissue infection or injury that present processed antigens from these sites to naïve T cells in secondary lymphoid organs, thereby triggering naïve T cells to differentiate and modulate adaptive immune responses. Recent advancements in our knowledge of the various subsets of DCs and their cellular structures and methods of orchestration over time have resulted in a better understanding of how the T cell response is shaped. DCs employ various arsenal to maintain their tolerance, including the induction of effector T cell deletion or unresponsiveness and the generation and expansion of regulatory T cell populations. Therapies that suppress the immunogenic effects of dendritic cells by blocking T cell costimulatory pathways and proinflammatory cytokine production are currently being sought. Moreover, new strategies are being developed that can regulate DC differentiation and development and harness the tolerogenic capacity of these cells. Here, in this report, we focus on recent advances in the field of DC immunology and evaluate the prospects of DC-based therapeutic strategies to treat T1D.

Effects of the timing of the initiation of dietary intake on pediatric type 1 diabetes for diabetic ketoacidosis

Background

Precision treatment of pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) has been the focus of research for decades. Whether the timing of the initiation of dietary intake contributes to DKA correction is ignored.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study to investigate the effects of the timing of the initiation of dietary intake on DKA correction in Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, a tertiary children’s hospital, from June 2017 to December 2020. Individual basic characteristic and clinical information of all DKA cases (n = 183) were collected. Multiple linear regression, logistic regression model and random forest (RF) model were used to assess the effect of the timing of the initiation of dietary intake on DKA correction.

Results

The mean age of the children diagnosed with DKA was 6.95 (SD 3.82) years. The median DKA correction time and the timing of the initiation of dietary intake was 41.72 h and 3.13 h, respectively. There were 62.3% (n = 114) patients corrected DKA at the end of the 48-h rehydration therapy. For each hour delay in starting dietary intake, child’s DKA correction was prolonged by 0.5 (95% CI 1.05, 1.11, P < 0.001) hours and the adjusted odds of DKA over 48 h was increased by 8% (OR = 1.08, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.11, P < 0.001) after adjustment for potential confounders. The RF model based on the timing of the initiation of dietary intake and child’s weight and systolic pressure achieved the highest AUC of 0.789.

Conclusion

Pediatricians should pay attention to the effect of the timing of the initiation of dietary intake, a controllable factor, on DKA correction.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12887-022-03243-z.

Costs of Public Health Screening of Children for Presymptomatic Type 1 Diabetes in Bavaria, Germany

OBJECTIVE

We sought to evaluate costs associated with public health screening for presymptomatic type 1 diabetes in 90,632 children as part of the Fr1da study in Bavaria and in forecasts for standard care.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We report on resource use and direct costs for screening-related procedures in the Fr1da study coordination center and laboratory and in participating pediatric practices and local diabetes clinics. Data were obtained from Fr1da study documents, an online survey among pediatricians, and interviews and records of Fr1da staff members. Data were analyzed with tree models that mimic procedures during the screening process. Cost estimates are presented as they were observed in the Fr1da study and as they can be expected in standard care for various scenarios.

RESULTS

The costs per child screened in the Fr1da study were €28.17 (95% CI 19.96; 39.63) and the costs per child diagnosed with presymptomatic type 1 diabetes were €9,117 (6,460; 12,827). Assuming a prevalence of presymptomatic type 1 diabetes of 0.31%, as in the Fr1da study, the estimated costs in standard care in Germany would be €21.73 (16.76; 28.19) per screened child and €7,035 (5,426; 9,124) per diagnosed child. Of the projected screening costs, €12.25 would be the costs in the medical practice, €9.34 for coordination and laboratory, and €0.14 for local diabetes clinics.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides information for the planning and implementation of screening tests for presymptomatic type 1 diabetes in the general public and for the analysis of the cost-effectiveness of targeted prevention strategies.

Incidence and prevalence of type 1 diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis in children and adolescents (0–19 years) in Thailand (2015–2020): A nationwide population-based study

Background

There is a lack of published studies on incidence of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in Thailand. We aimed to estimate the national prevalence and incidence of T1D and DKA.

Methods

Using Thailand's nationwide population-based longitudinal data covering 69 million individuals, we included the entire children and adolescents recorded in the database. Diseases were identified using ICD-10 codes. We investigated the prevalence of T1D and cumulative incidence of T1D, T1D referral, DKA, and mortality risk of DKA in five years from 2015 to 2020. T1D and DKA annual incidence were also estimated. We present findings for the total population and by sex, age, and urban-rural residencies.

Findings

A total of 19,784,781 individuals aged less than 20 years were identified in 2015. The crude T1D prevalence in 2015 was 17·6 per 100,000 and crude T1D incidence rate was 5·0 per 100,000. T1D prevalence and cumulative incidence were significantly higher in older children (p < 0·001) and females (p < 0·001) than their counterparts. Among those with T1D, cumulative incidence of T1D referral was 42·4%. It was highest amongst children aged 5–14 years and was significantly higher among females (all p < 0·05). The crude DKA incidence rate at any point after diagnosis was 10·8%. The cumulative incidence of DKA was significantly higher in females and peaked in individuals aged 5–14 years (all p < 0·001). The DKA mortality risk was 258·2 per 100,000.

Interpretation

Older children and females had higher T1D prevalence. The DKA cumulative incidence and mortality risk were relatively low, and such incidence was peak in individuals aged 5–14 years.

Funding

Harvard University.

A comparative study on the incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus between children of North African migrants and Italian children in Emilia-Romagna region, Italy

In the last few decades, many studies have reported an increasing global incidence of type 1 diabetes. Studies on migrant populations have underlined the importance of both environmental and genetic factors.

AIMS

Evaluate the incidence of type 1 diabetes in North African vs Italian children aged 0-14 years from 1 January 2015, to 31st December 2018, in Emilia-Romagna region, Italy.

METHODS

Clinical and epidemiological data about childhood onset type 1 diabetes in Emilia Romagna region were retrospectively collected by the regional centers of pediatric diabetology and matched using 3 different data sources.

RESULTS

365 new cases were diagnosed. Total cumulative incidence was 15.4/100,000/year. North African cases showed a cumulative incidence of 53.8/100,000/year, statistically significant compared to cumulative incidence of the Italian cases alone 13.1/100,000/year (p value < 0.001). The annual incidence did not differ in the 4 years for both groups.  Conclusion: The incidence of type 1 diabetes in the pediatric age (0 14 years) was significantly higher in the North African population than in the Italian one, suggesting that a mix of genetic and environmental factors may have caused the increase in newly diagnosed cases.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• The incidence of type 1 diabetes largely varies worldwide. • Study on immigrants helped to better understand the interplay role between genetics and environment.

WHAT IS NEW

• This is the first study focused on the incidence of children and adolescents of North African migrants in Italy. • The incidence of children and adolescents of North African migrants in Emilia Romagna region, Italy, seems to be higher than that reported in the host countries, and, above all, than that reported in highest-incidence countries in Europe and in the world.

The Incidence of Adult-Onset Type 1 Diabetes: A Systematic Review From 32 Countries and Regions

BACKGROUND

The epidemiology of adult-onset type 1 diabetes (T1D) incidence is not well-characterized due to the historic focus on T1D as a childhood-onset disease.

PURPOSE

We assess the incidence of adult-onset (≥20 years) T1D, by country, from available data.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic review of MEDLINE, Embase, and the gray literature, through 11 May 2021, was undertaken.

STUDY SELECTION

We included all population-based studies reporting on adult-onset T1D incidence and published from 1990 onward in English.

DATA EXTRACTION

With the search we identified 1,374 references of which 46 were included for data extraction. Estimates of annual T1D incidence were allocated into broad age categories (20-39, 40-59, ≥60, or ≥20 years) as appropriate.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Overall, we observed the following patterns: 1) there is a paucity of data, particularly in low- and middle-income countries; 2) the incidence of adult-onset T1D is lowest in Asian and highest in Nordic countries; 3) adult-onset T1D is higher in men versus women; 4) it is unclear whether adult-onset T1D incidence declines with increasing age; and 5) it is unclear whether incidence of adult-onset T1D has changed over time.

LIMITATIONS

Results are generalizable to high-income countries, and misclassification of diabetes type cannot be ruled out.

CONCLUSIONS

From available data, this systematic review suggests that the incidence of T1D in adulthood is substantial and highlights the pressing need to better distinguish T1D from T2D in adults so that we may better assess and respond to the true burden of T1D in adults.

Fighting Enteroviral Infections to Prevent Type 1 Diabetes

Enteroviruses (EVs), especially coxsackieviruses B (CVB), are believed to trigger or accelerate islet autoimmunity in genetically susceptible individuals that results in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Therefore, strategies are needed to fight against EV infections. There are no approved antiviral drugs currently available, but various antiviral drugs targeting viral or host cell proteins and vaccines have recently shown potential to combat CVB infections and may be used as new therapeutic strategies to prevent or reduce the risk of T1D and/or preserve β-cell function among patients with islet autoantibodies or T1D.

Ramadan Fasting Among Older Children and Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Real-World Study From the UAE

Background

Ramadan fasting (RF) is a religious obligation for all healthy adult Muslims. The sick and pre-pubertal children are exempt, but many choose to fast for various reasons. In this “real world” study, glycaemic control has been investigated in the context of RF in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and compared multiple daily injections (MDI) and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) outcomes.

Methods

Children and adolescents with T1DM seen at Imperial College London Diabetes Centre who decided to fast in the ensuing Ramadan were educated with their families about diabetes mellitus management during RF using an adapted CHOICE (Carbohydrate, Insulin, and Collaborative Education) educational programme. Pertinent data including hypoglycaemia episodes and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) were obtained through patient/family interviews. Information on weight, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and blood glucose levels from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)/flash glucose monitoring (FGM) before (1 month prior), during, and after (1 month afterwards) Ramadan were retrieved retrospectively from the electronic database. Data are presented as mean ± SD.

Results

Forty-two patients [age 13.5 ± 2.4 years; 27 (64.3%) males; T1DM duration 4.9 ± 3.1 years] were included in the study and were able to fast for 22 ± 9 days during Ramadan. Twenty-three (54.8%) of the patients were on MDI and 19 (45.2%) were on CSII. No statistically significant differences were seen in CGM/FGM generated mean blood glucose level before, during, and after Ramadan [one-way ANOVA (F_{(2, 80)} =1.600, p = 0.21)]. HbA1c and weight after Ramadan did not change significantly compared to baseline (paired t-test; p = 0.02 and p = 0.08, respectively). Between MDI and CSII groups, there was no significant difference in fasting days (p = 0.49), frequency of hypoglycaemia episodes (p = 0.98), DKA frequency (p = 0.37), HbA1c level (p = 0.24), and weight (p = 0.11) after Ramadan.

Conclusion

Data show no significant deterioration in indicators of overall glycaemic control which remained inadequate. RF should be discouraged in children with poorly controlled T1DM.

Characteristics of newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes in paediatric and adult population from Reims University Hospital, France from 1997 to 2019

French health insurance data showed that the incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in children increased over the years to 2015. The objective of our study was to assess the evolution of the number of incident cases of paediatric and adult type 1 diabetes in our institution, and to describe their clinical presentation and its evolution. All patients with T1DM managed at diagnosis at Reims University Hospital between 1997 and 2019 were included. The clinical and biological data were extracted from the Champagne-Ardenne Diabetes Network database. Included were 847 patients with a median age of 10.3 years. Diagnosis was established in 71% of cases before 15 years, 7.4% after 35 years. The number of newly diagnosed cases was 3.6-times higher in 2019 compared to 1997. Ketoacidosis, the frequency of which decreased with age (P < 0.0001), revealed diabetes in a total of 32% of cases and in 46% of children under 5 years. It was more severe in children than in adults (P = 0.03), and its frequency increased over the study period. Hypotrophy was found in 23% of children under 15 years of age, and was more pronounced before 5 years of age, with no improvement over time. We saw an increase in the frequency of obesity or overweight among adults. Our study showed an increase in incident cases of diabetes in our hospital that continued over time for both children and adults. Clinical features at diagnosis deteriorated during this period for those under 15 years of age with an increase in ketoacidosis frequency.

Worldwide estimates of incidence of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents in 2021

AIMS

We aimed to conduct a systematic review of published studies on the incidence of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents aged under 20 years and provide worldwide incidence estimates for 2021.

METHODS

We used MEDLINE and EMBASE to identify studies reporting type 2 diabetes incidence in children and adolescents published between Jan 2000 and April 2021. We used a negative binomial regression model to develop a prediction equation to estimate incidence rates from country characteristics. We applied the resulting incidence predictions to country population data to estimate numbers of incident cases in children and adolescents by International Diabetes Federation (IDF) region and World Bank income classification group.

RESULTS

We estimate that there are approximately 41,600 new cases of diagnosed type 2 diabetes among children and adolescents in 2021 worldwide. Around 30% and 40% of the worldwide total incident cases are in IDF Western Pacific region and in World Bank upper-middle-income countries, respectively. The three countries with the highest estimated number of incident cases are China, India, and United States of America.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents is substantial. More reliable data are needed to track the incidence of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents.

HbA1c percentiles and the association between BMI, age, gender, puberty, and HbA1c levels in healthy German children and adolescents

OBJECTIVE

The measurement of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) represents one way to detect type 1 and 2 diabetes in children at an early stage. However, to date, variations in HbA1c levels are not fully understood, even in healthy children. With this in mind, the present study aimed to establish HbA1c reference values in healthy children and to investigate the influence of various independent variables.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Two thousand four hundred fifty-five healthy children and adolescents aged between 0.5 and 18 years participated in the population-based cohort study LIFE Child, Germany. Age- and gender-dependent percentiles were estimated, enabling HbA1c values to be converted into standard deviation scores (SDS). Logistic regression models were applied to assess associations between HbA1c-SDS (as outcome) and age, gender, BMI, birth weight, physical activity, pubertal status, and socioeconomic status (SES; as explanatory variables).

RESULTS

The mean HbA1c value was 31.79 mmol/mol or 5.06% (SD = 3.3 mmol/mol, SD = 0.3%). Positive associations with HbA1c values were identified for age (b = 0.09, p < 0.001), gender (b = 0.25, p = 0.007), and BMI-SDS (b = 0.06, p < 0.001). In addition, obesity was related to higher HbA1c values (b = 0.29, p < 0.001). Compared to prepuberty, the pubertal and postpubertal stages were associated with higher HbA1c levels. Furthermore, higher SES was associated with higher HbA1c-SDS (b = 0.01, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

The present study established HbA1c reference values based on a large sample of healthy German children and adolescents. Age, gender, SES, pubertal stage, and BMI were found to be associated with higher HbA1c levels.

Impact of virtual care on health-related quality of life in children with diabetes mellitus: a systematic review protocol

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes mellitus is the most common endocrine disorder in children, and the prevalence of paediatric type 1 and type 2 diabetes continue to rise globally. Diabetes clinical care programs pivoted to virtual care with the COVID-19 pandemic-driven social distancing measures. Yet, the impact of virtual care on health-related quality of life in children living with diabetes remains unclear. This protocol reports on the methods that will be implemented to conduct a systematic review to assess the health-related quality of life and metabolic health impacts of virtual diabetes care.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will search MEDLINE, Embase, EMCare, PsycInfo, Web of Science, and the grey literature for eligible studies. We will screen title, abstract, and full-text papers for potential inclusion and assess the risk of bias and the overall confidence in the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. A meta-analysis will be conducted if two studies report similar populations, study designs, methods, and outcomes.This systematic review will summarise the health-related quality of life outcomes for virtual diabetes care delivery models.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

No ethics approval is required for this systematic review protocol as it does not include patient data. The systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at international conferences.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42021235646.

Peculiar characteristics of new-onset Type 1 Diabetes during COVID-19 pandemic

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic period is having a strong impact on the management of diabetes as well as other chronic diseases as shown by the most severe clinical presentation at onset. The aim of this study was to evaluate the severity of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in youth with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes in “Santissima Annunziata Hospital” (Chieti, Italy) during COVID-19 pandemic in comparison to the five previous years.

Methods

A retrospective population-based incidence study was performed. Data were obtained from hospital records of 172 patients with new onset type 1 diabetes divided into two groups according to the diagnosis: Group I, between January 2015 and February 2020; Group II, between March 2020 and April 2021. Data regarding anthropometric, socio-economic and laboratory test were analyzed. DKA (pH < 7.30) and different severity of the disease (severe pH < 7.10; moderate pH < 7.20, mild pH < 7.30) were evaluated. A Spearman correlation between pH values and the main variables of interest was performed.

Results

DKA frequency was increased by 19 percentage in Group II compared to Group I (55% vs 36%; P = 0.03) with a significant increased risk of severe DKA cases compared to the previous five years (severe DKA 22.5% vs. 8.4%, P = 0.01). pH values were significantly related with HbA1c, blood glucose and c-peptide values in all groups. In addition, in Group II but not in Group I, pH values correlated with Triglycerides and TG/HDL cholesterol ratio.

Conclusions

During COVID-19 pandemic the risk of more severe clinical presentation of type 1 diabetes at onset is increased. The correlation with lipid profile might suppose an additional effect of lifestyle changes beside the delay in the diagnosis. Modifications of health care system need to be implemented during this peculiar situation in order to avoid such a relevant complication at onset.

The Prevalence of Islet Autoantibodies in Children and Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Global Scoping Review

Background and Purpose

Pancreatic islet autoantibodies (iAb) are the hallmark of autoimmunity in type 1 diabetes. A more comprehensive understanding of the global iAb prevalence could help reduce avertible morbidity and mortality among children and adolescents and contribute to the understanding in the observed differences in the incidence, prevalence and health outcomes of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes across and within countries. We present the first scoping review that provides a global synthesis of the prevalence of iAb in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

Research Design and Methods

We searched Ovid MEDLINE® with Daily Update, Embase (Elsevier, embase.com) and PubMed (National Library of Medicine -NCBI), for studies pertaining to prevalence in children and adolescents (0-19) with type 1 diabetes published between 1 Jan 1990 and 18 June 2021. Results were synthesized using Covidence systematic review software and meta-analysis was completed using R v3·6·1. Two reviewers independently screened abstracts with a third reviewer resolving conflicts (k= 0·92).

Results

The review revealed 125 studies from 48 different countries, with 92 from high-income countries. Globally, in new-onset type 1 diabetes, IA-2A was the most prevalent iAb 0·714 [95% CI (0·71, 0·72)], followed by ICA 0·681 [95% CI (0·67, 0·69)], ZnT8A was 0·654 [95% CI (0·64, 0·66)], GADA 0·636 [95% CI (0·63, 0·66)] and then IAA 0·424 [95% CI (0·42, 0·43)], with substantial variation across world regions. The weighted mean prevalence of IA-2A was more variable, highest in Europe at 0·749 [95% CI (0·74, 0·76)] followed by Northern America 0·662 [95% CI (0·64, 0·69)], Latin America and the Caribbean 0·632 [95% CI (0·54, 0·72)], Oceania 0·603 [95% CI (0·54, 0·67)], Asia 0·466 [95% CI (0·44, 0·50)] and Africa 0·311 [95% CI (0·23, 0·40)]. In established cases of type 1 diabetes, GADA was the most prevalent iAb 0·407 [95% CI (0·39, 0·42)] followed by ZnT8A 0·322 [95% CI (0·29, 0·36)], IA-2A 0·302 [95% CI (0·29, 0·32)], IAA 0·258 [95% CI (0·24, 0·26)] and ICA 0·145 [95% CI (0·13, 0·16)], again with substantial variation across world regions.

Conclusion

Understanding the global prevalence of iAb in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes could help with earlier identification of those at-risk of developing type 1 diabetes and inform clinical practice, health policies, resource allocation, and targeted healthcare interventions to better screen, diagnose and manage children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

Genetics of murine type 2 diabetes and comorbidities

ABSTRAC

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a polygenic and multifactorial complex disease, defined as chronic metabolic disorder. It's a major global health concern with an estimated 463 million adults aged 20-79 years with diabetes and projected to increase up to 700 million by 2045. T2D was reported to be one of the four leading causes of non-communicable disease (NCD) deaths in 2012. Environmental factors play a part in the development of polygenic forms of diabetes. Polygenic forms of diabetes often run-in families. Fortunately, T2D, which accounts for 90-95% of the entire four types of diabetes including, Type 1 diabetes (T1D), T2D, monogenic diabetes syndromes (MGDS), and Gestational diabetes mellitus, can be prevented or delayed through nutrition and lifestyle changes as well as through pharmacologic interventions. Typical symptom of the T2D is high blood glucose levels and comprehensive insulin resistance of the body, producing an impaired glucose tolerance. Impaired glucose tolerance of T2D is accompanied by extensive health complications, including cardiovascular diseases (CVD) that vary in morbidity and mortality among populations. The pathogenesis of T2D varies between populations and/or ethnic groupings and is known to be attributed extremely by genetic components and environmental factors. It is evident that genetic background plays a critical role in determining the host response toward certain environmental conditions, whether or not of developing T2D (susceptibility versus resistant). T2D is considered as a silent disease that can progress for years before its diagnosis. Once T2D is diagnosed, many metabolic malfunctions are observed whether as side effects or as independent comorbidity. Mouse models have been proven to be a powerful tool for mapping genetic factors that underline the susceptibility to T2D development as well its comorbidities. Here, we have conducted a comprehensive search throughout the published data covering the time span from early 1990s till the time of writing this review, for already reported quantitative trait locus (QTL) associated with murine T2D and comorbidities in different mouse models, which contain different genetic backgrounds. Our search has resulted in finding 54 QTLs associated with T2D in addition to 72 QTLs associated with comorbidities associated with the disease. We summarized the genomic locations of these mapped QTLs in graphical formats, so as to show the overlapping positions between of these mapped QTLs, which may suggest that some of these QTLs could be underlined by sharing gene/s. Finally, we reviewed and addressed published reports that show the success of translation of the identified mouse QTLs/genes associated with the disease in humans.

Growth and development in type 1 diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to summarize the current literature on the subject of linear growth in children and adolescents with or at risk for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

RECENT FINDINGS

Poor glycemic control in T1DM is associated with growth hormone resistance, and improving glycemic control can improve linear growth. Newer reports suggest that the increasingly popular very low carbohydrate diets, may reduce linear growth velocity.

SUMMARY

Linear growth during childhood is a complex process regulated influenced by genetic, hormonal, nutritional and environmental factors. Linear growth may be impaired in children with T1DM, correlating with poor metabolic control; an extreme example is Mauriac syndrome. This decrement in linear growth appears to be driven in part by a reduction in growth hormone responsiveness, leading to low insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels. Improving glycemic control can lead to improved IGF-1 levels and linear growth. Other factors associated with poor linear growth in T1DM include celiac disease and dietary alterations, with early reports suggesting that very low carbohydrate diets, if not carefully managed, may increase risk of attenuated linear growth. This review examines the latest data regarding the associations between T1DM and linear growth in children.

Anti-Inflammatory and Pro-Autophagy Effects of the Cannabinoid Receptor CB2R: Possibility of Modulation in Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease resulting from loss of insulin-secreting β-cells in islets of Langerhans. The loss of β-cells is initiated when self-tolerance to β-cell-derived contents breaks down, which leads to T cell-mediated β-cell damage and, ultimately, β-cell apoptosis. Many investigations have demonstrated the positive effects of antagonizing cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) in metabolic diseases such as fatty liver disease, obesity, and diabetes mellitus, but the role of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) in such diseases is relatively unknown. Activation of CB2R is known for its immunosuppressive roles in multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s, celiac, and lupus diseases, and since autoimmune diseases can share common environmental and genetic factors, we propose CB2R specific agonists may also serve as disease modifiers in diabetes mellitus. The CNR2 gene, which encodes CB2R protein, is the result of a gene duplication of CNR1, which encodes CB1R protein. This ortholog evolved rapidly after transitioning from invertebrates to vertebrate hundreds of million years ago. Human specific CNR2 isoforms are induced by inflammation in pancreatic islets, and a CNR2 nonsynonymous SNP (Q63R) is associated with autoimmune diseases. We collected evidence from the literature and from our own studies demonstrating that CB2R is involved in regulating the inflammasome and especially release of the cytokine interleukin 1B (IL-1β). Furthermore, CB2R activation controls intracellular autophagy and may regulate secretion of extracellular vesicles from adipocytes that participate in recycling of lipid droplets, dysregulation of which induces chronic inflammation and obesity. CB2R activation may play a similar role in islets of Langerhans. Here, we will discuss future strategies to unravel what roles, if any, CB2R modifiers potentially play in T1DM.

Enhancing Choices Regarding the Administration of Insulin Among Patients With Diabetes Requiring Insulin Across Countries and Implications for Future Care

There are a number of ongoing developments to improve the care of patients with diabetes across countries given its growing burden. Recent developments include new oral medicines to reduce cardiovascular events and death. They also include new modes to improve insulin administration to enhance adherence and subsequent patient management thereby reducing hypoglycaemia and improving long-term outcomes. In the case of insulins, this includes long-acting insulin analogues as well as continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion systems, combined with sensor-augmented pump therapy and potentially hybrid closed-loops. The benefits of such systems have been endorsed by endocrine societies and governments in patients with Type 1 diabetes whose HbA1c levels are not currently being optimised. However, there are concerns with the low use of such systems across higher-income countries, exacerbated by their higher costs, despite studies suggesting their cost-effectiveness ratios are within accepted limits. This is inconsistent in higher-income countries when compared with reimbursement and funding decisions for new high-priced medicines for cancer and orphan diseases, with often limited benefits, given the burden of multiple daily insulin injections coupled with the need for constant monitoring. This situation is different among patients and governments in low- and low-middle income countries struggling to fund standard insulins and the routine monitoring of HbA1c levels. The first priority in these countries is to address these priority issues before funding more expensive forms of insulin and associated devices. Greater patient involvement in treatment decisions, transparency in decision making, and evidence-based investment decisions should help to address such concerns in the future.

Is staff consistency important to parents' satisfaction in a longitudinal study of children at risk for type 1 diabetes: the TEDDY study

BACKGROUND

Participants' study satisfaction is important for both compliance with study protocols and retention, but research on parent study satisfaction is rare. This study sought to identify factors associated with parent study satisfaction in The Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young (TEDDY) study, a longitudinal, multinational (US, Finland, Germany, Sweden) study of children at risk for type 1 diabetes. The role of staff consistency to parent study satisfaction was a particular focus.

METHODS

Parent study satisfaction was measured by questionnaire at child-age 15 months (5579 mothers, 4942 fathers) and child-age four years (4010 mothers, 3411 fathers). Multiple linear regression analyses were used to identify sociodemographic factors, parental characteristics, and study variables associated with parent study satisfaction at both time points.

RESULTS

Parent study satisfaction was highest in Sweden and the US, compared to Finland. Parents who had an accurate perception of their child's type 1 diabetes risk and those who believed they can do something to prevent type 1 diabetes were more satisfied. More educated parents and those with higher depression scores had lower study satisfaction scores. After adjusting for these factors, greater study staff change frequency was associated with lower study satisfaction in European parents (mothers at child-age 15 months: - 0.30,95% Cl - 0.36, - 0.24, p < 0.001; mothers at child-age four years: -0.41, 95% Cl - 0.53, - 0.29, p < 0.001; fathers at child-age 15 months: -0.28, 95% Cl - 0.34, - 0.21, p < 0.001; fathers at child-age four years: -0.35, 95% Cl - 0.48, - 0.21, p < 0.001). Staff consistency was not associated with parent study satisfaction in the US. However, the number of staff changes was markedly higher in the US compared to Europe.

CONCLUSIONS

Sociodemographic factors, parental characteristics, and study-related variables were all related to parent study satisfaction. Those that are potentially modifiable are of particular interest as possible targets of future efforts to improve parent study satisfaction. Three such factors were identified: parent accuracy about the child's type 1 diabetes risk, parent beliefs that something can be done to reduce the child's risk, and study staff consistency. However, staff consistency was important only for European parents.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT00279318 .

Addressing Severe Chronic NCDs Across Africa: Measuring Demand for the Package of Essential Noncommunicable Disease Interventions-Plus (PEN-Plus)

Severe chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose important challenges for health systems across Africa. This study explores the current availability of and demand for decentralization of services for four high-priority conditions: insulin-dependent diabetes, heart failure, sickle cell disease, and chronic pain. Ministry of Health NCD Programme Managers from across Africa (N = 47) were invited to participate in an online survey. Respondents were asked to report the status of clinical care across the health system. A care package including diagnostics and treatment was described for each condition. Respondents were asked whether the described services are currently available at primary, secondary and tertiary levels, and whether making the service generally available at that level is expected to be a priority in the coming 5 years. Thirty-seven (79%) countries responded. Countries reported widespread gaps in service availability at all levels. We found that just under half (49%) of respondents report that services for insulin-dependent diabetes are generally available at the secondary level (district hospital); 32% report the same for heart failure, 27% for chronic pain and 14% for sickle cell disease. Reported gaps are smaller at tertiary level (referral hospital) and larger at primary care level (health centres). Respondents report ambitious plans to introduce and decentralize these services in the coming 5 years. Respondents from 32 countries (86%) hope to make all services available at tertiary hospitals, and 21 countries (57%) expect to make all services available at secondary facilities. These priorities align with the Package of Essential NCD Interventions-Plus. Efforts will require strengthened infrastructure and supply chains, capacity building for staff and new monitoring and evaluation systems for efficient implementation. Many countries will need targeted financial assistance in order to realize these goals. Nearly all (36/37) respondents request technical assistance to organize services for severe chronic NCDs.

Illness Experiences of Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

This study is aimed at exploring the illness experiences of adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

Using semistructured questions, 12 adolescents with T1D in Korea were interviewed regarding their illness experiences. Data were analyzed using grounded theory methodology.

RESULTS

Participants described their experiences in the core category, "becoming myself again," which resulted in 130 concepts, 36 subcategories, 13 categories, and five themes. The themes included tied, overwhelmed, running away, struggling, and conciliating. Tied, the first process, entailed three categories: "confined to blood sugar control," "feeling constrained," and "supervised by parents." The overwhelmed process included "self-banished" and "surrounded by stigma." Running away included three categories-"growing up," "folding," and "withdrawal." Struggling entailed "seeking for solution to overcome," "developing response skills," and "accepting help." The last process, conciliating, included "redefining my perspective" and "reconciling with myself."

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate that the illness experience of adolescents with T1D should be understood in terms of both physical and psychosocial dimensions, considering the sociocultural and developmental context. The results of this study provide valuable information on diabetes education. Moreover, these findings encourage nurses to develop intervention programs and strategies to help adolescents with T1D.

High pro-neurotensin levels in individuals with type 1 diabetes associate with the development of cardiovascular risk factors at follow-up

AIMS

Neurotensin (NT) is a gut hormone that promotes lipids absorption and controls appetite. Elevated circulating pro-NT, the stable precursor of NT, is associated with cardiovascular (CV) disease, metabolic syndrome (MS) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Features of MS and insulin resistance are reported also in type 1 diabetes (T1D), with detrimental impact on the overall CV risk profile. Aims of the study were to evaluate plasma pro-NT in T1D patients and to test whether its levels are associated with and/or predictive of CV risk factors and overall risk profile.

METHODS

For this longitudinal retrospective study, we analyzed clinical data from 41 T1D individuals referring to the diabetes outpatient clinics at Sapienza University of Rome, Italy, collected at the baseline and after 10 years. Fasting plasma pro-NT levels were measured in T1D subjects at the baseline and in 34 age-, sex-, BMI-comparable healthy individuals recruited in the same period.

RESULTS

Pro-NT did not differ significantly between patients and controls (median[range] pro-NT: 156.3 [96.6-198.2] vs. 179.4 [139.7-230.7] pmol/L, p = 0.26). In T1D, greater fasting pro-NT associated with poor glycemic control at baseline and predicted increased waist circumference, reduced insulin sensitivity, dyslipidemia and hypertension at 10-year follow-up. High pro-NT predicted 10-year very-high CV risk with adjusted OR = 11 (95%C.I.: 1.4-94.5; p = 0.029).

CONCLUSIONS

In T1D individuals, elevated pro-NT levels predict the development of adverse metabolic profile, which translates in higher CV risk profile at 10-year follow-up. Pro-NT represents a novel predictor/marker of CV risk factors in adults with T1D.

Efficacy and Safety of SGLT2 Inhibitors as Adjunctive Treatment in Type 1 Diabetes in a Tertiary Care Center in Saudi Arabia

Background  Adjunctive treatment with sodium-glucose co-transporters 2 inhibitors (SGLT2- I) has been successfully used in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in recent years to improve glycemic control and reduce body weight without increasing the risk of hypoglycemia; however, there is a scarcity of evidence for real-world experience in their use in T1DM Saudi patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of empagliflozin as off-label adjunctive therapy in Saudi patients with T1DM. Methods  This study was a retrospective study for T1DM patients, who were prescribed empagliflozin as an adjunctive therapy. Baseline characteristics including age, changes in HbA1c, body weight, total daily insulin dose, lipid profile, and well as side effects such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA) were evaluated before and after initiation empagliflozin in 37 T1DM patients. Results  The mean age was 25.8 ± 8.0 years, mean weight was 75.3 ± 14.8 kg, mean body mass index (BMI) was 28.1 ± 6.7 kg/m 2 , mean duration of diabetes was 10.1 ± 6.5 years, and mean HbA1c was 9.4 ± 1.4%. After a mean follow-up duration of 15.8 ± 6.0 months, the mean reduction in the HbA1c% from baseline was 0.82% ( p  = 0.001) and mean weight reduction from baseline was 1.7 kg ( p  = 0.097). The total daily insulin dose was decreased by 2.9 units. UTIs and DKA episodes were reported among 2.7% and 10.8% of the participants, respectively. Conclusion  Empagliflozin in combination with insulin in overweight Saudi T1DM subjects resulted in a significant improvement in glycemic control, mild non-significant reduction in body weight, and a small but statistically significant reduction in the total daily insulin dose with a slight increase in the risk of DKA and UTIs. Further larger prospective studies are needed for better evaluation of the efficacy and safety of these agents in Saudi T1DM patients.

Increased incidence of genital warts among women and men with type 1 diabetes compared with the general population-results from a nationwide registry-based, cohort study

AIMS

To estimate the incidence rates of genital warts (GWs) in women and men with type 1 diabetes compared to persons without diabetes.

METHODS

In this nationwide registry-based cohort study, we included the entire population aged 15 to 49 years living in Denmark between 1996 and 2016. From national registries, we retrieved individual level information on diabetes status, diagnoses and treatment of GWs, and potential confounding variables. We used Poisson regression to model sex- and age-specific incidence rates of GWs in persons with type 1 diabetes and persons without diabetes. Based on the models, we computed sex-specific incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of GWs in persons with type 1 diabetes compared to persons without diabetes, overall and according to age.

RESULTS

The analysis included 3,514,824 persons without type 2 diabetes and no GW diagnoses before baseline. The incidence rate of GWs in persons with type 1 diabetes was higher than in those without diabetes, both among women (IRR = 1.59; 95% CI, 1.42-1.78) and men (IRR = 1.36; 95% CI, 1.25-1.48). The pattern of increased incidence rates of GWs in persons with type 1 diabetes was seen at all ages.

CONCLUSIONS

Persons with type 1 diabetes have higher incidence rates of GWs than persons without diabetes. This supports the importance of HPV vaccination of young girls and boys with type 1 diabetes.

Resilience Among Parents of Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes: Associated With Fewer Parental Depressive Symptoms and Better Pediatric Glycemic Control

BACKGROUND

Although pediatric resilience plays a significant role in resisting negative moods and improving glycaemic control, little research exists regarding resilience among the parents of adolescents with Type 1 diabetes.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate parental resilience's correlations with parental depressive symptoms, parental diabetes distress, and pediatric glycaemic control.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study recruited adolescents with Type 1 diabetes and their parents from two hospitals. The parents completed questionnaires. The 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale measured resilience; the Problem Areas in Diabetes Survey-Parent Revised version measured diabetes distress; the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 measured depressive symptoms. Standard glycated hemoglobin tests were performed on the adolescents.

RESULTS

Data from 224 parents (77.2% female, M_age = 39.88 [SD = 5.02], age range = 30-56 years) of adolescents (50.9% boys, M_age = 13.54 years [SD = 2.48], age range = 10-19 years) were available. More than half (52.7%) of parents exceeded the criterion score for high resilience. Parental resilience was significantly negatively associated with parental depressive symptoms and diabetes distress. Parents from the high-resilience group reported fewer depressive symptoms than those from the low-resilience group. In multivariate regressions, greater parental resilience is consistently related to better pediatric glycaemic control beyond parental psychological risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the importance of parental resilience for parental mental health and glycaemic control among adolescents with Type 1 diabetes. The appropriate resilience support programme might be developed for parents, especially for those existing depressive symptoms and diabetes distress.

Global estimates of incidence of type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents: Results from the International Diabetes Federation Atlas, 10th edition

BACKGROUND

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) incidence in children and adolescents varies widely, and is increasing in many nations. The 10th edition of the International Diabetes Federation Atlas estimated incident cases in 2021 for 215 countries/territories ("countries").

METHODS

Studies on T1D incidence for young people aged 0-19 years were sourced and graded using previously described methods. For countries without studies, data were extrapolated from similar nearby countries.

RESULTS

An estimated 108,300 children under 15 years will be diagnosed in 2021, a number rising to 149,500 when the age range extends to under 20 years. The ratio of incidence in 15-19 years compared to those aged 0-14 years was particularly high in some countries in sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa/Middle East, and in Mexico. Only 97 countries have their own incidence data, with extrapolation required for some very populous nations. Most data published were not recent, with 27 countries (28%) having data in which the last study year was 2015 or afterwards, and 26 (27%) having no data after 1999.

CONCLUSIONS

Many countries have recent data but there are large gaps globally. Such data are critical for allocation of resources, teaching, training, and advocacy. All countries are encouraged to collect and publish current data.

Glycemic outcomes among rural patients in the type 1 diabetes T1D Exchange registry, January 2016-March 2018: a cross-sectional cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Does rural status influence glycemic outcomes among participants in the type 1 diabetes T1D Exchange clinic registry?

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data from the T1D Exchange clinic registry between January 2016 and March 2018 were identified by rural-urban status and stratified by age and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). Multivariable regression modeling was performed to isolate HbA1c differences. A full model including all significant (p<0.05 via two-sided testing) differential factors was determined with an additional indicator for rural status, and adjusted for duration of diabetes, use of continuous glucose monitoring device, age, race/ethnicity, and private insurance status. The model was reduced using backwards elimination stepwise procedures until only significant factors remained.

RESULTS

Mean HbA1c levels for all rural participants were significantly higher (8.71%; 72 mmol/mol) compared with the urban group (8.48%; 69 mmol/mol), p<0.001. For youth under 13 years of age, rural participants had a higher mean HbA1c (8.65%; 71 mmol/mol) compared with urban (8.45% 69 mmol/mol), p=0.022. Rural youth (13-<18 years) had a higher mean HbA1c (9.39%; 79 mmol/mol) than urban youth (9.14%; 76 mmol/mol), p<0.001. Rural young adults (18-<26 years) had a higher mean HbA1c (9.07%; 76 mmol/mol) than urban young adults (8.88%; 74 mmol/mol), p=0.042. Rural adults (≥26 years; n=589) were the only group that did not have a higher mean HbA1c (7.76%, 61.3 mmol) than urban adults (n=4770; 7.72%, 60.9 mmol/mol), p=0.503. Rural locale was highly significant (beta=0.175, p<0.001) despite controlling for potentially confounding differences between rural and urban groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Among this T1D Exchange cohort, there is a pattern of higher mean HbA1c being associated with rural status, even after adjustment for characteristic differences, most strikingly among those under 26 years of age. This disparity and contributing factors need to be more thoroughly studied to provide effective solutions.

Effect of nationwide reimbursement of real-time continuous glucose monitoring on HbA1c, hypoglycemia and quality of life in a pediatric type 1 diabetes population: The RESCUE-pediatrics study

OBJECTIVE

Real-time continuous glucose monitoring (RT-CGM) can improve metabolic control and quality of life (QoL), but long-term real-world data in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) are scarce. Over a period of 24 months, we assessed the impact of RT-CGM reimbursement on glycemic control and QoL in children/adolescents with T1D treated with insulin pumps.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a multicenter prospective observational study. Primary endpoint was the change in HbA1c. Secondary endpoints included change in time in hypoglycemia, QoL, hospitalizations for hypoglycemia and/or ketoacidosis and absenteeism (school for children, work for parents).

RESULTS

Between December 2014 and February 2019, 75 children/adolescents were followed for 12 (n = 62) and 24 months (n = 50). Baseline HbA1c was 7.2 ± 0.7% (55 ± 8mmol/mol) compared to 7.1 ± 0.8% (54 ± 9mmol/mol) at 24 months (p = 1.0). Participants with a baseline HbA1c ≥ 7.5% (n = 27, mean 8.0 ± 0.3%; 64 ± 3mmol/mol) showed an improvement at 4 months (7.6 ± 0.7%; 60 ± 8mmol/mol; p = 0.009) and at 8 months (7.5 ± 0.6%; 58 ± 7mmol/mol; p = 0.006), but not anymore thereafter (endpoint 24 months: 7.7 ± 0.9%; 61 ± 10mmol/mol; p = 0.2). Time in hypoglycemia did not change over time. QoL for parents and children remained stable. Need for assistance by ambulance due to hypoglycemia reduced from 8 to zero times per 100 patient-years (p = 0.02) and work absenteeism for parents decreased from 411 to 214 days per 100 patient-years (p = 0.03), after 24 months.

CONCLUSION

RT-CGM in pump-treated children/adolescents with T1D showed a temporary improvement in HbA1c in participants with a baseline HbA1c ≥ 7.5%, without increasing time in hypoglycemia. QoL was not affected. Importantly, RT-CGM reduced the need for assistance by ambulance due to hypoglycemia and reduced work absenteeism for parents after 24 months.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

[ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NCT02601729].

Pediatric Risk of Mortality III Score in Predicting Mortality Among Diabetic Ketoacidosis Patients in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

Background

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is one of the most common complications of type 1 diabetes. Mortality is not uncommon in DKA, mostly in younger children with severe DKA and those complicated with cerebral edema. Early identification of high-risk patients can help in timely interventions to improve the outcome of DKA. Pediatric Risk of Mortality (PRISM III) is a standard scoring system to objectively predict the prognosis and outcome of pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) patients.

Objective

To predict the need for inotrope and mechanical ventilation and mortality rate using PRISM III in DKA patients admitted to PICU.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted in the PICU of the National Institute of Child Health, Karachi, from February 2020 to September 2021 involving 114 children. PRISM III scoring protocol was applied. A PRISM III score of >8 predicted higher mortality risk. 

Results

The mean PRISM III score was 6.56 ± 3.18 with 30 (26.3%) children having a score >8. Of the 30 (26.31%) patients with >8 PRISM III scores, 14 (46.67%) needed inotropic support, 6 (20%) needed mechanical ventilation, and there were eight (26.67%) mortalities. There was no reported mortality among patients with a PRISM III score ≤8. All differences were statistically significant (p < .05).

Conclusion

PRISM III is a highly sophisticated scoring system that can aid clinicians in the early prediction of adverse clinical outcomes in patients with DKA. Robust scientific evidence supporting its clinical application can help practically improve the outcome of DKA in young patients.

Skeletal muscle provides a pro-browning microenvironment for transplanted brown adipose tissue to maintain its effect to ameliorate obesity in ob/ob mice

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) transplantation is a promising means of increasing whole-body energy metabolism to ameliorate obesity. However, the changes in BAT following transplantation and the effects of the microenvironment of the recipient site on graft function have yet to be fully characterized. Therefore, we aimed to determine the effects of transplanting BAT from C57BL/6 mice into the dorsal subcutaneous region or deep to the quadriceps femoris muscle of leptin-deficient ob/ob mice. Subcutaneously transplanted BAT lost features of BAT and demonstrated greater inflammatory cell infiltration and more oil cysts 16 weeks following transplantation. By contrast, the sub-muscularly transplanted BAT maintained features of BAT and was more highly vascularized. Interestingly, sub-muscular BAT transplantation led to a significant increase in oxygen consumption and less inflammation in subcutaneous fat, which was associated with long-term reductions in insulin resistance and body mass gain, whereas the subcutaneous transplants failed after 16 weeks. These results demonstrate that the beneficial effects of BAT transplantation depend upon the microenvironment of the recipient site. Skeletal muscle may provide a microenvironment that maintains the inherent features of BAT grafts over a long period of time, which facilitates a reduction in obesity and improvements in glucose homeostasis.

Immunosenescence and Autoimmunity: Exploiting the T-Cell Receptor Repertoire to Investigate the Impact of Aging on Multiple Sclerosis

T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire diversity is a determining factor for the immune system capability in fighting infections and preventing autoimmunity. During life, the TCR repertoire diversity progressively declines as a physiological aging progress. The investigation of TCR repertoire dynamics over life represents a powerful tool unraveling the impact of immunosenescence in health and disease. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating, inflammatory, T-cell mediated autoimmune disease of the Central Nervous System in which age is crucial: it is the most widespread neurological disease among young adults and, furthermore, patients age may impact on MS progression and treatments outcome. Crossing knowledge on the TCR repertoire dynamics over MS patients' life is fundamental to investigate disease mechanisms, and the advent of high- throughput sequencing (HTS) has significantly increased our knowledge on the topic. Here we report an overview of current literature about the impact of immunosenescence and age-related TCR dynamics variation in autoimmunity, including MS.

Genome-wide association study reveals novel loci for adult type 1 diabetes in a 5-year nested case-control study

BACKGROUND

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a severe and prevalent metabolic disease. Due to its high heredity, an increasing number of genome-wide association studies have been performed, most of which were from hospital-based case-control studies with a relatively small sample size. The association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and T1D has been less studied and is less understood in natural cohorts.

AIM

To investigate the significant variants of T1D, which could be potential biomarkers for T1D prediction or even therapy.

METHODS

A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of adult T1D was performed in a nested case-control study (785 cases vs 804 controls) from a larger 5-year cohort study in Suzhou, China. Potential harmful or protective SNPs were evaluated for T1D. Subsequent expression and splicing quantitative trait loci (eQTL and sQTL) analyses were carried out to identify target genes modulated by these SNPs.

RESULTS

A harmful SNP for T1D, rs3117017 [odds ratio (OR) = 3.202, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.296-4.466, P = 9.33 × 10^-4] and three protective SNPs rs55846421 (0.113, 0.081-0.156, 1.76 × 10^-9), rs75836320 (0.283, 0.205-0.392, 1.07 × 10^-4), rs362071 (0.568, 0.495-0.651, 1.66 × 10^-4) were identified. Twenty-two genes were further identified as potential candidates for T1D onset.

CONCLUSION

We identified a potential genetic basis of T1D, both protective and harmful, using a GWAS in a larger nested case-control study of a Chinese population.