Contribution of income to self-management and health outcomes in pediatric type 1 diabetes

Association between glucose levels of children with type 1 diabetes and parental economic status in mobile health application

BACKGROUND

The glycemic control of children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) may be influenced by the economic status of their parents.

AIM

To investigate the association between parental economic status and blood glucose levels of children with T1D using a mobile health application.

METHODS

Data from children with T1D in China's largest T1D online community, Tang-TangQuan®. Blood glucose levels were uploaded every three months and parental economic status was evaluated based on annual household income. Children were divided into three groups: Low-income (< 30000 Yuan), middle-income (30000-100000 Yuan), and high-income (> 100000 yuan) (1 Yuan = 0.145 United States Dollar approximately). Blood glucose levels were compared among the groups and associations were explored using Spearman's correlation analysis and multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

From September 2015 to August 2022, 1406 eligible children with T1D were included (779 female, 55.4%). Median age was 8.1 years (Q1-Q3: 4.6-11.6) and duration of T1D was 0.06 years (0.02-0.44). Participants were divided into three groups: Low-income (n = 320), middle-income (n = 724), and high-income (n = 362). Baseline hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels were comparable among the three groups (P = 0.072). However, at month 36, the low-income group had the highest HbA1c levels (P = 0.036). Within three years after registration, glucose levels increased significantly in the low-income group but not in the middle-income and high-income groups. Parental economic status was negatively correlated with pre-dinner glucose (r = -0.272, P = 0.012). After adjustment for confounders, parental economic status remained a significant factor related to pre-dinner glucose levels (odds ratio = 13.02, 95%CI: 1.99 to 126.05, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

The blood glucose levels of children with T1D were negatively associated with parental economic status. It is suggested that parental economic status should be taken into consideration in the management of T1D for children.

Exploring the intersection of income and race in an age diverse sample of people with Type 1 diabetes

Prior literature suggests that the social gradient in health is racialised such that Black individuals receive fewer health benefits from socioeconomic status than White individuals, yet scarce research studies examine whether this relationship persists in the context of Type 1 diabetes (T1D). Further, most research studies on racial health disparities in T1D outcomes focus on health during early life. We used data from the 2017-2018 wave of the T1D Exchange Registry (N = 11,963) and examined the relationship between household income, race and HbA1c in an age diverse sample of people with T1D. Results revealed that the inverse association between income and HbA1c is stronger for Black T1Ds compared to White T1Ds. Despite this, Black T1Ds with an income of $100,000 or more had higher HbA1c values compared to White individuals with an income of less than $25,000. Further, Black adolescents with T1D had particularly high HbA1c values. There is an urgent need for more research on the interpersonal and structural barriers associated with suboptimal glycaemic control among Black individuals.

Factors influencing self-management behaviors in persons with lupus nephritis: A cross-sectional study

Background

Patients with lupus nephritis experience disease symptoms and side effects from treatment. Although self-management behaviors are important in patients with this disease, there is limited research on the factors influencing these behaviors.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the factors influencing self-management behaviors in patients with lupus nephritis.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in 240 patients with lupus nephritis at a university hospital in Thailand between August 2019 and December 2020 using a random sampling method. Data were collected using a demographic and clinical characteristic questionnaire, Self-Management Behavior Questionnaire, Self-efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease: A 6-item Scale, Knowledge about Lupus Nephritis Questionnaire, Family Support Scale, Social Networks in Adult Life Questionnaire, and Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale for Lupus Nephritis. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses were employed.

Results

The participants reported a moderate level of self-management behaviors. Multiple regression analyses revealed that disease duration, income, symptoms, self-efficacy, knowledge, family support, social networks, and classes of lupus nephritis significantly explained 21% of the variance in self-management behaviors (R2 = 0.21; F(8,231) = 7.73; p <0.001). Family support (β = 0.32, p <0.001) and symptoms (β = -0.23, p <0.001) were significant determinants of self-management behaviors in patients with lupus nephritis.

Conclusion

The findings provide valuable insight for nurses to better understand the factors influencing self-management behaviors in patients with lupus nephritis. Patients with low family support and high symptom severity may face difficulty in performing self-management behaviors. Nurses should pay more attention to these patients and provide family-based interventions to optimize self-management behaviors in this population.

Influence of socioeconomic factors on glycemic control, therapeutic adherence and quality of life in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

To stablish the relationship between socioeconomic status of a cohort of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) with glycemic control, therapeutic adherence and diabetes quality of life (DQoL).

PATIENTS Y METHODS

A cross-sectional, observational study with consecutive inclusion was carried out. Participants aged 8-18 years with T1D duration >1 year. Data on family structure, family income, parents' educational level and parental role on primary diabetes care supervision were registered. Adherence (DMQ-Sp) and DQoL (PedsQl) were analyzed. Linear and logistic regression models adjusted for demographics, family structure and parental role on primary diabetes care responsibility were applied.

RESULTS

A total of 323 patients (T1D duration 5,3 ± 3,3 years; HbA1c 7,7 ± 1,0%; age 13,3 ± 2,8 years; 49,8% females) were included. Patients living in a nuclear family and those whose main diabetes care supervision was shared by both parents showed lower HbA1c [adjusted for demographics and family structure (7,06; CI 95% 6,52-7,59); adjusted for demographics and role on primary diabetes care supervision (7,43; CI 95% 6,57-8,28)]. DMQ-Sp score (adjusted for demographics and role on main supervision) was higher in patients whose parents shared the diabetes care supervision (84,56; CI 95% 73,93-95,19). Parents sharing diabetes care supervision showed a significantly higher PedsQl score (both 74,63 ± 12,70 vs mother 68,53 ± 14,59; p = 0,001).

CONCLUSIONS

Children and adolescents with T1D had lower HbA1c, better therapeutic adherence and better DQoL when lived in a nuclear family, with higher socioeconomic status and the responsibility for supervising diabetes care was shared by both parents.

Quality of Life and Glucose Regulation in Pediatric Patients with Type 1 Diabetes: A Study in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region

Objective

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the current status of the quality of life (QOL) of pediatric patients and plasma glucose concentration regulation in children with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region.

Methods

The study involved children with T1DM admitted to the General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University between October 2011 and October 2021. The children and their parents completed general information and quality of life (QOL) questionnaires. The regulation of plasma glucose concentration was assessed based on HbA1c levels, and plasma glucose and QOL-influencing components were investigated.

Results

Among the 136 pediatric patients diagnosed with T1DM, the mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level was recorded at 8.7% (7.2%, 10.5%). A breakdown of the patient cohort revealed that 44 patients (32.4%) demonstrated good regulation of plasma glucose, 33 patients (24.3%) exhibited acceptable glycemic control, and 59 patients (43.3%) displayed poor regulation of plasma glucose. The control of plasma glucose in pediatric patients diagnosed with T1DM was affected by the duration of the disease, the patient's age, the frequency of daily plasma glucose measurements, the use of CGM, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and the education level of the mother. The control of plasma glucose, dietary management, DKA, the ability to learn, and health education are interfering factors of quality of life in children diagnosed with T1DM. Effective control of plasma glucose may ensure the QOL in children with T1DM, and DKA was the risk factor for QOL.

Conclusion

In Ningxia, the regulation of plasma glucose in pediatric and adolescent patients with T1DM remains suboptimal, leading to poor QOL. There is a pressing need to enhance glucose regulation and QOL through comprehensive strategies, which include reinforced dietary management, rigorous monitoring of plasma glucose levels, and heightened health education levels.

The impact of socioeconomic factors, social determinants, and ethnicity on the utilization of glucose sensor technology among persons with diabetes mellitus: a narrative review

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) usage has been shown to improve disease outcomes in people living with diabetes by facilitating better glycemic management. However, previous research has suggested that access to these devices can be influenced by nonmedical factors such as socioeconomic status and ethnicity. It is critical that equitable access to CGM devices is ensured as people from those groups experience poorer diabetes-related health outcomes. In this narrative review, we provide an overview of the various healthcare systems worldwide and how socioeconomic status, social context, and ethnicity shape device usage and the associated health outcomes. In general, we found that having a lower socioeconomic status and belonging to an ethnic minority group negatively impact CGM usage. While financial means proved to be an important mediator in this process, it was not the sole driver as disparities persisted even after adjustment for factors such as income and insurance status. Recommendations to increase CGM usage for people of a lower socioeconomic status and ethnic minorities include increasing the availability of financial, administrative, and educational support, for both patients and healthcare providers. However, recommendations will vary due to local country-specific circumstances, such as reimbursement criteria and healthcare ecosystems.

Sociodemographic factors affecting glycaemic control in Finnish paediatric patients with type 1 diabetes

AIMS

Socioeconomic problems may present significant challenges when trying to reach optimal glycaemic control in paediatric patients with type 1 diabetes. We examined sociodemographic factors affecting metabolic control in patients in one of the biggest paediatric diabetes clinics in Finland.

METHODS

One hundred ninety-one children (age 2-15 years; median 11 years; 47% female) with type 1 diabetes and their families were recruited during outpatient visits in the paediatric diabetes clinic of Tampere University Hospital, Finland. The participants completed a questionnaire on the family's sociodemographic background. The child's glycaemic control was assessed by both glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and time in range (TIR). Risk factors for poor (HbA1c ≥75 mmol/mol; TIR <40%) and optimal (HbA1c <53 mmol/mol; TIR ≥70%) metabolic control were searched using logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Living in a nuclear family, male gender, younger age and a school assistant for diabetes management were associated with the simultaneous presence of both indicators of optimal metabolic control. Poor glycaemic control, as estimated by HbA1c, was associated with lower parental education and the child's older age. Parental smoking and the child's older age were associated with poor TIR.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms the importance of sociodemographic factors in care of Finnish paediatric patients with type 1 diabetes. Sociodemographic status markers of the family could be used as triggers to alert paediatric diabetes teams to offer more tailored care to families with new-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Using Mixed Methods Research in Children with Type 1 Diabetes: a Methodological Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Many factors influence disease management and glycemic levels in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, these concepts are hard to examine in children using only a qualitative or quantitative research paradigm. Mixed methods research (MMR) offers creative and unique ways to study complex research questions in children and their families.

RECENT FINDINGS

A focused, methodological literature review revealed 20 empirical mixed methods research (MMR) studies that included children with T1D and/or their parents/caregivers. These studies were examined and synthesized to elicit themes and trends in MMR. Main themes that emerged included disease management, evaluation of interventions, and support. There were multiple inconsistencies between studies when reporting MMR definitions, rationales, and design. Limited studies use MMR approaches to examine concepts related to children with T1D. Findings from future MMR studies, especially ones that use child-report, may illuminate ways to improve disease management and lead to better glycemic levels and health outcomes.

Endocrine Health and Health Care Disparities in the Pediatric and Sexual and Gender Minority Populations: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement

Endocrine care of pediatric and adult patients continues to be plagued by health and health care disparities that are perpetuated by the basic structures of our health systems and research modalities, as well as policies that impact access to care and social determinants of health. This scientific statement expands the Society's 2012 statement by focusing on endocrine disease disparities in the pediatric population and sexual and gender minority populations. These include pediatric and adult lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA) persons. The writing group focused on highly prevalent conditions-growth disorders, puberty, metabolic bone disease, type 1 (T1D) and type 2 (T2D) diabetes mellitus, prediabetes, and obesity. Several important findings emerged. Compared with females and non-White children, non-Hispanic White males are more likely to come to medical attention for short stature. Racially and ethnically diverse populations and males are underrepresented in studies of pubertal development and attainment of peak bone mass, with current norms based on European populations. Like adults, racial and ethnic minority youth suffer a higher burden of disease from obesity, T1D and T2D, and have less access to diabetes treatment technologies and bariatric surgery. LGBTQIA youth and adults also face discrimination and multiple barriers to endocrine care due to pathologizing sexual orientation and gender identity, lack of culturally competent care providers, and policies. Multilevel interventions to address these disparities are required. Inclusion of racial, ethnic, and LGBTQIA populations in longitudinal life course studies is needed to assess growth, puberty, and attainment of peak bone mass. Growth and development charts may need to be adapted to non-European populations. In addition, extension of these studies will be required to understand the clinical and physiologic consequences of interventions to address abnormal development in these populations. Health policies should be recrafted to remove barriers in care for children with obesity and/or diabetes and for LGBTQIA children and adults to facilitate comprehensive access to care, therapeutics, and technological advances. Public health interventions encompassing collection of accurate demographic and social needs data, including the intersection of social determinants of health with health outcomes, and enactment of population health level interventions will be essential tools.

Importance of caregivers' subjective social status and neighbourhood disadvantage for adolescents with type 1 diabetes

AIMS

Adolescents with type 1 diabetes from low-income populations are more likely to have difficulty in managing their diabetes and ultimately have poorer glycaemic outcomes, but less is known about neighbourhood-level factors or subjective social status (SSS) as risk/protective factors. We examined associations between multiple indicators of socio-economic status with diabetes outcomes.

METHODS

One hundred and ninety-eight adolescents ages 13-17 (58% female, 58% White, non-Hispanic) experiencing moderate diabetes distress completed measures of diabetes management and diabetes distress, and their caregivers reported on SSS. Glycaemic indicators were extracted from medical records, and participants' addresses were used to determine area deprivation index (ADI).

RESULTS

Higher levels of neighbourhood disadvantage were significantly associated with higher haemoglobin A1c levels and average glucose levels, but caregivers' SSS was more strongly associated with all glycaemic indicators, diabetes management and diabetes distress.

CONCLUSIONS

Given strong associations between caregivers' SSS and glycaemic control, diabetes management, and diabetes distress, screening for caregivers' SSS may identify adolescents who would benefit from additional support.

Family Interviews Inform School-based Nursing for Children with Type 1 Diabetes and their Families

The purpose of this study was to better understand the burden(s) associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) on school-aged youth and families and subsequently identify strategies school nurses can adopt to reduce the impact of this disease. Family interviews (n = 5 families, comprised of 15 individual participants) were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide to further explore family members' experiences with T1DM. Directed content analysis was employed for theme identification. Themes reflect individual and family struggles, the importance of teamwork within families, navigating barriers, and facing uncertainty. Select themes provided the impetus for the development of a school-based program directed toward youth and families with T1DM. Plans include developing educational content plus therapeutic conversations with a focus on communication, care coordination, cognition, problem-solving, and strength-building. An emphasis will be placed on participant-directed program content with peer support for youth with T1DM and family members.

Center differences in diabetes treatment outcomes among children with type 1 diabetes: A nationwide study of 3866 Danish children

OBJECTIVE

Mean differences in HbA_1c across centers are well established, but less well understood. The aim was to assess whether differences in patient case-mix can explain the variation in mean HbA_1c between pediatric diabetes centers in Denmark. The association between HbA_1c , frequency of blood glucose monitoring (BGM), treatment modality, and center visits was investigated.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This longitudinal nationwide study included 3866 Danish children with type 1 diabetes from 2013 to 2017 (n = 12,708 child-year observations) from 16 different pediatric diabetes centers. Mean HbA_1c , proportion of children reaching HbA_1c treatment target (HbA_1c  ≤ 58 mmol/mol [7.5%]) were compared across centers using linear regression models. This was done with and without adjustment for socioeconomic characteristics (patient case-mix).

RESULTS

The mean difference in HbA_1c during follow-up was 11.6 mmol/mol (95% CI 7.9, 15.3) (1.1% [95% CI 0.7, 1.4]) when comparing the centers with the lowest versus highest mean HbA_1c . The difference was attenuated and remained significant after adjustment for the patient case-mix (difference: 10.5 mmol/mol [95% CI 6.8, 14.2] (1.0% [95% CI 0.6, 1.3])). Overall, 6.8% of the differences in mean HbA_1c across centers were explained by differences in the patient case-mix. Across centers, more frequent BGM was associated with lower HbA_1c . The proportion of insulin pump users and number of visits was not associated with HbA_1c .

CONCLUSION

In a setting of universal health care, large differences in HbA_1c across centers were found, and could not be explained by patient background, number of visits or use of technology. Only BGM was associated with center HbA_1c .

Outcomes of a multidisciplinary transition clinic for youth with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Emerging adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) have several challenges regarding diabetes management and care transition from pediatric to adult services. In this study we aimed to assess the effectiveness of the newly established transition clinic for emerging adults with T1D.

METHODS

We conducted an observational study of emerging adults with T1D treated in a transition clinic jointly operated by a pediatric and adult multidisciplinary care team during 2019-2021. A retrospective chart review of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), frequency of clinic attendance, acute diabetes-related complications, assessment of gaps in knowledge and behavior, and psychosocial outcomes was analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 21 patients with T1D were included. Median age at the transfer to the transition clinic was 24 years (range 21-34). Fifteen patients (71%) were successfully transferred to adult services; mean duration of follow-up at the transition clinic was 9.2 months (SD 3.9). None of the patients was lost to follow-up or experienced serious diabetes related complications. Mean (95% confidence interval) HbA1c levels decreased from 8.97% (7.87-10.07) at baseline to 8.25% (7.45-9.05) at the most recent visit (p = 0.01). A proportion of patients achieving the glycemic target (HbA1c < 7.5%) was increased from 24% at the first visit to 38% at the most recent visits. Patients' HbA1c levels at the adult clinic continued a favorable trend. Seven patients (33%) were identified as having symptoms of depression. Knowledge and behavioral gaps were identified and counselled by clinical care team.

CONCLUSION

The multidisciplinary transition clinic has shown to be beneficial in terms of improving glycemic control, maintaining continuity of care and clinic attendance.

Development and validation of the self-management Barriers and Supports Evaluation for working-aged adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus

INTRODUCTION

To optimize type 1 diabetes mellitus self-management, experts recommend a person-centered approach, in which care is tailored to meet people's needs and preferences. Existing tools for tailoring type 1 diabetes mellitus education and support are limited by narrow focus, lack of strong association with meaningful outcomes like A1c, or having been developed before widespread use of modern diabetes technology. To facilitate comprehensive, effective tailoring for today's working-aged adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus, we developed and validated the Barriers and Supports Evaluation (BASES).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants 25-64 years of age with type 1 diabetes mellitus were recruited from clinics and a population-based registry. Content analysis of semistructured interviews (n=33) yielded a pool of 136 items, further refined to 70 candidate items on a 5-point Likert scale through cognitive interviewing and piloting. To develop and validate the tool, factor analyses were applied to responses to candidate items (n=392). Additional survey data included demographics and the Diabetes-Specific Quality of Life (QOL) Scale-Revised. To evaluate concurrent validity, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) values and QOL scores were regressed on domain scores.

RESULTS

Factor analyses yielded 5 domains encompassing 30 items: Learning Opportunities, Costs and Insurance, Family and Friends, Coping and Behavioral Skills, and Diabetes Provider Interactions. Models exhibited good to adequate fit (Comparative Fit Index >0.88 and Root Mean Squared Error of Approximation <0.06). All domains demonstrated significant associations with HbA1c and QOL in the expected direction, except Family and Friends. Coping and Behavioral Skills had the strongest associations with both HbA1c and QOL.

CONCLUSIONS

The BASES is a valid, comprehensive, person-centered tool that can tailor diabetes support and education to individuals' needs in a modern practice environment, improving effectiveness and uptake of services. Clinicians could use the tool to uncover patient-specific barriers that limit success in achieving HbA1c goals and optimal QOL.

Home-Monitoring Application for Children With Medical Complexity: A Feasibility Trial

OBJECTIVES

Mobile apps are suggested for supporting home monitoring and reducing emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations for children with medical complexity (CMC). None have been implemented. We sought to assess the MyChildCMC app (1) feasibility for CMC home monitoring, (2) ability to detect early deteriorations before ED and hospital admissions, and (3) preliminary impact.

METHODS

Parents of CMC (aged 1-21 years) admitted to a children's hospital were randomly assigned to MyChildCMC or usual care. MyChildCMC subjects recorded their child's vital signs and symptoms daily for 3 months postdischarge and received real-time feedback. Feasibility measures included parent's enrollment, retention, and engagement. The preliminary impact was determined by using quality of life, parent satisfaction with care, and subsequent ED and hospital admissions and hospital days.

RESULTS

A total of 62 parents and CMC were invited to participate: 50 enrolled (80.6% enrollment rate) and were randomly assigned to MyChildCMC (n = 24) or usual care (n = 26). Retention at 1 and 3 months was 80% and 74%, and engagement was 68.3% and 62.6%. Run-chart shifts in vital signs were common findings preceding admissions. The satisfaction score was 26.9 in the MyChildCMC group and 24.1 in the control group (P = .035). No quality of life or subsequent admission differences occurred between groups. The 3-month hospital days (pre-post enrollment) decreased from 9.25 to 4.54 days (rate ratio = 0.49; 95% confidence interval = 0.39-0.62; P < .001) in the MyChildCMC group and increased from 1.08 to 2.46 days (rate ratio = 2.29; 95% confidence interval = 1.47-3.56; P < .001) in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

MyChildCMC was feasible and appears effective, with the potential to detect early deteriorations in health for timely interventions that might avoid ED and hospitalizations. A larger and definitive study of MyChildCMC's impact and sustainability is needed.

Effectiveness and equity of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusions in pediatric type 1 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature

AIMS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) and non-randomized studies (NRS) to assess the effectiveness and equity of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusions (CSII) versus multiple-daily injections (MDI) on glycemic outcomes.

METHODS

Searches were conducted between 2000 and 2019 in MEDLINE, CENTRAL, EMBASE and HTA. Included studies compared the CSII vs MDI in children and young people (CYP) ≤ 20 years with type 1 diabetes. Two independent reviewers screened the articles, extracted the data, assessed the risk of bias, evaluated the quality of evidence, and identified equity data. Results were pooled with a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Of the 578 articles screened, 16 RCT (545 CYP on CSII) and 70 NRS (73253 on CSII) were included in the meta-analysis. There was moderate-level evidence that the CSII lower HbA_1c in RCT (pooled mean difference [MD]: -0.22%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.33, -0.11%; I²:34%) and insufficient in NRS (pooled MD: -0.45%; 95%CI: -0.52, -0.38%; I²:99%). The pooled incidence rate ratio of severe hypoglycemia on CSII vs MDI in RCT was 0.87 (95%CI: 0.55, 1.37; I²:0%; low-level evidence), and 0.71 (95%CI: 0.63, 0.81; I²:57%, insufficient evidence) in NRS. Health-related quality of life presented insufficient evidence. Equity data were scarcely reported.

CONCLUSIONS

CSII modestly lower HbA_1c when compared with MDI. Current literature does not provide adequate data on other glycemic outcomes. Future assessment on diabetes technology should include individual and area-level socioeconomic data. The study protocol was pre-registered in PROSPERO (CRD42018116474).

Socioeconomic position is associated with glycemic control in youth and young adults with type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Health inequities persist in youth and young adults (YYA) with type 1diabetes in achieving optimal glycemic control. The purpose of this study was to assess the contribution of multiple indicators of social need to these inequities.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Two hundred and twenty two YYA withtype 1 diabetes enrolled in the SEARCH Food Insecurity Study in South Carolina and Washington between the years 2013 and 2015 were included. Latent class analysis was used to identify socioeconomic profiles based on household income, parental education, health insurance, household food insecurity, and food assistance. Profiles were evaluated in relation to glycemic control using multivariable linear and logistic regression, with HbA1c > 9%(75 mmol/mol) defined as high-risk glycemic control.

RESULTS

Two profiles were identified: a lower socioeconomic profile included YYA whose parents had lower income and/or education, and were more likely to be uninsured, receive food assistance, and be food insecure. A higher socioeconomic profile included YYA whose circumstances were opposite to those in the lower socioeconomic profile. Those with a lower socioeconomic profile were more likely to have high-risk glycemic control relative to those with a higher socioeconomic profile (OR = 2.24, 95%CI = 1.16-4.33).

CONCLUSIONS

Lower socioeconomic profiles are associated with high-risk glycemic control among YYA with type 1 diabetes. This supports recommendations that care providers of YYA with type 1 diabetes assess individual social needs in tailoring diabetes management plans to the social context of the patient.

Stressful life events, parental psychosocial factors, and glycemic management in school-aged children during the 1 year follow-up of new-onset type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

To monitor occurrence of stressful life events, assess correlations with family functioning and parental psychosocial measures, and examine the impact of stressful life events on diabetes management in the first year after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in children using a mixed methods design.

METHODS

In a prospective study of 5- to 9-year-olds with recent-onset T1D (mean age 7.4 ± 1.3 years, T1D duration 4.7 ± 3.3 months), we monitored glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), income, job status, family health, and marital status at baseline and every 3 months up to 1 year. We measured coping, parental depression, and diabetes family conflict at baseline.

RESULTS

Of 128 families, 53.9% (n = 69) reported 1+ stressful event, with 25.8% reporting income change (n = 33) during this period, 23.4% additional family health changes (n = 30), 22.7% job changes (n = 29), 21.9% changes in child's school (n = 28), and 3.9% changes in marital status (n = 5). Baseline active avoidance coping, parental depression, and diabetes family conflict correlated with a higher number of stressful life events (r = 0.239, P < .01; r = 0.197, P < .05; r = 0.225, P < .01, respectively). There were also cross-sectional associations between HbA1c and income decrease, school change, and job change at various time points in the study.

CONCLUSIONS

Families can experience concurrent life stressors during the first year of T1D, which relate to coping, depression, and conflict. Consistent with existing literature, stressful life events relate to glycemic management. Future research should explore the individual's or parent's perception of stress and ways that diabetes centers can effectively assist families of youth with T1D and concurrent life stressors.

Executive Cognitive Functions and Behavioral Control Differentially Predict HbA1c in Type 1 Diabetes across Emerging Adulthood

OBJECTIVES

To examine the contributions of two aspects of executive functioning (executive cognitive functions and behavioral control) to changes in diabetes management across emerging adulthood.

METHODS

Two hundred and forty-seven high school seniors with type 1 diabetes were assessed at baseline and followed up for 3 years. The baseline assessment battery included performance-based measures of executive cognitive functions, behavioral control, IQ estimate (IQ-est), and psychomotor speed; self-report of adherence to diabetes regimen; and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) assay kits as a reflection of glycemic control.

RESULTS

Linear and quadratic growth curve models were used to simultaneously examine baseline performance on four cognitive variables (executive cognitive functions, behavioral control, IQ, and psychomotor speed) as predictors of indices of diabetes management (HbA1c and adherence) across four time points. Additionally, general linear regressions examined relative contributions of each cognitive variable at individual time points. The results showed that higher behavioral control at baseline was related to lower (better) HbA1c levels across all four time points. In contrast, executive cognitive functions at baseline were related to HbA1c trajectories, accounting for increasingly more HbA1c variance over time with increasing transition to independence. IQ-est was not related to HbA1c levels or changes over time, but accounted instead for HbA1c variance at baseline (while teens were still living at home), above and beyond all other variables. Cognition was unrelated to adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

Different aspects of cognition play a different role in diabetes management at different time points during emerging adulthood years.

Emerging practices supporting diabetes self-management among food insecure adults and families: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Food insecurity undermines a patient's ability to follow diabetes self-management recommendations. Care providers need strategies to direct their support of diabetes management among food insecure patients and families.

OBJECTIVE

To identify what emerging practices health care providers can relay to patients or operationalize to best support diabetes self-management among food insecure adults and families.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Food insecure populations with diabetes (type 1, type 2, prediabetes, gestational diabetes) and provided diabetes management practices specifically for food insecure populations. Only studies in English were considered. In total, 21 articles were reviewed.

SOURCES OF EVIDENCE

Seven databases: Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Medline, ProQuest Nursing & Allied Health Database, PsychInfo, Scopus, and Web of Science.

RESULTS

Emerging practices identified through this review include screening for food insecurity as a first step, followed by tailoring nutrition counseling, preventing hypoglycemia through managing medications, referring patients to professional and community resources, building supportive care provider-patient relationships, developing constructive coping strategies, and decreasing tobacco smoking.

CONCLUSION

Emerging practices identified in our review include screening for food insecurity, nutrition counselling, tailoring management plans through medication adjustments, referring to local resources, improving care provider-patient relationship, promoting healthy coping strategies, and decreasing tobacco use. These strategies can help care providers better support food insecure populations with diabetes. However, some strategies require further evaluation to enhance understanding of their benefits, particularly in food insecure individuals with gestational and prediabetes, as no studies were identified in these populations. A major limitation of this review is the lack of global representation considering no studies outside of North America satisfied our inclusion criteria, due in part to the English language restriction.

Psychosocial Interventions for Emergent Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: Near-Empty Systematic Review and Exploratory Meta-Analysis

Risk for developing mental health concerns is increased for people with diabetes. Coupled with stressors related to the transition from adolescence to adulthood, emergent adults may be in greater need of psychosocial interventions to help them cope. This review summarizes the literature on interventions used with people with diabetes aged 15-30 years on psychosocial and biological (A1C) outcomes. Core databases were searched for both published and grey research. Studies completed between January 1985 and October 2018 using any psychosocial intervention and meeting age and diabetes type requirements were selected if they included a control or comparison group and findings reported in such a way that effect size was calculable. Two authors independently extracted relevant data using standard data extraction templates. Six studies with 450 participants met the broad inclusion criteria. Sample-weighted pooling of 12 outcomes, six each on glycemic control and psychosocial status, suggested the preventive potential (d = 0.31, 95% CI 0.17-0.45) and homogeneity (χ² [11] = 11.15, P = 0.43) of studied interventions. This preliminary meta-analysis provides some suggestion that psychosocial interventions, including telephone-based case management, individualized treatment modules, and small-group counseling interventions, may diminish burden, depression, and anxiety and enhance glycemic control among emerging adults with type 1 diabetes as they transition from adolescence to adulthood.

Socioeconomic Inequality in Metabolic Control Among Children With Type 1 Diabetes: A Nationwide Longitudinal Study of 4,079 Danish Children

OBJECTIVE

To examine inequality in glycemic control by maternal educational level among children with type 1 diabetes in a setting with universal access to health care.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a longitudinal nationwide study of 4,079 Danish children with type 1 diabetes between the years 2000 and 2013. Children were divided into four groups based on mothers' education prebirth (≤high school [n = 1,643], vocational or 2-year college [n = 1,548], bachelor's degree [n = 695], ≥master's degree [n = 193]). Means of socioeconomic and treatment characteristics were compared between groups. HbA_1c and the number of daily glucose tests were compared repeatedly from onset until 5 years after onset across groups. HbA_1c was compared across daily blood glucose testing frequency and groups. Linear regression was used to compare HbA_1c across groups with and without adjustment for socioeconomic and treatment characteristics.

RESULTS

Large differences in HbA_1c across maternal education were found. The mean level of HbA_1c during follow-up was 59.7 mmol/mol (7.6%) for children of mothers with ≥master's degrees and 68.7 mmol/mol (8.4%) for children of mothers with ≤high school (difference: 9.0 mmol/mol [95% CI 7.5, 10.6]; 0.8% [95% CI 0.7, 1.0]). The associations were attenuated but remained significant after adjustment. Observable characteristics explained 41.2% of the difference in HbA_1c between children of mothers with ≤high school and mothers with ≥master's degree; 22.5% of the difference was explained by more frequent blood glucose monitoring among the children with the highly educated mothers.

CONCLUSIONS

Family background is significantly related to outcomes for children with type 1 diabetes, even with universal access to health care.

Influence of socioeconomic and psychological factors in glycemic control in young children with type 1 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the influence of socioeconomic and psychological factors on glycemic control in young children with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study assessing prepubertal children with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The authors analyzed the socioeconomic status using the Brazil Economic Classification Criterion (Critério de Classificação Econômica Brasil [CCEB]) and psychological conditions through the Brazilian version of the Problem Areas in Diabetes, associated with glycemic control, measured by glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Descriptive analysis was used. The variables were assessed by bivariate and multivariate robust Poisson regression model, as well as Fisher's exact and Pearson's chi-squared tests to obtain the ratios of gross and adjusted prevalence ratio, with confidence interval being estimated at 95%.

RESULTS

A total of 68 children with type 1 diabetes mellitus were included in the study. A negative association between glycemic control (glycated hemoglobin levels), socioeconomic status (Brazil Economic Classification Criterion), and psychological condition (Brazilian version of the Problem Areas in Diabetes) was observed. Among the study participants, 73.5% (n=50) of the children had an unfavorable socioeconomic status; these participants were 1.4 times more likely to present altered glycated hemoglobin values. In relation to individuals with compromised psychological status, 26 (38.2%) had a score above 70, thus being classified with psychological stress; these children were 1.68 times more likely (95% confidence interval: 1.101, 1.301) to have higher glycated hemoglobin levels.

CONCLUSIONS

The socioeconomic conditions and psychological characteristics of the study participants were negatively associated with glycated hemoglobin results. These data reinforce the importance of the studied variables as predictors of glycemic control.

"Anxiety and Type 1 diabetes are like cousins": The experience of anxiety symptoms in youth with Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is one of the most common chronic health conditions in youth in the United States, and its incidence is rising worldwide. Youth with T1D are at a high risk of psychological comorbidity, for example, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. Psychological comorbidities, especially anxiety symptoms, have been correlated with poorer diabetes outcomes, but anxiety symptoms have not been well studied in these youth. The primary aim of this study was to describe the experience of anxiety symptoms in youth with T1D, especially as those symptoms relate to diabetes self-management tasks. We used a qualitative descriptive approach, consisting of an in-depth, semi-structured interview comprising 10 open-ended questions with follow-up probes. The analysis was guided by the principles of thematic analysis. Demographic data, Hemoglobin A1c levels, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children survey data were also collected and analyzed. We identified four themes and seven sub-themes. Participants (n = 29, ages 10-16, 55% female) reported that T1D was an extra layer of responsibility that took time away from their ability to participate fully in other aspects of their lives. Some participants were able to integrate diabetes management into their lives, while others were not. Some participants were dependent on parents and the school nurse for diabetes management. Participants described two types of anxiety symptoms, general and diabetes-specific, and they noted that their experience of anxiety was associated with poor quality sleep, general lifestyle factors, and diabetes.

Health-risk Behaviors and Type 1 Diabetes Outcomes in the Transition from Late Adolescence to Early Emerging Adulthood

This study examined within- and between-person associations between health-risk behaviors (smoking, drinking, insulin withholding) and type 1 diabetes (T1D) outcomes (adherence and HbA1c) during the high-risk transition from late adolescence to early emerging adulthood utilizing a 2-year longitudinal study. Beginning in the senior year of high school, participants (n = 197) with T1D completed measures of health-risk behaviors, adherence, and HbA1c annually at three time points. Health-risk behaviors were associated with poorer diabetes outcomes during the transition from late adolescence to early emerging adulthood. These results highlight the importance of monitoring health-risk behaviors regularly and intervening to reduce health-risk behaviors during this important developmental transition.

Multi-informant path models of the influence of psychosocial and treatment-related variables on adherence and metabolic control in adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus

Background

We assessed the associations between metabolic control and adherence and a broad range of adolescent and family characteristics (e.g., gender, family structure), treatment-related variables (e.g., disease duration, treatment modality), and psychosocial factors (e.g., symptoms of depression and anxiety, parental support, self-efficacy) in a nationwide study of Danish adolescents (age 12–17 years) with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

Methods

Sixty-four percent of invited families participated by completing a survey and providing a blood sample. Two path models of associations between generic and diabetes-related family factors, adolescent self-efficacy, emotional difficulties, and metabolic control and adherence were tested, one for adolescents and one for caregivers. Demographic variables were included as covariates.

Results

Both path models demonstrated a satisfying model fit. In both models, metabolic control was associated with adherence, age, and T1DM duration. In the adolescent model, metabolic control was also related to treatment modality, single-parent household, caregiver non-support, and anxiety, whereas in the caregiver model metabolic control was associated with family conflict and caregiver support. In both models, adherence was related to age, duration, treatment modality, family conflict, caregiver support, family functioning, and emotional difficulties of the adolescent. In the adolescent model, adherence was also related to adolescent self-efficacy, whereas in the caregiver model adherence was associated with adolescent gender and caregiver non-support and support. Adolescent self-efficacy, emotional well-being, and difficulties related to adolescent/caregiver interaction appeared to be particularly important, as indicated by their stronger association with adherence and/or metabolic control.

Conclusion

The results highlight the value of applying a multi-informant approach to address the psychosocial well-being of adolescents with diabetes in a large national sample. Self-efficacy, emotional, and family-related difficulties are important aspects to address in both clinical care and future research regarding adolescents with T1DM.

Effect of Socioeconomic Status and Ethnicity on Glycemic Control in Arab and Jewish Youth with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVES

Research and theory suggests that socioeconomic status may affect diabetes control. We investigated the effect of socioeconomic status and ethnicity on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in Arab and Jewish children with type 1 diabetes mellitus in northern Israel.

METHODS

Data were collected from medical records of 80 Arab and 119 Jewish children attending a pediatric diabetes clinic in a tertiary health care center. Multivariate regression analysis was used to assess factors independently affecting HbA1c level.

RESULTS

Mean age was 12.9±4.7 years. Arab families had more children compared to Jewish families (3.7±1.5 versus 2.9±1.2, respectively, P=0.0007). Academic education was significantly less common in Arab families (25% versus 66.2%, respectively, P=0.0001). Income of Jewish parents was significantly higher compared to that of Arab parents (7,868±2,018 versus 5,129±906 NIS/month, respectively, P=0.0001). Mean age at diagnosis of diabetes was 9.6±4.6 years and disease duration was 3.4±2.3 years in both groups. Half of Arab and Jewish children were treated with multiple insulin injections and half with insulin pumps. Mean number of self-glucose testing/day was higher in Jewish children than in Arab children (4.7±2.5 versus 4.0±1.5, respectively, P=0.033). Mean HbA1c was above recommendations, 9.5% (12.6 mmol/L) in Arab children and 8.7% (11.3 mmol/L) in Jewish children (P=0.004). In multivariate analysis, disease duration (P=0.010) and ethnicity (P=0.034 for Arabs versus Jews) were independently associated with HbA1c.

CONCLUSIONS

Both Arab and Jewish children failed to meet HbA1c goals, but this effect was significantly greater for Arabs. Ethnicity remained a predictor of failure even following adjustment for potential confounders.

Factors associated with glycemic control in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus at a tertiary-care center in Thailand: a retrospective observational study

Background

Children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D), even those with intensive insulin treatment regimens, often have higher glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels than adults.

Objective

To delineate the medical and psychosocial factors associated with glycemic control in an unselected pediatric population with T1D.

Methods

We included a cross-section of 58 adolescents (28 boys and 30 girls) aged 13.6 ± 4.0 years with T1D ≥1 year attending a well-established pediatric diabetes clinic in Thailand. Median diabetes duration was 4.1 years (range 1–18 years). Participants were divided into 2 subgroups according to their average HbA1c level over the past year. Those with good control (HbA1c <8%) (n = 13) were compared with those with poor control (HbA1c ≥8%) (n = 45). Data collected from self-report standardized questionnaires and medical records were used to compare variables between groups.

Results

Adolescents with good control used significantly less daily insulin and had higher family income, higher scores for family support, and quality of life (QoL) than those in the group with poor control (P < 0.05). Age, sex, puberty, duration of diabetes, insulin regimen, frequency of blood glucose monitoring, and self-report adherence did not differ between groups. By univariate logistic regression, the only factor associated significantly with poor glycemic control was a QoL score <25.

Conclusion

Adolescents with T1D may be at a higher risk of poor glycemic control if they have poor QoL, impaired family functioning, poor coping skills, and lower socioeconomic status, suggesting that psychosocial interventions could potentially improve glycemic control in this population.

General and diabetes-specific stress in adolescents with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is one of the most common chronic health conditions in adolescents in the United States. Adherence to the recommended treatment regimen has been reported as a source of stress for adolescents.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to examine the associations among general and diabetes-specific stress and glycemic control (HbA1c), self-management, and diabetes-specific quality of life (QOL) in adolescents with T1D.

METHODS

A secondary analysis of baseline data (N=320) from a randomized controlled trial was conducted. Adolescents completed validated measures of general and diabetes-specific stress, self-management, and diabetes-specific QOL. HbA1c levels were obtained from medical records.

RESULTS

Over 50% of the sample scored at or above criteria for high general and diabetes-specific stress. Higher general and diabetes-specific stress was significantly associated with higher HbA1c, poorer self-management activities, and lower diabetes-specific QOL. Diabetes-specific stress accounted for a significant proportion of the variance in HbA1c, while general stress did not. General and diabetes-specific stress accounted for 40% of the variance in diabetes-specific QOL.

CONCLUSIONS

General and diabetes-specific stress are common in adolescents with T1D. Healthcare providers must be mindful of the sources of stress that adolescents with T1D face on a daily basis. General stress and diabetes-specific stress should be differentiated and may require different interventions to improve coping and outcomes.

Impact of neighbourhood-level inequity on paediatric diabetes care

AIMS

To evaluate the association between neighbourhood-level inequity and glycaemic control in paediatric participants with Type 1 diabetes using the Neighbourhood Equity Index (NEI).

METHODS

The NEI was linked to the clinical data of 519 children with diabetes followed at the Hospital for Sick Children (Toronto, Canada). The NEI is a composite measure of inequity developed using the World Health Organization's Urban Health Equity Assessment and Response Tool (HEART), which encompasses 15 weighted indicators evaluating economic, social, environmental and lifestyle factors. The geographic distribution of participants was determined using postal codes, and the relationship between HbA_1c and NEI was evaluated using regression and spatial analysis techniques.

RESULTS

Participants' mean HbA_1c was significantly correlated with NEI (R = -0.24, P < 0.0001). Regression analysis demonstrated that NEI was a strong predictor of mean HbA_1c (P < 0.0001), accounting for differences in HbA_1c as large as 1.0% (11 mmol/mol) when controlled for age, sex, diabetes duration, insulin pump therapy and number of annual clinic visits. Geo-mapping using spatial scan testing revealed the presence of two clusters of low-equity neighbourhoods containing 3.22 (P = 0.001) and 2.83 (P = 0.02) times more participants with HbA_1c ≥ 9.5% (80 mmol/mol) than expected.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrated that NEI was a significant predictor of HbA_1c in our clinic population and a useful tool for investigating spatial trends related to inequities in health, providing evidence that a composite, area-based measure of overall inequity is well suited to the study of glycaemic control in urban paediatric Type 1 diabetes populations.

Insulin pump use and discontinuation in children and teens: a population-based cohort study in Ontario, Canada

OBJECTIVE

To describe insulin pump use by youth since introduction of universal funding in Ontario, Canada and to explore the relationship between pump use and pediatric diabetes center characteristics and the relationship between discontinuation and center and patient characteristics.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Observational, population-based cohort study of youth with type 1 diabetes (<19 yr) who received pump funding from 2006 to 2013 (n = 3700). We linked 2012 survey data from 33 pediatric diabetes centers to health administrative databases. We tested the relationship between center-level pump uptake and center characteristics (center type, physician model, and availability of 24-h support) using an adjusted negative binomial model; we studied center- and patient-level factors (socioeconomic status and baseline glycemic control) associated with discontinuation using a Cox proportional hazards model with generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS

Pump users were more likely to be in the highest income quintile than non-pump users (29.6 vs. 19.1%, p < 0.0001). In 2012, mean percent pump use was 38.0% with variability across centers. There was no association between uptake and center characteristics. Discontinuation was low (0.42/100 person-yr) and was associated with being followed at a small community center [hazard ratio (HR): 2.24 (1.05-4.76)] and being more deprived [HR: 2.36 (1.14-1.48)]. Older age was associated with a lower rate of discontinuation [HR: 0.31 (0.14-0.66)].

CONCLUSIONS

Rates of pump use have increased since 2006 and discontinuation is rare. Large variation in uptake across centers was not explained by the factors we examined but may reflect variation in patient populations or practice patterns, and should be further explored.

Low socioeconomic status is associated with adverse events in children and teens on insulin pumps under a universal access program: a population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To describe adverse events in pediatric insulin pump users since universal funding in Ontario and to explore the role of socioeconomic status and 24-hour support.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Population-based cohort study of youth (<19 years) with type 1 diabetes (n=3193) under a universal access program in Ontario, Canada, from 2006 to 2013. We linked 2012 survey data from 33 pediatric diabetes centers to health administrative databases. The relationship between patient and center-level characteristics and time to first diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) admission or death was tested using a Cox proportional hazards model and the rate of diabetes-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations with a Poisson model, both using generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS

The rate of DKA was 5.28/100 person-years and mortality 0.033/100 person-years. Compared with the least deprived quintile, the risk of DKA or death for those in the most deprived quintile was significantly higher (HR 1.58, 95% CI 1.05 to 2.38) as was the rate of diabetes-related acute care use (RR 1.60, 95% CI 1.27 to 2.00). 24-hour support was not associated with these outcomes. Higher glycated hemoglobin, prior DKA, older age, and higher nursing patient load were associated with a higher risk of DKA or death.

CONCLUSIONS

The safety profile of pump therapy in the context of universal funding is similar to other jurisdictions and unrelated to 24-hour support. Several factors including higher deprivation were associated with an increased risk of adverse events and could be used to inform the design of interventions aimed at preventing poor outcomes in high-risk individuals.