Determinants of quality of life in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes

The effect of socioeconomic status, depression, and diabetes symptoms severity on diabetes patient's life satisfaction in India

Evidence suggests that diabetes is on the rise in India, affecting many people's life satisfaction. Comprehensive estimation of life satisfaction among diabetes patients does not exist in the country. This study examined the effects of socioeconomic status, depression, and diabetes symptoms severity on the life satisfaction of diabetes patients by controlling various demographic variables. It was a cross-sectional study comprising 583 diabetes patients from Punjab, India. Patients were interviewed using a multi-stage purposeful random sampling method. Descriptive analysis and partial least squares structural equation modelling were used in the study to test the hypotheses. Results revealed that socioeconomic status, depression and diabetes symptoms severity significantly influence the life satisfaction of diabetes patients. A 1% drop in diabetes symptoms severity corresponds to a 0.849% increase in life satisfaction, whereas a 1% decrease in depression results in a 0.898% increase in life satisfaction. Patients with higher diabetes symptoms severity were coping with common mental disorders. Women reported higher diabetes symptoms severity and depression than men, resulting in lower life satisfaction. An experimental evaluation of the effects of socioeconomic status, depression and diabetes symptoms severity, and numerous demographic factors on life satisfaction was reported. The findings will help policymakers understand the problem associated with life satisfaction among diabetes patients in the country.

Assessment and Factors Contributing to the Quality of Life in Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Cross-Sectional Single-Center Study

Introduction Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common chronic illnesses worldwide, with its prevalence rising rapidly every year. This condition adversely affects vasculature, leading to several potentially devastating complications like cerebrovascular mishaps, myocardial infarction, retinal damage, and renal compromise. These sequelae could lead to serious disabilities and negatively impact quality of life (QoL). Objectives This study aims to assess the QoL of adult diabetic patients in Saudi Arabia and determine influencing socio-demographic factors. Methods This is a cross-sectional study targeting adult diabetic patients visiting the Imam Medical Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from October 2022 to June 2023. The study encompasses diabetic patients of both genders aged 18 or more but excludes those diagnosed recently, i.e., within less than one year. A validated Arabic questionnaire, available online, was used to assess the QoL of the diabetic patients enrolled in this study. The sample size was 244 adult diabetic patients recruited from the Imam Medical Center through their official social media sites. Results The cohort of 244 patients recruited in this study were mostly aged between 18 and 30 (44.7%), females (52.5%), and married (47.5%). Furthermore, 58.6% of the participants were found to hold a bachelor's degree, 48.8% were employed, and 36.1% earned less than 5000 Saudi riyals each month. Of the total patients, 36.5% were diagnosed with diabetes 1-5 years ago, while 30.5% were diagnosed 5-10 years ago. Type 1 diabetes afflicted 48.4% of participants, whereas 47.1% were affected by type 2 diabetes. It was also determined that type 2 diabetic patients have higher overall QoL scores than type 1 diabetic patients. QoL had a high mean score of 22.05±4.4. The psychological/spiritual domain has the greatest mean score of 24.06±5.4, while the social and economic domain has the lowest (20.58±4.6). The majority of participants (71.3%) did not have other chronic conditions, whereas hypertension (18%) is the prevalent comorbidity, followed by respiratory ailments (7.4%) and cardiovascular disease (3.3%). Furthermore, people with hypertension had a higher total QoL and four life domain scores than those with cardiovascular and respiratory disorders. Conclusion The relevance of the findings is that it could aid health practitioners in developing techniques to encourage patients to undertake self-care to improve physiological management of the condition and reduce complications.

Diabetes causal attributions: Pathways to stigma and health

This study investigates the relationships among causal attributions, internalized stigma, and self-blame, along with downstream health and life satisfaction consequences for individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Data were analyzed from the Diabetes, Identity, Attributions, and Health study. Participants diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes (N=363) were included in the analysis. Results indicated that the relationship between causal attributions and stigmatization was moderated by diabetes type. Path analyses, one for each diabetes type, revealed overall patterns linking causal attributions to internalized stigma and to self-blame, which were linked to ratings of reduced self-care, increased symptoms, and reduced life satisfaction. However, the specific paths diverged by diabetes type in important ways. Whereas higher genetic causal attributions were associated with more self-blame and stigmatization for type 1 diabetes, these attributions were associated with less self-blame and stigmatization for type 2 diabetes. The current work demonstrates the importance of causal attributions to overall health and illustrates how even in conditions with genetic attributions that are similar in magnitude, affected individuals may attach very different meaning to those attributions.

Quality of life in men with Klinefelter syndrome: a multicentre study

Background

Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is associated with an increased risk of lower socioeconomic status and a higher risk for morbidity and mortality, which may have a significant impact on quality of life (QOL). The objective of this study is to investigate QOL in a large European cohort of men with KS.

Design

Cross-sectional multicentre study.

Methods

Two-hundred-eighteen men with KS were recruited from 14 clinical study centres in 6 European countries which participated in the European dsd-LIFE study. Male normative data from a healthy and a psychiatric reference population were used for comparison. The validated World Health Organization (WHO) QOL (WHOQOL)-BREF questionnaire was used to investigate five main domains of quality of life (WHOQOL): global, physical, psychological, environment, and social.

Results

The QOL physical domain score was lower for men with KS compared to the healthy reference population (KS: 66.9; s.d. 19.4, n = 193; healthy reference population: 76.5; s.d. 16.2, n = 1324, P < 0.001) but higher compared to the psychiatric reference population (54.6; s.d. 20.6; n = 77, P < 0.001). The WHOQOL-psychological domain score was lower for men with KS compared to the healthy reference population (KS: 63.6; s.d. 17.8, n = 193; healthy reference population: 67.8; s.d. 15.6, n = 1324, P < 0.05) but higher compared to the psychiatric reference population (45.9; s.d. 26.0), n = 77, P < 0.001). The social domain score on the WHOQOL questionnaire was found to be lower in men with Klinefelter syndrome (KS) compared to the healthy reference population (KS: 60.0; s.d. 21.6, n = 193; healthy reference population: 68.2; s.d. 13.8, n = 1324, P < 0.001). However, this score was similar to that of the psychiatric reference population (61.0; s.d. 17.0, n = 77, P = 0.5). The WHO environment domain score of men with KS (70.0; s.d. 15.0, n = 193) was similar to the healthy reference population (70.5; s.d. 20.7, n = 1324) but higher compared to the psychiatric reference population (61.9; s.d. 20.8, n = 77, P = 0.002). Experienced discrimination, less social activities, and the presence of chronic health problems were associated with significantly decreased QOL in men with KS.

Conclusion

Overall QOL in European men with KS is significantly worse compared to a healthy European reference population. Especially, the presence of discrimination, less social activities, and chronic health problems is associated with lower physical, psychological, and social QOL. Further studies are necessary to investigate if a multidisciplinary approach may help to provide adequate counselling and psychosocial support to improve QOL.

Health-Related Quality of Life Assessment in Older Patients with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Type 1 (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are determinants of health-related outcomes including health-related quality of life (HRQOL). We aimed to determine differences in HRQOL between older adults with T1D and T2D and specific factors influencing HRQOL in this age group. This study used a cross-sectional design with 56 age- and HbA1c-matched T1D and T2D patients (aged 68.9 ± 7.8 years; 55% had T2D). We employed several validated questionnaires (Short Form-36 (SF-36) and the EuroQol-5 Dimensions/Visual Analog Scale (VAS)) to investigate the relationships between HRQOL domains and diabetes type, glycemic control, complications, and comorbidities. T1D was associated with better self-reported general health (assessed with the SF-36 general health domain (p = 0.048) and the EuroQol-5 VAS (p = 0.002), whereas no significant differences in the other SF-36 domains, self-reported diabetes distress, anxiety, or depression were found. Most HRQOL domains were not associated with HbA1c or the presence of diabetes complications. The most significant reduction in HRQOL was experienced by patients with higher BMIs, irrespective of the diabetes type. The obtained HRQOL data could be used in clinical settings for evidence-based patient education focused on specific subgroups of patients, as well as in national healthcare policies, e.g., interventions designed to alleviate obesity.

An Overview of Diet and Physical Activity for Healthy Weight in Adolescents and Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: Lessons Learned from the ACT1ON Consortium

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in young people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) now parallels that of the general population. Excess adiposity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is already elevated up to 10-fold in T1D, underscoring a compelling need to address weight management as part of routine T1D care. Sustainable weight management requires both diet and physical activity (PA). Diet and PA approaches must be optimized towards the underlying metabolic and behavioral challenges unique to T1D to support glycemic control throughout the day. Diet strategies for people with T1D need to take into consideration glycemic management, metabolic status, clinical goals, personal preferences, and sociocultural considerations. A major barrier to weight management in this high-risk population is the challenge of integrating regular PA with day-to-day management of T1D. Specifically, exercise poses a substantial challenge due to the increased risk of hypoglycemia and/or hyperglycemia. Indeed, about two-thirds of individuals with T1D do not engage in the recommended amount of PA. Hypoglycemia presents a serious health risk, yet prevention and treatment often necessitates the consumption of additional calories, which may prohibit weight loss over time. Exercising safely is a concern and challenge with weight management and maintaining cardiometabolic health for individuals living with T1D and many healthcare professionals. Thus, a tremendous opportunity exists to improve exercise participation and cardiometabolic outcomes in this population. This article will review dietary strategies, the role of combined PA and diet for weight management, current resources for PA and glucose management, barriers to PA adherence in adults with T1D, as well as findings and lessons learned from the Advancing Care for Type 1 Diabetes and Obesity Network (ACT1ON).

Relationship between social determinants of health and quality of life in low income adults with diabetes in Lebanon

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

Global rates of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are increasing, with the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region having the second highest prevalence in the world. Populations from the MENA region, including Lebanon, are also witnessing massive waves of immigration to the western hemisphere. Limited data exist about how social determinants of health (SDOH) impact outcomes for T2DM in this population. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the relationship between SDOH and quality of life (QoL) in Lebanese adults with T2DM.

METHODS

Adults with T2DM (n = 300) were recruited from primary healthcare centers in Lebanon. Demographic characteristics and WHO QoL domains (physical health, psychological wellbeing, social relationships, and environment) were assessed. SDOH included socioeconomic, neighborhood/built environment, and psychosocial variables. Partially and fully adjusted regression models were used to test for associations between SDOH and QoL domains.

RESULTS

Mean age of the participants was 60.3 years, 48% were women, 73% were married, and 64% had less than high-school education. Results from the fully adjusted regression models showed that psychosocial (i.e. adverse childhood experiences and depression), socioeconomic (i.e. employment, income, family size, insurance, financial status, and financial independence), and neighborhood/built environment (i.e. transportation, number of rooms in the household, and certain household items) variables were independent correlates of different QoL domains.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that psychosocial, socioeconomic, and neighborhood/built environment variables are differentially associated with different QoL domains, suggesting that SDOH factors are strongly associated with quality of life in low-income adults with T2DM in Lebanon.

Cumulative socioeconomic status and incident type 2 diabetes among African American adults from the Jackson heart study

Background

The cumulative socioeconomic status (SES) model posits that childhood and adult experiences accumulate to influence disease risk. While individual SES indicators such as education and income are independently associated with incident type 2 diabetes (T2D), the association of cumulative SES and incident T2D is unclear, especially in African American adults.

Methods

We utilized cohort data of African American participants (n = 3681, mean age 52.6 years) enrolled in the Jackson Heart Study from 2000 to 2013 free of T2D or cardiovascular disease at baseline (2000-2004). Cumulative SES scores at baseline were derived using six SES indicators (education, wealth, income, occupation, employment status, and mother's education) categorized as low, middle, and high. Incident T2D was defined at exam 2 (2005-2008) or exam 3 (2009-2013) based on fasting glucose ≥126 mg/dL, HbA1c ≥ 6.5, reported diabetic medication use, or self-reported physician diagnosis. Proportional hazards regression, allowing for interval censoring, was used to estimate the association between cumulative SES and incident T2D (hazard ratio(HR), 95% confidence interval (CI)) after adjustment for covariates. Sex and age differences were tested using interaction terms.

Results

There were 544 incident T2D cases. The association between low (versus high) cumulative SES and incident T2D was not significant (HR 1.04 [95% CI 0.85, 1.28]) and did not differ by sex (p value for interaction>0.05). However, there were differences by (age p value for interaction = 0.0052 for middle-aged adults and 0.0186 for older adults). Low (versus high) cumulative SES was associated a greater hazard of incident T2D among those 20-46 years (HR 1.12 [95% CI 1.03, 1.21]), 47-59 years (HR 1.25 [95% CI 1.06, 1.47]) and those 60-93 years (HR 1.39 [95% CI 1.09, 1.78]) after adjustment for sex and family history of diabetes. Associations attenuated after adding behavioral and lifestyle risk factors.

Conclusion

The association of low cumulative SES and incident T2D differed by age, which may suggest interventionist should consider impacts of SES on T2D by age.

Health-related quality of life and its determinants among patients with diabetes mellitus: a multicentre cross-sectional study in Northwest Ethiopia

OBJECTIVES

This study assessed the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and its determinants in patients with diabetes.

DESIGN AND SETTING

An institutional-based multicentre prospective cross-sectional study design was conducted in diabetes follow-up clinics of selected hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia from April to July 2022.

PARTICIPANTS

All eligible adult patients with diabetes at the selected facilities.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

HRQoL was measured using EuroQol 5-dimensions 5-levels (EQ-5D-5L) and the EuroQol-Visual Analogue Scales (EQ-VAS) instruments. A lower EQ-5D-5L utility mean score for each dimension and/or an overall lower utility score of EQ-5D-5L and EQ-VAS scores are intended to show poor HRQoL. Linear regression analysis was used to identify the association of HRQoL and other variables.

RESULTS

Out of the 422 samples approached, 402 (95.3%) participated in the study. Most of the participants (>85%) reported having moderate-to-severe problems in all five EQ dimensions. The overall EQ-5D-5L utility and EQ-VAS scores were 0.56 (±0.11) and 56.7 (±10.1), respectively. A higher body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001), a higher number of medications (p = 0.037), a high level of blood glucose (p < 0.001), the presence of comorbidities and/or complications (p = 0.031), hypoglycaemia (p = 0.043) and taking insulin (p < 0.001) were associated with worsened HRQoL, whereas practicing self-monitoring of blood glucose (p = 0.002) and taking aspirin (p = 0.008) had a significant association with increased HRQoL.

CONCLUSION

This study concluded that the HRQoL of patients was compromised in all five measuring dimensions. The EQ-5D-5L utility and EQ-VAS scores were far lower than other findings. Clinical and medication-related variables, such as a higher BMI, a higher number of medications, the presence of comorbidities and/or complications, hypoglycaemia and insulin use were associated with poor HRQoL in patients with diabetes. As a result, interventions should be individualised and focused on determinant factors.

Long-Term Influence of Locus of Control and Quality of Life on Metabolic Profile in Elderly Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

The Locus of Control (LOC) is a mental disposition indicating the individuals' belief that disease-related outcomes are under their own control (Internal), dependent on others (External), or dependent on chance (Chance). Quality of Life (QoL) and LOC may have complex effects on self-care activities and diabetes management in subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the predictive role of LOC and QoL scores on metabolic control in elderly T2D outpatients, secondly evaluating potential gender differences.

METHODS

An extensive set of questionnaires was administered to a group of consecutive elderly T2D outpatients on oral glucose-lowering drugs attending a single diabetes center. Personal and clinical variables were analyzed at baseline (between 1 February and 31 March 2015) and after 6 years of follow-up.

RESULTS

At baseline, study participants showed an overall good metabolic control. Diabetes Specific Quality of Life (DSQoL) scores indicated an overall good QoL in both genders, with a higher DSQoL satisfaction score in women. Both genders presented higher scores in the LOC-Internal domain, with men reaching higher scores in the LOC-External domain than women. At the 6-years follow-up, subjects with baseline higher LOC-External score presented better metabolic outcome. In the regression analysis, LOC-External score was an independent predictor of good metabolic control maintenance, but this result was only statistically significant in men.

CONCLUSIONS

LOC scores may influence long-term glycemic control in elderly T2D patients on oral glucose-lowering drugs.

Stigma evaluation for diabetes and other chronic non-communicable disease patients: Development, validation and clinical use of stigma scale - The Kanden Institute Stigma Scale

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to develop a scale to evaluate disease stigma in patients with lifestyle-related chronic non-communicable diseases (LCNCDs), which we named the Kanden Institute Stigma Scale (KISS), and to consider its possible clinical application for patients with diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An initial 90 questions were drafted and categorized into six subscales according to the manifestations of stigma. The final version of the KISS was developed as a 24-item questionnaire comprising four items for each subscale.

RESULTS

A total of 539 outpatients including 452 patients with diabetes and 87 patients without diabetes were recruited. Construct validity was confirmed by assessing the correlation with previously established measures. Confirmatory factor analysis showed the KISS to have good model fitness (adjusted goodness-of-fit index = 0.856). Test-retest reproducibility analysis showed that the intraclass coefficient of the first and a second KISS was 0.843 (P < 0.001), indicating excellent reproducibility. The KISS showed higher scores for patients with diabetes than for patients without diabetes (12.23 ± 0.49 vs 5.76 ± 0.73, P < 0.05). The KISS score was significantly higher in type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients taking insulin therapy than in type 2 diabetes patients not taking insulin (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The KISS is a validated and reliable questionnaire for assessment of stigma among patients with diabetes as well as other lifestyle-related chronic non-communicable diseases, and might contribute to identifying and rectifying diabetes stigma, as well promoting awareness among health care professionals of this very consequential health problem.

COVID-19 and screen-based sedentary behaviour: Systematic review of digital screen time and metabolic syndrome in adolescents

Aim

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted governments around the globe to implement various restriction policies, including lockdown, social distancing, and school closures. Subsequently, there has been a surge in sedentary behaviour particularly screen time (ST) together with a significant decline in physical activity that was more marked amongst children and adolescents. Excessive screen exposure in adolescents has been correlated with cardio-metabolic risk factors including obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol, and glucose intolerance that may have adverse morbidity and mortality implications in adulthood. Thus, the current study aimed to synthesize the literature on the relationship between ST of various types and the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in adolescents in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

In August 2021, a systematic search of the literature was undertaken using electronic databases: PubMed, PsycINFO, and the Cochran library. Studies were considered if they met the following key eligibility criteria: (i) Measure of ST as an exposure (TV, computer, videogames, internet, smartphone, tablet), using quantified duration/frequency either self-reported or observed; (ii) Measure of MetS as an outcome with standard definition and/or criteria required to establish MetS diagnosis. The Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies was used to assess the risk of bias.

Results

A total of ten studies met the inclusion criteria, and the majority were cross sectional studies. Most studies met fair bias scoring. Overall, the review revealed considerable evidence that suggests a significant negative association between ST and components of MetS among adolescents with dose-response association.

Conclusion

During the pandemic, screen usage may become more prevalent through periods of school closures, lockdowns, social isolation, and online learning classes. Public health policies and health promotion strategies targeting parents are needed to raise awareness of the adverse health effects associated with screen-based sedentary behaviour as a precursor of NCDs. Parent or home focused interventions might be effective in limiting adolescents’ screen exposure, alternatively substituted with an appropriate level of physical activity.

PROSPERO registration number

PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021272436.

Health-related quality of life of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at a tertiary care hospital in Ethiopia

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its treatment impact patients’ physical health as well as emotional and social wellbeing. This study aimed to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and associated factors among patients with T2DM at a tertiary care hospital in Ethiopia.

Methods

A face-to-face cross-sectional survey was conducted among patients with T2DM at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. We collected data using a validated Amharic version of the 5-level EuroQoL-5 dimensions (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to present patient characteristics. Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests were performed to explore differences in the median scores of EQ-5D-5L utility and visual analog scale (EQ-VAS). Multivariable Tobit regression models were used to identify predictors of HRQoL. Utility scores were calculated using disutility weights of the Ethiopian general population. Statistical significance was determined at p < 0.05.

Results

A total of 360 patients with T2DM participated. Mean (SD) age was 64.43(10.61) years. Reported health problems were mostly in the pain/discomfort (67.3%) dimension followed by mobility (60.5%), whereas the usual activities domain (34.1%) was the least health problem being reported. The median (IQR) EQ-5D-5L utility and EQ-VAS scores were 0.95 (0.88–0.96) and 80 (75.0–85.0), respectively. In multivariable Tobit regression models older age, having poor glycemic control, longer duration of diabetes, insulin usage, obesity, and having diabetes-related complications were significant negative predictors of HRQoL.

Conclusions

Overall, patients with T2DM had lower HRQoL than the general population, which was attributed to being older age, longer duration of diabetes, insulin use, obesity, inadequate glycemic control, and diabetes-related complications. The utility index we generated can be used in future economic evaluations to inform decisions about alternative interventions and resource allocation.

Self-Management Model fails to Predict Quality of Life for People Living with Dual Diagnosis of HIV and Diabetes

The objective of this study was to test a self-management model for self-management in people living with HIV and type 2 diabetes (PLWH + T2DM). We conducted a predictive, longitudinal study of data from a national research cohort of PLWH using lag analysis to test short- and long-term health outcomes for PLWH + T2DM. We used a dataset from the Center for AIDS Research (CFAR) Network of Integrated Clinic Systems (CNICS), a nation-wide research network of 8 clinics that serves PLWH. Patient-reported outcomes, collected at clinic visit, included depression, adherence, CD4 cell count, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We computed summary statistics to describe the sample. Using lag analysis, we then modeled the three variables of adherence, CD4 count, and HRQoL as a function of their predecessors in our conceptual model. In the final model, an increase of in medication adherence corresponded to a small increase in HRQoL. An increase in CD4 count corresponded to a small increase in HRQoL. An increase in lagged depression was associated with a small decrease in HRQoL. The model was not sufficient to predict short- or long-term outcomes in PLWH + T2DM. Although depression had a moderate impact, the final model was not clinically significant. For people with a dual diagnosis of HIV and T2DM, variables other than those traditionally addressed in self-management interventions may be more important.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus and its effect on quality of life in adolescents: A retrospective cohort study in Saudi Arabia

INTRODUCTION

Quality of life (QoL) in adolescent patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has not been thoroughly explored in Saudi Arabia. Herein, we aimed to measure the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adolescent patients suffering from T2DM and explore the correlation between adolescents' self- and parent-reporting of QoL scores, and glycaemic control (HbA1c).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective multi-centre cohort study was conducted at 4 hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQLTM) Diabetes Module 3.0 was completed by children and their parents in a confidential and anonyms manner through a phone interview.

RESULTS

We recruited 49 paediatric patients for this study (mean age: 18.45 years; male: 55%). Both children and parents reported low cumulative mean scores for PedsQL™ (58.65 and 57.38, respectively) as compared to previous international studies. The lowest obtained score was noted for the diabetes symptoms domain (53.4). Comparing the magnitude of discrepancy between the adolescents' and parents' subscale scores revealed a non-significant difference, except for the 'worry' subscale, in which parents reported significantly higher mean scores (76.73 vs. 60.54, p = 0.02). Comparison of mean scores reported by adolescents who met the target HbA1c goal (<7%) and their counterparts revealed a non-significant difference, suggesting an irrelevant impact of this parameter on their perspectives or experiences.

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings emphasized the need to initiate further intensive awareness programs concerning this disease and its clinical implications in T2DM children to improve treatment adherence and symptoms, and consequently improve the perception of the patient and the family for HRQoL.

Social self-efficacy associated with HbA1c through physical activity and diabetes quality of life: A serial mediation study

OBJECTIVE

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is one of the most common pediatric chronic illnesses and increasing worldwide in prevalence. Physical activity has been positively linked with better glycemic control in youth with T1D. Although not yet studied, children's social self-efficacy may be a parameter related to physical activity in youth with diabetes. The current study investigated associations among social self-efficacy, physical activity, diabetes quality of life, and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) among youth with T1D utilizing mediation and serial mediation models.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants were 144 youth (M age = 14.95) with T1D (53.5% girls) and their caregivers. Youth completed the PedsQL Diabetes Module, the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children and Adolescents and the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire for Social Skills for Children. Youths' HbA1c values were also measured.

RESULTS

Physical activity significantly mediated the relationship between greater youth social self-efficacy and better diabetes quality of life. Diabetes quality of life mediated the relationship between greater physical activity and lower HbA1c. The serial mediation model demonstrated greater social self-efficacy is related to greater physical activity, which in turn is related to better diabetes quality of life and ultimately resulting in lower HbA1c.

CONCLUSIONS

Physical activity, social self-efficacy, and diabetes-related quality of life may be modifiable factors related to HbA1c for youth with T1D. Findings indicate a need for healthcare providers to consider youth physical activity, quality of life, and social self-efficacy when evaluating and intervening in youth diabetes treatment adherence.

Quality of life among type II diabetic patients attending the primary health centers of King Saud Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Background/Aim

Type 2 diabetic patients (T2DM) have lower quality of life (QoL) compared to the general population. This study was conducted to determine QoL of T2DM patients and analyze factors that affect patients' QoL.

Methods

We conducted this cross-sectional study in January to February of 2019 at several primary care health centers (PCHC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All adult T2DM patients were invited to participate in the study. We used the EQ-5D-3L and EQ VAS tools to determine the patients' health state and their self-rated overall health.

Results

A total of 274 T2DM patients were surveyed, 149 (54.4%) were males. The mean age was 59.7 ± 10.4 years. Of the five EQ-5D-5L domains, self-care had the highest proportion that reported no problem (n = 183, 66.8%). The mobility domain had the highest proportion of reported severe problems (n = 37, 13.5%) and extreme problems (n = 7, 2.6%). Nineteen (6.9%) patients reported with a full state of health. The mean EQVAS was 65.9 ± 22.1, with only 24.1% reported as between 81-100%. Females, patients above 75 years old, those who are in the low socioeconomic income, unemployed, widow had lower EQ VAS.

Conclusion

Males, with higher socioeconomic status, employed, married and younger patients experience better QoL compared to their counterparts. The overall health related QoL among our diabetic patients is low. These findings suggest improvement of health-related QoL, and more efforts should be invested in patient education particularly among patients who are in the low socioeconomic status, the elderly, females and the unemployed.

Assessment of quality of life in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients using World Health Organization quality of life-BREF questionnaire and appraisal of diabetes scale - a cross-sectional study

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that disturbs the quality of life (QOL) of patients. Therefore, evaluation of diabetes- related QOL could be a key outcome measure for its management. This study assessed the QOL in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients using the World Health Organization (WHO) quality of life (QOL)˗BREF questionnaire and disease-specific appraisal of diabetes scale (ADS). In this cross-sectional study, 520 T2DM patients were included. Patients’ demographic data, clinical information was collected through interviews, and the WHOQOL-BREF instrument and ADS were used for the QOL of patients. Statistical analysis was performed by using R software (Version 3.6.0). The mean ADS scores were lower in controlled diabetic subjects (18.50±3.08) and higher in uncontrolled diabetic subjects (19.29±2.73) (P<0.05). For WHOQOL-BREF, the mean scores for all the domains (overall general health, physical, psychological, social, and environmental) were significantly higher in controlled diabetic subjects (P<0.001). In addition, the age, duration of diabetes, associated comorbidities, treatment, and HbA1c level of patients showed a highly significant correlation with WHOQOL-BREF (P<0.001). Diabetic patients had poor-to-average QOL. Therefore, public health measures and education of diabetic patients are essential to create more awareness for improving the QOL of T2DM.

Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Properties of the Diabetes Quality of Life Scale in Afaan Oromoo among People Living with Type 2 Diabetes in Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

The original 46-item diabetes quality of life (DQOL) scale has been translated into different languages, and the translated DQOL has shown good reliability and validity after deleting some items. The aim of this study was to translate the diabetes quality of life (DQOL) scale into Afaan Oromoo and to culturally adapt and evaluate the psychometric properties of the DQOL-Afaan Oromoo (DQOL-AO) among people living with T2D in Ethiopia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study with a convenience sampling technique was conducted in 2020. The DQOL was translated and adapted to Afaan Oromoo. Item-total correlations and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) assessed factor structure; the Cronbach's alpha assessed internal consistency and relationships with gender, educational status, marital status, age, and employment status; and status of diabetes-related disease assessed the construct validity of the DQOL-AO.

RESULTS

417 participants responded to all items of the DQOL. Item-total correlation analysis and EFA produced a 34-item DQOL-AO with four subscales, which demonstrated that the internal consistency of the overall DQOL-AO was 0.867, and scores were 0.827, 0.846, 0.654, and 0.727 for the impact, satisfaction, social/vocational worry, and diabetes-related worry subscales, respectively. Statistically significant differences between QOL were obtained in educational status (F = 7.164, p < 0.001) and employment status (F = 4.21, p = 0.002). Individuals who attended college and above and government employees had better QOL.

CONCLUSION

The 34-item DQOL-AO provided preliminary evidence as a reliable and valid tool to measure diabetic-related QOL before it can be widely used among adults living with T2D who speak Afaan Oromoo.

Association of traditional complementary and alternate medicine usage with quality of life of diabetic patients in a Malaysian tertiary hospital

Purpose

This study aims to design to assess the traditional, complementary and alternate medicine (TCAM) usage and its association with the quality of life (QOL) of Type 2 diabetic patients in a tertiary hospital (Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia) in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 300 respondents included in this study were divided into the following two major categories: TCAM (34.33% of respondents) and non-TCAM users (65.67% of the respondents), respectively. The mean ages of the respondents were 59.3 ± 10.2 for the TCAM users and 57.7 ± 12.0 for the non-TCAM users.

Findings

A greater percentage of non-TCAM users reported poor control of diabetes (14.7%) and blood glucose (55.8%) compared with the TCAM users (9.7% and 48.5%, respectively). Further, the diabetic patients on TCAM reported lower rates of coma, stroke and kidney problems but higher rates of diabetic foot ulcers, heart diseases and retinopathy than the non-TCAM users. Additionally, the diabetic patients with TCAM usage had a significantly better physical (p = 0.02) and overall (p = 0.03) qualities of life compared to the non-TCAM users. However, psychological, social and environmental health did not show any significant difference.

Originality/value

The prevalence of TCAM usage among diabetic patients was lower than in other comparable studies. Diabetic patients on TCAM reported lower rates of coma, stroke and kidney problems but higher rates of diabetic foot ulcers, heart diseases and retinopathy than the non-TCAM users. Further, diabetes patients on TCAM reported better QOL compared to non-TCAM users especially in terms of physical health.

Personality Prototypes in People with Type 1 Diabetes and Their Relationship with Adherence

Type 1 diabetes (Dm1) is a chronic endocrine and metabolic disease that affects the whole person and requires active, decisive treatment. However, personality traits may influence a patient's adherence to treatment guidelines. The objective of this work is firstly to identify the 3 Asendorpf personality prototypes (resilient, undercontrolled and overcontrolled) in a sample of Dm1 individuals and determine whether there are any differences in comparison with a control sample; and, secondly, to study their association with adherence to self-care guidelines using both physiological indicators (HbA1C) and self-report measures. To achieve these objectives, a descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out. The sample comprised 294 participants, of whom 104 were people with Dm1 and 190 were controls. The participants, aged between 14 and 34 years, were classified by their scores in NEO-FFI-R, according to the personality characteristics inherent to Asendorpf's prototypes. Asendorpf's 3 prototypical personality patterns were found both in the group of people with Dm1 and in the control sample. These patterns showed different degrees of association with adherence to self-care guidelines for this disease and with psychological health factors. Importance should therefore be attached to the personality traits and Asendorpf prototypes of people with Dm1 when proposing interventions to address medical, psychological, and behavioral aspects.

Glycemic Variability, Oxidative Stress, and Impact on Complications Related to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Chronic hyperglycemia is an established risk factor for the development of complications in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but glycemic variability has emerged as a possible independent risk factor for diabetes complications, possibly through oxidative stress. In this review, methods to access glycemic variability and oxidative stress, as well as their correlations, are discussed. Non-pharmacological and pharmacological strategies are also debated to achieve better glycemic control, not only by HbA1c target but also with reduced glycemic fluctuations, possibly minimizing the risk of diabetes complications.

The effect of self-management education through weblogs on the quality of life of diabetic patients

BACKGROUND

Self-management education of diabetes which is one of the most important noncommunicable diseases worldwide involves facilitating knowledge, skills, and ability required for self-care in these patients. Concerning the progressive growth of use of Internet for educating patients and absence of different studies about education through use of weblogs in patients with diabetes in Iran, the present study was conducted with the aim of determining the effect of self-management education through weblogs on the quality of life of affect the patients.

METHODS

This study was performed as intervention on patients referring to diabetes clinic of Talghani hospital in Kermanshah in winter 2018 and spring 2019. The samples consisted of 98 patients with diabetes chosen through available sampling and randomly assigned into study and control groups. For data collection, diabetes quality of life (DQOL) short form clinical questionnaire, Persian version, was used. The intervention involved training self-management conducted through 60 sessions via a designed weblog. The obtained information was introduced into SPSS 21, and analyzed through Mann-Whitney, t-test, and paired t-test.

RESULTS

According to the results of this study, the mean age of the examined patients was 32.1 ± 4.9 years, where the major participants were male (n = 52 in the test group, 52.5%). The results showed that after the intervention, the test and control groups were different in terms of anthropometric variables and metabolic indicators; the mean waist circumference in the test and control groups was 98.6 ± 9.8 and 101.5 ± 7.8, respectively; the mean FBS following the intervention in the test and control groups was 131.08 ± 16.04 and 238.2 ± 40, respectively; and the mean BMI postintervention in the test and control groups was obtained as 27.3 ± 3.4 and 30.1 ± 3.8 respectively, where these differences were significant according to independent t-test (p < 0.05). The mean score of quality of life postintervention in the test and control groups was obtained as 56.1 and 49.9 respectively; according to Mann-Whitney test, the difference between the two groups was significant (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study revealed the positive effect of weblog based self-management on the quality of life of patients with diabetes following the intervention. Further, reduced levels of FBS, BMI, as well as systolic and diastolic blood pressure were also observed, which could be due to increased awareness of patients about their abilities, its risks, as well as the ways to control and treat it.

Resistance Isn't Futile: The Physiological Basis of the Health Effects of Resistance Exercise in Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes

The importance of regular exercise for glucose management in individuals with type 1 diabetes is magnified by its acknowledgment as a key adjunct to insulin therapy by several governmental, charitable, and healthcare organisations. However, although actively encouraged, exercise participation rates remain low, with glycaemic disturbances and poor cardiorespiratory fitness cited as barriers to long-term involvement. These fears are perhaps exacerbated by uncertainty in how different forms of exercise can considerably alter several acute and chronic physiological outcomes in those with type 1 diabetes. Thus, understanding the bodily responses to specific forms of exercise is important for the provision of practical guidelines that aim to overcome these exercise barriers. Currently, the majority of existing exercise research in type 1 diabetes has focused on moderate intensity continuous protocols with less work exploring predominately non-oxidative exercise modalities like resistance exercise. This is surprising, considering the known neuro-muscular, osteopathic, metabolic, and vascular benefits associated with resistance exercise in the wider population. Considering that individuals with type 1 diabetes have an elevated susceptibility for complications within these physiological systems, the wider health benefits associated with resistance exercise may help alleviate the prevalence and/or magnitude of pathological manifestation in this population group. This review outlines the health benefits of resistance exercise with reference to evidence in aiding some of the common complications associated with individuals with type 1 diabetes.

Health status and quality of life in patients with diabetes in Switzerland

AIMS

We aimed to assess the health status and quality of life (QoL) of patients with diabetes and explore the associated factors in a French-speaking region of Switzerland.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study analyzed self-reported data from 585 patients with diabetes. We ran univariate and multivariate regressions analyses on health status (Physical and Mental Component Summary scores (PCS, MCS) of the SF-12) and diabetes-specific QoL (ADDQoL score).

RESULTS

Mean PCS was 43.1±10.4 and mean MCS was 46.7±11.1. The overall ADDQoL score was -1.6±1.6; the life domains of the ADDQoL with the lowest scores were freedom to eat, sex life and freedom to drink. Being older was independently and significantly associated with higher mental health and QoL, while lower income was associated with lower physical health, mental health, and QoL. Having diabetes for over 10 years was associated with lower QoL, while insulin treatment and complications were correlated with lower physical health and QoL.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides key information on the health status and QoL of patients with diabetes in Switzerland and their associated factors, which can help healthcare providers to identify patients at higher risk of lower health and QoL.

Fatores associados à qualidade de vida de brasileiros e de diabéticos: evidências de um inquérito de base populacional

Resumo Buscou-se avaliar as associações entre condições de saúde e características sociodemográficas em relação à qualidade de vida (QV) na população brasileira; bem como estimar os principais fatores associados às chances de uma melhor QV entre diabéticos. Trata-se de um estudo com dados obtidos do inquérito de base populacional realizado no Brasil, em 2008. Foram analisados 12.423 brasileiros, com idade ≥ 20 anos, cujos 935 eram diabéticos. Os desfechos de QV foram mensurados por meio dos componentes sumários do instrumento SF-36. Tanto para a população geral quanto para diabéticos, a QV teve seus escores agrupados em “acima” e “abaixo da média” para configurar desfechos binários. Foram realizadas regressões logísticas para obtenção das razões de prevalências ajustadas às chances de QV acima da média, controlando por variáveis sociodemográficas e de saúde. Resultados apontaram que as mulheres diabéticas com ≥ 65 anos, sedentárias, pertencentes à classe D/E e com mais morbidades apresentam maiores chances de uma pior QV física e mental. Para a população geral além desses fatores, não ter um companheiro e ser analfabeto proporcionou uma pior QV. O sedentarismo e a classe D/E apresentaram maior influência para pior QV entre diabéticos quando comparado à população total.

The Effect of Linagliptin versus Metformin Treatment-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

INTRODUCTION

There have been no studies directly comparing the effect of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors with that of metformin on treatment-related quality of life (QOL) when used as first-line therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

This study is a prospective, randomized, open-label, multicenter, parallel-group, comparative study. Forty-four participants who failed to achieve target glycemic control with diet and exercise therapy were randomly allocated to receive linagliptin or metformin therapy. We compared treatment-related QOL among the two groups using the Oral Hypoglycemic Agent Questionnaire, version 2 (OHA-Q version 2) and the self-administered Diabetes Therapy-Related QOL (DTR-QOL) questionnaire.

RESULTS

After randomization, 21 patients in the linagliptin group and 22 patients in the metformin treatment group were included in the full analysis set. Biochemical parameters, incidence of adverse effects, and rate of adherence to medication were comparable between the two groups. Over the 24-week treatment period, no significant differences in overall OHA-Q scores between the groups were observed, although the subscale 1 (treatment convenience) score was significantly higher in the linagliptin group than in the metformin group. The overall DTR-QOL score did not differ between the two groups; however, the DTR-QOL scores significantly improved after 24 weeks of linagliptin treatment, but not after metformin treatment.

CONCLUSION

We did not find significantly better treatment-related QOL with linagliptin among Japanese patients with T2DM. In terms of treatment convenience, our data showed that linagliptin was superior to metformin.

FUNDING

This study was financially supported by Nippon Boehringer Ingelheim Co., Ltd. and Eli Lilly and Company. The journal's article processing fees were covered by a research fund from Juntendo University.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

UMIN000022953.

Predicting Factors Affecting Glucose Monitoring Treatment Satisfaction and Drug Attitude Inventory (Adherence) Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus; Cross-sectional Observational Study

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to explore the predictors affecting patient satisfaction to glucose monitoring system (GMSS) and drug attitude inventory (DAI) / treatment adherence among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

METHODS

Cross-sectional observational study design was used to conduct this study. Subjective assessments were made by questionnaires and objective data was collected from the patients' medication profiles registered to diabetic clinics. Patients were recruited from five different public hospitals of Hyderabad region, India. A total of 430 patients completed for analysis. The predictors to GMSS dimensions and adherence status were analyzed with Wilks's lambda effect and multivariate generalized linear model (GLM/MANOVA).

RESULTS

Study population consisted of 64.4% males and 35.6% females, age mean ± SD (43.3±11.42) years, majority of the study of participants were in between 40-60 years of age (53.3%). Majority of participants were considered healthy on BMI scale (67.2%), in contrast 234 (54.4%) reported high glycemic index with Hb1Ac (> 7.5%). Descriptive distribution pattern showed 241 (56.1%) participants were moderately satisfied with the current monitoring system. However, 157 (36.5%) reported poor satisfaction to GMSS scale score. Findings showed that low mean score of openness and worthwhileness are reported among nonadherent participants. Behavioral burden significantly high among nonadherent patients then adherents. However, emotional burden showed no effect on treatment adherence.

CONCLUSION

This study found high rates of poor glucose monitoring system satisfaction along with low-to-poor treatment adherence among T2DM patients. Individual characteristics and clinical parameters significantly and positively predict the variance of GMSS and DAI among patients' with T2DM.

Metabolic factors that affect health-related quality of life in type 2 diabetes patients: a multivariate regression analysis

PURPOSE

In the past few decades, an increase in the life span of the population has caused more people to experience chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes. Since chronic diseases influence the whole life of patients and do not have a specific remedy, improving their health-related quality of life (HRQoL) becomes more important. The aim of the present study was to investigate the metabolic variables that influenced HRQoL questionnaire scores most significantly among patients with type 2 diabetes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The population of this cross-sectional study included 163 patients with type 2 diabetes and 214 healthy people who were asked to complete the HRQoL questionnaire, and their metabolic blood variables were recorded simultaneously. The effects of metabolic variables and some other demographic ones on two main scales of HRQoL, Mental Component Summary (MCS) and Physical Component Summary (PCS), were evaluated using multivariate regression.

RESULTS

Multivariate regression analysis showed that PCS score was most negatively influenced by cigarette smoking (P=0.009, β-15.761), maximum blood pressure (P=0.008, β=-0.108), minimum blood pressure (P=0.009, β=-0.039), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P=0.008, β=-0.721), cholesterol (P=0.006, β=-0.648), HbA1c (P=0.004, β=-0.878), FBS (p=0.006, β=-0.769), and body mass index (BMI) (P=0.034, β=-0.287). The MCS score was influenced positively by smoking cigarettes (P=0.041, β=13.032), gender (P=0.018, β=15.633), and BMI (P=0.048, β=-0.088). Men had a higher MCS score compared to women.

CONCLUSION

The HRQoL questionnaire (as a concept of health) score could be improved by controlling the variation of some metabolic variables in patients with type 2 diabetes. Some metabolic variables could be the main causes of a decrease in physical and mental HRQoL among patients with type 2 diabetes.

Couples living with type 1 diabetes: An integrative review of the impacts on health and wellbeing

Impacts of type 1 diabetes and relationship factors on health and wellbeing of both persons with diabetes and partners (T1D partners) have not been investigated. Integrative review methods evaluated the evidence. From 323 titles, we included 24 studies involving 16,083 persons with diabetes and 1020 T1D partners. Studies were quantitative (n = 13), qualitative (n = 9) and mixed methods (n = 2). Maintaining resilient, good quality, intimate relationships optimises physical and psychological outcomes for persons with diabetes. Partners experience disturbed sleep and while general psychological health is maintained, distress surrounding hypoglycaemia is overwhelming for over a third of partners. Nurturing quality relationships could reap significant health benefits.

Insulin Modulates Paracoccidioides brasiliensis-Induced Inflammation by Restoring the Populations of NK Cells, Dendritic Cells, and B Lymphocytes in Lungs

Paracoccidioidomycosis, a key issue for Brazilian health service, can be aggravated in patients with impaired immunological responses, such as diabetic patients. We evaluated the role of insulin in inflammatory parameters in diabetic and nondiabetic mice using a systemic mycosis Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (Pb) model. Diabetic C57BL-6 mice and controls were infected with Pb18 and treated with insulin for 12 days prior to experiments. After 55 days, infected diabetic mice exhibited fewer leukocytes in both peritoneal lavage fluid (PeLF) and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and reduced secretion of interleukin- (IL-) 6 in lungs. In addition, diabetic mice presented a reduced influx of TCD4+ cells, TCD8+ cells, B lymphocytes, NK cells, and dendritic cells compared to control infected groups. Insulin treatment restored the leukocyte number in PeLF and restored the presence of B lymphocytes, dendritic cells, and NK cells in lungs of diabetic animals. The data suggest that diabetic mice present impaired immunological response to Pb18 infection and insulin modulates inflammation by reducing IL-6 levels in lung and CINC-1 levels in spleen and liver homogenates, restoring leukocyte concentrations in PeLF and also restoring populations of dendritic cells and B lymphocytes in lungs of diabetic mice, permitting the host to better control the infection.

Health-related quality of life of patients with diagnosed type 2 diabetes in Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, North West Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic non-communicable disease with considerable impact on health status and quality of life. It has a profound effect on quality of life in terms of social and psychological as well as physical well-being. This study was conducted to assess health related quality of life among patients with diagnosed type 2 diabetes.

RESULT

A cross-sectional study design was conducted from April to May, 2015. World Health Organization quality of life-BREF tool was used for collecting the data. A total of 344 patients with diagnosed type 2 diabetes were involved in the study. The overall health related quality of life mean score of the study participants was 52.6 ± 12.1 SD. Social domain has higher mean score (57.8 ± 14.8 SD). Educational status, marital status, occupation, duration of the diabetes and diabetes related complications had statistically significant association with health-related quality of life. An intervention that give special attention to the breaking of the cycle of low occupational status and literacy; and which encourage patients with type 2 DM to have good control of their diabetes and prevent complication should be implemented to improve their quality of life.

Quality-of-life and treatment satisfaction in actual clinical practice of patients with Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and hypoglycemia treated with insulin degludec

OBJECTIVE

The frequency of hypoglycemia in patients with T1DM is high and results in a poorer quality-of-life and low treatment satisfaction. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the effect of changing the basal insulin (glargine or detemir) to insulin degludec.

METHODS

An observational analytical study was conducted on a cohort of 110 patients with T1DM. The patients were administered three questionnaires to assess treatment satisfaction (DTSQ-s), fear of hypoglycemia (HFS-II) and quality-of-life (EQ-5D), before the change and at 6 months. A statistical analysis was performed for repeated measures.

RESULTS

The 110 patients with T1DM had a mean diabetes duration of 19.1 (11.6) years, 53.6% were men, the mean age was 43.4 (15.4) years, and the mean BMI was 25.2 (4.2) kg/m². After 6 months, there was a significant reduction in baseline fasting plasma glucose (from 159.1 [68.6] to 132.9 [56.6] mg/dL; p < .001) and HbA1c levels (from 7.82% [1.2] to 7.6% [1.2]; p = .002). A reduction in the number of severe hypoglycemic episodes (0.17 [0.5] vs 0.05 [0.2]; p = .03) was observed. At 6 months, an improvement in the DTSQ-s (from 24.3 [5.5] to 27.3 [5.4]; p < .001) was observed. There was a decrease in the mean number of perceived hypoglycemia (from 2.9 [1.4] to 2.3 [1.4]; p = .003) and hyperglycemia (from 3.5 [1.3] to 2.7 [1.4]; p < .001). There was also a decrease in the mean HFS-II score (from 24.1 [14.0] to 20.0 [13.0]; p < .001). There were no significant differences in the EQ-5D index (from 0.91 [0.14] to 0.89 [0.16]; p = .13). However, there was significant improvement in the EQ-5D as measured by VAS (from 70.5 [16.5] to 73.6 [14.4]; p = .04).

CONCLUSIONS

The change to insulin degludec in patients with T1DM improved their metabolic control, increased their satisfaction with the insulin therapy, and offered them improved quality-of-life.

Study Protocol for the Initial Choice of DPP-4 Inhibitor in Japanese Patients with Type 2 diabetes Mellitus: Effect of Linagliptin on QOL (INTEL-QOL) Trial

INTRODUCTION

Consideration of treatment-related quality of life (QOL) is important in diabetes management. However, no studies have compared the influence of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors versus metformin on treatment-related QOL when used as first-line therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

This study is a prospective, randomized, open-label, multicenter, parallel-group, comparative study. Between June 2016 and December 2017, 44 participants who failed to achieve glycemic control despite diet and exercise therapy were recruited at 14 clinics and randomly allocated to linagliptin or metformin therapy. Treatment-related QOL was assessed with the Oral Hypoglycemic Agent Questionnaire, version 2 (OHA-Q ver. 2) and the self-administered Diabetes Therapy-Related QOL (DTR-QOL) questionnaire. The primary study outcome is the difference in total OHA-Q ver. 2 score between the two treatment groups at the end of the study. The secondary outcomes include differences in the scores for each OHA-Q ver. 2 subscale between the two treatment groups at the end of the study, change in total DTR-QOL score and for each domain from baseline to the end of treatment, changes in glycemic control, and adverse events.

PLANNED OUTCOME

The present study is designed to assess the effects of linagliptin on the treatment-related QOL. Results will be available in the near future. Study findings are expected to provide useful information on how to maintain or improve QOL in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with insulin.

FUNDING

Nippon Boehringer Ingelheim Co., Ltd. and Eli Lilly and Company.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

UMIN000022953.

HRQOL in Diverse Ethnic Groups with Diabetes: Findings from the 2014 BRFSS

OBJECTIVE

The study's objective is to examine differences in mental and physical health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, and Hispanic adults with diabetes.

DESIGN

A secondary analysis of 2014 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data was conducted. A total of 26 states participated in the 2014 BRFSS core and optional diabetes models (n = 17,923). HRQOL was measured by the number of mentally and physically unhealthy days during the past month, respectively. A series of regression models were developed to assess differences in HRQOL without and with inclusion of demographic (age, marital status, income, gender, and education) and diabetes-related (depression, sleep time, insulin use, complications, age of diabetes diagnosis, BMI, smoking, and exercise) factors.

RESULTS

In the fully adjusted models (inclusion of demographic and diabetes-related factors), non-Hispanic Whites had more mentally (β = 0.88, p = 0.03) and physically (β = 1.35, p = 0.01) unhealthy days per month compared to Hispanics. Non-Hispanic Blacks (β = 1.42, p < 0.01) also had more mentally unhealthy days per month in relation to Hispanics when adjusting for demographic and diabetes-related factors. Depression emerged as a potent predictor of mentally (β = 8.60; p < 0.0001) and physically (β = 4.43; p < 0.0001) unhealthy days in the multivariate models.

CONCLUSION

Non-Hispanic Black and White adults with diabetes may be more vulnerable to poor HRQOL compared to their Hispanic counterparts. Increased, widened application of diabetes interventions targeting depression appears warranted to improve HRQOL outcomes.

Bridging glycated hemoglobin with quality of life and health state; a randomized case-control study among type 2 diabetes patients

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to explore the predictors of QOL and health state and examine the relationship with glycemic control among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

METHODS

A randomized cross-sectional case-control study was conducted among n = 600 T2DM patients of Malaysia. Study population was distributed into three groups as: controls: patients with HbA1c ≤ 7 (n = 199), cases arm 1: with HbA1c 7-7.9 (n = 204) and cases arm 2 (n = 197): with HbA1c ≥ 8 consecutively last 3 times.

RESULTS

Participants with diabetes history > 10 years exhibits higher mean QOL score among all the three groups. In contrast mean health status score significantly (p < 0.001) reduced with the exposure duration of diabetes both within and intergroup assessment that participants with poor glycemic control (arm 2) had significantly higher mean QOL score with knowledge and self-care dimensions as compared to others, however mean health state scores were significantly (p < 0.001) lower in all assessment dimensions as compared to controls. The F test of significance showed that demographic and clinical parameters were strong predictors of QOL, whereas self-care activities, comorbidities, ability of positive management and BMI were significant predictors to health state for consistent glycemic control (controls) as compared to poor glycemic control (arm 2) participants.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that poor glycemic index reported low self-care behavior, increase barriers to daily living activities and poor ability to manage diabetes positively, which cause poor QOL and decrease health state.

Decreased quality of life and treatment satisfaction in patients with latent autoimmune diabetes of the adult

OBJECTIVES

Our main aim was to assess the quality of life (QoL) and treatment satisfaction (TS) of subjects with LADA (latent autoimmune diabetes of the adult) and compare these measures with those of patients with other diabetes types, i.e., type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study with a total of 48 patients with LADA, 297 patients with T2DM and 124 with T1DM. The Audit of Diabetes-Dependent Quality of Life (ADDQoL-19) questionnaire and the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (DTSQ) were administered. Relevant clinical variables were also assessed. The data analysis included comparisons between groups and multivariate linear models.

RESULTS

The LADA patients presented lower diabetes-specific QoL (p = 0.045) and average weighted impact scores (p = 0.007) than the T2DM patients. The subgroup of LADA patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR) who were treated with insulin had a lower ADDQoL average weighted impact score than the other diabetic groups. Although the overall measure of TS was not different between the LADA and T2DM (p = 0.389) and T1DM (p = 0.091) groups, the patients with LADA showed a poorer hyperglycemic frequency perception than the T2DM patients (p < 0.001) and an improved frequency of hypoglycemic perception compared with the T1DM patients (p = 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

The current findings suggest a poorer quality of life, especially in terms of DR and insulin treatment, among patients with LADA compared with those with T1DM and T2DM. Hyperglycemia frequency perception was also poorer in the LADA patients than in the T1DM and T2DM patients. Further research with prospective studies and a large number of patients is necessary.

Exercise but not metformin improves health-related quality of life and mood states in older adults with type 2 diabetes

The aim of this cohort study is to analyse the effect of three types of treatment: (i) exercise training with multicomponent exercise (E); (ii) pharmacologic treatment with oral hypoglycaemic drug - metformin (M); and (iii) a combined therapy - exercise and metformin (E + M) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and mood states in older adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) with comorbidity in an early stage of the disease. Participants (n = 284) underwent 1 of the following 3 conditions: (i) E (n = 59) trained three times/week; (ii) M (n = 30) used 850 mg of metformin twice daily; and (iii) E + M (n = 195) combined exercise and metformin. Furthermore, participants completed baseline and 2-year follow-up evaluations including a Shortform Health Survey 36, Profile of Mood States - Short-form, the health history questionnaires, anthropometric, and blood biochemistry. E and E + M revealed improved mood states, with large effect size on the vigour domain, and moderate effect size in the anger and total mood disturbance (TMD) domains (P < 0.05), in comparison with the M group. After 24 months' intervention, the E and E + M groups perceived better physical and mental HRQoL than the M group. The M group unchanged HRQoL domains (P > 0.05). Metformin had no significant effect on the self-referred HRQoL in T2D participants aged above 60 years, in an early stage of the disease. The E and E + M were the most effective long-term therapies to improve mood states and HRQoL in older adults with T2D.

Differences between genders in relation to factors associated with risk of diabetic foot in elderly persons: A cross-sectional trial

AIMS

This trial aims to identify differences between genders in relation to factors associated with the risk of diabetic foot in elderly persons.

METHODS

We evaluated 187 older adults diagnosed with diabetes type 2. The variables investigated were sociodemographic data, clinical history of diabetes mellitus and complaints about the feet. The plantar sensitivity was evaluated on both feet, with the use of Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments. For data analysis we used chi-square test and binary logistic regression (p < 0.05; 95% CI).

RESULTS

We included 174 elderly people who had no history of stroke and peripheral vascular disease. Most (58.6%) were female and among them the risk factors for diabetic foot were older age (p < 0.021; OR 6.0), presence of calluses (p < 0.046; OR 2.83) and claw toes (p < 0.041; OR 3.18). And among men, the risk factors for diabetic foot were insulin use (p < 0.008; OR 5.22), presence of sensory comorbidities (p < 0.007; OR 5.0), ulcers (p < 0.001), numbness (p < 0.002; OR 6.6) and stiffness in the feet (p < 0.009; OR 5.44).

CONCLUSION

The factors associated with the development of diabetic foot were presented differently in women and men, so a targeted and more specific preventive approach is required.

The Impact of Diabetes-Related Complications on Preference-Based Measures of Health-Related Quality of Life in Adults with Type I Diabetes

Introduction. This study estimates health-related quality of life (HRQoL) or utility decrements associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) using data from a UK research program on the Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating (DAFNE) education program. Methods. A wide range of data was collected from 2341 individuals who undertook a DAFNE course in 2009–2012, at baseline and for 2 subsequent years. We use fixed- and random-effects linear models to generate utility estimates for T1DM using different instruments: EQ-5D, SF-6D, and EQ-VAS. We show models with and without controls for HbA1c and depression, which may be endogenous (if, for example, there is reverse causality in operation). Results. We find strong evidence of an unobserved individual effect, suggesting the superiority of the fixed-effects model. Depression shows the greatest decrement across all the models in the preferred fixed-effects model. The fixed-effects EQ-5D model also finds a significant decrement from retinopathy, body mass index, and HbA1c (%). Estimating a decrement using the fixed-effects model is not possible for some conditions where there are few new cases. In the random-effects model, diabetic foot disease shows substantial utility decrements, yet these are not significant in the fixed-effects models. Conclusion. Utility decrements have been calculated for a wide variety of health states in T1DM that can be used in economic analyses. However, despite the large data set, the low incidence of several complications leads to uncertainty in calculating the utility weights. Depression and diabetic foot disease result in a substantial loss in HRQoL for patients with T1DM. HbA1c (%) appears to have an independent negative impact on HRQoL, although concerns remain regarding the potential endogeneity of this variable.

Effectiveness of family involvement in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients: a follow-up study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of family-involvement on health education for T2DM from the aspects of knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP), health-related quality of life (HRQoL), body mass index (BMI) and glucose control.

METHODS

A follow-up study was performed and patients with newly diagnosed T2DM were divided into family-involved group (FIG, n=60) and single-involved group (SIG, n=60). Hierarchical linear models were used to assess within-group changes and between-group differences in the glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), KAP, SF-36 and BMI.

RESULTS

Significant improvements in FIG along with significant differences between-group were seen for HbA1c levels (9.73, 8.92, 5.55, 5.79, 5.30 vs. 10.05, 9.53, 6.36, 8.41, 6.58) in baseline, M3, M6, M12, M24 compared with SIG, respectively (all P≤0.001). Significant improvements in FIG along with significant differences between-group were seen for KAP (16.23, 46.98, 48.93 vs. 16.65, 29.07, 37.62), SF-36 (78.04, 92.68, 92.34 vs. 74.96, 77.03, 78.25), and BMI (24.74, 23.46, 22.96 vs. 24.00, 23.45, 23.50) in baseline, M12 and M24, respectively (all P≤0.05).

CONCLUSION

Family involvement is beneficial to the control of T2DM and should be suggested for T2DM newly diagnosed.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Health education should encourage the family to participate in the whole process to improve the efficacy of education.

Health-Related Quality of Life and its Determinants Among Women With Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a chronic and threatening condition. However, there are controversies on the factors affecting the health related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with diabetes.

OBJECTIVES

The current study aimed to evaluate HRQOL and its determinants among females with type II diabetes referred to Diabetes Clinic of Khoy city, Northwest of Iran.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed on 352 eligible females with diabetes referring to Diabetes Clinic of Khoy. The study data were collected using a three-part instrument including a socio-demographic questionnaire, a questionnaire to assess patients' knowledge on diabetes and the world health organization's quality of life (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire. Based on descriptive and inferential statistics, analyses were conducted using frequency, independent samples t-test, correlation coefficient and regression analysis.

RESULTS

The total mean score of QOL was 58.02 ± 17.63. The lowest and the highest mean scores were observed in physical health and social relationship domains (53.84 ± 17.09) and (65.08 ± 14.87), respectively. The regression models revealed that age, education, duration of disease, and family income were significantly associated with all areas of quality of life (P < 0.05). The results also revealed that co-morbidity was significantly correlated with the overall quality of life and the physical health domain (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The mean score of quality of life (QOL) in females with diabetes was far from desirable condition. These findings can help physicians and healthcare providers to design suitable interventions to improve the patients QOL.

Health Related Quality of Life among Omani Men and Women with Type 2 Diabetes

The aim of this study was to explore predictors of health related quality of life (HRQoL) among men and women with type 2 diabetes. This cross-sectional descriptive study consisted of a random sample of 300 adults with type 2 diabetes in a selected public hospital. Euro-QoL and Revised Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities scales were used to collect data between January and June 2010. Schooling and ability to manage positively were highly significant predictors of quality of life (QoL) among women as compared to men. Age, prevention of activities of daily living and knowledge/management of diabetes were significant predictors of Health state among women as compared to men. Findings demonstrate that 30.6% (versus 35.7%) of the variance in the total QoL and 14% (versus 23%) of the variance in health state could be explained by personal and clinical characteristics among women and men, respectively. The study underlines the importance for nurse educators to assess HRQoL among men and women and to develop effective self-care management strategies based on personal and clinical characteristics.