Standardizing Clinically Meaningful Outcome Measures Beyond HbA1c for Type 1 Diabetes: A Consensus Report of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, the American Association of Diabetes Educators, the American Diabetes Association, the Endocrine Society, JDRF International, The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, the Pediatric Endocrine Society, and the T1D Exchange

Neuropathy of diabetes following initiation of a low-carbohydrate diet: Case report

Introduction

This case study portrays an unusual case of treatment-induced neuropathy of diabetes (TIND) in a patient with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes (T2D) who achieved rapid improvement in glucose control primarily with dietary intervention. Initial presentation was 50-year-old white male with a long-standing history of obesity and a family history of T2D with a screening glucose level >500mg/dL by glucometer, HbA1c of 14.9%, and initial weight 213 lbs.

Methods

The initial intervention included a low-carbohydrate diet, metformin, and a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Semaglutide was added after seven days.

Results

His glycemia was within the target range within three weeks. Four weeks after initiation of therapy, he developed TIND symptoms consisting of burning, tightness, and numbness of bilateral feet along with 10/10 pain. At three months, his HbA1c dropped to 6.9% and his weight to 195 lbs. Treatment of his TIND reduced his pain from 10/10 to 2/10.

Conclusion

Whereas TIND is commonly associated with the use of insulin or sulfonylureas, this study adds evidence to the paucity of literature regarding TIND precipitated by dietary intervention.

Continuous glucose monitoring for the routine care of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Although continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices are now considered the standard of care for people with type 1 diabetes mellitus, the uptake among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been slower and is focused on those receiving intensive insulin therapy. However, increasing evidence now supports the inclusion of CGM in the routine care of people with T2DM who are on basal insulin-only regimens or are managed with other medications. Expanding CGM to these groups could minimize hypoglycaemia while allowing efficient adaptation and escalation of therapies. Increasing evidence from randomized controlled trials and observational studies indicates that CGM is of clinical value in people with T2DM on non-intensive treatment regimens. If further studies confirm this finding, CGM could soon become a part of routine care for T2DM. In this Perspective we explore the potential benefits of widening the application of CGM in T2DM, along with the challenges that must be overcome for the evidence-based benefits of this technology to be delivered for all people with T2DM.

Empagliflozin's role in reducing ventricular repolarization heterogeneity: insights into cardiovascular mortality decline from the EMPATHY-HEART trial

BACKGROUND

The incidence of myocardial infarction (MI) and sudden cardiac death (SCD) is significantly higher in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) than in the general population. Strategies for the prevention of fatal arrhythmias are often insufficient, highlighting the need for additional non-invasive diagnostic tools. The T-wave heterogeneity (TWH) index measures variations in ventricular repolarization and has emerged as a promising predictor for severe ventricular arrhythmias. Although the EMPA-REG trial reported reduced cardiovascular mortality with empagliflozin, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigates the potential of empagliflozin in mitigating cardiac electrical instability in patients with T2DM and coronary heart disease (CHD) by examining changes in TWH.

METHODS

Participants were adult outpatients with T2DM and CHD who exhibited TWH > 80 µV at baseline. They received a 25 mg daily dose of empagliflozin and were evaluated clinically including electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements at baseline and after 4 weeks. TWH was computed from leads V4, V5, and V6 using a validated technique. The primary study outcome was a significant (p < 0.05) change in TWH following empagliflozin administration.

RESULTS

An initial review of 6,000 medical records pinpointed 800 patients for TWH evaluation. Of these, 412 exhibited TWH above 80 µV, with 97 completing clinical assessments and 90 meeting the criteria for high cardiovascular risk enrollment. Empagliflozin adherence exceeded 80%, resulting in notable reductions in blood pressure without affecting heart rate. Side effects were generally mild, with 13.3% experiencing Level 1 hypoglycemia, alongside infrequent urinary and genital infections. The treatment consistently reduced mean TWH from 116 to 103 µV (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The EMPATHY-HEART trial preliminarily suggests that empagliflozin decreases heterogeneity in ventricular repolarization among patients with T2DM and CHD. This reduction in TWH may provide insight into the mechanism behind the decreased cardiovascular mortality observed in previous trials, potentially offering a therapeutic pathway to mitigate the risk of severe arrhythmias in this population.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT: 04117763.

Person-reported outcomes in registered randomised diabetes trials: A mapping review of constructs

AIM

Recently, efforts have been made to use and report person-reported outcomes (PROs) in randomised clinical trials (RCTs). Here, we aim to (1) assess the status of inclusion of PROs in registered RCTs over 5 years in people with type 1 or 2 diabetes, and (2) map the PRO measures (PROMs) onto predefined domains.

METHODS

The largest trial registries (Clinicatrials.gov, International Clinical Trial Platform and ISRCTN) were systematically searched for RCTs in people with type 1 and/or type 2 diabetes of all ages between 2018 and 2023. Coding of PROs comprised: (1) PRO measure(s) included yes or no; if yes: (2) PRO(s) as primary outcome yes or no; and (3) mapping PROMs onto predefined PRO domains and per type of intervention.

RESULTS

N = 1543 trials met our inclusion criteria, of which n = 673 (44%) included PROs, assessed by 545 different measures. Twenty per cent of drug trials (n = 112) and 71% of behavioural interventions (n = 405) included PROs. In 149 trials (9.6%), a PRO was the primary outcome. The psychological functioning domain was most often assessed across all trials (21.6%), specifically in behavioural (44.8%) and medical device interventions (29.7%). In drug trials, the physical functioning and functional health domain was most included (9%). Across all trials, the social and family functioning domain was least assessed (3%).

CONCLUSIONS

We noticed an increase in the inclusion of PROs in diabetes RCTs. However, PROs are rarely included as primary outcomes in the majority of studies, particularly in drug trials. The heterogeneity of PROMs used in RCTs underscores the need for standardisation of PROs.

Global burden of type 1 diabetes in adults aged 65 years and older, 1990-2019: population based study

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the burden, trends, and inequalities of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) among older adults at global, regional, and national level from 1990 to 2019.

DESIGN

Population based study.

POPULATION

Adults aged ≥65 years from 21 regions and 204 countries and territories (Global Burden of Disease and Risk Factors Study 2019)from 1990 to 2019.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcomes were T1DM related age standardised prevalence, mortality, disability adjusted life years (DALYs), and average annual percentage change.

RESULTS

The global age standardised prevalence of T1DM among adults aged ≥65 years increased from 400 (95% uncertainty interval (UI) 332 to 476) per 100 000 population in 1990 to 514 (417 to 624) per 100 000 population in 2019, with an average annual trend of 0.86% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.79% to 0.93%); while mortality decreased from 4.74 (95% UI 3.44 to 5.9) per 100 000 population to 3.54 (2.91 to 4.59) per 100 000 population, with an average annual trend of -1.00% (95% CI -1.09% to -0.91%), and age standardised DALYs decreased from 113 (95% UI 89 to 137) per 100 000 population to 103 (85 to 127) per 100 000 population, with an average annual trend of -0.33% (95% CI -0.41% to -0.25%). The most significant decrease in DALYs was observed among those aged <79 years: 65-69 (-0.44% per year (95% CI -0.53% to -0.34%)), 70-74 (-0.34% per year (-0.41% to -0.27%)), and 75-79 years (-0.42% per year (-0.58% to -0.26%)). Mortality fell 13 times faster in countries with a high sociodemographic index versus countries with a low-middle sociodemographic index (-2.17% per year (95% CI -2.31% to -2.02%) v -0.16% per year (-0.45% to 0.12%)). While the highest prevalence remained in high income North America, Australasia, and western Europe, the highest DALY rates were found in southern sub-Saharan Africa, Oceania, and the Caribbean. A high fasting plasma glucose level remained the highest risk factor for DALYs among older adults during 1990-2019.

CONCLUSIONS

The life expectancy of older people with T1DM has increased since the 1990s along with a considerable decrease in associated mortality and DALYs. T1DM related mortality and DALYs were lower in women aged ≥65 years, those living in regions with a high sociodemographic index, and those aged <79 years. Management of high fasting plasma glucose remains a major challenge for older people with T1DM, and targeted clinical guidelines are needed.

DCRM 2.0: Multispecialty practice recommendations for the management of diabetes, cardiorenal, and metabolic diseases

The spectrum of cardiorenal and metabolic diseases comprises many disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), chronic kidney disease (CKD), atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), heart failure (HF), dyslipidemias, hypertension, and associated comorbidities such as pulmonary diseases and metabolism dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and metabolism dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASLD and MASH, respectively, formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis [NAFLD and NASH]). Because cardiorenal and metabolic diseases share pathophysiologic pathways, two or more are often present in the same individual. Findings from recent outcome trials have demonstrated benefits of various treatments across a range of conditions, suggesting a need for practice recommendations that will guide clinicians to better manage complex conditions involving diabetes, cardiorenal, and/or metabolic (DCRM) diseases. To meet this need, we formed an international volunteer task force comprising leading cardiologists, nephrologists, endocrinologists, and primary care physicians to develop the DCRM 2.0 Practice Recommendations, an updated and expanded revision of a previously published multispecialty consensus on the comprehensive management of persons living with DCRM. The recommendations are presented as 22 separate graphics covering the essentials of management to improve general health, control cardiorenal risk factors, and manage cardiorenal and metabolic comorbidities, leading to improved patient outcomes.

Intra-pancreatic fat is associated with continuous glucose monitoring metrics

AIM

To investigate the relationship of fat in the pancreas with time spent in different glycaemic ranges.

METHODS

Abdominal magnetic resonance imaging at 3.0 Tesla was used to quantify fat in the pancreas as both continuous [i.e. intra-pancreatic fat deposition (IPFD)] and binary (i.e. fatty change of the pancreas vs. normal pancreas) variables. Dexcom G6 devices were used to collect continuous glucose monitoring data every 5 min over a continuous 7-day period. Time above range (TAR), time in range (TIR) and time below range were computed. Statistical models were built to adjust for age, sex, body composition, and other covariates in linear regression analysis and analysis of covariance.

RESULTS

In total, 38 individuals were studied. IPFD was significantly associated with TAR (p = .036) and TIR (p = .042) after adjustment for covariates. For every 1% increase in IPFD, there was a 0.3 unit increase in TAR and a decrease in TIR. Individuals with fatty change of the pancreas, when compared with those with normal pancreas, had significantly higher TAR (p = .034) and lower TIR (p = .047) after adjustment for covariates. Neither IPFD (p = .805) nor fatty change of the pancreas (p = .555) was associated with time below range after adjustment for covariates.

CONCLUSION

Increased fat in the pancreas is associated with excessive glycaemic variability. Fatty change of the pancreas may contribute to heightening the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

What Is the Tech Missing? Nutrition Reporting in Type 1 Diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) presents self-management challenges, requiring an additional 180 daily decisions to regulate blood glucose (BG) levels. Despite the potential, T1D-focused applications have a 43% attrition rate. This work delves into the willingness of people living with T1D (PwT1D) to use technology.

METHOD

An online questionnaire investigated the current practices for carbohydrate estimation, nutritional tracking, and attitudes towards technology engagement, along with hypothetical scenarios and preferences regarding technology use.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine responses were collected from PwT1D (n = 33) and caregivers (n = 6). Nutrition reporting preferences varied, with 50% favoring 'type and scroll' while 30% preferred meal photographing. Concerning the timing of reporting, 33% reported before meals, 55% after, and 12% at a later time. Improved Time in Range (TIR) was a strong motivator for app use, with 78% expressing readiness to adjust insulin doses based on app suggestions for optimizing TIR. Meal descriptions varied; a single word was used in 42% of cases, 23% used a simple description (i.e., "Sunday dinner"), 30% included portion sizes, and 8% provided full recipes.

CONCLUSION

PwT1D shows interest in using technology to reduce the diabetes burden when it leads to an improved TIR. For such technology to be ecologically valid, it needs to strike a balance between requiring minimal user input and providing significant data, such as meal tags, to ensure accurate blood glucose management without overwhelming users with reporting tasks.

Association between serum copper and blood glucose: a mediation analysis of inflammation indicators in the NHANES (2011-2016)

Background

The rising prevalence of diabetes underscores the need for identifying effective prevention strategies. Recent research suggests environmental factors, particularly heavy metals like copper, significantly influence health outcomes, including diabetes, through mechanisms involving inflammation and oxidative stress. This study aims to explore how serum copper levels affect blood glucose, employing NHANES data from 2011 to 2016, to provide insights into environmental health's role in diabetes prevention and management.

Methods

The study analyzed data from 2,318 NHANES participants across three cycles (2011-2016), focusing on those with available data on serum copper, inflammatory markers, and blood glucose levels. We utilized principal component analysis for selecting inflammatory markers, mediation analysis to examine direct and indirect effects, multiple linear regression for assessing relationships between markers and glucose levels, and weighted quantile sum regression for evaluating individual and collective marker effects, adjusting for demographic variables and serum copper.

Results

Participants averaged 42.70 years of age, with a near-even split between genders. Average serum copper was 119.50 μg/dL, white blood cell count 6.82 × 109/L, and fasting blood glucose 107.10 mg/dL. Analyses identified significant mediation by inflammatory markers (especially white blood cells: 39.78%) in the copper-blood glucose relationship. Regression analyses highlighted a positive correlation between white blood cells (estimate: 1.077, 95% CI: 0.432 to 2.490, p = 0.013) and copper levels and a negative correlation for monocyte percentage (estimate: -1.573, 95% CI: 0.520 to -3.025, p = 0.003). Neutrophil percentage was notably influential in glucose levels. Sensitive analyses confirmed the study's findings.

Conclusion

Serum copper levels significantly impact blood glucose through inflammatory marker mediation, highlighting the importance of considering environmental factors in diabetes management and prevention. These findings advocate for public health interventions and policies targeting environmental monitoring and heavy metal exposure reduction, emphasizing the potential of environmental health measures in combating diabetes incidence.

ROUTE-T1D: A behavioral intervention to promote optimal continuous glucose monitor use among racially minoritized youth with type 1 diabetes: Design and development

BACKGROUND

Type 1 diabetes management is often challenging during adolescence, and many youth with type 1 diabetes struggle with sustained and optimal continuous glucose monitor (CGM) use. Due to racial oppression and racially discriminatory policies leading to inequitable access to quality healthcare and life necessities, racially minoritized youth are significantly less likely to use CGM.

METHODS

ROUTE-T1D: Research on Optimizing the Use of Technology with Education is a pilot behavioral intervention designed to promote optimal CGM use among racially minoritized youth with type 1 diabetes. Intervention strategies include problem solving CGM challenges and promoting positive caregiver-youth communication related to CGM data.

RESULTS

This randomized waitlist intervention provides participants with access to three telemedicine sessions with a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. Caregiver participants are also connected with a peer-parent coach.

CONCLUSION

Hypothesized findings and anticipated challenges are discussed. Future directions regarding sustaining and optimizing the use of diabetes technology among racially minoritized pediatric populations are reviewed.

Efficacy of a Digital Diabetes Logbook for People With Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational Diabetes: Results From a Multicenter, Open-Label, Parallel-Group, Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

In a randomized controlled trial, the efficacy of a digital diabetes diary regarding a reduction of diabetes distress was evaluated.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial with a 12-week follow-up was conducted in 41 study sites across Germany. Key eligibility criteria were a diagnosis of type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes and regular self-monitoring of blood glucose. Participants were randomly assigned (2:1 ratio) to either use the digital diabetes logbook (mySugr PRO), or to the control group without app use. The primary outcome was the reduction in diabetes distress at the 12-week follow-up. All analyses were based on the intention-to-treat population with all randomized participants. The trial was registered at the German Register for Clinical Studies (DRKS00022923).

RESULTS

Between February 11, 2021, and June 24, 2022, 424 participants (50% female, 50% male) were included, with 282 being randomized to the intervention group (66.5%) and 142 to the control group (33.5%). A total of 397 participants completed the trial (drop-out rate: 6.4%). The median reduction in diabetes distress was 2.41 (interquartile range [IQR]: -2.50 to 8.11) in the intervention group and 1.25 (IQR: -5.00 to 7.50) in the control group. The model-based adjusted between-group difference was significant (-2.20, IQR: -4.02 to -0.38, P = .0182) favoring the intervention group. There were 27 adverse events, 17 (6.0%) in the intervention group, and 10 (7.0%) in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of the digital diabetes logbook was demonstrated regarding improvements in mental health in people with type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Dynamic associations between glucose and ecological momentary cognition in Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic condition characterized by glucose fluctuations. Laboratory studies suggest that cognition is reduced when glucose is very low (hypoglycemia) and very high (hyperglycemia). Until recently, technological limitations prevented researchers from understanding how naturally-occurring glucose fluctuations impact cognitive fluctuations. This study leveraged advances in continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and cognitive ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to characterize dynamic, within-person associations between glucose and cognition in naturalistic environments. Using CGM and EMA, we obtained intensive longitudinal measurements of glucose and cognition (processing speed, sustained attention) in 200 adults with T1D. First, we used hierarchical Bayesian modeling to estimate dynamic, within-person associations between glucose and cognition. Consistent with laboratory studies, we hypothesized that cognitive performance would be reduced at low and high glucose, reflecting cognitive vulnerability to glucose fluctuations. Second, we used data-driven lasso regression to identify clinical characteristics that predicted individual differences in cognitive vulnerability to glucose fluctuations. Large glucose fluctuations were associated with slower and less accurate processing speed, although slight glucose elevations (relative to person-level means) were associated with faster processing speed. Glucose fluctuations were not related to sustained attention. Seven clinical characteristics predicted individual differences in cognitive vulnerability to glucose fluctuations: age, time in hypoglycemia, lifetime severe hypoglycemic events, microvascular complications, glucose variability, fatigue, and neck circumference. Results establish the impact of glucose on processing speed in naturalistic environments, suggest that minimizing glucose fluctuations is important for optimizing processing speed, and identify several clinical characteristics that may exacerbate cognitive vulnerability to glucose fluctuations.

Relationships of hypoglycemia awareness, hypoglycemia beliefs, and continuous glucose monitoring glycemic profiles with anxiety and depression symptoms in adults with type 1 diabetes using continuous glucose monitoring systems

AIMS

To evaluate relationships of hypoglycemia awareness, hypoglycemia beliefs, and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) glycemic profiles with anxiety and depression symptoms in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) who use CGM.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey and data collections were completed with 196 T1D adults who used CGM (59% also used automated insulin delivery devices (AIDs)). We assessed hypoglycemia awareness (Gold instrument), hypoglycemia beliefs (Attitudes to Awareness of Hypoglycemia instrument), CGM glycemic profiles, demographics, and anxiety and depression symptoms (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). Analysis included simple and multiple linear regression analyses.

RESULTS

Lower hypoglycemia awareness, weaker "hypoglycemia concerns minimized" beliefs, stronger "hyperglycemia avoidance prioritized" beliefs were independently associated with higher anxiety symptoms (P < 0.05), with similar trends in both subgroups using and not using AIDs. Lower hypoglycemia awareness were independently associated with greater depression symptoms (P < 0.05). In participants not using AIDs, more time in hypoglycemia was related to less anxiety and depression symptoms (P < 0.05). Being female and younger were independently associated with higher anxiety symptoms, while being younger was also independently associated with greater depression symptoms (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our findings revealed relationships of impaired hypoglycemia awareness, hypoglycemia beliefs, CGM-detected hypoglycemia with anxiety and depression symptoms in T1D adults who use CGMs.

Reducing Diabetes Burden in Medtronic's Automated Insulin Delivery Systems

Background: The MiniMed™ 780G advanced hybrid closed-loop system (MM780G) builds on the basal automation and low-glucose protection features of the MiniMed™ 670G and 770G systems. While previous publications have focused on glycemic control improvements with MM780G, burden reduction has not been fully described. Methods: Data from two 3-month pivotal trials for the MM670G with Guardian™ Sensor 3 (GS3) (104 adults; 125 children) and MM780G with Guardian™ 4 Sensor (G4S) (67 adults;109 children) were compared. Real-world data (RWD) from United States users (N = 3851) transitioning from MM770G+GS3 to MM780G+G4S were also analyzed. Analyses included a new metric for diabetes management burden (i.e., pentagon composite metric), glycemic outcomes and system burden (e.g., closed-loop exits and fingersticks per day). Results: Diabetes burden metric (-22.8% and -28.5%), time in range (+3.1% [*P = 0.035] and +6.4% [P < 0.001]) and time below range (-1.8% [*P < 0.001] and -0.7% [*P < 0.001]) significantly improved, compared to MM670G for adult and pediatric participants, respectively. The pediatric mean sensor glucose (SG) reduced by -8.6 mg/dL (*P < 0.001), while the adults' saw no change. Closed-loop use significantly increased for both cohorts (+17.1% [*P < 0.001] and +20.5% [*P < 0.001]). Closed-loop exits were significantly reduced to about 1 per week (-0.5 [*P < 0.001] and -0.7 [*P < 0.001]); fingerstick tests were also reduced (-6.2 [*P < 0.001] and -6.9 [*P < 0.001]). Similar outcomes were observed from U.S. RWD. Conclusions: MiniMed™ 780G with G4S use was associated with significant reduction in diabetes management burden with fewer closed-loop exits, fingersticks and other interactions, and improvements in glycemic control when compared to the MiniMed™ 670G with GS3.

Real-World Evidence of Automated Insulin Delivery System Use

Objective: Pivotal trials of automated insulin delivery (AID) closed-loop systems have demonstrated a consistent picture of glycemic benefit, supporting approval of multiple systems by the Food and Drug Administration or Conformité Européenne mark receipt. To assess how pivotal trial findings translate to commercial AID use, a systematic review of retrospective real-world studies was conducted. Methods: PubMed and EMBASE were searched for articles published after 2018 with more than five nonpregnant individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Data were screened/extracted in duplicate for sample size, AID system, glycemic outcomes, and time in automation. Results: Of 80 studies identified, 20 met inclusion criteria representing 171,209 individuals. Time in target range 70-180 mg/dL (3.9-10.0 mmol/L) was the primary outcome in 65% of studies, with the majority of reports (71%) demonstrating a >10% change with AID use. Change in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was reported in nine studies (range 0.1%-0.9%), whereas four reported changes in glucose management indicator (GMI) with a 0.1%-0.4% reduction noted. A decrease in HbA1c or GMI of >0.2% was achieved in two-thirds of the studies describing change in HbA1c and 80% of articles where GMI was described. Time below range <70 mg/dL (<3.9 mmol/L) was reported in 16 studies, with all but 1 study showing stable or reduced levels. Most systems had >90% time in automation. Conclusion: With larger and more diverse populations, and follow-up periods of longer duration (∼9 months vs. 3-6 months for pivotal trials), real-world retrospective analyses confirm pivotal trial findings. Given the glycemic benefits demonstrated, AID is rapidly becoming the standard of care for all people living with T1D. Individuals should be informed of these systems and differences between them, have access to and coverage for these technologies, and receive support as they integrate this mode of insulin delivery into their lives.

Person-reported outcomes in diabetes care: What are they and why are they so important?

In this review, we aim to show how person-reported outcomes (PROs) and person-reported experiences (PREs) can significantly contribute to the way diabetes care is delivered, the involvement of people with diabetes in diabetes care, and the collaboration between health care professionals and people with diabetes. This review focuses on the definition and measurement of PROs and PREs, the importance of PROs and PREs for person-centred diabetes care, and integrating the perspectives of people with diabetes in the evaluation of medical, psychological and technological interventions. PROs have been increasingly accepted by Health Technology Assessment bodies and are therefore valued in the context of reimbursement decisions and consequently by regulators and other health care stakeholders for the allocation of health care resources. Furthermore, the review identified current challenges to the assessment and use of PROs and PREs in clinical care and research. These challenges relate to the combination of questionnaires and ecological momentary assessment for measuring PROs and PREs, lack of consensus on a core outcome set, limited sensitivity to change within many measures and insufficient standardization of what can be considered a minimal clinically important difference. Another issue that has not been sufficiently addressed is the involvement of people with diabetes in the design and development of measures to assess PROs and PREs.

Hypoglycemia Unawareness-A Review on Pathophysiology and Clinical Implications

Hypoglycemia is a particular problem in people with diabetes while it can also occur in other clinical circumstances. Hypoglycemia unawareness describes a condition in which autonomic and neuroglycopenic symptoms of hypoglycemia decrease and hence are hardly perceivable. A failure to recognize hypoglycemia in time can lead to unconsciousness, seizure, and even death. The risk factors include intensive glycemic control, prior episodes of severe hypoglycemia, long duration of diabetes, alcohol consumption, exercise, renal failure, and sepsis. The pathophysiological mechanisms are manifold, but mainly concern altered brain glucose sensing, cerebral adaptations, and an impaired hormonal counterregulation with an attenuated release of glucagon, epinephrine, growth hormone, and other hormones, as well as impaired autonomous and neuroglycopenic symptoms. Physiologically, this counterregulatory response causes blood glucose levels to rise. The impaired hormonal counterregulatory response to recurrent hypoglycemia can lead to a vicious cycle of frequent and poorly recognized hypoglycemic episodes. There is a shift in glycemic threshold to trigger hormonal counterregulation, resulting in hypoglycemia-associated autonomic failure and leading to the clinical syndrome of hypoglycemia unawareness. This clinical syndrome represents a particularly great challenge in diabetes treatment and, thus, prevention of hypoglycemia is crucial in diabetes management. This mini-review provides an overview of hypoglycemia and the associated severe complication of impaired hypoglycemia awareness and its symptoms, pathophysiology, risk factors, consequences, as well as therapeutic strategies.

Outcomes measured in studies assessing health systems interventions for type 1 diabetes management: A scoping review

AIMS

Describe the outcomes reported in research on health systems interventions for type 1 diabetes management in comparison to the outcomes proposed by a core outcome set (COS) for this condition, an essential list of outcomes that studies should measure.

METHODS

Systematic search of studies published between 2010 and 2021 reporting health systems interventions directed to improve the management of type 1 diabetes using PubMed, EMBASE and CENTRAL. Information on the outcomes was extracted and classified according to a COS: self-management, level of clinical engagement, perceived control over diabetes, diabetes-related quality of life, diabetes burden, diabetes ketoacidosis, severe hypoglycemia, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C).

RESULTS

187 studies were included. Most of the studies included either children (n = 82/187) or adults (n = 82/187) living with type 1 diabetes. The most common outcome measured was HbA1C (n = 149/187), followed by self-management (n = 105/187). While the least measured ones were diabetes ketoacidosis (n = 15/187), and clinical engagement (n = 0/187). None of the studies measured all the outcomes recommended in the COS. Additionally, different tools were found to be used in measuring the same outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a description of what researchers are measuring when assessing health systems interventions to improve type 1 diabetes management. In contrast to a COS, it was found that there is a predominance of clinical-based outcomes over patient-reported outcome measures.

A two-year longitudinal observational study of the peripapillary microvasculature in pediatric type 1 diabetes mellitus patients without visual impairment or diabetic retinopathy

•Neurodegeneration precede microcirculatory deterioration in DR. Early signs can be seen in DM patients without visible DR symptoms, such as glial cell apoptosis and thinner retinal nerve fiber layer.•Peripapillary microvascular abnormalities in the peripapillary region may affect the normal metabolism of neurons and eventually aggravate the process of DR.•Prompting ongoing research to monitor the peripapillary microcirculation and microvasculature among T1DM children for early detection and prevention.•In longitudinal observation, the vessel density of the peripapillary superficial capillary plexus were slightly affected, while vessel density, blood flow, vessel morphological abnormalities and flow impairment area were significantly deteriorated in the deep capillary plexus.•The peripapillary deep capillary plexus is more susceptible and vulnerable to DR progression and could be used as a target for DR screening.

New advances in type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition resulting in insulin deficiency and eventual loss of pancreatic β cell function requiring lifelong insulin therapy. Since the discovery of insulin more than 100 years ago, vast advances in treatments have improved care for many people with type 1 diabetes. Ongoing research on the genetics and immunology of type 1 diabetes and on interventions to modify disease course and preserve β cell function have expanded our broad understanding of this condition. Biomarkers of type 1 diabetes are detectable months to years before development of overt disease, and three stages of diabetes are now recognized. The advent of continuous glucose monitoring and the newer automated insulin delivery systems have changed the landscape of type 1 diabetes management and are associated with improved glycated hemoglobin and decreased hypoglycemia. Adjunctive therapies such as sodium glucose cotransporter-1 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists may find use in management in the future. Despite these rapid advances in the field, people living in under-resourced parts of the world struggle to obtain necessities such as insulin, syringes, and blood glucose monitoring essential for managing this condition. This review covers recent developments in diagnosis and treatment and future directions in the broad field of type 1 diabetes.

Personalizing the Use of a Intermittently Scanned Continuous Glucose Monitoring Device in Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes: A Cost-Effectiveness Perspective in the Netherlands (FLARE-NL 9)

AIMS

Intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) is a method to monitor glucose concentrations without using a finger prick. Among persons with type 1 diabetes (T1D), isCGM results in improved glycemic control, less disease burden and improved health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, it is not clear for which subgroups of patients isCGM is cost-effective. We aimed to provide a real-world cost-effectiveness perspective.

METHODS

We used clinical data from a 1-year nationwide Dutch prospective observational study (N = 381) and linked these to insurance records. Health-related quality of life was assessed with the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire. Individuals were categorized into 4 subgroups: (1) frequent hypoglycemic events (58%), (2) HbA1c > 70 mmol/mol (8.5%) (19%), (3) occupation that requires avoiding finger pricks and/or hypoglycemia (5%), and (4) multiple indications (18%). Comparing costs and outcomes 12 months before and after isCGM initiation, incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated for the total cohort and each subgroup from a societal perspective (including healthcare and productivity loss costs) at the willingness to pay of €50,000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained.

RESULTS

From a societal perspective, isCGM was dominant in all subgroups (ie higher HRQoL gain with lower costs) except for subgroup 1. From a healthcare payer perspective, the probabilities of isCGM being cost-effective were 16%, 9%, 30%, 98%, and 65% for the total cohort and subgroup 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Most sensitivity analyses confirmed these findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Comparing subgroups of isCGM users allows to prioritize them based on cost-effectiveness. The most cost-effective subgroup was occupation-related indications, followed by multiple indications, high HbA1c and the frequent hypoglycemic events subgroups. However, controlled studies with larger sample size are needed to draw definitive conclusions.

16. Diabetes Care in the Hospital: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2024

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, an interprofessional expert committee, are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations and a full list of Professional Practice Committee members, please refer to Introduction and Methodology. Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Burden and Coping Strategies of Hypoglycemia in People with Diabetes

Hypoglycemia is a limiting adverse effect of glucose-lowering medications and particularly insulin replacement therapy. This review provides insights into the burden of hypoglycemia in the management of diabetes and outlines strategies available to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia and improve patients' well-being. People with type 1 diabetes are primarily affected by hypoglycemic episodes which are associated with direct physical harms like injuries and cardiac events as well as indirect psychosocial consequences including constant anxiety, absenteeism, increased healthcare costs and overall poorer quality of life. These complications are more prominent amongst individuals with hypoglycemia unawareness or overnight hypoglycemia and could even extend to caregivers such as parents of children with diabetes. Patients experiencing frequent or severe hypoglycemic events might also develop a pathological fear of hypoglycemia and adopt aberrant behaviors intending to maintain higher blood glucose levels. Modern pharmaceutical options with a safer profile in terms of hypoglycemia are available including novel basal insulins with lower rates of nocturnal hypoglycemia along with ultra-rapid-acting insulin analogs with a shorter duration of action that might avert late post-meal hypoglycemia. Continuous glucose monitoring and sensor-augmented insulin pump therapy with low glucose suspend technology can also prevent hypoglycemia, although concerns about cost and patient satisfaction remain. Advancements in insulin therapy and technological modalities should be coupled with ongoing education and support for patients to become co-managers of their disease and reduce the risk of hypoglycemia.

6. Glycemic Goals and Hypoglycemia: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2024

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, an interprofessional expert committee, are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations and a full list of Professional Practice Committee members, please refer to Introduction and Methodology. Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Associations Between Hypoglycemia Awareness, Hypoglycemia Beliefs, and Continuous Glucose Monitoring Glycemic Profiles and Anxiety and Depression Symptoms in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes Using Advanced Diabetes Technologies

AIMS

To evaluate relationships between hypoglycemia awareness, hypoglycemia beliefs, and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) glycemic profiles and anxiety and depression symptoms in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) who use CGM or automated insulin delivery devices.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey and data collections were completed with 196 T1D adults who used advanced diabetes technologies. We assessed hypoglycemia awareness (Gold instrument), hypoglycemia beliefs (Attitudes to Awareness of Hypoglycemia instrument), CGM glycemic profiles, demographics, and anxiety and depression symptoms (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). Data were processed via regression analyses and receiver operating characteristic analyses.

RESULTS

Lower hypoglycemia awareness, weaker "hypoglycemia concerns minimized" beliefs, stronger "hyperglycemia avoidance prioritized" beliefs, female, and younger age were independently associated with higher anxiety symptoms (P<0.05). Lower hypoglycemia awareness, less time in hypoglycemia, and younger age were independently associated with greater depression symptoms (P<0.05). Age of <50 years had 77.8% sensitivity and 48.8% specificity in detecting elevated anxiety symptoms. Spending ≥35% of time with glucose levels >180 mg/dL on CGMs had 85.7% sensitivity and 54.3% specificity in detecting elevated depression symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Our findings revealed relationships between impaired hypoglycemia awareness, hypoglycemia beliefs, CGM-detected hypoglycemia and anxiety and depression symptoms in T1D adults who use advanced diabetes technologies.

Roadmap to the Effective Use of Continuous Glucose Monitoring: Innovation, Investigation, and Implementation

For 25 years, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has been evolving into what it is now: a key tool to both measure individuals' glycemic status and to help guide their day-to-day management of diabetes. Through a series of engineering innovations, clinical investigations, and efforts to optimize workflow implementation, the use of CGM is helping to transform diabetes care. This article presents a roadmap to the effective use of CGM that outlines past, present, and possible future advances in harnessing the potential of CGM to improve the lives of many people with diabetes, with an emphasis on ensuring that CGM technology is available to all who could benefit from its use.

The Role of Ultra-Rapid-Acting Insulin Analogs in Diabetes: An Expert Consensus

Ultra-rapid-acting insulin analogs (URAA) are a further development and refinement of rapid-acting insulin analogs. Because of their adapted formulation, URAA provide an even faster pharmacokinetics and thus an accelerated onset of insulin action than conventional rapid-acting insulin analogs, allowing for a more physiologic delivery of exogenously applied insulin. Clinical trials have confirmed the superiority of URAA in controlling postprandial glucose excursions, with a safety profile that is comparable to the rapid-acting insulins. Consequently, many individuals with diabetes mellitus may benefit from URAA in terms of prandial glycemic control. Unfortunately, there are only few available recommendations from authoritative sources for use of URAA in clinical practice. Therefore, this expert consensus report aims to define populations of people with diabetes mellitus for whom URAA may be beneficial and to provide health care professionals with concrete, practical recommendations on how best to use URAA in this context.

Which diabetes specific patient reported outcomes should be measured in routine care? A systematic review to inform a core outcome set for adults with Type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus: The European Health Outcomes Observatory (H2O) programme

OBJECTIVES

The objective was to identify candidate patient reported outcomes with potential to inform individual patient care and service development for inclusion in a digital outcome set to be collected in routine care, as part of an international project to enhance care outcomes for people with diabetes.

METHODS

PubMed, COSMIN and COMET databases were searched. Published studies were included if they recommended patient reported outcomes that were clinically useful and/or important to people with diabetes. To aid selection decisions, recommended outcomes were considered in terms of the evidence endorsing them and their importance to people with diabetes.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven studies recommending 53 diabetes specific outcomes, and patient reported outcome measures, were included. The outcomes reflected the experience of living with diabetes (e.g. psychological well-being, symptom experience, health beliefs and stigma) and behaviours (e.g. self-management). Diabetes distress and self-management behaviours were most endorsed by the evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

The review provides a comprehensive list of candidate outcomes endorsed by international evidence and informed by existing outcome sets, and suggestions for measures.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

The review offers evidence to guide clinical application. Integrated measurement of these outcomes in care settings holds enormous potential to improve provision of care and outcomes in diabetes.

Comparison of Intranasal and Injectable Glucagon Administration Among Pediatric Population Responders

Aims: Ease of use and acceptability of nasal versus injectable glucagon (IG) among pediatric responders have been little investigated. This study compared the performance of administering nasal and IG in parents of youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and in school workers. Enablers and barriers associated with each glucagon and preferred glucagon administration learning modality were also evaluated. Methods: Three months after watching short pedagogical videos, 30 parents and 30 school workers performed simulated scenarios where they administered both glucagon. Completion time and successful execution of critical steps were collected. Interviews assessed preferred learning modalities, barriers, and enablers associated with each glucagon. Results: Both groups administered nasal glucagon faster than IG (median [interquartile range]: parents 19 [12-29] vs. 97 [71-117] s, P < 0.001; school workers 24 [16-33] vs. 129 [105-165] s, P < 0.001). A lower proportion of participants successfully executed all critical steps for injectable versus nasal glucagon (significant difference for school workers [53% vs. 90%; P = 0.007] but not for parents [68% vs. 83%; P = 0.227]). Nasal glucagon was preferred for ease of use and acceptability. Preferred learning modalities were a combination of videos and workshops, but videos alone could suffice for nasal glucagon. Conclusions: Nasal glucagon is faster to use, more likely to be successfully administered, and more acceptable than IG for parents of children with T1D and school workers. Nasal glucagon training with videos could improve school workers' involvement in severe hypoglycemia management. Clinical Trial number, URL to the registration: NCT05395000, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05395000.

Longitudinal Trends in Glycemic Outcomes and Technology Use for Over 48,000 People with Type 1 Diabetes (2016-2022) from the T1D Exchange Quality Improvement Collaborative

Objective: Previous studies revealed that hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) increased overall in the United States in the past decade. In addition, health inequities in type 1 diabetes (T1D) outcomes by race/ethnicity and insurance type persist. This study examines the trends in HbA1c from 2016 to 2022 stratified by race/ethnicity and insurance in a large multicenter national database. Research Design and Methods: We analyzed glycemic outcomes and diabetes device use trends for >48,000 people living with type 1 diabetes (PwT1D) from 3 adult and 12 pediatric centers in the T1D Exchange Quality Improvement Collaborative (T1DX-QI), comparing data from 2016 to 2017 with data from 2021 to 2022. Results: The mean HbA1c in 2021-2022 was lower at 8.4% compared with the mean HbA1c in 2016-2017 of 8.7% (0.3% improvement; P < 0.01). Over the same period, the percentage of PwT1D using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), insulin pump, or hybrid closed-loop system increased (45%, 12%, and 33%, respectively). However, these improvements were not equitably demonstrated across racial/ethnic groups or insurance types. Racial/ethnic and insurance-based inequities persisted over all 7 years across all outcomes; comparing non-Hispanic White and non-Hispanic Black PwT1D, disparate gaps in HbA1c (1.2%-1.6%), CGM (30%), pump (25%-35%), and hybrid-closed loop system (up to 20%) are illuminated. Conclusion: Population-level data on outcomes, including HbA1c, can provide trends and insights into strategies to improve health for PwT1D. The T1DX-QI cohort showed a significant improvement in HbA1c from 2016 to 2022. Improvements in diabetes device use are also demonstrated. However, these increases were inconsistent across all racial/ethnic groups or insurance types, an important focus for future T1D population health improvement work.

Current and future therapies to treat impaired awareness of hypoglycemia

In order to achieve optimal glycemic control, intensive insulin regimes are needed for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) and insulin-dependent Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). Unfortunately, intensive glycemic control often results in insulin-induced hypoglycemia. Moreover, recurrent episodes of hypoglycemia result in both the loss of the characteristic warning symptoms associated with hypoglycemia and an attenuated counterregulatory hormone responses. The blunting of warning symptoms is known as impaired awareness of hypoglycemia (IAH). Together, IAH and the loss of the hormonal response is termed hypoglycemia associated autonomic failure (HAAF). IAH is prevalent in up to 25% in people with T1D and up to 10% in people with T2D. IAH and HAAF increase the risk of severe hypoglycemia 6-fold and 25-fold, respectively. To reduce this risk for severe hypoglycemia, multiple different therapeutic approaches are being explored that could improve awareness of hypoglycemia. Current therapies to improve awareness of hypoglycemia include patient education and psychoeducation, the use of novel glycemic control technology, pancreas/islet transplantation, and drug therapy. This review examines both existing therapies and potential therapies that are in pre-clinical testing. Novel treatments that improve awareness of hypoglycemia, via improving the counterregulatory hormone responses or improving hypoglycemic symptom recognition, would also shed light on the possible neurological mechanisms that lead to the development of IAH. To reduce the risk of severe hypoglycemia in people with diabetes, elucidating the mechanism behind IAH, as well as developing targeted therapies is currently an unmet need for those that suffer from IAH.

Brain Regulation of Cardiac Function during Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia occurs frequently in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Hypoglycemia activates the counter-regulatory response. Besides peripheral glucose sensors located in the pancreas, mouth, gastrointestinal tract, portal vein, and carotid body, many brain regions also contain glucose-sensing neurons that detect this fall in glucose. The autonomic nervous system innervates the heart, and during hypoglycemia, can cause many changes. Clinical and animal studies have revealed changes in electrocardiograms during hypoglycemia. Cardiac repolarization defects (QTc prolongation) occur during moderate levels of hypoglycemia. When hypoglycemia is severe, it can be fatal. Cardiac arrhythmias are thought to be the major mediator of sudden death due to severe hypoglycemia. Both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems of the brain have been implicated in regulating these arrhythmias. Besides cardiac arrhythmias, hypoglycemia can have profound changes in the heart and most of these changes are exacerbated in the setting of diabetes. A better understanding of how the brain regulates cardiac changes during hypoglycemia will allow for better therapeutic intervention to prevent cardiovascular death associated with hypoglycemia in people with diabetes. The aim of this paper is to provide a narrative review of what is known in the field regarding how the brain regulates the heart during hypoglycemia.

Glycated Albumin Correlates With Time-in-Range Better Than HbA1c or Fructosamine

CONTEXT

Intermediate-term glycemic control metrics may represent a viable alternative to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in patients without access to CGM.

OBJECTIVE

This work aimed to compare the relationship between CGM parameters and glycated albumin (GA), glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and fructosamine for 24 weeks.

METHODS

We conducted exploratory comparative analyses of CGM subgroup data from a previously published 24-week prospective study of assay performance in 8 US clinics. Participants included 34 individuals with type 1 (n = 18) and type 2 diabetes (n = 16) undergoing changes to improve glycemic control (n = 22; group 1) or with stable diabetes therapy (n = 12; group 2). Main outcome measures included Pearson correlations between CGM and glycemic indices and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of glycemic index values predictive of time in range (TIR) greater than 70%.

RESULTS

At weeks 4 and 8, GA correlations with TIR were higher than HbA1c correlations in group 1. In group 2, GA correlations with TIR were statistically significant, whereas HbA1c correlations were not. In both groups over the first 12 weeks, GA correlations with TIR were higher than fructosamine-TIR correlations. In the ROC analysis, GA predicted a TIR greater than 70% during weeks 2 to 24 (area under the curve >0.80); HbA1c was predictive during weeks 12 to 24. Cutoff values for TIR greater than 70% were 17.5% (sensitivity and specificity, 0.88) for GA and 7.3% (0.86) for HbA1c.

CONCLUSION

GA is the most accurate predictor of TIR over 8 weeks compared with other glycemic indices, which may assist in clinical evaluation of changes in treatment where CGM is not possible and it is too early to use HbA1c (NCT02489773).

The effectiveness of blood glucose and blood ketone measurement in identifying significant acidosis in diabetic ketoacidosis patients

BACKGROUND

Patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a potentially fatal complication of type 1 diabetes, have hyperglycemia, ketonemia and metabolic acidosis. Blood glucose and blood ketone results are often used to triage patients with suspected DKA. This study aimed to establish how effective blood glucose and blood ketone (beta-hydroxybutyrate, BOHB) measurements are in identifying patients with significant acidosis and sought to validate existing diagnostic BOHB thresholds.

METHODS

Initial Emergency Department results on 161 presumptive DKA episodes in 95 patients (42 F, 53 M, age range 14-89 years) containing a complete dataset of D (glucose), K (BOHB) and A (Bicarbonate [HCO3] and pH) results.

RESULTS

Blood glucose correlated poorly with BOHB (r = 0.28 p = 0.0003), pH (r= -0.25, p = 0.002) and HCO3 (r= -0.17, p = 0.04). BOHB, though better, was still limited in predicting pH (r = -0.44, p < 0.0001) and HCO3 (r = -0.49, p < 0.0001). A HCO3 of 18mmol/L equated to a BOHB concentration of 4.3mmol/L, whilst a HCO3 of 15mmol/L equated to a BOHB of 4.7mmol/L. Of the 133 of 161 events with HCO3 < 18mmol/L, 22 were not hyperglycemic (> 13.9mmol/L, n = 8), ketonemic (≤ 3mmol/L, n = 9) or either (n = 5).

CONCLUSIONS

The commonly employed BOHB diagnostic cutoff of 3mmol/L could not be verified. Since acid-base status was poorly predicted by both glucose and BOHB, this highlights that, regardless of their results, pH and/or HCO3 should also be tested in any patient suspected of DKA.

Efficacy of automated insulin delivery (AID) systems in type 1 diabetes: protocol of a systematic review and network meta-analysis of outpatient randomised controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Automated insulin delivery (AID), also known as artificial pancreas system or 'closed-loop system', represents a novel option for current treatments for type 1 diabetes (T1D). The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to assess the efficacy of AID systems in comparison with current intensified insulin therapy for glycaemic control and patient-reported outcomes in individuals with T1D.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Studies will be eligible if they are randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in people with T1D of all ages, and if they compare an AID system for self-administration during the day and night period with any other type of insulin therapy for at least 3 weeks. The primary outcome will be time in the glucose target range of 70-180 mg/dL. A systematic review will be conducted in the MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and ClinicalTrials.gov registries from their inception dates. Two authors will independently screen all references based on titles and abstracts against the eligibility criteria. For data extraction, standard forms will be developed and tested before extraction. All information will be assessed independently by at least two reviewers. The risk of bias of the included studies will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool. The data synthesis will include a random-effects pairwise and network meta-analysis (NMA) in a frequentist framework. Where applicable and if sufficient RCTs are available, sensitivity analyses will be performed, and heterogeneity and publication bias will be assessed. The certainty of evidence from the NMA will be evaluated following the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation working group guidance.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

No ethical approval is needed. The results will be reported to the funder, presented in a peer-reviewed scientific journal and at conferences, and disseminated via press release, social media and public events.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42023395492.

Fast-Acting Insulin Aspart in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes in Real-World Clinical Practice: A Noninterventional, Retrospective Chart and Database Study

INTRODUCTION

This study utilized continuous glucose monitoring data to analyze the effects of switching to treatment with fast-acting insulin aspart (faster aspart) in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in clinical practice.

METHODS

A noninterventional database review was conducted in Sweden among adults with T1D using multiple daily injection (MDI) regimens who had switched to treatment with faster aspart as part of basal-bolus treatment. Glycemic data were retrospectively collected during the 26 weeks before switching (baseline) and up to 32 weeks after switching (follow-up) to assess changes in time in glycemic range (TIR; 70-180 mg/dL), mean sensor glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, coefficient of variation, time in hyperglycemia (level 1, > 180 to ≤ 250 mg/dL; level 2, > 250 mg/dL), and time in hypoglycemia (level 1, ≥ 54 to < 70 mg/dL; level 2, < 54 mg/dL) (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03895515).

RESULTS

Overall, 178 participants were included in the study cohort. The analysis population included 82 individuals (mean age 48.5 years) with adequate glucose sensor data. From baseline to follow-up, statistically significant improvements were reported for TIR (mean increase 3.3%-points [approximately 48 min/day]; p = 0.006) with clinically relevant improvement (≥ 5%) in 43% of participants. Statistically significant improvements from baseline were observed for mean sensor glucose levels, HbA1c levels, and time in hyperglycemia (levels 1 and 2), with no statistically significant changes in time spent in hypoglycemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Switching to faster aspart was associated with improvements in glycemic control without increasing hypoglycemia in adults with T1D using MDI in this real-world setting.

Gender differences in reported frequency and consequences of hypoglycemia among adults living with type 1 diabetes: results from the BETTER registry

AIMS

To evaluate the frequency and consequences of level 2 (L2H, glucose level <3.0 mmol/L with autonomous management) and level 3 hypoglycemia (L3H requiring external assistance to treat), in adults living with type 1 diabetes (T1D), while investigating the role of gender.

METHODS

Cross-sectional analysis of self-reported retrospective data from a Canadian registry of 900 adults living with T1D using logistic regression models adjusted for age, T1D management modalities, hypoglycemia history, and validated patient-reported outcomes scales. Changes in diabetes management, seeking healthcare resources, and impacts on daily well-being were explored.

RESULTS

Of the 900 adults (66% women, mean age 43.7 ± 14.8 years, mean T1D duration 25.5 ± 14.6 years), 87% used wearable diabetes technology. L3H in the past year was reported by 15% participants, similar between genders. Women reported more L2Hstudy analysis than men (median (Q1, Q3): 4 (2, 10) vs 3 (1,8), p=0.015), and were more likely to report persistent fatigue after both L2H and L3H (Odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.95 [1.16, 3.28] and 1.86 [1.25, 2.75], respectively) and anxiety (1.70 [1.05, 2.75]) after a L3H.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest taking a gender-based differential approach when addressing hypoglycemia and its various consequences for people living with T1D.

Expanding the Role of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Modern Diabetes Care Beyond Type 1 Disease

Application of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has moved diabetes care from a reactive to a proactive process, in which a person with diabetes can prevent episodes of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, rather than taking action only once low and high glucose are detected. Consequently, CGM devices are now seen as the standard of care for people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Evidence now supports the use of CGM in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on any treatment regimen, not just for those on insulin therapy. Expanding the application of CGM to include all people with T1DM or T2DM can support effective intensification of therapies to reduce glucose exposure and lower the risk of complications and hospital admissions, which are associated with high healthcare costs. All of this can be achieved while minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia and improving quality of life for people with diabetes. Wider application of CGM can also bring considerable benefits for women with diabetes during pregnancy and their children, as well as providing support for acute care of hospital inpatients who experience the adverse effects of hyperglycemia following admission and surgical procedures, as a consequence of treatment-related insulin resistance or reduced insulin secretion. By tailoring the application of CGM for daily or intermittent use, depending on the patient profile and their needs, one can ensure the cost-effectiveness of CGM in each setting. In this article we discuss the evidence-based benefits of expanding the use of CGM technology to include all people with diabetes, along with a diverse population of people with non-diabetic glycemic dysregulation.

Relationship Between Time in Range and Dusk Phenomenon in Outpatients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Purpose

The dusk phenomenon refers to a spontaneous and transient pre-dinner hyperglycemia that affects glucose fluctuation and glycemic control, and the increasing use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has facilitated its diagnosis. We investigated the frequency of the dusk phenomenon and its relationship with the time in range (TIR) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Patients and Methods

This study involved 102 patients with T2DM who underwent CGM for 14 days. CGM-derived metrics and clinical characteristics were evaluated. A consecutive dusk blood glucose difference (pre-dinner glucose minus 2-hour post-lunch glucose) of ≥ 0 or once-only dusk blood glucose difference of < 0 was diagnosed as the clinical dusk phenomenon (CLDP).

Results

We found that the percentage of CLDP was 11.76% (10.34% in men, 13.64% in women). Compared with the non-CLDP group, the CLDP group tended to be younger and have a lower percentage of TIR (%TIR^3.9-10) and higher percentage of time above range (%TAR^>10 and %TAR^>13.9) (P ≤ 0.05). Adjusted for confounding factors, the binary logistic regression analysis showed a negative association of CLDP with %TIR (odds ratio < 1, P < 0.05). We repeated the correlation analysis based on 70%TIR and found significant differences in hemoglobin A1c, fasting blood glucose, mean blood glucose, standard deviation of the sensor glucose values, glucose coefficient of variation, largest amplitude of glycemic excursions, mean amplitude of glycemic excursions, glucose management indicator, and percentage of CLDP between the two subgroups of TIR ≤ 70% and TIR > 70% (P < 0.05). The negative association between TIR and CLDP still remained after adjustment by the binary logistic regression analysis.

Conclusion

The CLDP was frequently present in patients with T2DM. The TIR was significantly correlated with the CLDP and could serve as an independent negative predictor.

'You have to use everything and come to some equilibrium': a qualitative study on hypoglycemia self-management in users of continuous glucose monitor with diverse hypoglycemia experiences

INTRODUCTION

Although continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMs) can help reduce hypoglycemia, about one-quarter of people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) who use CGMs still either spend at least 1% of the time with dangerously low blood glucose or develop severe hypoglycemia. This study explored experiences around hypoglycemia self-management in people who are living with T1D and using CGMs to identify factors contributing to hypoglycemia development.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Purposive sampling and semistructured interviews with 28 respondents with T1D and using CGMs were conducted to explore experiences around hypoglycemic episodes and hypoglycemia self-management during CGM use. Open coding and thematic analysis were employed to identify emergent themes related to hypoglycemia experiences.

RESULTS

About one-third of respondents each respectively spent 0%, 0.1%-0.9% and ≥1% of time in level 2 hypoglycemia; 39% had impaired awareness of hypoglycemia and 32% had severe hypoglycemia in the past 6 months. Four themes were generated: (1) prioritizing symptoms over CGM data (subthemes: hypoglycemia symptoms for confirming hypoglycemia and prompting management actions; minimal management actions without hypoglycemia symptoms); (2) distraction from the demands of daily life; (3) concerns about hypoglycemia management choices (subthemes: fear of rebound hyperglycemia; other health consequences related to sugary food consumption; aversions to treatment foods and treatment food consumption); and (4) social influences on management choices (subthemes: positively perceived social support and inclusion; unwanted attention to oneself or concerns about inconveniencing others; social stigma and criticism related to hypoglycemia and CGM use).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite using CGMs, people with T1D can face a complex biopsychosocial process of managing hypoglycemia. Interventions for addressing psychosocial and behavioral barriers are needed to improve hypoglycemia self-management in those who continue to face challenges in minimizing hypoglycemia while using CGMs.

Is HbA1c an Indicator of Diabetic Ketoacidosis Severity in the Pediatric Population?

ABSTRACT

Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) reflects how well blood glucose is controlled and is one of the strongest predictors of chronic complications of diabetes mellitus. The degree of acidosis helps determine the severity of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) (mild: pH 7.2-7.3; moderate: pH 7.1-7.2; severe: pH <7.1) and guides the level of care and predicts outcome. Many studies have implicated that higher HbA1c levels lead to recurrent DKA. However, there is no description of the association of higher HbA1c with the severity of DKA. One hundred thirty-eight electronic medical records of patients aged 1 to 21 years admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit with DKA between 2011 and 2015 were analyzed. We excluded 50 patients because the HbA1c level was not available. Spearman correlation analyzed the data for 88 patients included in the study. The mean HbA1c was 13.3, with female patients having more admissions compared with male patients (58% vs 42%). The age group from 13 to 21 years accounted for 77.3% of the patients. The duration of type 1 diabetes mellitus did not affect the HbA1c level. Likewise, the blood glucose and serum creatinine level did not show a statistical correlation with blood pH levels. Mean HbA1c for mild, moderate, and severe DKA groups were 11.4%, 12.2%, and 14.8%, respectively. Blood pH and HbA1c returned a negative correlation (correlation coefficient, -0.557; P = 0.005). The HbA1c level correlated positively with the 3 groups of DKA (correlation coefficient, 0.595; P = 0.01). A higher A 1c was associated with more severe DKA.

Use of Continuous Glucose Monitors to Manage Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: Progress, Challenges, and Recommendations

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) management has been revolutionized with the development and routine utilization of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). CGM technology has allowed for the ability to track dynamic glycemic fluctuations and trends over time allowing for optimization of medical therapy and the prevention of dangerous hypoglycemic events. This review details currently-available real-time and intermittently-scanned CGM devices, clinical benefits, and challenges of CGM use, and current guidelines supporting its use in the clinical care of patients with T1D. We additionally describe future issues that will need to be addressed as CGM technology continues to evolve.

Severe Hypoglycemia and the Use of Glucagon Rescue Agents: An Observational Survey in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes

Severe hypoglycemia (SH) is the most frequent and potentially serious complication affecting individuals with type 1 diabetes and can have major clinical and psychosocial consequences. Glucagon is the only approved treatment for SH that can be administered by non-health care professionals (HCPs); however, reports on the experiences and emotions of people with type 1 diabetes associated with SH and glucagon rescue use are limited. This survey study demonstrated that an increasing number of individuals with type 1 diabetes have current and filled prescriptions for glucagon and have been educated about glucagon rescue use by an HCP. Despite this positive trend, challenges with SH remain, including a high level of health care resource utilization, considerable out-of-pocket expenses for glucagon kits, a high prevalence of hypoglycemia unawareness, and a negative emotional impact on individuals with diabetes. Nocturnal and exercise-related hypoglycemia were concerns for most survey participants.

Hypoglycaemia in type 1 diabetes mellitus: risks and practical prevention strategies

Hypoglycaemia, which occurs when blood levels of glucose fall below what is considered a normal range, is a well-known complication of insulin therapy in individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Despite advances in diabetes mellitus management, hypoglycaemia has continued to affect the majority of these individuals, leading to suboptimal care and decreased quality of life. Multiple epidemiological studies have demonstrated the risks associated with hypoglycaemic events. With this understanding, various advances have been made in therapeutics for diabetes mellitus management. Diabetes mellitus education continues to form the foundation for management and prevention of hypoglycaemia. The advent of newer diabetes mellitus technologies and newer insulins herald improvements in management strategies and hypoglycaemia prevention. Improved understanding of these newer approaches is needed to ensure delivery of safe and effective care to individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus, leading to reductions in both the short-term and long-term morbidity and mortality associated with hypoglycaemic events.

Potential cost savings in the United States from a reduction in sensor-detected severe hypoglycemia among users of the InPen smart insulin pen system

BACKGROUND: Severe hypoglycemia is a significant barrier to optimizing insulin therapy in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes and places a burden on the US health care system because of the high costs of hypoglycemia-related health care utilization. OBJECTIVE: To compare the frequency of sensor-detected severe hypoglycemic events (SHEs) among a population of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) users on insulin therapy after initiation of the InPen smart insulin pen (SIP) system and to estimate the potential hypoglycemia-related medical cost savings across a population of SIP users. METHODS: SIP users of all ages with type 1 or type 2 diabetes were required to have at least 90 days of SIP use with a connected CGM device. The last 14 days of sensor glucose (SG) data within the 30-day period prior to the start of SIP use ("pre-SIP") and the last 14 days of SG data, along with the requirement of at least 1 bolus entry per day within the 61- to 90-day period after SIP start ("post-SIP"), were analyzed. Sensor-detected SHEs (defined as ≥10 minutes of consecutive SG readings at <54 mg/dL) were determined. Once factored, the expected medical intervention rates and associated costs were calculated. Intervention rates and costs were obtained from the literature. RESULTS: There were 1,681 SIP + CGM users from March 1, 2018, to April 30, 2021. The mean number of sensor-detected SHEs per week declined from 0.67 in the pre-SIP period to 0.58 in the post-SIP period (P = 0.008), which represented a 13% reduction. Assuming a range of 5%-25% of all sensor-detected SHEs resulted in a clinical event, the estimated cost reduction associated with reduced SHEs was $12-$59 and $110-$551 per SIP user per month and per year, respectively. For those aged at least 65 years, there were 166 SIP+CGM users and the reduction in the mean number of sensor-detected SHEs per week between the pre-SIP and post-SIP periods was 31%. CONCLUSIONS: Use of the SIP system with a connected CGM is associated with reduced sensor-detected severe hypoglycemia, which may result in significant cost savings. DISCLOSURES: Albert Chien, Glen Im, Kael Wherry, Janice MacLeod, and Robert A Vigersky are employees of Medtronic; Sneha Thanasekaran and Angela Gaetano were affiliated with Medtronic while doing this research. The submitted work did not involve study subject recruitment, enrollment, or participation in a trial and did not fall under human subject protection requirements (per the Department of Health and Human Services CFR Part 46) necessitating Internal Review Board approval or exemption.

Relationship between glycemic variability and cognitive function in lacune patients with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Lacunes are the manifestations of lacunar infarction which can lead many patients to the clinical outcome of disability or dementia. However, the relationship between lacune burden, cognitive function and blood glucose fluctuation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) complicated with lacunes is not very clear.

AIM

To explore the correlation between glucose variability, lacune burden and cognitive function in patients with lacunes complicated with T2DM.

METHODS

The clinical and imaging data of 144 patients with lacunes combined with T2DM were reviewed retrospectively. 72 h continuous glucose monitoring was performed. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment was used to assess cognitive function. The burden of lacunes was evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging performance. Multifactorial logistic regression analysis was used to study the affecting the lacune load and cognitive impairment in patients. To predict the value of patients' cognitive impairment with lacunes complicated with T2DM, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and a nomogram prediction model were constructed.

RESULTS

The standard deviation (SD) of the average blood glucose concentration, percentage coefficient of variation (%CV) and time of range (TIR) were significantly different between the low and the high load groups (P < 0.05). The SD, %CV and TIR of the cognitive impairment group and non-cognitive impairment group were significantly different (P < 0.05). SD (odds ratio (OR): 3.558, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.268-9.978, P = 0.006), and %CV (OR: 1.192, 95%CI: 1.081-1.315, P < 0.05) were the risk factors for an increased infarct burden in lacunes patients complicated with T2DM. TIR (OR: 0.874, 95%CI: 0.833-0.928, P < 0.05) is a protective factor. In addition, an increased SD (OR: 2.506, 95%CI: 1.008-6.23, P = 0.003), %CV (OR: 1.163, 95%CI: 1.065-1.270, P < 0.05) were the risk factors for cognitive impairment in patients with lacunes complicated with T2DM, TIR (OR: 0.957, 95%CI: 0.922-0.994, P < 0.05) is a protective factor. A nomogram prediction model of the risk of cognitive impairment was established based on SD, %CV and TIR. Decision curve analysis and the internal calibration analysis were used for internal verification and showed that the model was clinical benefit. The area under the ROC curves for predicting cognitive impairment in patients with lacunes complicated with T2DM was drawn were %CV: 0.757 (95%CI :0.669-0.845, P < 0.05), TIR: 0.711 (95%CI: 0.623-0.799, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Blood glucose variability is closely associated with the level of lacune burden and cognitive dysfunction in lacune patients combined with T2DM. %CV, TIR have a certain predictive effect in cognitive impairment in lacune patients.

Management of Individuals With Diabetes at High Risk for Hypoglycemia: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline

CONTEXT

Hypoglycemia in people with diabetes is common, especially in those taking medications such as insulin and sulfonylureas (SU) that place them at higher risk. Hypoglycemia is associated with distress in those with diabetes and their families, medication nonadherence, and disruption of life and work, and it leads to costly emergency department visits and hospitalizations, morbidity, and mortality.

OBJECTIVE

To review and update the diabetes-specific parts of the 2009 Evaluation and Management of Adult Hypoglycemic Disorders: Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline and to address developing issues surrounding hypoglycemia in both adults and children living with diabetes. The overriding objectives are to reduce and prevent hypoglycemia.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary panel of clinician experts, together with a patient representative, and methodologists with expertise in evidence synthesis and guideline development, identified and prioritized 10 clinical questions related to hypoglycemia in people living with diabetes. Systematic reviews were conducted to address all the questions. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology was used to assess the certainty of evidence and make recommendations.

RESULTS

The panel agreed on 10 questions specific to hypoglycemia risk and prevention in people with diabetes for which 10 recommendations were made. The guideline includes conditional recommendations for use of real-time continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and algorithm-driven insulin pumps in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D), use of CGM for outpatients with type 2 diabetes at high risk for hypoglycemia, use of long-acting and rapid-acting insulin analogs, and initiation of and continuation of CGM for select inpatient populations at high risk for hypoglycemia. Strong recommendations were made for structured diabetes education programs for those at high risk for hypoglycemia, use of glucagon preparations that do not require reconstitution vs those that do for managing severe outpatient hypoglycemia for adults and children, use of real-time CGM for individuals with T1D receiving multiple daily injections, and the use of inpatient glycemic management programs leveraging electronic health record data to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia.

CONCLUSION

The recommendations are based on the consideration of critical outcomes as well as implementation factors such as feasibility and values and preferences of people with diabetes. These recommendations can be used to inform clinical practice and health care system improvement for this important complication for people living with diabetes.

Implementation of Psychosocial Screening into Diabetes Clinics: Experience from the Type 1 Diabetes Exchange Quality Improvement Network

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Although advances in diabetes technology and pharmacology have significantly and positively impacted diabetes management and health outcomes for some, diabetes care remains burdensome and can be challenging to balance with other life priorities. The purpose of this article is to review the rationale for assessment of psychosocial domains in diabetes care settings and strategies for the implementation of psychosocial screening into routine practice. Survey data from the Type 1 Diabetes Exchange Quality Improvement Network is highlighted.

RECENT FINDINGS

Implementation of psychosocial screening requires identifying the population; selecting validated tools to assess target domains; determining frequency of screening and mode of survey delivery; and scoring, interpreting, documenting, and facilitating referrals such that these processes are part of clinical workflows. Recognizing the influence of psychosocial factors for people with diabetes (PWD), professional society guidelines for comprehensive diabetes care recommend the integration of psychosocial screening into routine care.

Development of the Support self-guided, web application for adults living with type 1 diabetes in Canada by a multi-disciplinary team using a people-oriented approach based on the Behaviour Change Wheel

Background

Diabetes self-management education and support (DSME/S) are central in type 1 diabetes (T1D) where individuals are responsible for 95% of care. In-person DSME/S programs have been proven clinically effective (e.g. optimizing glycemic management, improving diabetes-related behaviors) but are limited by a lack of accessibility and long-term follow-up. Self-guided digital tools such as web applications (web apps) can be an alternative for delivering DSME/S.

Objective

This article describes the development of Support, a behavioral theory-based, self-guided, web application for adults living with T1D in the province of Quebec, Canada.

Methods

A multi-disciplinary team developed Support. Patient partners first proposed its focus, learning topics, and expressed barriers to using digital tools for DSME/S. These barriers were analyzed based on the Behaviour Change Wheel. A group of healthcare professionals (HCPs) drafted the evidence-based learning content which was reviewed by external HCPs and by patient partners.

Results

Support is a bilingual (English and French) web app accessible at any time via the Internet. It has four learning paths focusing on hypoglycemia and based on the user's method of diabetes treatment. Learning modules are divided into six categories with a maximum of three learning levels. It contains features such as a discussion forum, videos, and quizzes to ensure interactivity, provide social support, and maintain the motivation and long-term engagement of users.

Conclusions

To the best of the authors' knowledge, Support is the first self-guided evidence-based web app for adults living with T1D. It is currently under study to evaluate its feasibility and clinical impacts.