Effects of patient-reported non-severe hypoglycemia on healthcare resource use, work-time loss, and wellbeing in insulin-treated patients with diabetes in seven European countries

Factors and economic burden of non-severe hypoglycemia among insulin-treated type 2 diabetes patients: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

This cross-sectional survey was performed to assess the prevalence, factors, and economic burden of non-severe hypoglycemia among insulin-treated type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients in northern Thailand.

METHODS

Between April 2021 and August 2022, 600 participants were evaluated via structured questionnaires containing sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, medications, and economic burden. Patients were divided into two groups (having and not having non-severe hypoglycemia). Variables with a p value <.05 in the univariate model were included in the multivariate model.

RESULTS

The percentage of non-severe hypoglycemia was 50.3% (302/600). Of all participants, the average age was 61.4 ± 26.0 years, 55.7% were female, 53.5% used premix insulin, and the average duration of diabetes was 16.1 ± 10.0 years. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that age (OR = .96; p <.001), duration of diabetes (OR = 1.04; p <.001), BMI (OR = .95; p = .002), thiazolidinedione (OR = 1.56; p = .012) and insulin regimens were associated with having non-severe hypoglycemia. Compared to basal insulin, basal bolus (OR = 6.93; p = .001), basal plus (OR = 3.58; p <.001), and premix insulin (OR = 1.83; p =.003) were associated with hypoglycemia. Greater numbers of sick leave were found in the hypoglycemia group (14 vs 4 patients, p = .029).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings help to individuate those patients who are at higher risk of non-severe hypoglycemia in insulin-treated T2D patients. Compared to the non-hypoglycemia group, patients with hypoglycemia were younger, had longer diabetes duration, lower BMI, received thiazolidinedione and insulin regimens such as premix, basal plus, or basal bolus insulins, and more productivity loss.

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.

Incidence and costs of hypoglycemia in insulin-treated diabetes in Switzerland: A health-economic analysis

AIMS

We assess the incidence and economic burden of severe and non-severe hypoglycemia in insulin-treated diabetes type 1 and 2 patients in Switzerland.

METHODS

We developed a health economic model to assess the incidence of hypoglycemia, the subsequent medical costs, and the production losses in insulin-treated diabetes patients. The model distinguishes between severity of hypoglycemia, type of diabetes, and type of medical care. We used survey data, health statistics, and health care utilization data extracted from primary studies.

RESULTS

The number of hypoglycemic events in 2017 was estimated at 1.3 million in type 1 diabetes patients and at 0.7 million in insulin-treated type 2 diabetes patients. The subsequent medical costs amount to 38 million Swiss Francs (CHF), 61 % of which occur in type 2 diabetes. Outpatient visits dominate costs in both types of diabetes. Total production losses due to hypoglycemia amount to CHF 11 million. Almost 80 % of medical costs and 39 % of production losses are due to non-severe hypoglycemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypoglycemia leads to substantial socio-economic burden in Switzerland. Greater attention to non-severe hypoglycemic events and to severe hypoglycemia in type 2 diabetes could have a major impact on reducing this burden.

Long-Term Cost Effectiveness of Oral Semaglutide Versus Empagliflozin and Sitagliptin for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes in the Swedish Setting

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the cost effectiveness of oral semaglutide versus other oral glucose-lowering drugs for the management of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Sweden.

METHODS

The Swedish Institute for Health Economics Diabetes Cohort Model was used to assess the cost effectiveness of oral semaglutide 14 mg versus empagliflozin 25 mg and oral semaglutide 14 mg versus sitagliptin 100 mg, using data from the head-to-head PIONEER 2 and 3 trials, respectively, in which these treatments were added to metformin (± sulphonylurea). Base-case and scenario analyses were conducted. Robustness was evaluated with deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

In the base-case analyses, greater initial lowering of glycated haemoglobin levels with oral semaglutide versus empagliflozin and oral semaglutide versus sitagliptin, respectively, resulted in reduced incidences of micro- and macrovascular complications and was associated with lower costs of complications and indirect costs. Treatment costs were higher for oral semaglutide, resulting in higher total lifetime costs than with empagliflozin (Swedish Krona [SEK] 1,245,570 vs. 1,210,172) and sitagliptin (SEK1,405,789 vs. 1,377,381). Oral semaglutide was shown to be cost effective, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of SEK239,001 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) compared with empagliflozin and SEK120,848 per QALY compared with sitagliptin, from a payer perspective. ICERs were lower at SEK191,721 per QALY compared with empagliflozin and SEK95,234 per QALY compared with sitagliptin from a societal perspective. Results were similar in scenario analyses that incorporated cardiovascular effects, and also in sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

In a Swedish setting, oral semaglutide was cost effective compared with empagliflozin and sitagliptin for patients with T2D inadequately controlled on oral glucose-lowering drugs.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02863328 (PIONEER 2; registered 11 August 2016) and NCT02607865 (PIONEER 3; registered 18 November 2015).

Investigating the day-to-day impact of hypoglycaemia in adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes: design and validation protocol of the Hypo-METRICS application

INTRODUCTION

Hypoglycaemia is a frequent adverse event and major barrier for achieving optimal blood glucose levels in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes using insulin. The Hypo-RESOLVE (Hypoglycaemia-Redefining SOLutions for better liVEs) consortium aims to further our understanding of the day-to-day impact of hypoglycaemia. The Hypo-METRICS (Hypoglycaemia-MEasurement, ThResholds and ImpaCtS) application (app) is a novel app for smartphones. This app is developed as part of the Hypo-RESOLVE project, using ecological momentary assessment methods that will minimise recall bias and allow for robust investigation of the day-to-day impact of hypoglycaemia. In this paper, the development and planned psychometric analyses of the app are described.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The three phases of development of the Hypo-METRICS app are: (1) establish a working group-comprising diabetologists, psychologists and people with diabetes-to define the problem and identify relevant areas of daily functioning; (2) develop app items, with user-testing, and implement into the app platform; and (3) plan a large-scale, multicountry study including interviews with users and psychometric validation. The app includes 7 modules (29 unique items) assessing: self-report of hypoglycaemic episodes (during the day and night, respectively), sleep quality, well-being/cognitive function, social interactions, fear of hypoglycaemia/hyperglycaemia and work/productivity. The app is designed for use within three fixed time intervals per day (morning, afternoon and evening). The first version was released mid-2020 for use (in conjunction with continuous glucose monitoring and activity tracking) in the Hypo-METRICS study; an international observational longitudinal study. As part of this study, semistructured user-experience interviews and psychometric analyses will be conducted.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Use of the novel Hypo-METRICS app in a multicountry clinical study has received ethical approval in each of the five countries involved (Oxford B Research Ethics Committee, CMO Region Arnhem-Nijmegen, Ethikkommission der Medizinischen Universität Graz, Videnskabsetisk Komite for Region Hovedstaden and the Comite Die Protection Des Personnes SUD Mediterranne IV). The results from the study will be published in peer review journals and presented at national and international conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04304963.

The Cost-Effectiveness of an Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop System in People with Type 1 Diabetes: a Health Economic Analysis in Sweden

INTRODUCTION

Swedish National Diabetes Registry data show a correlation of improved glycemic control in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) with increased use of diabetes technologies over the past 25 years. However, novel technologies are often associated with a high initial outlay. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the long-term cost-effectiveness of the advanced hybrid closed-loop (AHCL) MiniMed 780G system versus intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) plus self-injection of multiple daily insulin (MDI) or continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) in people with T1D in Sweden.

METHODS

Outcomes were projected over patients' lifetimes using the IQVIA CORE Diabetes Model (v9.0). Clinical data, including changes in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and hypoglycemia rates, were sourced from observational studies and a randomized crossover trial. Modeled patients were assumed to receive the treatments for their lifetimes, with HbA1c kept constant following the application of treatment effects. Costs were accounted from a societal perspective and expressed in Swedish krona (SEK). Utilities and days off work estimates were taken from published sources.

RESULTS

The MiniMed 780G system was associated with an improvement in life expectancy of 0.16 years and an improvement in quality-adjusted life expectancy of 1.95 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) versus isCGM plus MDI or CSII. These clinical benefits were due to a reduced incidence and a delayed time to onset of diabetes-related complications. Combined costs were estimated to be SEK 727,408 (EUR 72,741) higher with MiniMed 780G, with treatment costs partially offset by direct cost savings from the avoidance of diabetes-related complications and indirect cost savings from the avoidance of lost workplace productivity. The MiniMed 780G system was associated with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of SEK 373,700 per QALY gained.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on a willingness-to-pay threshold of SEK 500,000 per QALY gained, the MiniMed 780G system was projected to be cost-effective versus isCGM plus MDI or CSII for the treatment of T1D in Sweden.

The burden of poor glycaemic control in people with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes in Sweden: A health economic modelling analysis based on nationwide data

AIM

To evaluate the economic and clinical burden associated with poor glycaemic control in Sweden, in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) initiating first-line glucose-lowering therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Population data were obtained from Swedish national registers. Immediate glycaemic control was compared with delays in achieving control of 1 and 3 years, with outcomes projected over 3, 10 and 50 years in the validated IQVIA CORE Diabetes Model. Glycaemic control was defined as glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) targets of 52, 48 and 42 mmol/mol, as recommended in Swedish guidelines, according to age and disease duration. Costs (expressed in 2019 Swedish krona [SEK]) were accounted from a Swedish societal perspective.

RESULTS

Immediate glycaemic control was associated with population-level cost savings of up to SEK 279 million and SEK 673 million versus delays of 1 and 3 years, respectively, as well as small population-level life expectancy benefits of up to 1305 and 2590 life years gained. Reduced levels of burden were a result of lower incidence and delayed time to onset of diabetes-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Even in people with T2D initiating first-line glucose-lowering therapy, the economic burden of poor glycaemic control in Sweden is substantial, but could be reduced by early and effective treatment to achieve glycaemic targets.

Real-world cost-effectiveness of insulin degludec in type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus from a Swedish 1-year and long-term perspective

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The ReFLeCT study demonstrated that switching to insulin degludec from other basal insulins was associated with reductions in glycated hemoglobin and hypoglycemic events in type 1 (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D), and reductions in insulin doses in T1D. The aim of the present analysis was to assess the short- and long-term cost-effectiveness of switching to insulin degludec in Sweden.

METHODS

Short-term outcomes were evaluated over 1 year in a Microsoft Excel model, while long-term outcomes were projected over patient lifetimes using the IQVIA CORE Diabetes Model. Cohort characteristics and treatment effects were sourced from the ReFLeCT study. Costs (in 2018 Swedish krona [SEK]) encompassed direct medical expenditure and indirect costs from loss of workplace productivity. In the long-term analyses, patients were assumed to receive insulin degludec or continue prior insulin therapy (primarily insulin glargine U100) for 5 years, before all patients intensified to once-daily degludec and mealtime aspart.

RESULTS

Switching to insulin degludec was associated with improved quality-adjusted life expectancy of 0.04 and 0.02 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) over 1 year, and 0.16 and 0.08 QALYs over patient lifetimes, in T1D and T2D. Combined costs in T1D and T2D were estimated to be SEK 1,249 lower and SEK 1,181 higher over the short-term, and SEK 157,258 and SEK 2,114 lower over the long-term. Benefits were due to lower insulin doses in T1D, reduced rates of hypoglycemia, and lower incidences of diabetes-related complications. Insulin degludec was associated with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of SEK 64,298 per QALY gained for T2D over 1 year and considered dominant for T1D and T2D in all other comparisons.

CONCLUSIONS

Insulin degludec was projected to be cost-effective or dominant versus other basal insulins for the treatment of T1D and T2D in Sweden.

Investigation on the association between diabetes distress and productivity among patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus in the primary healthcare institutions

AIMS

To investigate associations between diabetes distress and productivity, and to identify the potential risk factors that could affect these particular associations.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted in three outpatient healthcare institutions. Patients aged ≥21 years with uncontrolled T2DM and polypharmacy were included. The Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID) measuring diabetes distress and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment General Health (WPAI-GH) measuring productivity were administered by trained interviewers.

RESULTS

A total of 259 patients were analysed. Point prevalence of clinically severe diabetes distress, work productivity loss and life productivity loss were 7.7%, 45.0% and 35.1% respectively. Diabetes distress was positively associated with work productivity loss (p = 0.001) and life productivity loss (p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that diabetes distress (p = 0.003), the total number of chronic medications (p = 0.012), insulin therapy (p = 0.027) and the presence of chronic kidney disease (p = 0.038) were significantly associated with work impairment. Diabetes distress (p = 0.001) and the presences of osteoarthritis (p = 0.039) were significantly associated with activity impairment.

CONCLUSION

Healthcare professionals should screen patients for diabetes distress to prevent productivity losses, especially in patients with polypharmacy and/or on insulin and with coexisting osteoarthritis or chronic kidney disease.

Estimating the Impact of Diabetes Mellitus on Worker Productivity Using Self-Report, Electronic Health Record and Human Resource Data

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the relationship between diabetes mellitus (DM) and measures of worker productivity, direct health care costs, and costs associated with lost productivity (LP) among health care industry workers across two integrated health care systems.

METHODS

We used data from the Value Based Benefit Design Health and Wellness Study Phase II (VBD), a prospective study of employees surveyed across health systems. Survey and health care utilization data were linked to estimate LP and health care utilization costs.

RESULTS

Mean marginal lost productive time per week was 0.56 hours higher for respondents with DM. Mean adjusted monthly total health care utilization costs were $467 higher for respondents with DM.

CONCLUSION

The impact of DM is reflected in higher rates of LP and higher indirect costs for employers related to LP and higher health care resource use.

Cost-effectiveness of once-weekly semaglutide versus dulaglutide and lixisenatide in patients with type 2 diabetes with inadequate glycemic control in Sweden

Aims: This analysis evaluated the cost-effectiveness of once-weekly semaglutide vs glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) uncontrolled on metformin or basal insulin in Sweden. Materials and methods: This cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) was conducted using the Swedish Institute of Health Economics (IHE) Diabetes Cohort Model. Analyses were conducted from the Swedish societal perspective over a time horizon of 40 years. For patients uncontrolled on metformin, dulaglutide was the comparator, and data from the SUSTAIN 7 clinical trial was used. For patients uncontrolled on basal insulin, lixisenatide was chosen as the comparator and data was obtained from a network meta-analysis (NMA). Results: The results show that, in patients with inadequate control on metformin, semaglutide 1.0 mg dominated (i.e. provided greater clinical benefit, and was less costly) dulaglutide 1.5 mg. In patients with inadequate control on basal insulin, semaglutide 1.0 mg dominated lixisenatide. The reduction in costs is largely driven by the reduction in complications seen with once-weekly semaglutide. Limitations and conclusions: It is likely that this analysis is conservative in estimating the cardiovascular (CV) cost benefits associated with treatment with once-weekly semaglutide. In patients inadequately controlled on basal insulin, the analyses vs lixisenatide were based on results from an NMA, as no head-to-head clinical trial has been conducted for this comparison. These CEA results show that once-weekly semaglutide is a cost-effective GLP-1 RA therapy for the treatment of T2D in patients inadequately controlled on metformin or basal insulin, addressing many current clinician, patient, and payer unmet needs in Sweden.

Short-Term Cost-Effectiveness of Switching to Insulin Degludec in Japanese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Receiving Basal-Bolus Therapy

INTRODUCTION

With one of the fastest aging populations in the world, demographic changes in Japan are a major public health concern due to the substantial burden that aging-associated diseases, such as type 2 diabetes (T2D), place on public healthcare systems. The aim of this analysis was to evaluate the short-term cost-effectiveness of switching Japanese patients with T2D receiving basal-bolus insulin therapy from their previous basal insulin to insulin degludec (degludec) under conditions of routine clinical practice.

METHODS

A previously published, open-source model developed in Microsoft Excel was used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of switching basal-bolus insulin therapy from patients' previous basal insulin to degludec versus continuing the previous basal insulin therapeutic regimen in terms of costs (2018 Japanese Yen [JPY]) and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), from a Japanese public healthcare payer perspective. The model captured hypoglycemia rates and insulin dosing over a 1-year time horizon, and was informed by Japanese real-world evidence from the T2D cohort (N = 135) of the Kumamoto Insulin Degludec Observational study.

RESULTS

Treatment with degludec was associated with improved effectiveness (+ 0.0354 QALYs), driven by lower daytime non-severe hypoglycemia rates with degludec, at slightly higher annual treatment costs (JPY 9510) versus continuing the previous basal insulin. Switching basal insulin to degludec was found to be a cost-effective intervention with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (JPY 268,811 per QALY gained) substantially below the willingness-to-pay threshold of 5 million JPY per QALY used in the Japanese Health Technology Assessment framework. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of this finding and indicated that the daytime non-severe hypoglycemia benefit with degludec was a key driver of outcomes in the base case.

CONCLUSION

Based on Japanese real-world evidence, our analysis suggests that switching Japanese patients with T2D receiving a basal-bolus regimen from their previous basal insulin to degludec would be highly cost-effective. These data may help decision-makers in Japan allocate healthcare resources efficiently.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The KIDUNA study is registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR): UMIN000021569.

FUNDING

Novo Nordisk Pharma Ltd. Japan.

Lower rates of hypoglycaemia in older individuals with type 2 diabetes using insulin degludec versus insulin glargine U100: Results from SWITCH 2

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the safety of insulin degludec (degludec) in relation to age and risk of hypoglycaemia post hoc in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) (SWITCH 2 trial).

METHODS

In this crossover study, individuals with T2D who were at risk of hypoglycaemia were randomized to double-blind treatment with degludec or insulin glargine 100 units/mL (glargine U100) ± oral antidiabetic drugs. After 32 weeks, patients crossed over to the other treatment. Primary endpoint was number of overall severe (positively adjudicated) or glucose-confirmed (plasma glucose <56 mg/dL; 3.1 mmol/L) symptomatic hypoglycaemia events during the two 16-week maintenance periods.

RESULTS

For individuals ≤65 (n = 450) and >65 (n = 270) years, baseline median (range) duration of diabetes was 12 (1-40) vs 15 (1-54) years, mean HbA1c was 7.7% vs 7.4% and mean estimated glomerular filtration rate was 87.0 vs 63.7 mL/min/1.73 m² , respectively. No significant differences in HbA1c reduction were seen in individuals ≤65 or >65 years. During both maintenance periods, treatment with degludec lowered rates of hypoglycaemia (overall/nocturnal symptomatic) vs those with glargine U100 in individuals ≤65 (31% vs 43%) and >65 (30% vs 41%) years. With degludec and glargine U100, respectively, six vs nine severe hypoglycaemic events occurred in individuals ≤65 years and four vs eight events occurred in those >65 years. Adverse event rates were 3.2 and 3.3 events/patient-year for individuals ≤65 years and were 3.5 and 4.1 events/patient-year for individuals >65 years with degludec and glargine U100, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with degludec was safe and effective, with a frequency of hypoglycaemia lower than that with glargine U100 in both younger and older individuals (>65 years) with T2D.

First aid glucose administration routes for symptomatic hypoglycaemia

BACKGROUND

Hypoglycaemia is a common occurrence in people with diabetes but can also result from an imbalance in glucose homeostasis in the absence of diabetes. The best enteral route for glucose administration for suspected hypoglycaemia in a first aid situation is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of first aid glucose administration by any route appropriate for use by first-aid providers (buccal, sublingual, oral, rectal) for symptomatic hypoglycaemia.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL as well as grey literature (records identified in the WHO ICTRP Search Portal, ClinicalTrials.gov and the EU Clinical Trials Register) up to July 2018. We searched reference lists of included studies retrieved by the above searches.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included studies involving adults and children with documented or suspected hypoglycaemia as well as healthy volunteers, in which glucose was administered by any enteral route appropriate for use by first-aid providers.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected trials, assessed risk of bias, extracted data and evaluated trials for overall certainty of the evidence using the GRADE instrument. We used the Cochrane 'Risk of bias' tool to assess the risk of bias in the randomised controlled trials (RCTs), and the 'risk of bias In non-randomised studies of interventions' (ROBINS-I) tool, in addition to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions recommendations on cross-over studies, for the non-RCTs. We reported continuous outcomes as mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and dichotomous outcomes as risk ratios (RR) with 95% CIs. All data on glucose concentrations were converted to mg/dL. We contacted authors of included studies to obtain missing data.

MAIN RESULTS

From 6394 references, we included four studies evaluating 77 participants, including two RCTs, studying children and adults with hypoglycaemia, respectively, and two non-RCTs with healthy volunteers. The studies included three different routes of glucose administration (sublingual, buccal and a combination of oral and buccal administration). All studies had a high risk of bias in one or more 'Risk of bias' domain.Glucose administration by the sublingual route, in the form of table sugar under the tongue, resulted in a higher blood glucose concentration after 20 minutes compared with the oral route in the very specific setting of children with hypoglycaemia and symptoms of concomitant malaria or respiratory tract infection (MD 17 mg/dL, 95% CI 4.4 to 29.6; P = 0.008; 1 study; 42 participants; very low-quality evidence). Resolution of hypoglycaemia at 80 minutes may favour sublingual administration (RR 2.10, 95% CI 1.24 to 3.54; P = 0.006; 1 study; 42 participants; very low-certainty evidence), but no substantial difference could be demonstrated at 20 minutes (RR 1.26, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.74; P = 0.16; 1 study; 42 participants; very low-certainty evidence). A decrease in the time to resolution of hypoglycaemia was found in favour of sublingual administration (MD -51.5 min, 95% CI -58 to -45; P < 0.001; 1 study; 42 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No adverse events were reported in either group. No data were available for resolution of symptoms and time to resolution of symptoms, and treatment delay.Glucose administered by the buccal route in one study resulted in a lower plasma glucose concentration after 20 minutes compared with oral administration (MD -14.4 mg/dL, 95% CI -17.5 to -11.4 for an imputed within-participants correlation coefficient of 0.9; P < 0.001; 1 trial; 16 participants; very low-quality evidence). In another study there were fewer participants with increased blood glucose at 20 minutes favouring oral glucose (RR 0.07, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.98; P = 0.05; 1 study; 7 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No data were available for resolution of symptoms and time to resolution of symptoms, resolution of hypoglycaemia and time to resolution of hypoglycaemia, adverse events, and treatment delay.For the combined oral and buccal mucosal route (in the form of a dextrose gel) the MD was -15.3 mg/dL, 95%CI -33.6 to 3; P = 0.09; 1 study; 18 participants; very low-quality evidence . No improvement was identified for either route in the resolution of symptoms at 20 minutes or less following glucose administration (RR 0.36, 95% CI 0.12 to 1.14; P = 0.08; 1 study; 18 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No data were available for time to resolution of symptoms, resolution of hypoglycaemia and time to resolution of hypoglycaemia, adverse events, and treatment delay.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

When providing first aid to individuals with hypoglycaemia, oral glucose administration results in a higher blood glucose concentrations after 20 minutes when compared with buccal administration of glucose. A difference in plasma glucose concentration could not be demonstrated, when administering a dextrose gel, defined as "a combined oral and buccal mucosal route" compared to oral administration of a glucose tablet or solution. In the specific population of children with concomitant malaria and respiratory illness, sublingual sugar results in a higher blood glucose concentration after 20 minutes when compared with oral administration.These results need to be interpreted cautiously because our confidence in the body of evidence is very low due to the low number of participants and studies as well as methodological deficiencies in the included studies.

Comparison of the HAT study, the largest global hypoglycaemia study to date, with similar large real-world studies

AIMS

Optimal diabetes care requires clear understanding of the incidence of hypoglycaemia in real-world clinical practice. Current data on hypoglycaemia are generally limited to those reported from randomised controlled clinical trials. The Hypoglycaemia Assessment Tool (HAT) study, a non-interventional real-world study of hypoglycaemia, assessed hypoglycaemia in 27 585 individuals across 24 countries. The present study compared the incidence of hypoglycaemia from the HAT study with other similarly designed, large, real-world studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search of PubMed (1995-2017) for population-based studies of insulin-treated patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes (T1D, T2D), excluding clinical trials and reviews, identified comparable population-based studies reporting the incidence of hypoglycaemia.

RESULTS

The 24 comparative studies, including more than 24 000 participants with T1D and more than 160 000 participants with T2D, varied in design, size, inclusion criteria, definitions of hypoglycaemia and method of recording hypoglycaemia. Reported rates (events per patient-year [PPY]) of hypoglycaemia were higher in patients with T1D than in those with T2D (overall T1D, 21.8-73.3 and T2D, 1.3-37.7; mild/non-severe T1D, 29.0-126.7 and T2D, 1.3-41.5; severe T1D, 0.7-5.8 and T2D, 0.0-2.5; nocturnal T1D, 2.6-11.3 and T2D, 0.38-9.7) and were similar to the ranges found in the HAT study.

CONCLUSIONS

The HAT data on hypoglycaemia incidence were comparable with those from other real-world studies and indicate a high incidence of hypoglycaemia among insulin-treated patients. Differences in rates among studies are mostly explained by differences in patient populations and study methodology. The goal of reducing hypoglycaemia should be a target for continued educational and evidence-based pharmacological interventions.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of the MiniMed 670G Hybrid Closed-Loop System Versus Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion for Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Hybrid closed-loop (HCL) systems combine continuous glucose monitoring with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) to continuously self-adjust basal insulin delivery. Relative to CSII, HCL improves glycemic control and reduces the risk of hypoglycemia but has higher acquisition costs. The aim of this analysis was to assess the cost-effectiveness of the MiniMed™ 670G HCL system versus CSII in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in Sweden.

METHODS

Cost-effectiveness analysis, from a societal perspective, was performed over patient lifetimes using the IQVIA CORE Diabetes Model. Clinical data were sourced from a study comparing the MiniMed 670G system with CSII in people with T1D. Cost data, expressed in 2018 Swedish krona (SEK), were obtained from Swedish reference prices and published literature.

RESULTS

The MiniMed 670G system was associated with a quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gain of 1.90 but higher overall costs versus CSII, leading to an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of SEK 164,236 per QALY gained. Use of the HCL system resulted in a lower cumulative incidence of diabetes-related complications. Higher HCL system acquisition costs were partially offset by reduced complication costs and productivity losses. In people with T1D poorly controlled at baseline, the MiniMed 670G system was associated with 2.25 incremental QALYs versus CSII, yielding an ICER of SEK 15,830 per QALY gained.

CONCLUSIONS

The MiniMed 670G system was associated with clinical benefits and quality-of-life improvements in people with T1D relative to CSII. At a willingness-to-pay threshold of SEK 300,000 per QALY gained, this HCL system likely represents a cost-effective treatment option for people with T1D in Sweden.

Hypoglycaemia Remains the Key Obstacle to Optimal Glycaemic Control - Continuous Glucose Monitoring is the Solution

We queried PubMed and other internet databases to identify studies, meta-analyses, review articles and other data sources regarding hypoglycaemia incidence/costs/impacts and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) use. Our analysis of the evidence showed that hypoglycaemia remains a significant health concern and a primary obstacle to optimal adherence to prescribed diabetes treatment. In addition to its adverse clinical consequences, hypoglycaemia negatively impacts quality of life and places additional financial burdens on patients, patient families, employers and healthcare payers. Clinical trials have shown that the use of CGM can reduce the incidence and duration of hypoglycaemic episodes. This article reviews relevant CGM studies, discusses the prevalence and clinical/financial implications of hypoglycaemia, and explores the strengths and limitations of current CGM systems in minimising the burden of hypoglycaemia.

The Incidence of Hypoglycemia among Insulin-Treated Patients with Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes: Bangladeshi Cohort of International Operations-Hypoglycemia Assessment Tool Study

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to assess the incidence of hypoglycemia in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Bangladeshi cohort of the International Operations-Hypoglycemia Assessment Tool study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients diagnosed with either T1DM or T2DM, aged ≥18 years, treated with insulin (any regimen) for >12 months, and completed self-assessment questionnaires (SAQs) to record demography, treatment information, and hypoglycemia during the 6-month retrospective and 4-week prospective periods (a total of 7 months) were enrolled in the study.

RESULTS

A total of 1179 patients were enrolled and completed the SAQ1 (T1DM, n = 25; T2DM, n = 1154). Almost all patients (T1DM: 100.0% [95% confidence interval (CI): 86.3%, 100.0%] and T2DM: 97.0% [95% CI: 95.9%, 97.9%]) experienced at least 1 hypoglycemic event prospectively. The estimated rates of any and severe hypoglycemia were 26.6 (95% CI: 19.8, 35.0) and 14.1 (95% CI: 9.3, 20.4) events per patient-per year (PPY), respectively, for patients with T1DM and 18.3 (95% CI: 17.4, 19.2) and 12.1 (95% CI: 11.4, 12.9) events PPY, respectively, for patients with T2DM during the prospective period. At baseline, mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (±standard deviation) was 8.1 (±1.8%) for T1DM and 8.8 (±1.8%) for T2DM. Hypoglycemic rate was independent of HbA1c levels and types of insulin.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first patient dataset of self-reported hypoglycemia in Bangladesh; results confirm that hypoglycemia is underreported.

Direct and indirect health economic impact of hypoglycaemia in a global population of patients with insulin-treated diabetes

AIMS

The Hypoglycaemia Assessment Tool (HAT) study investigated the health economic impact of hypoglycaemic events in 24 countries, including countries without previously published data on hypoglycaemia.

METHODS

Self-assessment questionnaires and patient diaries (4-week prospective period) were completed by adults with type 1 (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) treated with insulin for more than 12 months (N = 27,585).

RESULTS

Direct economic impacts of hypoglycaemia during the 4-week prospective period, included increased blood glucose monitoring (reported by 69.7% [T1D] and 60.9% [T2D] of patients), hospitalisation (T1D 2.1%; T2D 3.4% of patients) and medical contact (clinic or telephone; T1D 3.8%; T2D 6.8% of patients). Regional variation in medical contact and hospitalisation was found, with the highest usage in Russia (T1D 17.1%; T2D 17.3%), and Latin America (T1D 5.2%; T2D 6.8%) respectively. Indirect economic impacts following hypoglycaemia included loss of productivity due to absence from work or study; 3.9% (T1D) and 6.2% (T2D) of patients. Regional differences in work productivity were noted among patients with T2D, with a low prevalence in Northern Europe and Canada (0.9%) and high in Southeast Asia (14.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that hypoglycaemia has a significant but variable impact on the economics of diabetes healthcare globally.

Perspectives of Patients with Insulin-Treated Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes on Hypoglycemia: Results of the HAT Observational Study in Central and Eastern European Countries

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to determine the level of awareness of hypoglycemia, the level of fear for hypoglycemia, and the response to hypoglycemic events among insulin-treated diabetes patients from Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). The impact of hypoglycemia on the use of healthcare resources and patient productivity was also assessed.

METHODS

This was a multicenter, non-interventional, two-part, patient self-reported questionnaire study that comprised both a retrospective cross-sectional evaluation and a prospective observational evaluation. Study participants were insulin-treated adult patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) from CEE.

RESULTS

Most patients (85.4% T1DM and 83.6% T2DM) reported normal hypoglycemia awareness. The median hypoglycemia fear score was 5 out of 10 for T1DM and 4 out of 10 for T2DM patients. Patients increased glucose monitoring, consulted a doctor/nurse, and/or reduced the insulin dose in response to hypoglycemia. As a consequence of hypoglycemia, patients took leave from work/studies or arrived late and/or left early. Hospitalization was required for 31 (1.2%) patients with T1DM and 66 (2.1%) patients with T2DM.

CONCLUSION

Hypoglycemia impacts patients' personal and social functioning, reduces productivity, and results in additional costs, both direct (related to increased use of healthcare resources) and indirect (related to absenteeism.

FUNDING

Novo Nordisk.

Cost-effectiveness of liraglutide versus lixisenatide as add-on therapies to basal insulin in type 2 diabetes

Background

We assessed the cost-effectiveness of the glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists liraglutide 1.8 mg and lixisenatide 20 μg (both added to basal insulin) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Sweden.

Methods

The Swedish Institute for Health Economics cohort model for T2D was used to compare liraglutide and lixisenatide (both added to basal insulin), with a societal perspective and with comparative treatment effects derived by indirect treatment comparison (ITC). Drug prices were 2016 values, and all other costs 2015 values. The cost-effectiveness of IDegLira (fixed-ratio combination of insulin degludec and liraglutide) versus lixisenatide plus basal insulin was also assessed, under different sets of assumptions.

Results

From the ITC, decreases in HbA1c were –1.32% and –0.43% with liraglutide and lixisenatide, respectively; decreases in BMI were –1.29 and –0.65 kg/m², respectively. An estimated 2348 cases of retinopathy, 265 of neuropathy and 991 of nephropathy would be avoided with liraglutide compared with lixisenatide in a cohort of 10,000 patients aged over 40 years. In the base-case analysis, total direct costs were higher with liraglutide than lixisenatide, but costs associated with complications were lower. The cost/quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) for liraglutide added to basal insulin was SEK30,802. Base-case findings were robust in sensitivity analyses, except when glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) differences for liraglutide added to basal insulin were abolished, suggesting these benefits were driving the cost/QALY. With liraglutide 1.2 mg instead of liraglutide 1.8 mg (adjusted for efficacy and cost), liraglutide added to basal insulin was dominant over lixisenatide 20μg.IDegLira was dominant versus lixisenatide plus basal insulin when a defined daily dose was used in the model.

Conclusions

The costs/QALY for liraglutide, 1.8 or 1.2 mg, added to basal insulin, and for IDegLira (all compared with lixisenatide 20 μg added to basal insulin) were below the threshold considered low by Swedish authorities. In some scenarios, liraglutide and IDegLira were cost-saving.

Achieving Good Glycemic Control Early After Onset of Diabetes: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes in Sweden

INTRODUCTION

Sweden has amongst the highest incidence rates of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in Europe. The high incidence and chronic nature of T1D result in high prevalence and economic burden. Improving glycemic control reduces the incidence of microvascular complications, which in turn reduces medical costs. The present study aimed to quantify the reductions in cost and improvements in quality-adjusted life expectancy with varying reductions in HbA1c in the T1D population.

METHODS

The IQVIA CORE Diabetes Model was used to simulate a typical Swedish population of patients with T1D experiencing HbA1c reductions from 0.1% to 0.8% (in 0.1% increments) from 7.9% at baseline. Analyses were conducted in simulated cohorts based on data from the Swedish National Diabetes Register (NDR) and in subgroups by sex, smoking status, and body mass index (BMI), with different sets of quality-of-life utilities included. Generalized least squares (GLS) models were used to test for significant differences between subgroups. Analyses were also performed to investigate the effect of the duration of HbA1c control. Analyses were run over 50 years and outcomes discounted at 3% per annum.

RESULTS

In the reference case analysis, reducing HbA1c lowered the incidence of microvascular and macrovascular complications and improved quality-adjusted life expectancy. GLS models identified a significantly larger benefit of reducing HbA1c in women over men, but found no significant differences in the magnitude of quality of life improvements with decreasing HbA1c when segregating by smoking status or BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

Reducing HbA1c in a population with T1D would reduce the incidence of microvascular complications, improve life expectancy and quality of life. Larger quality-of-life benefits were observed in younger and female adult patients, but no notable differences were observed in the benefits of glycemic control in smokers versus non-smokers or in patients with low or high BMI.

FUNDING

Novo Nordisk Scandinavia AB, Malmö, Sweden.

Why childhood-onset type 1 diabetes impacts labour market outcomes: a mediation analysis

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Previous studies show a negative effect of type 1 diabetes on labour market outcomes such as employment and earnings later in life. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying these effects. This study aims to analyse the mediating role of adult health, education, occupation and family formation.

METHODS

A total of 4179 individuals from the Swedish Childhood Diabetes Register and 16,983 individuals forming a population control group born between 1962 and 1979 were followed between 30 and 50 years of age. The total effect of having type 1 diabetes was broken down into a direct effect and an indirect (mediating) effect using statistical mediation analysis. We also analysed whether type 1 diabetes has different effects on labour market outcome between the sexes and across socioeconomic status.

RESULTS

Childhood-onset type 1 diabetes had a negative impact on employment (OR 0.68 [95% CI 0.62, 0.76] and OR 0.76 [95% CI 0.67, 0.86]) and earnings (-6%, p < 0.001 and -8%, p < 0.001) for women and men, respectively. Each of the mediators studied contributed to the total effect with adult health and occupational field accounting for the largest part. However, some of the effect could not be attributed to any of the mediators studied and was therefore likely related to other characteristics of the disease that hamper career opportunities. The effect of type 1 diabetes on employment and earnings did not vary significantly according to socioeconomic status of the family (parental education and earnings).

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

A large part of the effect of type 1 diabetes on the labour market is attributed to adult health but there are other important mediating factors that need to be considered to reduce this negative effect.

The role of hypoglycemia in the burden of living with diabetes among adults with diabetes and family members: results from the DAWN2 study in The Netherlands

Background

To examine the relation between self-reported hypoglycemic events, worries about these episodes, and the burden of diabetes in adults with diabetes and family members from The Netherlands.

Methods

As part of the second multinational Diabetes Attitudes, Wishes and Needs (DAWN2) study, 412 Dutch adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and 86 family members completed questions about the burden of living with diabetes, the frequency of hypoglycemia, worries about these events, and several demographic and clinical factors. Analyses included hierarchical logistic regression.

Results

In total, 41% of people with diabetes and 56% of family members considered diabetes at least somewhat of a burden. In people with diabetes, diabetes burden was independently associated with self-reported current insulin use (fully adjusted OR = 2.75, 95% CI 1.49–5.10), self-reported frequent non-severe hypoglycemia in the past year (OR = 2.45, 1.25–4.83), self-reported severe hypoglycemia in the past year (OR = 1.91, 1.02–3.58), and being very worried about hypoglycemia at least occasionally (OR = 3.64, 2.18–6.10). For family members, the odds of experiencing living with diabetes as a burden was increased only for participants who were at least occasionally very worried about hypoglycemia (adjusted OR = 5.07, 1.12–23.00).

Conclusions

Approximately half of adults with diabetes and adult family members experienced at least some diabetes burden. In both groups, diabetes burden appeared to be associated with being very worried about hypoglycemia at least occasionally. If these results are replicated, new intervention studies could test new ways of decreasing the traumatic consequences of previous or anticipated hypoglycemic events for people with diabetes and family members.

Nonsevere Hypoglycemia Episode Clinical and Economic Outcomes: A Comparison between Sulfonylurea and Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor as Add-On to Metformin from a Canadian Perspective

BACKGROUND

Nonsevere hypoglycemia episodes (NSHEs) are associated with clinically adverse outcomes, lower health-related quality of life, increased burden of disease, and reduced work productivity.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate prevalence of NSHEs and associated economic outcomes attributable to sulfonylurea (SU) versus sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) initiation after metformin over one year for Canadian patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

METHODS

Risk difference for NSHEs was calculated for SU and SGLT2i from RCT data. Estimation of NSHEs attributable to SU utilization in Canada was calculated from published data. Both direct and indirect costs associated with NSHEs were obtained from previous published studies in literature.

RESULTS

The number of patients with T2DM and exposure to SU in Canada in 2016 was estimated to be 1,246,438. The average underreported NSHEs in clinical settings were estimated at 67.7%. Risk difference for NSHEs for SU versus SGLT2i was estimated at 26.7%. Estimation of excess NSHEs attributable to SU utilization versus SGLT2i in Canada was estimated at 130,434 events per year (sensitivity analysis: minimum 80,680 and maximum 624,465). Total indirect costs including loss-of-work productivity and out-of-pocket costs secondary to excess NSHEs due to SU utilization versus SGLT2i after metformin were estimated at CDN$8.6M (M = millions) for 2016 (sensitivity analysis: minimum CDN$5.3M and maximum CDN$81.2M).

CONCLUSION

NSHE, which is a forgotten variable in economic evaluations for healthcare reimbursement models, occurs frequently in real-world clinical settings but is infrequently reported. NSHEs can lead to a significant loss-of-work productivity and out-of-pocket costs.

Real-world crude incidence of hypoglycemia in adults with diabetes: Results of the InHypo-DM Study, Canada

OBJECTIVE

Very few real-world studies have been conducted to assess the incidence of diabetes-related hypoglycemia. Moreover, there is a paucity of studies that have investigated hypoglycemia among people taking secretagogues as a monotherapy or in combination with insulin. Accordingly, our research team developed and validated the InHypo-DM Person with Diabetes Mellitus Questionnaire (InHypo-DMPQ) with the aim of capturing the real-world incidence of self-reported, symptomatic hypoglycemia. The questionnaire was administered online to a national sample of Canadians (≥18 years old) with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treated with insulin and/or insulin secretagogues.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Self-report data obtained from the InHypo-DMPQ were descriptively analyzed to ascertain the crude incidence proportions and annualized incidence densities (rates) of 30-day retrospective non-severe and 1-year retrospective severe hypoglycemia, including daytime and nocturnal events.

RESULTS

A total of 552 people (T2DM: 83%; T1DM: 17%) completed the questionnaire. Over half (65.2%) of the total respondents reported experiencing at least one event (non-severe or severe) at an annualized crude incidence density of 35.1 events per person-year. The incidence proportion and rate of non-severe events were higher among people with T1DM versus T2DM (77% and 55.7 events per person-year vs 54% and 28.0 events per person-year). Severe hypoglycemia was reported by 41.8% of all respondents, at an average rate of 2.5 events per person-year.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the InHypo-DMPQ, the largest real-world investigation of hypoglycemia epidemiology in Canada, suggest that the incidence of hypoglycemia among adults with diabetes taking insulin and/or insulin secretagogues is higher than previously thought.

Self-reported hypoglycemia in insulin-treated patients with diabetes: Results from an international survey on 7289 patients from nine countries

AIMS

Hypoglycemia constitutes a significant barrier to achieving glycemic control with insulin in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Historically, it has been difficult to accurately verify the rates of hypoglycemia within a clinical setting and there is a need for high-quality, real-world data to ascertain the true rates of hypoglycemia in clinical practice. The global Hypoglycemia Assessment Tool (HAT) study was designed to assess the global incidence of hypoglycemia in patients with insulin-treated diabetes, and the results have indicated that the overall incidence of hypoglycemia is high, with large variations between geographical regions.

METHODS

The International Operations HAT (IO HAT) study retrospectively and prospectively assessed the incidence of hypoglycemia in patients with insulin-treated diabetes in Bangladesh, Colombia, Egypt, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey, and United Arab Emirates.

RESULTS

During the prospective period, hypoglycemic events were reported by 97.4% of patients with type 1 diabetes and 95.3% of those with type 2 diabetes, with an estimated rate of 6.86 events per patient per month (PPPM) for patients with type 1 diabetes and 2.37 events PPPM for patients with type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

These results represent the first patient-reported dataset on hypoglycemia in the participating countries and confirm that hypoglycemia is under-reported and more widespread than previously believed. Although the incidence of hypoglycemia was variable among patients on different treatment regimens, there were substantial impacts on both productivity and healthcare utilization following an episode of hypoglycemia. This trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02306681.

Impact of hypoglycaemia on patient-reported outcomes from a global, 24-country study of 27,585 people with type 1 and insulin-treated type 2 diabetes

AIMS

Data on the impact of hypoglycaemia on patients' daily lives and diabetes self-management, particularly in developing countries, are lacking. The aim of this study was to assess fear of, and responses to, hypoglycaemia experienced by patients globally.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This non-interventional, multicentre, 4-week prospective study using self-assessment questionnaires and patient diaries consisted of 27,585 patients, ≥18years, with type 1 diabetes (n=8022) or type 2 diabetes (n=19,563) treated with insulin for >12months, at 2004 sites in 24 countries worldwide.

RESULTS

Increased blood glucose monitoring (69.7%) and seeking medical assistance (62.0%) were the most common responses in the 4weeks following hypoglycaemic events for patients with type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes, respectively. Approximately 44% of patients with type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes increased calorie intake in response to a hypoglycaemic episode. Following hypoglycaemia, 3.9% (type 1 diabetes) and 6.2% (type 2 diabetes) of patients took leave from work or study. Regional differences in fear of, and responses to, hypoglycaemia were evident - in particular, a lower level of hypoglycaemic fear and utilisation of healthcare resources in Northern Europe and Canada.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypoglycaemia has a major impact on patients and their behaviour. These global data for the first time reveal regional variations in response to hypoglycaemia and highlight the importance of patient education and management strategies.

Self-reported Hypoglycaemic Events in 2 430 Patients with Insulin-treated Diabetes in the German Sub-population of the HAT Study

Data concerning true hypoglycaemic incidence in insulin-treated patients with diabetes in real-world clinical practice are lacking in Germany. The aim of this analysis was to determine the incidence of hypoglycaemia experienced by the German cohort of patients enrolled in the global Hypoglycaemia Assessment Tool (HAT) study. This was a non-interventional, 6-month retrospective and 4-week prospective study using self-assessment questionnaires and patient diaries assessing patients aged ≥18 years in Germany, with type 1 diabetes (T1D) (n=811) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) (n=1 619) treated with insulin for >12 months. The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients experiencing ≥1 hypoglycaemic event during the prospective observational period (4 weeks after baseline). Predictive and continuous factors (such as age, gender, duration of insulin use and HbA_1c) contributing to hypoglycaemia risk were explored.During the prospective period, at least one hypoglycaemic event was reported by 81.3% of patients with T1D and 39.7% of patients with T2D, indicating that hypoglycaemia is a common acute complication among patients with insulin-treated diabetes. Severe hypoglycaemia was reported by 9.1% of patients with T1D and 5.4% of patients with T2D. Higher rates of any and severe hypoglycaemia were reported prospectively than retrospectively, regardless of diabetes type, indicating that patients retrospectively under-report hypoglycaemia. Prospective rates (events per patient-year) of any, nocturnal and severe hypoglycaemia were 80.3, 9.9 and 3.0 for T1D and 15.6, 2.4 and 1.1 for T2D, respectively. Given the potential for recall bias in retrospective reporting, this prospective assessment of hypoglycaemia appears more reliable than retrospective assessment. Trial number: NCT01696266.

Review of insulin-associated hypoglycemia and its impact on the management of diabetes in Southeast Asian countries

Although the incidence of diabetes is rising in Southeast Asia, there is limited information regarding the incidence and manifestation of insulin-associated hypoglycemia. The aim of the present review was to discuss what is currently known regarding insulin-associated hypoglycemia in Southeast Asia, including its known incidence and impact in the region, and how the Southeast Asian population with diabetes differs from other populations. We found a paucity of data regarding the incidence of hypoglycemia in Southeast Asia, which has contributed to the adoption of Western guidelines. This might not be appropriate, as Southeast Asians have a range of etiological, educational and cultural differences from Western populations with diabetes that might place them at greater risk of hypoglycemia if not managed optimally. For example, Southeast Asians with type 2 diabetes tend to be younger, with lower body mass indexes than their Western counterparts, and the management of type 2 diabetes with premixed insulin preparations is more common in Southeast Asia. Both of these factors might result in higher rates of hypoglycemia. In addition, Southeast Asians are often poorly educated about hypoglycemia and its management, including during Ramadan fasting. We conclude there is a need for more information about Southeast Asian populations with diabetes to assist with the construction of more appropriate national and regional guidelines for the management of hypoglycemia, more closely aligned to patient demographics, behaviors and treatment practices. Such bespoke guidelines might result in a greater degree of implementation and adherence within clinical practice in Southeast Asian nations.

Cost-effectiveness of switching to insulin degludec from other basal insulins: evidence from Swedish real-world data

OBJECTIVES

Health economic analysis from a healthcare and societal point of view was conducted to assess the cost-effectiveness of insulin degludec (IDeg) after switching from other basal insulins in people with type 1 diabetes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a prospective, open-label, single arm, observational follow-up from August 2013 to October 2015 of 476 consecutive patients at Danderyd Hospital (Stockholm, Sweden) who switched to IDeg from other basal insulins (99% basal insulin analogs). The IMS CORE Diabetes Model (CDM) was used to predict the cost-effectiveness of life-long treatment with IDeg vs. other basal insulins, based on a Swedish setting.

RESULTS

Mean (SD) duration of follow-up was 21.7 (6.0) weeks. Mean HbA_1c decreased by 2.7 mmol/mol, mean basal insulin dose decreased by 13.1% (p < .0001), and mean bolus insulin dose decreased by 7.5% (p < .0001) after switching. Frequencies of non-severe daytime hypoglycemia and non-severe nocturnal hypoglycemia decreased by 12% (p = .0127) and 53% (p < .0001) respectively and severe hypoglycemia was reduced by 62% (p = .0225). The CDM predicted a gain in life expectancy of 0.33 years, a discounted gain in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) of 0.54, and lower estimated direct lifetime healthcare costs of SEK 22,757 for patients switching to IDeg. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) showed IDeg as dominant (i.e. higher effectiveness with a lower cost). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the results.

CONCLUSION

Based on this prospective, real-world, follow-up and using the CDM, it was estimated that switching to IDeg from other basal insulins translated into QALY gains including improved life expectancy and health-related quality of life, as well as dominant ICER, meaning cost-savings for the healthcare system. However, the study is limited by its observational design. Extrapolation into the future is only estimated since the actual treatment effect cannot be projected with certainty.

Cost-Effectiveness of Insulin Degludec/Insulin Aspart Versus Biphasic Insulin Aspart in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes from a Danish Health-Care Perspective

INTRODUCTION

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the co-formulation insulin degludec/insulin aspart (IDegAsp) versus biphasic insulin aspart (BIAsp 30), both administered twice daily, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), using a short-term cost-effectiveness model.

METHODS

Data from two phase 3a treat-to-target clinical trials were used to populate a simple and transparent short-term cost-effectiveness model. The costs and effects of treatment with IDegAsp versus BIAsp 30 were calculated over a 5-year period, from a Danish health-care cost perspective. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the degree of uncertainty and robustness of the results.

RESULTS

The base-case incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of 81,507.91 Danish Kroner (DKK) per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) demonstrates that IDegAsp is a cost-effective treatment compared with BIAsp 30, over a 5-year time horizon. One-way sensitivity analyses show that the ICERs remain within an acceptable range when the rates of hypoglycemia, unit cost of hypoglycemia, disutilities of hypoglycemic events, and the time horizon are varied, ranging from 71,012 DKK to 209,446 DKK. The probabilistic sensitivity analysis demonstrates that the probability that IDegAsp is cost-effective relative to BIAsp 30 is 99.50%, assuming a cost-effectiveness threshold of 250,000 DKK per QALY.

CONCLUSION

This short-term cost-effectiveness model shows that IDegAsp is a cost-effective treatment compared with BIAsp 30 for patients with T2DM. This result is primarily driven by significant reductions in severe hypoglycemia and insulin dose observed with IDegAsp versus BIAsp 30. Sensitivity analyses demonstrate the robustness of these results.

FUNDING

Novo Nordisk A/S, Søborg, Denmark.

Rates and predictors of hypoglycaemia in 27 585 people from 24 countries with insulin-treated type 1 and type 2 diabetes: the global HAT study

AIMS

To determine the global extent of hypoglycaemia experienced by patients with diabetes using insulin, as there is a lack of data on the prevalence of hypoglycaemia in developed and developing countries.

METHODS

This non-interventional, multicentre, 6-month retrospective and 4-week prospective study using self-assessment questionnaire and patient diaries included 27 585 patients, aged ≥18 years, with type 1 diabetes (T1D; n = 8022) or type 2 diabetes (T2D; n = 19 563) treated with insulin for >12 months, at 2004 sites in 24 countries worldwide. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients experiencing at least one hypoglycaemic event during the observational period.

RESULTS

During the prospective period, 83.0% of patients with T1D and 46.5% of patients with T2D reported hypoglycaemia. Rates of any, nocturnal and severe hypoglycaemia were 73.3 [95% confidence interval (CI) 72.6-74.0], 11.3 (95% CI 11.0-11.6) and 4.9 (95% CI 4.7-5.1) events/patient-year for T1D and 19.3 (95% CI 19.1-19.6), 3.7 (95% CI 3.6-3.8) and 2.5 events/patient-year (95% CI 2.4-2.5) for T2D, respectively. The highest rates of any hypoglycaemia were observed in Latin America for T1D and Russia for T2D. Glycated haemoglobin level was not a significant predictor of hypoglycaemia.

CONCLUSIONS

We report hypoglycaemia rates in a global population, including those in countries without previous data. Overall hypoglycaemia rates were high, with large variations between geographical regions. Further investigation into these differences may help to optimize therapy and reduce the risk of hypoglycaemia.

Hypoglycaemia in adults with insulin-treated diabetes in the UK: self-reported frequency and effects

AIM

Few real-life studies of non-severe (self-treated) hypoglycaemic events are available. This survey quantified the self-reported frequency of non-severe hypoglycaemia and its effects in adults with insulin-treated diabetes in the UK.

METHODS

Adults aged > 15 years with Type 1 diabetes or insulin-treated Type 2 diabetes completed ≤ 4 weekly questionnaires (7-day recall). Respondents with Type 2 diabetes were grouped by insulin regimen: basal-only, basal-bolus and 'other'.

RESULTS

Overall, 1038 respondents (466 with Type 1 diabetes, 572 with Type 2 diabetes) completed 3528 questionnaires. Mean numbers of non-severe events per week were 2.4 (Type 1 diabetes; median = 2) and 0.8 (Type 2 diabetes; median = 0); 23% and 26% of non-severe events occurred at night, respectively. Fatigue and reduced alertness were the commonest issues following events (78% and 51% of respondents, respectively). The effects of nocturnal events persisted longer than those of daytime events: Type 1 diabetes = 10.6 vs. 4.9 h (P = 0.0002); Type 2 diabetes = 15.3 vs. 5.1 h (P < 0.0001). In the week following an event, respondents' blood glucose measurements increased by 4.3 (Type 1 diabetes; 12% increment) and 4.2 (Type 2 diabetes; 21% increment) tests/week. In employed respondents, 20% of events caused work-time loss, more so following nocturnal (vs. daytime) hypoglycaemia: Type 1 diabetes = 2.7 vs. 1.1 h (P = 0.0184); Type 2 diabetes = 2.5 vs. 1.6 h (P = 0.1340). Most respondents rarely/never informed healthcare professionals about events (Type 1 diabetes = 82%, Type 2 diabetes = 69%).

CONCLUSIONS

Non-severe hypoglycaemia is common in adults with insulin-treated diabetes in the UK, with consequent health-related/economic effects. Communication about non-severe hypoglycaemia is limited and the burden of hypoglycaemia may be underestimated.

Incidence and cost of hypoglycemic events requiring medical assistance in a hospital setting in Denmark

Aims: The purpose of this study was to estimate the incidence and hospital costs associated with hypoglycemic episodes (HEs) requiring hospital admission or emergency room (ER) visits in Denmark. Materials & methods: This study analyzed data from the National Patient Registry. Data on HE-related hospital admissions or ER visits occurring between 2008 and 2011 were collected and analyzed. Results: There were 1906 hospital admissions and 803 ER visits in 2008 compared with 1646 hospital admissions and 547 ER visits in 2011, corresponding to a decrease in incidence from 10.6 to 7.1. The estimated annual total hospital costs ranged from €3.0 million in 2008 to €2.3 million in 2011. Conclusion: HEs represent a major burden for the Danish healthcare system.

Hypoglycemia as an indicator of good diabetes care

Rene Rodriguez-Gutierrez and colleagues argue that more attention should be paid to hypoglycemia when assessing management of diabetes

Hypoglycemia Event Rates: A Comparison Between Real-World Data and Randomized Controlled Trial Populations in Insulin-Treated Diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Hypoglycemia is the most common adverse effect of diabetes therapy, particularly insulin treatment. Hypoglycemia is associated with considerable clinical and economic burden, and may be under-reported. The aim of this study was to com pare the frequency of hypoglycemic events reported in real-world settings with those reported in clinical trials.

METHODS

We conducted a structured literature review in PubMed to identify hypoglycemic event rates in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and insulin-treated type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) from real-world data (RWD) and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The search was restricted to English language, full-text publications from 2010 onwards, reporting on treatment of T1DM or T2DM with basal only, basal-bolus, or premix insulin.

RESULTS

The final dataset included 30 studies (11 RWD studies and 19 RCTs). Six studies (RWD, n = 2; RCT, n = 4) reported hypoglycemia event rates in people with T1DM. For all reported categories of hypoglycemia (severe, non-severe, and nocturnal), rates were consistently higher in RWD studies compared with RCTs. Twenty-five studies (RWD, n = 10; RCT, n = 15) reported hypoglycemia event rates in people with insulin-treated T2DM. For T2DM basal-oral therapy; the highest rates were observed in RWD studies, although there was an overlap with RCT rates. For basal-bolus therapy, there was considerable between-study variability but higher rates of severe and non-severe hypoglycemia were generally observed in RWD studies. For T2DM premix insulin, reported rates of hypoglycemia in RWD studies and RCTs were similar.

CONCLUSION

We found that higher rates of hypoglycemia are observed in real-world settings compared with clinical trial settings, although there is a large degree of overlap. Due to the inherent constraints of RCTs, they are likely to underestimate the burden of hypoglycemia in clinical practice. Further, high-quality RWD are needed to determine a more accurate incidence of hypoglycemia in clinical practice.

Recognizing and minimizing hypoglycemia: The need for individualized care

Hypoglycemia is a condition known to disrupt many everyday activities and is associated with increased risks of hospitalization, falls, motor vehicle accidents and mortality. Many patients with diabetes have an increased risk of hypoglycemia due to interventions targeting glycemic control. In these patients, hypoglycemia and fear of hypoglycemia may further reduce adherence to glucose-lowering regimens, contributing to the further aggravation of diabetes-related complications. Avoiding hypoglycemia should be one of the principal goals of any treatment strategies employing agents that can induce hypoglycemia in order to prevent the occurrence of associated symptoms and consequences. The education of patients and their families is an important feature of individualized management strategies in order to prevent, mitigate and treat hypoglycemic episodes. Patients with diabetes need to be made aware of how to recognize the signs of hypoglycemia and of the simple, highly effective steps that they can take to self-manage hypoglycemic episodes. Clinicians should be familiar with the risk factors for hypoglycemia, especially the profiles of the different classes of glucose-lowering medications such as the sulfonylureas and insulin. This article aims to review the risk factors for hypoglycemia and its implications for patients and healthcare systems, and provide practical advice for minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia and its consequences.

Assessing the impact of non-severe hypoglycemic events and treatment in adults: development of the Treatment-Related Impact Measure-Non-severe Hypoglycemic Events (TRIM-HYPO)

PURPOSE

Non-severe hypoglycemic events (NSHEs) are commonly experienced by diabetes patients, particularly among insulin users, and can have serious impacts on daily functioning, emotional well-being, sleep, work productivity, and treatment adherence. Currently, no PRO measures are available to assess the impacts of non-severe hypoglycemia. To address this gap, the Treatment-Related Impact Measure-Non-severe Hypoglycemic Events (TRIM-HYPO) was developed. This paper describes the TRIM-HYPO development and validation.

METHODS

The creation of the TRIM-HYPO followed FDA's guideline for PRO development. Concept elicitation data were gathered from literature review, clinical expert interviews, and focus groups of patients with Type 1 or 2 diabetes in four countries. Based on the qualitative analysis, draft items were generated and cognitively debriefed. Psychometric validation included factor analysis, item response theory analysis, and assessment of psychometric characteristics for the TRIM-HYPO.

RESULTS

Eight clinical experts and 167 patients participated in concept elicitation. The validation study included 407 patients. Thirteen of the 46 items from the preliminary measure were dropped due to ceiling/floor effects and high correlations between conceptually similar items. Factor analysis confirmed five domains in the TRIM-HYPO: daily function, emotional well-being, diabetes management, sleep disruption, and work productivity. All scores were internally consistent (0.86-0.95) and reproducible with a test-retest range of 0.75-0.98. All but one a priori hypothesized associations for validity were confirmed.

CONCLUSIONS

Study findings demonstrate that the final, 33-item TRIM-HYPO is reliable and valid and may be useful for assessing impacts related to NSHEs in research and clinical practice.

Prevalence of and risk factors for hypoglycemic symptoms after gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of and risk factors for postprandial hypoglycemic symptoms among bariatric surgery patients.

METHODS

A questionnaire including the Edinburgh hypoglycemia scale was mailed to patients who underwent either Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) at a single center. Based on the questionnaire, the patients were categorized as having high or low suspicion for post surgical, postprandial hypoglycemic symptoms.

RESULTS

Of the 1119 patients with valid addresses, 40.2% (N = 450) responded. Among the respondents, 34.2% had a high suspicion for symptoms of post bariatric surgery hypoglycemia. In multivariate analyses, in addition to female sex (P = 0.001), RYGB (P = 0.004), longer time since surgery (P = 0.013), and lack of diabetes (P = 0.040), the high suspicion group was more likely to report pre-operative symptoms of hypoglycemia (P < 0.001), compared to the low suspicion group. Similar results were observed when the high suspicion group was restricted to those requiring assistance from others, syncope, seizure with severe symptoms, or medically confirmed hypoglycemia (N = 52).

CONCLUSIONS

One third of patients who underwent RYGB or VSG reported postprandial symptoms concerning for postsurgical hypoglycemia, which was related to the presence of pre-operative hypoglycemic symptoms. Pre-operative screening for hypoglycemic symptoms may identify a group of patients at increased risk of postbariatric surgery hypoglycemia.

Patient-reported frequency, awareness and patient-physician communication of hypoglycaemia in Belgium

OBJECTIVES

Limited data exist on the frequency of non-severe hypoglycaemic events in patients with insulin-treated diabetes outside of clinical trial settings. Our study investigated the rates of self-reported non-severe events in a sample of Belgian patients. We also investigated self-reported awareness of the symptoms of hypoglycaemia and communication about hypoglycaemia between patients and their physicians.

METHODS

Patients aged >15 years with Type 1 (T1DM) and insulin-treated Type 2 (T2DM) diabetes were recruited via existing panels in Belgium to complete four questionnaires at weekly intervals. In addition to demographics, data on frequency of non-severe hypoglycaemic events (7-day recall), severe hypoglycaemic events (1-year recall), awareness of hypoglycaemia and reporting of hypoglycaemia to physicians were recorded.

RESULTS

In total, 412 patients (44% T1DM, 56% T2DM) completed 1148 patient-week records. Mean insulin-treatment duration was 11 years, mean HbA(1c) 7·7%. Mean reported non-severe hypoglycaemic events per patient-week were 2·3 in T1DM patients, 0·3 in T2DM patients receiving basal-only therapy, 0·7 in T2DM patients receiving basal-bolus therapy and 0·8 in T2DM patients receiving another form of insulin. Mean reported annual frequencies of severe hypoglycaemic events were 0·9 in T1DM and 0·4 in T2DM. Impaired awareness or unawareness of hypoglycaemia was reported by 70% of T1DM patients, 55% of T2DM patients receiving basal-only therapy, 61% of T2DM patients receiving basal-bolus therapy and 73% of T2DM patients receiving another form of insulin. Overall, 60% of T1DM patients and 46% of T2DM patients rarely/never discuss hypoglycaemia with their GP/specialist. In addition, 10% of T1DM patients and 13% of T2DM patients stated that GPs/specialists did not ask them about their hypoglycaemia in routine appointments.

CONCLUSION

Hypoglycaemic events and unawareness of these events are common in Belgian insulin-treated diabetes patients. Patients often fail to report hypoglycaemic events to their physician and many physicians do not inquire about hypoglycaemia, meaning the current burden of hypoglycaemic events may be underestimated.

Self-reported frequency and impact of hypoglycaemic events in insulin-treated diabetic patients in Austria

Background

Hypoglycaemia is a common side effect of insulin therapy and presents a barrier to diabetes management, however, limited data exist on the real-world frequency of events. We investigated the self-reported rates of non-severe and severe hypoglycaemic events in Austria. We also explored hypoglycaemia awareness, patient–physician communication and the health-related and economic impact of events.

Methods

People with Type-1 or insulin-treated Type-2 diabetes > 15 years of age completed up to 4 questionnaires (weekly intervals). Non-severe hypoglycaemic events were defined by requiring no assistance while severe hypoglycaemic events need help from a third party.

Results

Overall, 553 respondents (40 % Type-1, 60 % Type-2) enrolled, providing a total of 1,773 patient-weeks. The mean annual non-severe event frequencies were 85 for Type-1 and 15–28 for Type-2 (depending on insulin regimen). In respondents who experienced ≥ 1 non-severe event in the study period, annual rates were 18 % higher in Type-1 and 77 % higher in Type-2. The proportion of respondents reporting ‘awareness’ of hypoglycaemic symptoms was 48 % for Type-1 and 43–61 % for Type-2 respondents. The proportion of respondents who rarely/never inform their physician of hypoglycaemic events was 67 % (Type-1) and 43–53 % (Type-2). The most commonly reported health-related impacts were tiredness/fatigue (58 % of events) and reduced alertness (41 % of events).

Conclusion

Non-severe hypoglycaemic events are common in Type-1 and insulin-treated Type-2 diabetes patients in Austria. There may be subgroups of patients who are predisposed to higher rates of non-severe events. Even non-severe events have a negative impact on physical and emotional well-being.

Cost-effectiveness of add-on treatments to metformin in a Swedish setting: liraglutide vs sulphonylurea or sitagplitin

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate long-run cost-effectiveness in a Swedish setting for liraglutide compared with sulphonylureas (glimepiride) or sitagliptin, all as add-on to metformin for patients with type 2 diabetes insufficiently controlled with metformin in monotherapy.

METHODS

The IHE Cohort Model of Type 2 Diabetes was used to evaluate clinical and economic outcomes from a societal perspective. Model input data were obtained from two clinical trials, the Swedish National Diabetes Register and the literature. Cost data reflected year 2013 price level. The robustness of results was checked with one-way-sensitivity analysis and probability sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

The cost per QALY gained for liraglutide (1.2 mg) compared to SU (glimepiride 4 mg), both as add-on to metformin, ranged from SEK 226,000 to SEK 255,000 in analyzed patient cohorts. The cost per QALY for liraglutide (1.2 mg) vs sitagliptin (100 mg) as second-line treatment was lower, ranging from SEK 149,000 to SEK 161,000. Costs of preventive treatment were driving costs, but there was also a cost offset from reduced costs of complications of ∼ 20%. Notable cost differences were found for nephropathy, stroke, and heart failure. The predicted life expectancy with liraglutide increased the cost of net consumption for liraglutide.

LIMITATIONS

The analysis was an ex-ante analysis using model input data from clinical trials which may not reflect effectiveness in real-world clinical practice in broader patient populations. This limitation was explored in the sensitivity analysis. The lack of specific data on loss of production due to diabetes complications implied that these costs may be under-estimated.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment strategies with liraglutide 1.2 mg improved the expected quality-of-life and increased costs when compared to SU and to sitagliptin for second-line add-on treatments. The cost per QALY for liraglutide was in the range considered medium by Swedish authorities.