The Need to Prioritize Education and Resources to Support Exercise in Type 1 Diabetes: Results of an Australian Survey of Adults With Type 1 Diabetes and Health Providers

OBJECTIVES

Regular exercise is recommended for people with type 1 diabetes (PWD) to improve their health, but many do not meet recommended exercise targets. Educational resources supporting PWD to exercise exist, but their value is unclear. To determine the need for improved exercise resources in Australia, we surveyed adult PWD and health providers (HPs) about their confidence in managing type 1 diabetes (T1D) around exercise, barriers to exercise, and the adequacy of current resources.

METHODS

Australian adult PWD and HPs completed surveys to rate the importance of exercise in T1D management, confidence in managing T1D around exercise, barriers to giving and receiving education, resources used, and what form new resources should take.

RESULTS

Responses were received from 128 PWD and 122 HPs. Both groups considered exercise to be important for diabetes management. PWD cited time constraints (57%) and concern about dysglycemia (43%) as barriers to exercise, and many lacked confidence in managing T1D around exercise. HPs were more confident, but experienced barriers to providing advice, and PWD did not tend to rely on this advice. Instead, 72% of PWD found continuous glucose monitoring most helpful. Both groups desired better resources to support exercise in T1D, with PWD preferring to obtain information through a structured education program and HPs through eLearning.

CONCLUSIONS

Australian HPs and PWD appreciate the importance of exercise in T1D management and express a clear desire for improved educational resources. Our findings provide a basis for developing a comprehensive package of resources for both adult PWD and HPs, to support exercise in PWD.

Understanding tailoring to support the implementation of evidence-based interventions in healthcare: The CUSTOMISE research programme protocol

Although there are effective evidence-based interventions (EBIs) to prevent, treat and coordinate care for chronic conditions they may not be adopted widely and when adopted, implementation challenges can limit their impact.  Implementation strategies are "methods or techniques used to enhance the adoption, implementation, and sustainment of a clinical program or practice". There is some evidence to suggest that to be more effective,  strategies should be tailored; that is, selected and designed to address specific determinants which may influence implementation in a given context. Despite the growing popularity of tailoring the concept is ill-defined, and the way in which tailoring is applied can vary across studies or lack detail when reported. There has been less focus on the part of tailoring where stakeholders prioritise determinants and select strategies, and the way in which theory, evidence and stakeholders' perspectives should be combined to make decisions during the process. Typically, tailoring is evaluated based on the effectiveness of the tailored strategy, we do not have a clear sense of the mechanisms through which tailoring works, or how to measure the "success" of the tailoring process. We lack an understanding of how stakeholders can be involved effectively in tailoring and the influence of different approaches on the outcome of tailoring. Our research programme, CUSTOMISE (Comparing and Understanding Tailoring Methods for Implementation Strategies in healthcare) will address some of these outstanding questions and generate evidence on  the feasibility, acceptability, and efficiency of different tailoring approaches, and build capacity in implementation science in Ireland, developing and delivering training and supports for, and network of, researchers and implementation practitioners. The evidence generated across the studies conducted as part of CUSTOMISE will bring greater clarity, consistency, coherence, and transparency to tailoring, a key process in implementation science.

Type 1 diabetes management and hospitalisation in the over 25's at an Australian outer urban diabetes clinic

AIMS

To describe clinic management and referral pathways among adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) aged > 25 years attending a public outpatient diabetes service.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of people with T1D aged > 25 years seen by endocrinologists in one Australian urban public outpatient in 2017. Electronic and paper medical records were reviewed using a dataset adapted from the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence 2015 guidelines.

RESULTS

Among the 111 people with T1D (mean age 41 ± 13 years, 55% men, mean body mass index 27.1 ± 5.6 kg/m²), mean HbA1c was 8.1 ± 1.9% (66 ± 19 mmol/mol) (lower than the Australian National Diabetes Audit: 8.5%/69 mmol/mol) with 25.5% meeting the guideline target of < 53 mmol/mol (7.0%). Most people had seen a diabetes educator (80.2%) or dietitian (73.0%) and had complication screening. Complication rates were high (nephropathy 20.4%, retinopathy 27.4%, peripheral neuropathy 30.1%, ischaemic heart disease/acute infarction 10.5%). Overall, 27% of referrals occurred following an acute inpatient admission or emergency department presentation and 13% for management of diabetes in pregnancy.

CONCLUSIONS

A high proportion of people with T1D accessed public specialist care either during pregnancy or after a largely avoidable acute glycaemia-related hospital presentation. Subsequent care was in line with national specialist standards. This area has a "wait for acute event" rather than "complication prevention" model of care, associated with under-referral to the local multidisciplinary specialist service. Understanding how widespread this model of care is, and ways to reduce its prevalence, are urgently required.

Evaluation of patient experience post structured education for diabetes self management (Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating-OzDAFNE)

AIMS

To examine OzDAFNE participant feedback to determine if OzDAFNE results in positive participant reported outcomes and experiences, improves quality of life; and to identify areas for improvement.

METHODS

Quantitative and qualitative evaluations of participants' experience were undertaken prior to, and at the end of, every OzDAFNE program from 2010 to 2019. Evaluations included Likert scale and open-ended questions. Responses were analysed descriptively, for response rates and to identify themes. Mean difference in Problem Area in Diabetes (PAID) score was calculated from pre-course to 12 months.

RESULTS

189 participants attended OzDAFNE. 93% rated the overall quality of OzDAFNE as "Excellent". Confidence in managing diabetes increased from 25% pre-OzDAFNE to 96% at completion. Major themes identified as most useful and relevant were carbohydrate counting (89/189), insulin adjustment (87/189) and exercise (46/189). At 12 months (n = 44), 97% were "mostly"/ "always" using OzDAFNE principles; 72% reported their diabetes control was "a lot better" than pre-OzDAFNE due to increased knowledge and implementation of principles. The value of the shared patient experience was reported at all time points. By 12 months, mean PAID score decreased significantly (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The OzDAFNE patient experience was very positive, with high satisfaction reported. Increased confidence and knowledge and ongoing implementation of principles resulted in improved diabetes management. OzDAFNE offers a patient-centred approach that is valued by participants.

Digital interventions self-management education for type 1 and 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To describe and assess digital health-led diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) effectiveness in improving glycosylated hemoglobin, diabetes knowledge, and health-related quality of life (HrQoL) of Type 1 and 2 Diabetes in the past 10 years.

DESIGN

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO registration number CRD42019139884.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library, Web of Science, and Scopus between January 2010 and August 2019. Study Selection and Appraisal: Randomized control trials of digital health-led DSMES for Type 1 (T1DM) or 2 (T2DM) diabetes compared to usual care were included. Outcomes were change in HbA1c, diabetes knowledge, and HrQoL. Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool was used to assess bias and GRADEpro for overall quality. The analysis involved narrative synthesis, subgroup and pooled meta-analyses.

RESULTS

From 4286 articles, 39 studies (6861 participants) were included. Mean age was 51.62 years, range (13-70). Meta-analysis revealed intervention effects on HbA1c for T2DM with difference in means (MD) from baseline -0.480% (-0.661, -0.299), I²75% (6 months), -0.457% (-0.761, -0.151), I² 81% (12 months), and for T1DM -0.41% (-1.022, 0.208) I² 83% (6 months), -0.03% (-0.210, 0.142) I² 0% (12 months). Few reported HrQoL with Hedges' g 0.183 (-0.039, 0.405), I² 0% (6 months), 0.153 (-0.060, 0.366), I² 0% (12 months) and diabetes knowledge with Hedges' g 1.003 (0.068, 1.938), I² 87% (3 months).

CONCLUSION

Digital health-led DSMES are effective in improving HbA1c and diabetes knowledge, notably for T2DM. Research shows non-significant changes in HrQoL. Intervention effect on HbA1c was more impressive if delivered through mobile apps or patient portals. Further research is needed on the impact of DSMES on these outcomes, especially for newly diagnosed diabetes patients.

Effects of nutrition education using a food-based approach, carbohydrate counting or routine care in type 1 diabetes: 12 months prospective randomized trial

INTRODUCTION

Evidence on the effects of structured nutrition education is weak in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) with moderately impaired glycemic control. Objective was to compare the effects of different types of nutrition education programs on glycemic control, cardiovascular risk factors, quality of life, diet quality and food choices in T1D.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A 12 months randomized controlled study conducted at nine diabetes specialist centers with three parallel arms: (i) a food-based approach (FBA) including foods with low glycemic index or (ii) carbohydrate counting (CC) according to today's standard practice or (iii) individual sessions according to routine care (RC). The primary end point was difference in glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) between groups at 12 months.

RESULTS

159 patients were randomized (FBA: 51; CC: 52; RC: 55). Mean (SD) age 48.6 (12.0) years, 57.9% females and mean (SD) HbA1c level 63.9 (7.9) mmol/mol, 8% (0.7%). After 3 months, HbA1c improved in both FBA and CC compared with RC. However, there were no significant differences at 12 months in HbA1c; FBA versus RC (-0.4 mmol/mol (1.3), 0.04% (0.1%)), CC versus RC (-0.8 mmol/mol (1.2), 0.1% (0.1%)), FBA versus CC (0.4 mmol/mol (0.3), 0.04% (0.01%)). At 12 months, intake of legumes, nuts and vegetables was improved in FBA versus CC and RC. FBA also reported higher intake of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats compared with RC, and dietary fiber, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats compared with CC (all p values <0.05). There were no differences in blood pressure levels, lipids, body weight or quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

Nutrition education using an FBA, CC or RC is equivalent in terms of HbA1c and cardiovascular risk factors in persons with T1D with moderately impaired glycemic control. An FBA had benefits regarding food choices compared with CC and RC.

Assessment of Alimentación Normal con Ajuste de Insulina (ANAIS), a Spanish version of the DAFNE programme, in people with Type 1 diabetes: a randomized controlled parallel trial

AIM

To evaluate the effects of Alimentación Normal con Ajuste de Insulina (ANAIS), a group-based, therapeutic education programme for Type 1 diabetes based on a flexible insulin regimen adjusted to the individual's food intake.

METHODS

Participants with Type 1 diabetes and HbA_1c levels of 53-86 mmol/mol (7-10%) were recruited from outpatient clinics at a tertiary care centre. They were randomized (using opaque, sealed envelopes, with a 2:1 treatment allocation ratio) to attend the training course immediately (immediate ANAIS; intervention group) or a year later (delayed ANAIS; control group). The main outcome was HbA_1c level at 1 year. Secondary outcomes included lipid levels, weight, hypoglycaemic events, insulin dose, treatment satisfaction, self-perceived dietary freedom, quality of life and participant-defined goals.

RESULTS

A total of 48 participants were assigned to the intervention group and 32 to the control group. Twelve months after completing the training, adjusted HbA_1c was not significantly different in the intervention group [64 ± 1.3 vs 68 ± 1.6 mmol/mol (8.0 ±0.1% vs 8.4 ±0.1%); P=0.081]. Treatment satisfaction was significantly higher in the intervention group, but no differences were found in hypoglycaemic events, weight, insulin dose or changes in dietary freedom. At 1 year after the intervention, 72% of the participants (vs 33% in the control group; P=0.046) reported exceeding their expectations regarding achievement of their main personal goal.

CONCLUSION

Promoting dietary freedom and empowering people with Type 1 diabetes through structured education programmes, such as ANAIS, improves treatment satisfaction and self-defined goals. No significant improvement in HbA_1c level was achieved.

Follow-Up Support for Effective type 1 Diabetes self-management (The FUSED Model): A systematic review and meta-ethnography of the barriers, facilitators and recommendations for sustaining self-management skills after attending a structured education programme

Background

People with type 1 diabetes who attend structured education training in self-management using flexible intensive therapy achieve improved blood glucose control and experience fewer episodes of severe hypoglycaemia. However, many struggle to sustain these improvements over time. To inform the design of more effective follow-up support we undertook a review of qualitative studies which have identified factors that influence and inform participants’ self-management behaviours after attending structured education and their need for support to sustain improvements in glycaemic control.

Methods

We undertook a meta-ethnography of relevant qualitative studies, identified using systematic search methods. Studies were included which focused on participants’ experiences of self-managing type 1 diabetes after attending structured education which incorporated training in flexible intensive insulin therapy. A line of argument approach was used to synthesise the findings.

Results

The search identified 18 papers from six studies. The studies included were judged to be of high methodological quality. The line of argument synthesis developed the Follow-Up Support for Effective type 1 Diabetes self-management (FUSED) model. This model outlines the challenges participants encounter in maintaining diabetes self-management practices after attending structured education, and describes how participants try to address these barriers by adapting, simplifying or personalising the self-management approaches they have learned. To help participants maintain the skills taught during courses, the FUSED model presents ten recommendations abstracted from the included papers to provide a logic model for a programme of individualised and responsive follow-up support.

Conclusions

This meta-ethnography highlights how providing skills training using structured education to people with type 1 diabetes does not necessarily result in participants adopting and sustaining recommended changes in behaviour. To help people sustain diabetes self-management skills after attending structured education, it is recommended that support be provided over the longer-term by appropriately trained healthcare professionals which is responsive to individuals’ needs. Although developed to inform support for people with type 1 diabetes, the FUSED model provides a framework that could also be applied to support individuals with other long term conditions which require complex self-management skills to be learned and sustained over time.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration: CRD42017067961.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12913-018-3655-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Structured education using Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating (DAFNE) reduces long-term HbA1c and HbA1c variability

AIMS

Previous evidence has demonstrated that participation in the Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating (DAFNE) education programme can reduce HbA_1c and severe hypoglycaemia in people with Type 1 diabetes. In a number of studies, increased HbA_1c variability has been associated with higher diabetic morbidity and mortality. No studies have examined the impact of structured education on HbA_1c variability in Type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

People with Type 1 diabetes who had attended DAFNE were identified for inclusion from the Scottish Care Information-Diabetes dataset. HbA_1c median and variability, expressed as coefficient of variation (CV) before and after DAFNE was calculated.

RESULTS

Some 1061 individuals participated in DAFNE education and 687 met the inclusion criteria. A significant median reduction in HbA_1c [-3.5 mmol/mol (-0.3%)] was seen at 12 months with a significant reduction [-1.5 mmol/mol (-0.1%)] still seen at 60 months of follow-up. HbA_1c variability as measured by CV was significantly lower during the post-DAFNE period: 0.08 (IQR 0.05-0.12) reduced to 0.07 (IQR 0.05-0.10); P = 0.002.

CONCLUSION

The data confirm that DAFNE participation improves glycaemic control in Type 1 diabetes with benefits being sustained for 5 years. This study is the first to demonstrate reduced HbA_1c variability after completion of structured education. This is new evidence of the beneficial impact of DAFNE on glycaemic profile.

Diabetes structured self-management education programmes: a narrative review and current innovations

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are associated with long-term complications that can be prevented or delayed by intensive glycaemic management. People who are empowered and skilled to self-manage their diabetes have improved health outcomes. Over the past 20 years, diabetes self-management education programmes have been shown to be efficacious and cost-effective in promotion and facilitation of self-management, with improvements in patients' knowledge, skills, and motivation leading to improved biomedical, behavioural, and psychosocial outcomes. Diabetes self-management education programmes, developed robustly with an evidence-based structured curriculum, vary in their method of delivery, content, and use of technology, person-centred philosophy, and specific aims. They are delivered by trained educators, and monitored for quality by independent assessors and routine audit. Self-management education should be tailored to specific populations, taking into consideration the type of diabetes, and ethnic, social, cognitive, literacy, and cultural factors. Ways to improve access to and uptake of diabetes self-management programmes are needed globally.

Effects of a structured education program on glycemic control in type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes mellitus is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and education is known to play a key role in managing this disease. This study addresses the effects of a structured education program (SEP) on self-care in subjects with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). The aim was to evaluate the effect of a SEP on glycemic control, knowledge, and skills associated with diabetes care in subjects with T1DM.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A total of 47 adults with T1DM were followed up for 20 months (32 participated in the SEP and 15 served as a control group). The SEP consisted of workshops, individualized care, 24-hour distant support, and a questionnaire assessing knowledge of diabetes care. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were measured before and after the SEP implementation.

RESULTS

Compared with pre-SEP levels, the mean HbA1c levels decreased by approximately 20% (21 mmol/mol) at 1 year, with a further 11% reduction (10 mmol/mol) observed 8 months later (p < 0.001). Knowledge about diabetes care increased by 37% between the pre-SEP and post-SEP questionnaires (p < 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Relevant improvements occurred after SEP activities. The sustained decrease in HbA1c levels and the overall increase in knowledge and confidence regarding diabetes care reinforce the importance, necessity, and positive outcomes of a SEP intervention in T1DM.

Behavioural implications of traditional treatment and closed-loop automated insulin delivery systems in Type 1 diabetes: applying a cognitive restraint theory framework

As the prevalence of obesity in Type 1 diabetes rises, the effects of emerging therapy options should be considered in the context of both weight and glycaemic control outcomes. Artificial pancreas device systems will 'close the loop' between blood glucose monitoring and automated insulin delivery and may transform day-to-day dietary management for people with Type 1 diabetes in multiple ways. In the present review, we draw directly from cognitive restraint theory to consider unintended impacts that closed-loop systems may have on ingestive behaviour and food intake. We provide a brief overview of dietary restraint theory and its relation to weight status in the general population, discuss the role of restraint in traditional Type 1 diabetes treatment, and lastly, use this restraint framework to discuss the possible behavioural implications and opportunities of closed-loop systems in the treatment of Type 1 diabetes. We hypothesize that adopting closed-loop systems will lift the diligence and restriction that characterizes Type 1 diabetes today, thus requiring a transition from a restrained eating behaviour to a non-restrained eating behaviour. Furthermore, we suggest this transition be leveraged as an opportunity to teach people lifelong eating behaviour to promote healthy weight status by incorporating education and cognitive reappraisal. Our aim was to use a transdisciplinary approach to highlight critical aspects of the emerging closed-loop technologies relating to eating behaviour and weight effects and to promote discussion of strategies to optimize long-term health in Type 1 diabetes via two key outcomes: glycaemic control and weight management.

Assessing quality of life in diabetes: II - Deconstructing measures into a simple framework

A growing number of instruments measuring diabetes-specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL) have been identified in previous systematic reviews, the most recent being published in 2008. The purpose of this paper is report on an updated systematic review of diabetes-specific HRQOL measures highlighting the time period 2006-2016; to deconstruct existing diabetes-specific HRQOL measures into a simple framework for evaluating the goodness-of-fit between specific research needs and instrument characteristics; and to present core characteristics of measures not yet reported in other reviews to further facilitate scale selection. Using the databases Medline, Pubmed, CINAHL, OVID Embase, and PsycINFO, we identified 20 diabetes-specific HRQOL measures that met our inclusion criteria. For each measure, we extracted eight core characteristics for our measurement selection framework. These characteristics include target population (type 1 vs. type 2), number and type of HRQOL dimensions measured and scored, type of score and calculation algorithm, sensitivity to change data reported in subsequent studies, number of survey items, approximate time length to complete, number of studies using the instrument in the past 10years, and specific languages instruments is translated. This report provides a way to compare and contrast existing diabetes-specific HRQOL measures to aid in appropriate scale selection and utilization.

Evaluation of the Effect of Carbohydrate Intake on Postprandial Glucose in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes Treated With Insulin Pumps

BACKGROUND

It has been suggested that dietary freedom in functional insulin therapy may be detrimental to glycemic control in type 1 diabetes. This study evaluates the effect of carbohydrate intake on glycemic control and postprandial blood glucose concentrations.

METHODS

Insulin pump data from 148 adults with type 1 diabetes, trained in functional insulin therapy, using pumps for ≥6 months, with ≥2 weeks of consecutive downloaded data, ≥80% use of a bolus calculator, ≥3 capillary blood glucose tests/day, and a concurrent HbA1C, were analyzed. More detailed periprandial data (pre- and postmeal glucose, carbohydrate intake, insulin bolus) were collected from a subset of 105 downloads (3495 meals).

RESULTS

Mean (± SD) age of contributors was 43 ± 13 years, HbA1C 7.84% ± 0.93 (62.19 mmol/mol); daily carbohydrate intake 166 ± 71 g. HbA1C reduced with increased meals/day (r = -.370, P < .0005) and increased with mean carbohydrate content/meal (r = .198, P = .043). However, total daily carbohydrate intake had a weak but significant negative association with HbA1C (r = -.181, P = .027). There was no association between standard deviation of carbohydrate intake and HbA1C (r = .021, P = .802) or between meal carbohydrate content and postprandial change in blood glucose (r = -.004, P = .939) for meals with early postprandial (1-3 hours; n = 390) readings. There was a weak positive correlation (r = .184, P = .008) between meal carbohydrate content and late (4-7 hours; n = 390) postprandial readings.

DISCUSSION

With appropriate training, patients using insulin pumps can accommodate a flexible diet with variable carbohydrate intake, without detriment to glycemic control. However, large carbohydrate meals may contribute to poorer outcomes, through impact on late postprandial glycemia.

Quantitative assessment of dietary intake in adults with Type 1 diabetes following flexible insulin therapy education with an active promotion of dietary freedom

Clinical practice guidelines for diabetes include dietary guidelines to address the increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

AIMS

To identify impact of flexible insulin education with an active promotion of dietary freedom on energy and macronutrient intake and achievement of nutrient recommendations in adults with Type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

Dietary assessment was performed prior to and 12months following flexible insulin education. Nutrient intake and the proportion achieving the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) nutrient guidelines were compared at baseline and post course.

RESULTS

Dietary data were available for 46 participants. Post course reductions were seen in median [IQR] energy kcal/d (1799 [1521-1931] to 1592 [1378-1940], p=0.002), fibre g/1000kcal (14 [12-16] to 13 [11-15], p=0.047), protein g/day (89 ([78-108] to 82 [74-93], p=0.001) and carbohydrate g/day (198 [172-330] to 162 [143-204], p=<0.001). The proportion experiencing at least 1 severe hypoglycaemia event over 12months was significantly reduced (χ(2)=7.7, p=0.006) from baseline (n=13, 26%) to post course (n=3, 6%). Achievement of EASD guidelines was poor and did not change post course.

CONCLUSIONS

Flexible insulin education with an active promotion of dietary freedom does not appear to 'worsen' the achievement of EASD nutrition guidelines in adults with Type 1 diabetes. On the contrary, the dietary changes observed were reductions in energy, carbohydrate and protein intake. Flexible insulin education may offer benefits in enabling reduced energy intake without increasing hypoglycaemia.

Structured type 1 diabetes education delivered in routine care in Australia reduces diabetes-related emergencies and severe diabetes-related distress: The OzDAFNE program

AIMS

To evaluate structured type 1 diabetes education delivered in routine practice throughout Australia.

METHODS

Participants attended a five-day training program in insulin dose adjustment and carbohydrate counting between April 2007 and February 2012. Using an uncontrolled before-and-after study design, we investigated: HbA1c (% and mmol/mol); severe hypoglycaemia; diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA) requiring hospitalisation, and diabetes-related distress (Problem Areas in Diabetes scale; PAID), weight (kg); body mass index. Data were collected pre-training and 6-18 months post-training. Change in outcome scores were examined overall as well as between groups stratified by baseline HbA1c quartiles. Data are mean ± SD or % (n).

RESULTS

506 participants had data eligible for analysis. From baseline to follow-up, significant reductions were observed in the proportion of participants reporting at least one severe hypoglycaemic event (24.7% (n=123) vs 12.1% (n=59), p<0.001); and severe diabetes-related distress (29.3% (n=145) vs 12.6% (n=60), p<0.001). DKA requiring hospitalisation in the past year reduced from 4.1% (n=20) to 1.2% (n=6). For those with above target baseline HbA1c there was a small, statistically significant improvement (n=418, 8.4 ± 1.1% (69 ± 12 mmol/mol) to 8.2 ± 1.1% (66 ± 12 mmol/mol). HbA1c improvement was clinically significant among those in the highest baseline quartile (n=122, 9.7 ± 1.1% (82 ± 11 mmol/mol) to 9.0 ± 1.2% (75 ± 13 mmol/mol), p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of participants reporting severe hypoglycaemia, DKA and severe diabetes-related distress was at least halved, and HbA1c reduced by 0.7% (7 mmol/mol) among those with highest baseline levels. Structured type 1 diabetes education delivered in routine practice offers clinically important benefits for those with greatest clinical need.

The detection and management of diabetes distress in people with type 1 diabetes

Diabetes distress (DD) represents a significant clinical burden in which levels of DD are related to both glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and some self-management behaviours. DD is related to, but different from, depression. Differences in DD experienced in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes have been observed. Commonly measured using the Problem Areas in Diabetes Scale (PAID) and the Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS), rates of elevated DD in research study participants range from 20 to 30 %. Risk factors for elevated DD in type 1 diabetes are longer duration of diabetes, severe hypoglycaemia, younger age and being female. A systematic review of intervention studies assessing DD identified eight randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and nine pre-post design studies. Only three studies targeted DD with the intervention. Intervention types were diabetes self-management education (DSME), psychologically informed self-management and devices. DSME pre-post studies, namely the Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating (DAFNE) programme, produced more consistent improvements in DD and HbA1c at follow-up. Psychologically informed self-management was more heterogeneous, but several RCTs were effective in reducing DD. Group interventions offered the greatest benefits across intervention designs.

The Role of Dietary Protein and Fat in Glycaemic Control in Type 1 Diabetes: Implications for Intensive Diabetes Management

A primary focus of the management of type 1 diabetes has been on matching prandial insulin therapy with carbohydrate amount consumed. However, even with the introduction of more flexible intensive insulin regimes, people with type 1 diabetes still struggle to achieve optimal glycaemic control. More recently, dietary fat and protein have been recognised as having a significant impact on postprandial blood glucose levels. Fat and protein independently increase the postprandial glucose excursions and together their effect is additive. This article reviews how the fat and protein in a meal impact the postprandial glycaemic response and discusses practical approaches to managing this in clinical practice. These insights have significant implications for patient education, mealtime insulin dose calculations and dosing strategies.

Modeling predictors of changes in glycemic control and diabetes-specific quality of life amongst adults with type 1 diabetes 1 year after structured education in flexible, intensive insulin therapy

Few studies have identified determinants of glycemic control (HbA1c) and diabetes-specific quality of life (DSQoL) in adults with type 1 diabetes. To identify factors predicting outcomes following structured diabetes education. 262 participants completed biomedical and questionnaire assessments before, and throughout 1 year of follow-up. The proportion of variance explained ranged from 28 to 62 % (DSQoLS) and 14-20 % (HbA1c). When change in psychosocial variables were examined, reduced hypoglycemia fear, lower 'perceived diabetes seriousness', greater self-efficacy and well-being predicted QoL improvements from baseline to 3-months. Increased frequency of blood glucose testing predicted improvements in HbA1c from baseline to 6-months. Greater benefits may be achieved if programs focus explicitly on psychosocial factors. Self-care behaviours did not predict HbA1c suggesting existing assessment tools need refinement. Evaluation of treatment mechanisms in self-management programs is recommended.

Improving management of type 1 diabetes in the UK: the Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating (DAFNE) programme as a research test-bed. A mixed-method analysis of the barriers to and facilitators of successful diabetes self-management, a health economic analysis, a cluster randomised controlled trial of different models of delivery of an educational intervention and the potential of insulin pumps and additional educator input to improve outcomes

Background

Many adults with type 1 diabetes cannot self-manage their diabetes effectively and die prematurely with diabetic complications as a result of poor glucose control. Following the positive results obtained from a randomised controlled trial (RCT) by the Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating (DAFNE) group, published in 2002, structured training is recommended for all adults with type 1 diabetes in the UK.

Aim

With evidence that blood glucose control is not always improved or sustained, we sought to determine factors explaining why some patients benefit from training more than other patients, identifying barriers to successful self-management, while developing other models to make skills training more accessible and effective.

Findings

We confirmed that glycaemic outcomes are not always improved or sustained when the DAFNE programme is delivered routinely, although improvements in psychosocial outcomes are maintained. DAFNE courses and follow-up support is needed to help participants instil and habituate key self-management practices such as regular diary/record keeping. DAFNE graduates need structured professional support following training. This is currently either unavailable or provided ad hoc without a supporting evidence base. Demographic and psychosocial characteristics had minimal explanatory power in predicting glycaemic control but good explanatory power in predicting diabetes-specific quality of life over the following year. We developed a DAFNE course delivered for 1 day per week over 5 weeks. There were no major differences in outcomes between this and a standard 1-week DAFNE course; in both arms of a RCT, glycaemic control improved by less than in the original DAFNE trial. We piloted a course delivering both the DAFNE programme and pump training. The pilot demonstrated the feasibility of a full multicentre RCT and resulted in us obtaining subsequent Health Technology Assessment programme funding. In collaboration with the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Diabetes Research Programme at King’s College Hospital (RG-PG-0606-1142), London, an intervention for patients with hypoglycaemic problems, DAFNE HART (Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating Hypoglycaemia Awareness Restoration Training), improved impaired hypoglycaemia awareness and is worthy of a formal trial. The health economic work developed a new type 1 diabetes model and confirmed that the DAFNE programme is cost-effective compared with no structured education; indeed, it is cost-saving in the majority of our analyses despite limited glycated haemoglobin benefit. Users made important contributions but this could have been maximised by involving them with grant writing, delaying training until the group was established and funding users’ time off work to maximise attendance. Collecting routine clinical data to conduct continuing evaluated roll-out is possible but to do this effectively requires additional administrator support and/or routine electronic data capture.

Conclusions

We propose that, in future work, we should modify the current DAFNE curricula to incorporate emerging understanding of behaviour change principles to instil and habituate key self-management behaviours that include key DAFNE competencies. An assessment of numeracy, critical for insulin dose adjustment, may help to determine whether or not additional input/support is required both before and after training. Models of structured support involving professionals should be developed and evaluated, incorporating technological interventions to help overcome the barriers identified above and enable participants to build effective self-management behaviours into their everyday lives.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01069393.

Funding

The NIHR Programme Grants for Applied Research programme.

Effects of advanced carbohydrate counting in patients with type 1 diabetes: a systematic review

AIM

Advanced carbohydrate counting, a systematic method for insulin bolus calculation, is recommended in the management of type 1 diabetes. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize all available evidence from randomized and observational studies of the effects of advanced carbohydrate counting on glycaemic control (HbA(1c)), psychosocial measures, weight and hypoglycaemic events in patients of all age groups with type 1 diabetes on a basal-bolus insulin regimen.

METHODS

An electronic search of Scopus, MEDLINE and The Cochrane Library conducted in January 2013 identified 27 relevant articles. Six were randomized controlled trials and 21 were observational studies. Large heterogeneity existed across studies with regard to study design and patient populations. Reporting of statistical measures was insufficient to serve as a basis for a meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Overall, the studies demonstrated a positive trend in change in HbA(1c) after introduction of advanced carbohydrate counting. Reductions in HbA(1c) ranged from 0.0 to 13 mmol/mol (0.0-1.2%). Most psychosocial measures improved; however, only few improvements were considered clinically relevant. Both weight gain and reduction were registered, but most studies found no significant weight changes. The majority of studies assessing the incidence of hypoglycaemic events found a significant reduction in the event rate and none reported an increase in the incidence.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, the currently available literature does not provide sufficient evidence to definitively determine the effects of advanced carbohydrate counting on HbA(1c), psychosocial measures, weight or hypoglycaemic events. Nevertheless, the method still appears preferable to other insulin dosing procedures, which justifies continued use and inclusion of advanced carbohydrate counting in clinical guidelines.

Cognitive, behavioural and psychological barriers to the prevention of severe hypoglycaemia: A qualitative study of adults with type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVES

Severe hypoglycaemia affects approximately one in three people with type 1 diabetes and is the most serious side effect of insulin therapy. Our aim was to explore individualistic drivers of severe hypoglycaemia events.

METHODS

In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 17 adults with type 1 diabetes and a history of recurrent severe hypoglycaemia, to elicit experiences of hypoglycaemia (symptoms/awareness, progression from mild to severe and strategies for prevention/treatment). Interviews were analysed using an adapted grounded theory approach.

RESULTS

Three main themes emerged: hypoglycaemia-induced cognitive impairment, behavioural factors and psychological factors. Despite experiencing early hypoglycaemic symptoms, individuals often delayed intervention due to impaired/distracted attention, inaccurate risk assessment, embarrassment, worry about rebound hyperglycaemia or unavailability of preferred glucose source. Delay coupled with use of a slow-acting glucose source compromised prevention of severe hypoglycaemia.

CONCLUSION

Our qualitative data highlight the multifaceted, idiosyncratic nature of severe hypoglycaemia and confirm that individuals with a history of recurrent severe hypoglycaemia may have specific thought and behaviour risk profiles. Individualised prevention plans are required, emphasising both the need to attend actively to mild hypoglycaemic symptoms and to intervene promptly with an appropriate, patient-preferred glucose source to prevent progression to severe hypoglycaemia.

Dose adjustment for normal eating: a role for the expert patient?

The Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating (DAFNE) programme of intensive insulin therapy for type 1 diabetes provides a structured educational intervention to improve glycemic control, reduce hypoglycemia and improve quality of life. Enhancement of self-management skills is a key element of DAFNE and patients acquire detailed skills in insulin dose adjustment. Following DAFNE training, patients report improved confidence in their ability to manage their own insulin dosing, but generally still seek and require the assistance of health professionals when making substantial changes to their insulin regimens. Some DAFNE trained patients may be able to assist their peers in aspects of diabetes management within a group environment, but widespread introduction of the expert patient/peer educator role in the self-management of type 1 diabetes, in particular related to insulin dose management, would require formal and detailed evaluation, preferably in randomized controlled clinical trials, before being introduced into routine clinical practice.

Severe hypoglycaemia in type 1 diabetes mellitus: underlying drivers and potential strategies for successful prevention

Hypoglycaemia remains an over-riding factor limiting optimal glycaemic control in type 1 diabetes. Severe hypoglycaemia is prevalent in almost half of those with long-duration diabetes and is one of the most feared diabetes-related complications. In this review, we present an overview of the increasing body of literature seeking to elucidate the underlying pathophysiology of severe hypoglycaemia and the limited evidence behind the strategies employed to prevent episodes. Drivers of severe hypoglycaemia including impaired counter-regulation, hypoglycaemia-associated autonomic failure, psychosocial and behavioural factors and neuroimaging correlates are discussed. Treatment strategies encompassing structured education, insulin analogue regimens, continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pumps, continuous glucose sensing and beta-cell replacement therapies have been employed, yet there is little randomized controlled trial evidence demonstrating effectiveness of new technologies in reducing severe hypoglycaemia. Optimally designed interventional trials evaluating these existing technologies and using modern methods of teaching patients flexible insulin use within structured education programmes with the specific goal of preventing severe hypoglycaemia are required. Individuals at high risk need to be monitored with meticulous collection of data on awareness, as well as frequency and severity of all hypoglycaemic episodes.

Nutrition therapy recommendations for the management of adults with diabetes

There is no standard meal plan or eating pattern that works universally for all people with diabetes. In order to be effective, nutrition therapy should be individualized for each patient/client based on his or her individual health goals; personal and cultural preferences; health literacy and numeracy; access to healthful choices; and readiness, willingness, and ability to change. Nutrition interventions should emphasize a variety of minimally processed nutrient dense foods in appropriate portion sizes as part of a healthful eating pattern and provide the individual with diabetes with practical tools for day-to-day food plan and behavior change that can be maintained over the long term.

Evaluation of a treatment and teaching refresher programme for the optimization of intensified insulin therapy in type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Evaluation of an ambulatory diabetes teaching and treatment refresher programme (DTTP) for the optimization of intensified insulin therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes (refresher course).

METHODS

85 outpatients took part in this prospective multicentre trial. Metabolic and psychosocial data were analyzed at baseline (V1), 6 weeks (V2) and 12 months after DTTP (V3).

RESULTS

In patients with baseline HbA1c>7% (88%), HbA1c decreased by 0.36% (p=0.004). The percentage of patients with HbA1c≤7% increased from 21.3 to 34.9% and with HbA1c above 10% decreased from 6.6 to 1.6% at V3. The incidence of hypoglycaemia decreased significantly: non severe hypoglycaemia from 3.31 to 1.39 episodes/pat/week (p=0.001) and severe hypoglycaemia from 0.16 to 0.03 episodes/pat/year (p=0.02). The treatment satisfaction increased by +10 of maximal ±18 points. The negative influence of diabetes on quality of life decreased from -1.93 to -1.69 points (p=0.031).

CONCLUSION

In a group of patients with moderately controlled diabetes type 1 who were already treated with intensified insulin therapy, metabolic control, treatment satisfaction and quality of life were improved after participation in an ambulatory DTTP without increasing insulin dosage, number of injections or insulin species.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

This DTTP is effective for the optimization of intensified insulin therapy.

Long-term metabolic effects of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy in type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and intensive multiple daily insulin injections (iMDI) program are treatment options in patients with type 1 diabetes not achieving optimal glycemic control. The long-term effects of CSII in patients with type 1 diabetes in comparison with those educated for iMDI are poorly documented.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Medical records for patients commenced on CSII or undertaking an iMDI program between 2000 and 2011 were extracted. Change in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), hypoglycemia, and weight were analyzed. Prior to CSII or iMDI commencement, all patients were on basal bolus analog insulin. Data from blood glucose meter downloads before and 6 months after CSII and iMDI were also analyzed.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-six CSII and 121 iMDI patients were studied, with mean (±SD) follow-up of 39±26 and 48±26 months, respectively. For CSII, HbA1c was significantly lower than baseline at every time period up to 36 months. Peak HbA1c reduction was 0.64% at 6 months, following which the HbA1c change declined. For iMDI, HbA1c was significantly reduced only at 6 months, by 0.15%. Glucose meter data were available for 119 patients. CSII-treated patients had a significant decrease in mean glucose and glucose SD with no change hypoglycemia at 6 months compared with baseline; no differences were observed for iMDI-treated patients.

CONCLUSIONS

CSII in type 1 diabetes is associated with improved glycemic control with no increase in hypoglycemia. HbA1c improvement declined over time, suggesting a need for re-education after CSII commencement. The iMDI program did not have significant glycemic benefits.

Hypoglycemia and diabetes: a report of a workgroup of the American Diabetes Association and the Endocrine Society

OBJECTIVE

To review the evidence about the impact of hypoglycemia on patients with diabetes that has become available since the past reviews of this subject by the American Diabetes Association and The Endocrine Society and to provide guidance about how this new information should be incorporated into clinical practice.

PARTICIPANTS

Five members of the American Diabetes Association and five members of The Endocrine Society with expertise in different aspects of hypoglycemia were invited by the Chair, who is a member of both, to participate in a planning conference call and a 2-day meeting that was also attended by staff from both organizations. Subsequent communications took place via e-mail and phone calls. The writing group consisted of those invitees who participated in the writing of the manuscript. The workgroup meeting was supported by educational grants to the American Diabetes Association from Lilly USA, LLC and Novo Nordisk and sponsorship to the American Diabetes Association from Sanofi. The sponsors had no input into the development of or content of the report.

EVIDENCE

The writing group considered data from recent clinical trials and other studies to update the prior workgroup report. Unpublished data were not used. Expert opinion was used to develop some conclusions.

CONSENSUS PROCESS

Consensus was achieved by group discussion during conference calls and face-to-face meetings, as well as by iterative revisions of the written document. The document was reviewed and approved by the American Diabetes Association's Professional Practice Committee in October 2012 and approved by the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors in November 2012 and was reviewed and approved by The Endocrine Society's Clinical Affairs Core Committee in October 2012 and by Council in November 2012.

CONCLUSIONS

The workgroup reconfirmed the previous definitions of hypoglycemia in diabetes, reviewed the implications of hypoglycemia on both short- and long-term outcomes, considered the implications of hypoglycemia on treatment outcomes, presented strategies to prevent hypoglycemia, and identified knowledge gaps that should be addressed by future research. In addition, tools for patients to report hypoglycemia at each visit and for clinicians to document counseling are provided.

Hypoglycemia and diabetes: a report of a workgroup of the American Diabetes Association and the Endocrine Society

OBJECTIVE

To review the evidence about the impact of hypoglycemia on patients with diabetes that has become available since the past reviews of this subject by the American Diabetes Association and The Endocrine Society and to provide guidance about how this new information should be incorporated into clinical practice.

PARTICIPANTS

Five members of the American Diabetes Association and five members of The Endocrine Society with expertise in different aspects of hypoglycemia were invited by the Chair, who is a member of both, to participate in a planning conference call and a 2-day meeting that was also attended by staff from both organizations. Subsequent communications took place via e-mail and phone calls. The writing group consisted of those invitees who participated in the writing of the manuscript. The workgroup meeting was supported by educational grants to the American Diabetes Association from Lilly USA, LLC and Novo Nordisk and sponsorship to the American Diabetes Association from Sanofi. The sponsors had no input into the development of or content of the report.

EVIDENCE

The writing group considered data from recent clinical trials and other studies to update the prior workgroup report. Unpublished data were not used. Expert opinion was used to develop some conclusions.

CONSENSUS PROCESS

Consensus was achieved by group discussion during conference calls and face-to-face meetings, as well as by iterative revisions of the written document. The document was reviewed and approved by the American Diabetes Association's Professional Practice Committee in October 2012 and approved by the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors in November 2012 and was reviewed and approved by The Endocrine Society's Clinical Affairs Core Committee in October 2012 and by Council in November 2012.

CONCLUSIONS

The workgroup reconfirmed the previous definitions of hypoglycemia in diabetes, reviewed the implications of hypoglycemia on both short- and long-term outcomes, considered the implications of hypoglycemia on treatment outcomes, presented strategies to prevent hypoglycemia, and identified knowledge gaps that should be addressed by future research. In addition, tools for patients to report hypoglycemia at each visit and for clinicians to document counseling are provided.

Group follow-up compared to individual clinic visits after structured education for type 1 diabetes: a cluster randomised controlled trial

AIM

To compare the effectiveness of group follow-up with individual follow-up after participation in the Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating (DAFNE) structured education programme.

METHODS

Cluster randomised controlled trial involving 437 adults with type 1 diabetes attending hospital diabetes clinics in Ireland. All participants received DAFNE at baseline. Intervention arm participants received 2 group education sessions post-DAFNE and did not attend clinics. Control arm participants received 2 one-to-one clinic visits post-DAFNE.

RESULTS

We observed no significant difference in the primary outcome (change in HbA1c) at 18 months follow-up (mean difference 0.14%; 95% CI -0.33 to 0.61; p=0.47). Secondary outcomes, including rates of severe hypoglycaemia, anxiety, depression, the burden of living with diabetes and quality of life did not differ between groups. Mean level of HbA1c for the entire sample (regardless of treatment arm) did not change between baseline and 18 month follow-up (p=0.09), but rates of severe hypoglycaemia, diabetes related hospital attendance, levels of anxiety, depression, the burden of living with diabetes, quality of life and treatment satisfaction all significantly improved.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that group follow-up as the sole means of follow-up after structured education for individuals with type 1 diabetes is as effective as a return to one-to-one clinic visits.

Structured type 1 diabetes education delivered within routine care: impact on glycemic control and diabetes-specific quality of life

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether improvements in glycemic control and diabetes-specific quality of life (QoL) scores reported in research studies for the type 1 diabetes structured education program Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating (DAFNE) are also found when the intervention is delivered within routine U.K. health care.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Before and after evaluation of DAFNE to assess impact on glycemic control and QoL among 262 adults with type 1 diabetes.

RESULTS

There were significant improvements in HbA(1c) from baseline to 6 and 12 months (from 9.1 to 8.6 and 8.8%, respectively) in a subgroup with suboptimal control. QoL was significantly improved by 3 months and maintained at both follow-up points.

CONCLUSIONS

Longer-term improved glycemic control and QoL is achievable among adults with type 1 diabetes through delivery of structured education in routine care, albeit with smaller effect sizes than reported in trials.

Glycaemic control and weight 7 years after Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating (DAFNE) structured education in Type 1 diabetes

AIMS

The provision of structured education is increasingly prevalent in the management of Type 1 diabetes. There are little long-term follow-up data from such programmes. We have assessed HbA(1c) and weight over a 7-year period following the Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating (DAFNE) structured education course.

METHODS

We obtained annual HbA(1c) and weight data in 111 patients who attended the initial series of DAFNE courses in our centre from June 2002 to end 2003 and in a matched group of 111 patients with Type 1 diabetes of similar age and duration of diabetes seen over the same period who had not undergone structured education.

RESULTS

With DAFNE structured education, the mean (± sd) HbA(1c) fell from 71 ± 12 mmol/mol (8.6 ± 1.1%) at baseline to 65 ± 12 mmol/mol (8.1 ± 1.1%) at year 1, with a subsequent rise to 67 ± 13 mmol/mol (8.3 ± 1.2%) at year 7 (P = 0.0048 vs. baseline). In the comparator group, the baseline HbA(1c) level was 70 ± 14 mmol/mol (8.5 ± 1.3%) and remained approximately constant during 7 years of follow-up. Weight increased by 2.4 ± 6.0 and 2.8 ± 6.6 kg in the DAFNE and comparator group, respectively, during follow-up (not significant).

CONCLUSIONS

DAFNE structured education is associated with an improvement in glycaemic control at 1 year, and there remains a persistent and clinically relevant reduction in HbA(1c) of 3 mmol/mol (0.3%) after 7 years. The improvement in glycaemic control after DAFNE is achieved without excess weight gain.

Use of an automated bolus calculator in MDI-treated type 1 diabetes: the BolusCal Study, a randomized controlled pilot study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of flexible intensive insulin therapy (FIIT) and an automated bolus calculator (ABC) in a Danish type 1 diabetes population treated with multiple daily injections. Furthermore, to test the feasibility of teaching FIIT in a 3-h structured course.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The BolusCal Study was a 16-week randomized, controlled, open-label, three-arm parallel, clinical study of 51 adults with type 1 diabetes. Patients aged 18-65 years in poor metabolic control (HbA(1c) 8.0-10.5%) were randomized to the Control (n = 8), CarbCount (n = 21), or CarbCountABC (n = 22) arm. During a 3-h group teaching, the Control arm received FIIT education excluding carbohydrate counting. CarbCount patients were taught FIIT and how to count carbohydrates. CarbCountABC group teaching included FIIT and carbohydrate counting and patients were provided with an ABC.

RESULTS

At 16 weeks, the within-group change in HbA(1c) was -0.1% (95% CI -1.0 to 0.7%; P = 0.730) in the Control arm, -0.8% (-1.3 to -0.3%; P = 0.002) in the CarbCount arm, and -0.7% (-1.0 to -0.4%; P < 0.0001) in the CarbCountABC arm. The difference in change in HbA(1c) between CarbCount and CarbCountABC was insignificant. Adjusting for baseline HbA(1c) in a regression model, the relative change in HbA(1c) was -0.6% (-1.2 to 0.1%; P = 0.082) in CarbCount and -0.8% (-1.4 to -0.1%; P = 0.017) in CarbCountABC. Treatment satisfaction measured by the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (status version) improved in all study arms, but the improvement was significantly greater in CarbCountABC.

CONCLUSIONS

FIIT and carbohydrate counting were successfully taught in 3 h and improved metabolic control and treatment satisfaction. Concurrent use of an ABC improved treatment satisfaction further.

Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating: a qualitative longitudinal exploration of the food and eating practices of type 1 diabetes patients converted to flexible intensive insulin therapy in the UK

AIM

To explore whether, and why, patients change their food and eating practices following conversion to flexible intensive insulin therapy (FIIT), a regimen which requires quick acting insulin doses to be matched to the carbohydrate content of meals/snacks consumed.

METHODS

repeat, in-depth interviews with 30 type 1 diabetes patients converted to FIIT recruited from Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating (DAFNE) courses in the UK. Data were analysed using an inductive, thematic approach.

RESULTS

despite the potential of FIIT to enable greater dietary flexibility and freedom, most patients reported food and eating practices which were remarkably resistant to change. In some cases, FIIT adoption resulted in greater dietary rigidity over time. The opportunities FIIT presented for greater dietary freedom were counterbalanced by new challenges and burdens (e.g. having to simplify food choices to make carbohydrate estimation easier). Due to the emphasis FIIT places on carbohydrate counting, and patients' fears of hypos, low/no carbohydrate foodstuffs sometimes came to be seen as the healthiest or safest options.

CONCLUSION

concerns that FIIT may result in more excessive or unhealthy eating appear largely unfounded; however, consideration needs to be paid to the ways in which patients' conceptualisations of, and relationship with, food may change following FIIT conversion.