Jethwani P, Saboo B, Jethwani L, Kesavadev J, Kalra S, Sahay R, Agarwal S, Hasnani D. Management of children and adolescents having type 1 diabetes during COVID-19 pandemic in India: challenges and solutions.
Int J Diabetes Dev Ctries 2020;
40:335-339. [PMID:
32952333 PMCID:
PMC7490475 DOI:
10.1007/s13410-020-00865-w]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) requires a holistic approach and continuous care. The current COVID-19 pandemic has made the health care professionals realise its challenges even more ardently than in the normal times. In a country like India with its huge population burden and a significant number of people having T1D, the risk of COVID-19 in people having T1DM is considerably high.
Methods
In this article, we are sharing our practical experiences of problems faced by children and adolescents having T1DM during the past 2 months of lockdown.
Results
We have classified the challenges into 3 broad categories based on diabetes self-management, healthcare system and psychosocial aspects. We have tried to provide precise, comprehensive and region specific solutions to these challenges. Solutions briefly include maintaining the supply chain of essentials like insulin, syringes and glucose meter strips to psychological support, financial aid and support for hospitalization in case of COVID-19 itself or diabetes complications including diabetic ketoacidosis.
Conclusions
Children and adolescents having T1DM require special care and attention during this period of COVID-19 pandemic because of various challenges as discussed. Our proposed solutions may help them overcome these problems and help them in better diabetes management during such emergency situations.
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