Showing papers on "Diabetes management published in 2012"

Periodontitis and diabetes: a two-way relationship

Abstract: Periodontitis is a common chronic inflammatory disease characterised by destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth (the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone). It is highly prevalent (severe periodontitis affects 10–15% of adults) and has multiple negative impacts on quality of life. Epidemiological data confirm that diabetes is a major risk factor for periodontitis; susceptibility to periodontitis is increased by approximately threefold in people with diabetes. There is a clear relationship between degree of hyperglycaemia and severity of periodontitis. The mechanisms that underpin the links between these two conditions are not completely understood, but involve aspects of immune functioning, neutrophil activity, and cytokine biology. There is emerging evidence to support the existence of a two-way relationship between diabetes and periodontitis, with diabetes increasing the risk for periodontitis, and periodontal inflammation negatively affecting glycaemic control. Incidences of macroalbuminuria and end-stage renal disease are increased twofold and threefold, respectively, in diabetic individuals who also have severe periodontitis compared to diabetic individuals without severe periodontitis. Furthermore, the risk of cardiorenal mortality (ischaemic heart disease and diabetic nephropathy combined) is three times higher in diabetic people with severe periodontitis than in diabetic people without severe periodontitis. Treatment of periodontitis is associated with HbA1c reductions of approximately 0.4%. Oral and periodontal health should be promoted as integral components of diabetes management.

Family support, medication adherence, and glycemic control among adults with type 2 diabetes.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE We used a mixed-methods approach to explore the relationships between participants’ perceptions of family members’ diabetes self-care knowledge, family members’ diabetes-specific supportive and nonsupportive behaviors, and participants’ medication adherence and glycemic control (A1C). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Adults with type 2 diabetes participated in focus group sessions that discussed barriers and facilitators to diabetes management ( n = 45) and/or completed surveys ( n = 61) to collect demographic information, measures of diabetes medication adherence, perceptions of family members’ diabetes self-care knowledge, and perceptions of family members’ diabetes-specific supportive and nonsupportive behaviors. Most recent A1C was extracted from the medical record. RESULTS Perceiving family members were more knowledgeable about diabetes was associated with perceiving family members performed more diabetes-specific supportive behaviors, but was not associated with perceiving family members performed fewer nonsupportive behaviors. Perceiving family members performed more nonsupportive behaviors was associated with being less adherent to one’s diabetes medication regimen, and being less adherent was associated with worse glycemic control. In focus groups, participants discussed family member support and gave examples of family members who were informed about diabetes but performed sabotaging or nonsupportive behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Participant reports of family members’ nonsupportive behaviors were associated with being less adherent to one’s diabetes medication regimen. Participants emphasized the importance of instrumental help for diabetes self-care behaviors and reported that nonsupportive family behaviors sabotaged their efforts to perform these behaviors. Interventions should inform family members about diabetes and enhance their motivation and behavioral skills around not interfering with one9s diabetes self-care efforts.

The Impact of Social Support on Outcomes in Adult Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review

Abstract: Diabetes is one of the fastest growing chronic diseases globally and in the United States. Although preventable, type 2 diabetes accounts for 90 % of all cases of diabetes worldwide and continues to be a source of increased disability, lost productivity, mortality, and amplified health-care costs. Proper disease management is crucial for achieving better diabetes-related outcomes. Evidence suggests that higher levels of social support are associated with improved clinical outcomes, reduced psychosocial symptomatology, and the adaptation of beneficial lifestyle activities; however, the role of social support in diabetes management is not well understood. The purpose of this systematic review is to examine the impact of social support on outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes management via mobile phones: a systematic review.

Abstract: Background: This study sought to understand the most common uses and functions of mobile phones in monitoring and managing diabetes, their potential role in a clinical setting, and the current state of research in this area. Methods: We identified peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2010. Twenty-one articles were analyzed for this systematic literature review. Results: The majority of studies examined the use of mobile phones from the patient's perspective. Subjects with type 1 diabetes were enrolled exclusively in over 50% of the studies. Seventy-one percent of the studies used a study-specific application, which had supplemental features in addition to text messaging. The outcomes assessed varied considerably across studies, but some positive trends were noted, such as improved self-efficacy, hemoglobin A1c, and self-management behaviors. Conclusions: The studies evaluated showed promise in using mobile phones to help people with diabetes manage their condition effectively. Howeve...

Macronutrients, Food Groups, and Eating Patterns in the Management of Diabetes: A systematic review of the literature, 2010

Abstract: The effectiveness of medical nutrition therapy (MNT) in the management of diabetes has been well established (1). Previous reviews have provided comprehensive recommendations for MNT in the management of diabetes (2,3). The goals of MNT are to 1 ) attain and maintain optimal blood glucose levels, a lipid and lipoprotein profile that reduces the risk of macrovascular disease, and blood pressure levels that reduce the risk for vascular disease; 2 ) prevent and treat the chronic complications of diabetes by modifying nutrient intake and lifestyle; 3 ) address individual nutrition needs, taking into account personal and cultural preferences and willingness to change; and 4 ) maintain the pleasure of eating by only limiting food choices when indicated by scientific evidence (4). The literature on nutrition as it relates to diabetes management is vast. We undertook the specific topic of the role of macronutrients, eating patterns, and individual foods in response to continued controversy over independent contributions of specific foods and macronutrients, independent of weight loss, in the management of diabetes. The position of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) on MNT is that each person with diabetes should receive an individualized eating plan (4). ADA has received numerous criticisms because it does not recommend one specific mix of macronutrients for everyone with diabetes. The previous literature review conducted by ADA in 2001 supported the idea that there was not one ideal macronutrient distribution for all people with diabetes. This review focuses on literature that has been published since that 2001 date (5). This systematic review will be one source of information considered when updating the current ADA Nutrition Position Statement (4). Other systematic reviews and key research studies that may not be included in this review will also be considered. When attempting to tease out the role of macronutrients from other dietary …

Peer Support For Self-Management Of Diabetes Improved Outcomes In International Settings

Abstract: Self-management of diabetes is essential to reducing the risks of associated disabilities. But effective self-management is often short-lived. Peers can provide the kind of ongoing support that is needed for sustained self-management of diabetes. In this context, peers are nonprofessionals who have diabetes or close familiarity with its management. Key functions of effective peer support include assistance in daily management, social and emotional support, linkage to clinical care, and ongoing availability of support. Using these four functions as a template of peer support, project teams in Cameroon, South Africa, Thailand, and Uganda developed and then evaluated peer support interventions for adults with diabetes. Our initial assessment found improvements in symptom management, diet, blood pressure, body mass index, and blood sugar levels for many of those taking part in the programs. For policy makers, the broader message is that by emphasizing the four key peer support functions, diabetes management p...

Peer Mentoring and Financial Incentives to Improve Glucose Control in African American Veterans: A Randomized Trial

Abstract: Management of Diabetes Mellitus has proven difficult because many of the most critical elements of disease management occur outside of clinical encounters. Intensive clinic based programs have proven effective in improving diabetes management, but such programs are resource intensive with declining effectiveness over time. Support from families and friends is often not a viable alternative because many patients are socially isolated, others may not want to engage relatives or friends in discussions about their medical problems, and family and friends may be unable to assume a caretaker role (1). Disease-specific social support has been shown to improve diabetes self-management behaviors and may be particularly beneficial when the support comes from a peer with the same chronic condition (2-6). In interventions with diabetics, peer support has been shown to be effective in improving medication adherence, diet, exercise, blood glucose monitoring, and most recently glucose control (7-11). Prior interventions have introduced peer support through group visits or nurse phone calls or home visits from community health workers; however, these require expensive professional or semi-professional support staff (12-18). A more informal, flexible means of providing one-on-one peer support through volunteer peer coaches or mentors could potentially provide similar benefits at lower cost. Financial incentives could enhance diabetes self-care. Financial incentives show promise in domains of behavior such as medication adherence (19), diet and exercise (20), and smoking (21), where people’s short time horizons lead them to favor immediate benefits at the expense of delayed costs (22-24). As far as we know, financial incentives have not been tested as a means to improving diabetes control. To test the efficacy of these emerging means to promote health behaviors, we performed a randomized controlled trial of peer mentoring and financial incentives aimed at improving glucose control in African American veterans with persistently poor diabetes control.

Self-efficacy, self-management, and glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Abstract: Objective The objective was to evaluate the relationships between diabetes management self-efficacy and diabetes self-management behaviors and glycemic control. Methods A cross-sectional design was used. A convenience sample of 223 subjects with type 2 diabetes, ≥25 years old, who sought care at the National Diabetes Center in Amman, Jordan, was enrolled. A structured interview and medical records provided the data. The instruments included a sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire, a diabetes management self-efficacy scale, and a diabetes self-management behaviors scale. Glycosylated hemoglobin was used as an index for glycemic control. The analyses are presented as proportions, means (±S.D.), odds ratios, and 95% confidence intervals obtained from logistic regressions. Results Diet self-efficacy and diet self-management behaviors predicted better glycemic control, whereas insulin use was a statistically significant predictor for poor glycemic control. In addition, subjects with higher self-efficacy reported better self-management behaviors in diet, exercise, blood sugar testing, and taking medication. The findings showed that more than half of the subjects did not have their diabetes under control and that only 42% had attended diabetes education programs. Conclusions The majority of subjects did not have their diabetes controlled; their self-efficacy was low, and they had suboptimal self-management behaviors. Therefore, strategies to enhance and promote self-efficacy and self-management behaviors for patients are essential components of diabetes education programs. Furthermore, behavioral counseling and skill-building interventions are critical for the patients to become confident and be able to manage their diabetes.

An evaluation of diabetes self-management applications for Android smartphones.

Abstract: We reviewed diabetes apps for Android smartphones. We compiled a list of free and paid apps in April 2011 by searching the Android Market for apps which could track self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), diabetes medications or calculate prandial insulin dosages. Two reviewers independently evaluated six features per app, using a five-point Likert scale. The sum of the six ratings was the composite usability score, and the mean score of an app's features was the average usability score. Of the 80 Android diabetes apps identified, 42 unique apps were eligible for the study. SMBG recording was present in 36 (86%) of the apps, a tool to track insulin or oral diabetic medications was found in 19 (45%) apps, and a prandial insulin dose calculator existed for 11 (26%) apps. Eighteen apps were free of charge and the other 24 apps had a mean purchase price of $2.86 (range 0.99-6.99). The mean composite usability score was 11.3 out of a possible 30. The mean average usability score was 3.0 out of a possible 5.0. Only four of the 42 apps had a composite usability score above 20 and none offered direct data input from glucometers, suggesting that few provided a comprehensive method of diabetes management. The apps Glucool Diabetes, OnTrack Diabetes, Dbees and Track3 Diabetes Planner were the highest rated. Clinicians may find it useful to recommend these apps.

A Mobile Health Intervention for Inner City Patients with Poorly Controlled Diabetes: Proof-of-Concept of the TExT-MED Program

Abstract: Objective: Numerous mobile health (mHealth) interventions are being developed to aid in management of complex chronic medical conditions. However, the acceptance of mHealth programs by low-income, bilingual populations has not yet been evaluated. The Trial to Examine Text-based mHealth for Emergency department patients with Diabetes (TExT-MED) program is a text message–based mHealth program designed specifically for resource-poor patients with diabetes. We conducted a prospective proof-of-concept trial to assess satisfaction and preliminary effectiveness of the TExT-MED program. Research Design and Methods: A consecutive sample of adult patients in the emergency department with diabetes and a text message–capable mobile phone was enrolled in the TExT-MED program. Participants received three text messages daily for 3 weeks in English or Spanish in the following domains: educational/motivational, medication reminders, healthy living challenges, diabetes trivia, and links to free diabetes management...

Diabetes resilience: A model of risk and protection in type 1 diabetes

Abstract: Declining diabetes management and control are common as children progress through adolescence, yet many youths with diabetes do remarkably well. Risk factors for poor diabetes outcomes are well-researched, but fewer data describe processes that lead to positive outcomes such as engaging in effective diabetes self-management, experiencing high quality of life, and achieving in-range glycemic control. Resilience theory posits that protective processes buffer the impact of risk factors on an individual’s development and functioning. We review recent conceptualizations of resilience theory in the context of type 1 diabetes management and control and present a theoretical model of pediatric diabetes resilience. Applications to clinical care and research include the development of preventive interventions to build or strengthen protective skills and processes related to diabetes and its management. The ultimate goal is to equip youths with diabetes and their families with the tools to promote both behavioral and health-related resilience in diabetes.

The relationship between cognitive impairment and diabetes self-management in a population-based community sample of older adults with Type 2 diabetes

Abstract: Although nearly one-third of older diabetics are cognitively impaired, their diabetes management remains poorly understood. To examine the relationship between cognitive impairment and diabetes self-management in a population-based community sample of older adults with Type 2 diabetes. Cross-sectional observational analysis. 1,398 persons with diabetes, aged 60 years or older, who responded to the 2003 Health and Retirement Study Diabetes Survey. We conducted logistic regressions on the effects of cognitive impairment on respondents’ self-management ability after controlling for diabetes comorbidities, demographics, and clinical characteristics. Participants with greater cognitive impairment were less likely to adhere to exercise (Adjusted Odds ratio [AOR] = 0.725 and 0.712 for moderate and severe cognitive impairment, both P < 0.05), and to diet (AOR = 0.906 and 0.618 for moderate and severe cognitive impairment, both P < 0.01). Cognitive impairment is associated with worse self-care and may pose challenges to diabetic older persons, notably in diet and exercise. Cognitive screening may be indicated in this high risk group.

Cluster randomized controlled trial of a peer support program for people with diabetes: study protocol for the Australasian Peers for Progress study.

Abstract: Well managed diabetes requires active self-management in order to ensure optimal glycaemic control and appropriate use of available clinical services and other supports. Peer supporters can assist people with their daily diabetes self-management activities, provide emotional and social support, assist and encourage clinical care and be available when needed. A national database of Australians diagnosed with type 2 diabetes is being used to invite people in pre-determined locations to participate in community-based peer support groups. Peer supporters are self-identified from these communities. All consenting participants receive diabetes self-management education and education manual prior to randomization by community to a peer support intervention or usual care. This multi-faceted intervention comprises four interconnected components for delivering support to the participants. (1) Trained supporters lead 12 monthly group meetings. Participants are assisted to set goals to improve diabetes self-management, discuss with and encourage each other to strengthen linkages with local clinical services (including allied health services) as well as provide social and emotional support. (2) Support through regular supporter-participant or participant-participant contact, between monthly sessions, is also promoted in order to maintain motivation and encourage self-improvement and confidence in diabetes self-management. (3) Participants receive a workbook containing diabetes information, resources and community support services, key diabetes management behaviors and monthly goal setting activity sheets. (4) Finally, a password protected website contains further resources for the participants. Supporters are mentored and assisted throughout the intervention by other supporters and the research team through attendance at a weekly teleconference. Data, including a self-administered lifestyle survey, anthropometric and biomedical measures are collected on all participants at baseline, 6 and 12 months. The primary outcome is change in cardiovascular disease risk using the UKPDS risk equation. Secondary outcomes include biomedical, quality of life, psychosocial functioning, and other lifestyle measures. An economic evaluation will determine whether the program is cost effective. This manuscript presents the protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial of group-based peer support for people with type 2 diabetes in a community setting. Results from this trial will contribute evidence about the effectiveness of peer support in achieving effective self-management of diabetes. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR); ACTRN12609000469213

Management of Diabetes in Pregnancy

Abstract: The link between diabetes and poor pregnancy outcomes is well established. As in the non-pregnant population, pregnant women with diabetes can experience profound effects on multiple maternal organ systems. In the fetus, morbidities arising from exposure to diabetes in utero include not only increased congenital anomalies, fetal overgrowth, and stillbirth, but metabolic abnormalities that appear to carry on into early life, adolescence, and beyond. This article emphasizes the newest guidelines for diabetes screening in pregnancy while reviewing their potential impact on maternal and neonatal complications that arise in the setting of hyperglycemia in pregnancy.

The impact of mobile monitoring technologies on glycosylated hemoglobin in diabetes: a systematic review

Abstract: Background: A new development in the field of telehealth is the use of mobile health technologies (mhealth) to help patients record and track medical information. Mhealth appears particularly advantageous for conditions that require intense and ongoing monitoring, such as diabetes, and where people are of working age and not disabled. This review aims to evaluate the evidence for the effectiveness of mhealth interventions in diabetes management on glycosylated hemoglobin. Method: A comprehensive search strategy was developed and applied to eight electronic databases to identify studies that investigated the clinical effectiveness of mobile-based applications that allowed patients to record and send their blood glucose readings to a central server. The eligibility of 8543 papers was assessed against the selection criteria, and 24 papers were reviewed. All studies reviewed were assessed for quality using a standardized quality assessment tool. Results: Results for patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes were examined separately. Study variability and poor reporting made comparison difficult, and most studies had important methodological weaknesses. Evidence on the effectiveness of mhealth interventions for diabetes was inconsistent for both types of diabetes and remains weak.

Collaborative help in chronic disease management: supporting individualized problems

Abstract: Coping with chronic illness disease is a long and lonely journey, because the burden of managing the illness on a daily basis is placed upon the patients themselves. In this paper, we present our findings for how diabetes patient support groups help one another find individualized strategies for managing diabetes. Through field observations of face-to-face diabetes support groups, content analysis of an online diabetes community, and interviews, we found several help interactions that are critical in helping patients in finding individualized solutions. Those are: (1) patients operationalize their experiences to easily contextualize and share executable strategies; (2) operationalization has to be done within the larger context of sharing illness trajectories; and (3) the support groups develop common understanding towards diabetes management. We further discuss how our findings translate into design implications for supporting chronic illness patients in online community settings.

Improving diabetes management with a patient portal: a qualitative study of diabetes self-management portal.

Abstract: Background: Effective management and care of diabetes is crucial to reducing associated risks such as heart disease and kidney failure. With increasing access and use of the Internet, online chronic disease management is being explored as a means of providing patients with support and the necessary tools to monitor and manage their disease. Objective: The objective of our study was to evaluate the experience of patients and providers using an online diabetes management portal for patients. Methods: Participants were recruited from a large sample population of 887 for a follow-up questionnaire to be completed after 6 months of using the patient portal. Participants were presented with the option to participate in an additional interview and, if the participant agreed, a time and date was scheduled for the interview. A 5-item, open-ended questionnaire was used to capture providers' opinions of the patient portal. Providers included general practitioners (GPs), nurses, nurse practitioners (NPs), dieticians, diabetes educators (DECs), and other clinical staff. Results: A total of 854 patients were consented for the questionnaire. Seventeen (8 male, 9 female) patients agreed to participate in a telephone interview. Sixty-four health care providers completed the five open-ended questions; however, an average of 48.2 responses were recorded per question. Four major themes were identified and will be discussed in this paper. These themes have been classified as: facilitators of disease management, barriers to portal use, patient-provider communication and relationship, and recommendations for portal improvements. Conclusions: This qualitative study shows that online chronic disease management portals increase patient access to information and engagement in their health care, but improvements in the portal itself may improve usability and reduce attrition. Furthermore, this study identifies a grey area that exists in the roles that GPs and AHPs should play in the facilitation of online disease management. [J Med Internet Res 2012;14(6):e158]

Re-examining a measure of diabetes-related burden in parents of young people with Type 1 diabetes: the Problem Areas in Diabetes Survey – Parent Revised version (PAID-PR)

Abstract: Aims In a pediatric patients, the burden of diabetes lies within the family. In the current era of intensive insulin therapy, perceived parental burden may affect the family’s efforts at effective diabetes management. The aims of this study were to re-examine and revise a measure of perceived parental burden associated with caring for a child with diabetes in the current era.

Clinic-Integrated Behavioral Intervention for Families of Youth With Type 1 Diabetes: Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To test the effect on diabetes management outcomes of a low-intensity, clinic-integrated behavioral intervention for families of youth with type 1 diabetes. METHODS: Families ( n = 390) obtaining care for type 1 diabetes participated in a 2-year randomized clinical trial of a clinic-integrated behavioral intervention designed to improve family diabetes management practices. Measurement of hemoglobin A1c, the primary outcome, was obtained at each clinic visit and analyzed centrally. Blood glucose meter data were downloaded at each visit. Adherence was assessed by using a semistructured interview at baseline, mid-study, and follow-up. Analyses included 2-sample t tests at predefined time intervals and mixed-effect linear-quadratic models to assess for difference in change in outcomes across the study duration. RESULTS: A significant overall intervention effect on change in glycemic control from baseline was observed at the 24-month interval ( P = .03). The mixed-effect model showed a significant intervention by age interaction ( P < .001). Among participants aged 12 to 14, a significant effect on glycemic control was observed ( P = .009 for change from baseline to 24-month interval; P = .035 for mixed-effect model across study duration), but there was no effect among those aged 9 to 11. There was no intervention effect on child or parent report of adherence; however, associations of change in adherence with change in glycemic control were weak. CONCLUSIONS: This clinic-integrated behavioral intervention was effective in preventing the deterioration in glycemic control evident during adolescence, offering a potential model for integrating medical and behavioral sciences in clinical care. * Abbreviations: HbA1c — : hemoglobin A1c

Glucose control in diabetes: the impact of racial differences on monitoring and outcomes

Abstract: Type 2 diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the US and is projected to increase in prevalence globally. Minorities are disproportionately affected by diabetes and data suggest that clinical outcomes consistently fall below American Diabetes Association recommendations. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine ethnic differences in self-monitoring and outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes. Medline was searched for articles published between January 1990 and January 2012 by means of a reproducible strategy. Inclusion criteria included (1) published in English, (2) targeted African Americans, Hispanic, or Asian adults, ages 18+ years with type 2 diabetes, (3) cross-sectional, cohort, or intervention study, and (4) measured change in glycemic control, BP, lipids, or quality of life by race. Twenty-two papers met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Overall, significant racial differences and barriers were found in published studies in diabetes management as it pertains to self-monitoring and outcomes. African Americans tend to consistently exhibit worse outcomes and control when compared to other minority populations and non-Hispanic Whites. In conclusion, significant racial differences and barriers exist in diabetes management as it pertains to self-monitoring and outcomes when compared to non-Hispanic Whites. Explanatory and intervention studies are needed to determine the mechanisms and mediators of these differences and strategies to reduce these disparities. In addition, more research is needed to investigate the impact of racial differences in self-monitoring and outcomes on quality of life.

Impact of community pharmacy diabetes monitoring and education programme on diabetes management: a randomized controlled study.

Abstract: Diabet. Med. 29, e326–e333 (2012) Abstract Aims To evaluate the impact of a pharmacist-led patient education and diabetes monitoring programme on HbA1c and other cardiovascular risk factors in the community setting. Methods Patients with Type 2 diabetes (n = 46) attending two community pharmacies in Hertfordshire, UK were randomized to one of two groups. Patients in the intervention group (n = 23) received a programme of education about diabetes, its treatment and associated cardiovascular risk factors. These patients were seen for monitoring/counselling by a community pharmacist on six occasions over a 12-month period. Measures included HbA1c, BMI, blood pressure, blood glucose and lipid profile. Patients in the control group (n = 23) underwent these measurements at baseline and at 12 months only, without specific counselling or education over and above usual care. Results HbA1c fell from 66 mmol/mol (8.2%) to 49 mmol/mol (6.6%) (P < 0.001) in intervention group, compared with reduction from 65 mmol/mol (8.1%) to 59 mmol/mol (7.5%) in the control group (P = 0.03). Blood pressure fell from 146/87 to 126/81 mmHg in the intervention group (P = 0.01) compared with no significant change in the control group (136/86 to 139/82 mmHg). Significant reductions in BMI (30.8 to 27 kg/m2, P < 0.001) and blood glucose (8.8 to 6.9 mmol/l, P < 0.001) were also observed in the intervention group as compared with no significant changes in the control group. Lipid profile changes were mixed. In the intervention group, improvements were seen in diabetes-related quality of life (P = 0.001), diabetes knowledge (P = 0.018), belief about the need for medication (P = 0.004) and reduced concerns regarding medication (P < 0.001). Conclusions Education and counselling by community pharmacists can result in favourable improvements to the cardiovascular risk profile of patients with Type 2 diabetes.

The importance of social support for people with type 2 diabetes - a qualitative study with general practitioners, practice nurses and patients

Abstract: Objective: Social support is an important element of family medicine within a primary care setting, delivered by general practitioners and practice nurses in addition to usual clinical care. The aim of the study was to explore general practitioner’s, practice nurse’s and people with type 2 diabetes’ views, experiences and perspectives of the importance of social support in caring for people with type 2 diabetes and their role in providing social support. Methods: Interviews with general practitioners (n=10) and focus groups with practice nurses (n=10) and people with diabetes (n=9). All data were audio-recorded, fully transcribed and thematically analysed using qualitative content analysis by Mayring. Results: All participants emphasized the importance of the concept of social support and its impacts on well-being of people with type 2 diabetes. Social support is perceived helpful for people with diabetes in order to improve diabetes control and give support for changes in lifestyle habits (physical activity and dietary changes). General practitioners identified a lack of information about facilities in the community like sports or self-help groups. Practice nurses emphasized that they need more training, such as in dietary counselling. Conclusions: Social support given by general practitioners and practice nurses plays a crucial role for people with type 2 diabetes and is an additional component of social care. However there is a need for an increased awareness by general practitioners and practice nurses about the influence social support could have on the individual’s diabetes management.

Prevalence and incidence density rates of chronic comorbidity in type 2 diabetes patients: an exploratory cohort study

Abstract: Background: Evidence-based diabetes guidelines generally neglect comorbidity, which may interfere with diabetes management. The prevalence of comorbidity described in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) shows a wide range depending on the population selected and the comorbid diseases studied. This exploratory study aimed to establish comorbidity rates in an unselected primary-care population of patients with T2D. Methods: This was a cohort study of 714 adult patients with newly diagnosed T2D within the study period (19852007) in a practice-based research network in the Netherlands. The main outcome measures were prevalence and incidence density rates of chronic comorbid diseases and disease clusters. All chronic disease episodes registered in the practice-based research network were considered as comorbidities. We categorised comorbidity into ‘concordant’ (that is, shared aetiology, risk factors, and management plans with diabetes) and ‘discordant’ comorbidity. Prevalence and incidence density were assessed for both categories of comorbidity. Results: The mean observation period was 17.3 years. At the time of diabetes diagnosis, 84.6% of the patients had one or more chronic comorbid disease of ‘any type’, 70.6% had one or more discordant comorbid disease, and 48.6% and 27.2% had three or more chronic comorbid diseases of ‘any type’ or of ‘discordant only’, respectively. A quarter of those without any comorbid disease at the time of their diabetes diagnosis developed at least one comorbid disease in the first year afterwards. Cardiovascular diseases (considered concordant comorbidity) were the most common, but there were also high rates of musculoskeletal and mental disease. Discordant comorbid diseases outnumbered concordant diseases. Conclusions: We found high prevalence and incidence density rates for both concordant and discordant comorbidity. The latter may interfere with diabetes management, thus future research and clinical practice should take discordant comorbidity in patients with T2D into account.

Pharmacist Assisted Medication Program Enhancing the Regulation of Diabetes (PAMPERED) study.

Abstract: Objectives To demonstrate that pharmacists working with physicians and other providers in an ambulatory care setting can improve glucose, blood pressure, and lipid control for patients with type 2 diabetes and to report patient adherence to screening and general preventive measures. Design Prospective, randomized, clinical practice study. Setting Burlington, MA, between January 2001 and August 2003. Patients 164 patients patients with type 2 diabetes older than 18 years with glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) greater than 8%. Intervention Pharmacist–patient clinic visits included obtaining a comprehensive medication review; performing targeted physical assessment; ordering laboratory tests; reviewing, modifying, and monitoring patients' medication therapy and providing detailed counseling on all therapies; facilitating self-monitoring of blood glucose; and providing reinforcement of dietary guidelines and exercise. Main outcome measure Effect of clinical pharmacists working with physicians in an ambulatory setting on health measures (e.g., A1C, blood pressure, cholesterol) of patients with diabetes. Results Baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups. After 1 year, significant improvements occurred for A1C and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the intervention group compared with the control group (A1C, 7.7% vs. 8.4%; LDL, 93.7 vs. 105.1 mg/dL; P P P Conclusion For all indices measured, this study demonstrated that collaborative diabetes management with a clinical pharmacist can improve overall care.

"So We Adapt Step by Step": Acculturation Experiences Affecting Diabetes Management and Perceived Health for

Abstract: This study examines how acculturation affects type 2 diabetes management and perceived health for Chinese American immigrants in the U.S. Acculturation experiences or cultural adaptation experiences affecting diabetes management and health were solicited from an informant group of immigrant patients and their spouses (N=40) during group, couple and individual interviews conducted in 2005 to 2008. A separate respondent group of immigrant patients and their spouses (N=19) meeting inclusion criteria reviewed and confirmed themes generated by the informant group. Using interpretive phenomenology, three key themes in patients’ and spouses’ acculturation experiences were identified: a) utilizing health care, b) maintaining family relations and roles, and c) establishing community ties and groundedness in the U.S. Acculturation experiences reflecting these themes were broad in scope and not fully captured by current selfreport and proxy acculturation measures. In the current study, shifting family roles and evaluations of diabetes care and physical environment in the U.S. significantly affected diabetes management and health, yet are overlooked in acculturation and health investigations. Furthermore, the salience and impact of specific acculturation experiences respective to diabetes management and perceived health varied across participants due to individual, family, developmental, and environmental factors. In regards to salience, maintaining filial and interdependent family relations in the U.S. was of particular concern for older participants and coping with inadequate health insurance in the U.S. was especially distressing for self-described lower-middle to middle-class participants. In terms of impact, family separation and relocating to ethnically similar neighborhoods in the U.S. differentially affected diabetes management and health due to participants’ varied family relations and pre-migration family support levels and diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, respectively. Implications for expanding current conceptualizations and measures of acculturation to better comprehend its dynamic and multidimensional properties and complex effects on health are discussed. Additionally, implications for developing culturally-appropriate diabetes management recommendations for Chinese immigrants and their families are outlined.

A nationwide survey of diabetes education, self-management and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes in China.

Abstract: Background Diabetes management could be improved by diabetes education,through influencing attitudes towards diabetes,knowledge and behaviors of patients.The purpose of this study was to characterize the impact of diabetes education on glycemic control,and to assess the attitude,knowledge and self-care behavior in patients with type 2 diabetes in China.Methods This questionnaire-based survey was conducted in 50 medical centers across China from April to July of 2010.The patients with type 2 diabetes were eligible for the study.The information of glycemic control and diabetes education was collected.The diabetes attitude scale-3 formulae,a questionnaire of diabetes knowledge and Summary of Diabetes Self-care Activities scale were used to assess attitude,knowledge and the self-care of patients,respectively.Results Among the 5961 eligible respondents (3233 males; mean age (59.50±12.48) years; mean hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (8.27±2.23)％),most patients (79.8％) considered themselves educated on diabetes.Compared with patients without diabetes education,their educated counterparts showed significant lower value of HbA1c,after controlling for age,gender,body mass index and duration of diabetes (P ＜0.01).The patients who received diabetes education also performed significant higher scores on attitude,knowledge and self-care than their uneducated counterparts.Patients with lower income or education level tended to have higher glucose levels,and showed lower percentage of patients received diabetic education.Conclusions Chinese patients with diabetes education achieved better glycemic control than un-educated patients.Our study indicates effort is required to provide professional education to patients,with emphasis on lower income and lower education level populations.

Impact of nocturnal hypoglycemic events on diabetes management, sleep quality, and next-day function: results from a four-country survey

Abstract: Objectives:Non-severe nocturnal hypoglycemic events (NSNHEs) may have a major impact on patients. The objective was to determine how NSNHEs affect diabetes management, sleep quality, functioning, and to assess if these impacts differ by diabetes type or country.Methods:An internet survey to adults with diabetes in the US, UK, Germany, and France.Results:Of 6756 screened respondents, 1086 reported an NSNHE in the past month. For this last event, respondents with type 2 required significantly more time than type 1 to recognize and respond to the event (1.5 vs 1.1 hours), 25.7% (T1) and 18.5% (T2) decreased their normal insulin dose due to their most recent NSNHE. All respondents were likely to take 1–2 additional self-monitored blood glucose measurements on the day following. NSNHEs were associated with a high proportion of respondents contacting a healthcare professional (18.6% T1, 27.8% T2) reporting they could not return to sleep at night (13.3% T1, 13.4% T2), and tiredness on the day following t...