Observed Characteristics Associated with Diabetes Device Use Among Teens with Type 1 Diabetes

Background: Despite advancements in diabetes technologies, disparities remain with respect to diabetes device use in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D). We compared sociodemographic, diabetes, and psychosocial characteristics associated with device (pump and continuous glucose monitor [CGM]) use in 13- to 17-year-old teens with T1D.

Materials/methods: Data were derived from a multicenter clinical trial to optimize self-care and glycemic control in teens with T1D. We categorized teens as pump users versus non-users and CGM users versus non-users based on their diabetes device usage. Chi-square and -tests compared characteristics according to device use.

Results: The sample comprised 301 teens (50% female) with baseline mean ± SD age 15.0 ± 1.3 years, T1D duration 6.5 ± 3.7 years, and HbA1c 8.5 ± 1.1% (69 ± 12 mmol/mol). Two-thirds (65%) were pump users, and 27% were CGM users. Pump users and CGM users (vs. non-users) were more likely to have a family annual household income ≥$150,000, private health insurance, and a parent with a college education (all < .001). Pump users and CGM users (vs. non-users) also performed more frequent daily blood glucose (BG) checks (both < .001) and reported more diabetes self-care behaviors (both < .05). Pump users were less likely to have baseline HbA1c ≥9% (75 mmol/mol) ( = .005) and to report fewer depressive symptoms ( = .02) than pump non-users. Parents of both CGM and pump users reported a higher quality of life in their youth ( < .05).

Conclusion: There were many sociodemographic, diabetes-specific, and psychosocial factors associated with device use. Modifiable factors can serve as the target for clinical interventions; youth with non-modifiable factors can receive extra support to overcome potential barriers to device use.