Cardiovascular risk factor progression in adolescents and young adults with youth-onset type 2 diabetes

Did smoking behavior change in adolescents and young adults with and without diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic? A cohort study from the DPV registry

BACKGROUND

Smoking is a risk factor for cardiovascular complications and can promote a severe course of COVID-19 infection. The aim of this study was to compare smoking habits of young people with diabetes with the general population.

METHODS

We analyzed smoking behavior in the Diabetes Prospective Follow-up Registry (DPV) cohort (type 1 (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) from Germany and T1D from Austria aged 14-24 years) and compared it to data from the German survey on smoking behavior (DEBRA study) of the general population. Data were aggregated per year and patient for 2016-2023. Logistic regression models adjusted for gender and migration background were calculated stratified by age groups (14-17; 18-24 years), taking repeated measurements into account. Smoking behavior between T1D and T2D or between Germany and Austria was compared with similar regression models.

RESULTS

Thirty-four thousand two hundred seventy-five patients from the DPV cohort were included in data analysis. The overall proportion of people who smoked was lower in DPV than in the general population (13.4% vs. 24.0%), with the exception of young adults with T2D at the beginning of the pandemic (36.7% vs. 33.4%). For T1D, there was a significant upward trend in the number of patients who smoked in the group of 14-17 years (2.86%, CI 1.21-4.55 per year, p < 0.001) and also in the group of 18-24 years (4.94 per year, CI 1.37-8.63; p < 0.01) between 2016 and 2023. The proportion of smokers and the number of smoked cigarettes was higher in Austria than in Germany (10.7% vs. 8.0%; OR with 95%-CI 1.38 [1.22-1.56], p < 0.001; and 7.5 [6.8-8.1] vs. 5.9 [5.7-6.0] cigarettes/day, p < 0.001) and in T2D than T1D (11.0% vs. 7.9%; OR 1.44 [1.23-1.68], p < 0.001 and 8.0 [7.2-8.8] vs. 5.9 [5.7-6.1] cigarettes/day, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The reported proportion of smokers among young people with diabetes was lower than in the general population. Only young adults with T2D temporarily smoked more than the general population at the beginning of the pandemic. This could be explained by stress, but also by a changed daily structure during the lockdown.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring Use in Youth with Type 2 Diabetes: A Pilot Randomized Study

Objective: Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) enhances diabetes self-management in insulin-treated individuals. However, the feasibility, acceptability, and benefits/burdens in youth-onset type 2 diabetes (Y-T2D) who are on infrequent self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) regimens remain unclear. Research Design and Methods: In Y-T2D prescribed SMBG less than or equal to twice daily, we conducted a 12-week randomized 2:1 parallel pilot trial of CGM versus fingerstick monitoring (Control). Control participants had an optional 4-week extension period to use CGM (Control-CGM). Feasibility was defined as recruitment, study participation, and retention >60% of individuals. Acceptability was defined as an individual CGM wear time of ≥60% at the end of the study. Diabetes distress and the benefits/burdens of CGM scores, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and CGM-derived glycemic variables were compared at baseline and at the end of the intervention. Results: The recruitment rate was 54% (52 screened eligible, 18 CGM, 10 Control; 82% female, 68% Black, 14.9 ± 3.8 years, body mass index: 36.2 ± 7.7 kg/m2, HbA1c: 7.4 ± 2.4% (mean ± standard deviation [SD]), and 8 entered the optional Control-CGM group. The most commonly cited reason for declining study participation was reluctance to wear the device (50%). The participation rate was 91% and 75%, and retention was 100% and 75% for CGM and Control-CGM, respectively. A majority of Y-T2D had ≥60% wear time at the end of the study (CGM: 56% and Control-CGM: 83%). Wear time declined during the study (1st month: 71 ± 31% vs. 2nd month: 55 ± 32% vs. 3rd month: 38 ± 34%, P = 0.003). There were no significant changes in glycemia, CGM burden/benefits, or diabetes distress scores (P > 0.05). Minor sensor adhesion adverse events were common (75%) causes of reduced wear time. Conclusion: CGM was a feasible and acceptable adjunct to diabetes self-care among >50% of Y-T2D prescribed infrequent SMBG monitoring. Unwillingness to wear a device and social stigma impeded device use. Additional research is needed to mitigate the high rates of skin adhesion-related adverse events in this population.

Non-Pharmacological Treatment for Cardiovascular Risk Prevention in Children and Adolescents with Obesity

In younger generations, excess weight has reached very alarming levels. Excess weight in adults is associated with increased mortality and morbidity from cardiovascular disease. However, it is not easy to distinguish to what extent these effects are the result of obesity itself or how much is due to the various cardiovascular risk factors that often accompany excess weight. Several risk factors, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, hyperuricemia, glucose intolerance, and type 2 diabetes mellitus, are already present in pediatric age. Therefore, early intervention with the goal of correcting and/or eliminating them is particularly important. In the child and adolescent with obesity, the first approach to achieve weight reduction and correct the risk factors associated with severe excess weight should always be non-pharmacologic and based on changing poor eating habits and unhealthy lifestyles. The purpose of this review is to give an update on non-pharmacological interventions to be implemented for cardiovascular prevention in children and adolescents with obesity, and their effectiveness. In particular, interventions targeting each individual cardiovascular risk factor will be discussed.

Rising tide: The global surge of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents demands action now

Childhood-onset obesity has emerged as a major public healthcare challenge across the globe, fueled by an obesogenic environment and influenced by both genetic and epigenetic predispositions. This has led to an exponential rise in the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in children and adolescents. The looming wave of diabetes-related complications in early adulthood is anticipated to strain the healthcare budgets in most countries. Unless there is a collective global effort to curb the devastation caused by the situation, the impact is poised to be pro-found. A multifaceted research effort, governmental legislation, and effective social action are crucial in attaining this goal. This article delves into the current epidemiological landscape, explores evidence concerning potential risks and consequences, delves into the pathobiology of childhood obesity, and discusses the latest evidence-based management strategies for diabesity.

Hyperlipidemia in Children and Adolescents

While coronary artery disease (CAD) is thought to be a disease of adulthood, atherosclerosis can originate in childhood and adolescence. There is a paucity of randomized controlled treatment trials regarding dyslipidemia among the younger population. However, it is apparent that childhood dyslipidemia is associated with an earlier onset of CAD. Most recent guidelines by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Heart Association (AHA) focus on lifestyle modification and lifetime risk of atherosclerotic disease, as well as adequate screening measures. Genetic factors, environmental contributors such as pollution, obesity linked to poor nutrition, and sedentary lifestyles are shown to be associated with increased lipid levels and early CAD among children and adolescents. Familial hyperlipidemia is one of the most prevalent genetic diseases and can affect 1 in 250 individuals. A multimodal treatment plan is most effective for children and adolescents with dyslipidemia including lifestyle changes (a modified diet and moderate physical activity) and pharmacologic intervention. The mainstay of pharmacologic treatment for childhood dyslipidemia is similar to that of adults. Statins are the most widely used medications. Newer medications have proven integral in treatment for genetic dyslipidemias including evolocumab and evinacumab.

Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Medication Adherence in Young Adults With Youth-Onset Type 2 Diabetes

Importance

Youth-onset type 2 diabetes is associated with early development of chronic complications. Treatment of elevated blood pressure (BP), nephropathy, and dyslipidemia are critical to reduce morbidity. Data are needed on adherence to BP- and lipid-lowering medications in young adults with youth-onset diabetes.

Objective

To assess adherence and factors associated with adherence to BP- and lipid-lowering medications in young adults with youth-onset type 2 diabetes and diagnoses of hypertension, nephropathy, or dyslipidemia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study measured medication adherence with 3 monthly unannounced pill counts at 2 time points 1 year apart during iCount, conducted during the last years (2017-2019) of the observational phase of the Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents and Youth study. Psychosocial factors associated with medication adherence were examined. Participants included individuals with youth-onset type 2 diabetes with hypertension, nephropathy, or dyslipidemia receiving diabetes care in their communities. Data were analyzed from September 2022 to September 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was BP- and lipid-lowering medication adherence, with low adherence defined as using less than 80% of pills and high adherence, at least 80% of pills. Psychosocial factors were measured using the Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire and Material Needs Insecurities Survey.

Results

Of 381 participants in iCount, 243 participants (mean [SD] age, 26.12 [2.51] years; 159 [65.43%] women) with hypertension, nephropathy, or dyslipidemia were included in analysis. Among 196 participants with hypertension or nephropathy, 157 (80.1%) had low adherence. Participants with low adherence, compared with those with high adherence, were younger (mean [SD] age, 25.99 [2.41] vs 27.26 [2.41] years; P = .005), had higher glycated hemoglobin A1c (mean [SD], 10.33% [2.66 percentage points] vs 8.85% [2.39 percentage points]; P = .001), shorter diabetes duration (mean [SD], 12.32 [1.49] vs 12.90 [1.46] years; P = .03), and less education (eg, 17 participants [10.83%] vs 0 participants with no high school diploma; P = .004). Of 146 participants with dyslipidemia, 137 (93.8%) had low adherence and only 9 participants (6.2%) had high adherence. Of 103 participants with low adherence to BP-lowering medications and using oral hypoglycemic agents, 83 (80.58%) had low adherence to oral hypoglycemic agents. Beliefs that medications are necessary were higher for participants with high adherence to BP-lowering medications than those with low adherence in unadjusted analyses (mean [SD] necessity score, 16.87 [6.78] vs 13.89 [9.15]; P = .03). In adjusted multivariable analyses of participants with hypertension or nephropathy, having at least 1 unmet social need (odds ratio [OR], 0.20; 95% CI, 0.05-0.65; P = .04) and medication concerns (OR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.40-0.96; P = .01) were associated with worse medication adherence 1 year follow-up. Diabetes distress, self-efficacy, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and self-management support were not associated with 1-year medication adherence.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that adherence to BP- and lipid-lowering medications was very poor in this cohort. To improve medication adherence and prevent early vascular events, approaches that identify and address medication concerns and unmet social needs are needed.

Changes in Branched-Chain Amino Acids One Year after Sleeve Gastrectomy in Youth with Obesity and Their Association with Changes in Insulin Resistance

Adults with obesity have a reduction in branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) levels following metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS), which is hypothesized to contribute to the metabolic advantages of MBS. We examined this relationship in 62 youth 13-24 years old with severe obesity (47 female) over 12 months. Thirty had sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and 32 were non-surgical controls (NS). We measured fasting insulin, glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), isoleucine, leucine, and valine concentrations, and post-prandial insulin and glucose, following a mixed meal tolerance test. Twenty-four-hour food recalls were collected. At baseline, groups did not differ in the intake or the serum levels of BCAAs, HbA1C, HOMA-IR, Matsuda index, insulinogenic index, or oral Disposition index (oDI). Over 12 months, SG vs. NS had greater reductions in serum BCAAs, and SG had significant reductions in BCAA intake. SG vs. NS had greater reductions in HbA1c and HOMA-IR, with increases in the Matsuda index and oDI. In SG, baseline leucine and total BCAA concentrations were negatively correlated with the baseline Matsuda index. Reductions in serum leucine were positively associated with the reductions in HOMA-IR over 12 months. These associations suggest a potential role of BCAA in regulating metabolic health. Reducing dietary intake and serum BCAA concentrations may reduce insulin resistance.

Childhood Obesity and Cardiovascular Disease Risk

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The global epidemic of youth-onset obesity is tightly linked to the rising burden of cardiometabolic disease across the lifespan. While the link between childhood obesity and cardiovascular disease is established, this contemporary review summarizes recent and novel advances in this field that elucidate the mechanisms and impact of this public health issue.

RECENT FINDINGS

The review highlights the emerging data supporting the relationship between childhood adverse events, social determinants of health, and systemic and institutional systems as etiological factors. We also provide updates on new screening and treatment approaches including updated nutrition and dietary guidelines and benchmarks for pediatric obesity screening, novel pharmacological agents for pediatric obesity and type 2 diabetes such as glucagon-like 1 peptide receptor agonists, and we discuss the long-term safety and efficacy data on surgical management of pediatric obesity. The global burden of pediatric obesity continues to rise and is associated with accelerated and early vascular aging especially in youth with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Socio-ecological determinants of risk mediate and moderate the relationship of childhood obesity with cardiometabolic disease. Recognizing the importance of neighborhood level influences as etiological factors in the development of cardiovascular disease is critical for designing effective policies and interventions. Novel surgical and pharmacological interventions are effective pediatric weight-loss interventions, but future research is needed to assess whether these agents, within a socio-ecological framework, will be associated with abatement of the pediatric obesity epidemic and related increased cardiovascular disease risk.

Youth-Onset Type 2 Diabetes: Burden of Complications and Socioeconomic Cost

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

With the rise in prevalence of youth-onset type 2 diabetes (T2DM), it is imperative to understand the clinical burden of the disease and the socioeconomic burden this disease imposes. We review the most recent data on youth-onset T2DM, including its pathophysiology, complications, and treatment. We also review existing data to determine the socioeconomic burden of youth-onset T2DM.

RECENT FINDINGS

The incidence of youth-onset T2DM is rising, and significantly accelerated following the COVID-19 pandemic. Youth with T2DM are more frequently from families of racial/ethnic minorities and lower socioeconomic status. Youth-onset T2DM has more rapid disease progression compared to adult-onset type 2 diabetes. It results in earlier and more severe microvascular and macrovascular complications compared to both adult-onset T2DM and youth-onset type 1 diabetes (T1DM). While there is a lack of data describing the socioeconomic cost of youth-onset T2DM, based on extrapolation from analyses of the burden of T2DM in adults and T1DM in youth, we propose that youth-onset T2DM has higher direct and indirect costs than adult-onset T2DM. Youth-onset T2DM presents a significant clinical and socioeconomic burden due to its aggressive presentation and earlier appearance of complications. Additional research is needed regarding the cost of illness in this population.

Hypertension in Patients with Insulin Resistance: Etiopathogenesis and Management in Children

Insulin resistance (IR) is a key component in the etiopathogenesis of hypertension (HS) in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Several pathways have been found to be involved in this mechanism in recent literature. For the above-mentioned reasons, treatment of HS should be specifically addressed in patients affected by DM. Two relevant recently published guidelines have stressed this concept, giving specific advice in the treatment of HS in children belonging to this group: the European Society of HS guidelines for the management of high blood pressure in children and adolescents and the American Academy of Pediatrics Clinical Practice Guideline for Screening and Management of High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents. Our aim is to summarize the main pathophysiological mechanisms through which IR causes HS and to highlight the specific principles of treatment of HS for children with DM.

Impact of Clinical Pharmacist Diabetes Clinic on the Improvement of Health Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes Subjects

AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the improvement of HbA1c, lipid profile, blood pressure readings, and weight in type 2 diabetes at the clinical pharmacist diabetes clinic (CPDC) in ambulatory care clinic. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted at a CPDC; the clinical pharmacist role was to follow-up the referred uncontrolled type 2 diabetes patients and providing comprehensive management. RESULTS: A total of 419 patients were included the study. The mean ± standard error of the mean (SEM) age was 58.9 ± 0.59 years old. Sixty-two percent of the patients were female. At baseline, mean HbA1C ± SEM was 10.69% ± 0.06%, mean low-density lipoprotein (LDL) ± SEM was 2.66 ± 0.04 mmol/l. After 3 months of follow-up, HgbA1C had a statistically significant improvement by a reduction of 1.69% to be 9% ± 0.09% (95% confidence interval [CI] [1.50–1.87], p < 0.001). Moreover, mean HbA1C had a statistically significant improvement after 6 months of follow-up compared to baseline by 1.78% to be 8.9% ± 0.21% (95% CI [1.33–2.22], p < 0.001). LDL had a statistically significant improvement after 3 months by 0.24 mmol/l to be 2.42 ± 0.04 mmol/l (95% CI [0.15–0.35], p < 0.001) and after 6 months of follow-up by 0.28 mmol/l to be 2.38 ± 0.04 mmol/l (95% CI [0.20–0.36], p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The results stated that the clinical pharmacist anticipated care is achievable and had significant effect in the reduction of HbA1C and LDL levels in patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes.