The British Diabetic Association Cohort Study, I: all-cause mortality in patients with insulin-treated diabetes mellitus

Type 1 diabetes, its complications, and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy: a mendelian randomization study of European ancestry

BACKGROUND

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a significant risk factor for a range of cardiovascular diseases. Nonetheless, the causal relationship between T1D and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) remains to be elucidated. Furthermore, the mechanisms responsible for the progression from T1D to NICM have not been definitively characterized.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to conduct a Mendelian randomization (MR) study to investigate the causal effects of T1D and its complications on the development of NICM. Additionally, this study aimed to conduct a mediation analysis to identify potential mediators within this correlation.

METHODS

Genetic variants were used as instrumental variables for T1D. The summary data for T1D were obtained from two genome-wide association study datasets. The summary data for T1D with complications and NICM were obtained from the Finnish database. Two-sample MR, multivariable MR and mediation MR were conducted in this study.

RESULTS

The study revealed a causal association between T1D, T1D with complications, and NICM (with odds ratios of 1.02, 95% CI 1.01-1.04, p = 1.17e-04 and 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.05, p = 3.15e-3). Even after adjusting for confounding factors such as body mass index and hypertension, T1D remained statistically significant (with odds ratio of 1.02, 95% CI 1.01-1.04, p = 1.35e-4). Mediation analysis indicated that monokine induced by gamma interferon may play a mediating role in the pathogenesis of T1D-NICM (mediation effect indicated by odds ratio of 1.005, 95% CI 1.001-1.01, p = 4.9e-2).

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrates a causal relationship between T1D, its complications, and NICM. Additionally, monokine induced by gamma interferon may act as a potential mediator in the pathogenesis of T1D-NICM.

Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Disease and Cardiovascular Risk Estimation in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes

CONTEXT

Patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) have higher cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk than the general population.

OBJECTIVE

This observational study aims to evaluate sex-related differences in CVD prevalence and CVD risk estimates in a large cohort of T1D adults.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter, cross-sectional study involving 2041 patients with T1D (mean age 46 years; 44.9% women). In patients without pre-existing CVD (primary prevention), we used the Steno type 1 risk engine to estimate the 10-year risk of developing CVD events.

RESULTS

CVD prevalence (n = 116) was higher in men than in women aged ≥55 years (19.2 vs 12.8%, P = .036), but comparable between the 2 sexes in those aged <55 years (P = .91). In patients without pre-existing CVD (n = 1925), mean 10-year estimated CVD risk was 15.4 ± 0.4% without any significant sex difference. However, stratifying this patient group by age, the 10-year estimated CVD risk was significantly higher in men than in women until age 55 years (P < .001), but this risk equalized after this age. Carotid artery plaque burden was significantly associated with age ≥55 years and with a medium and high 10-year estimated CVD risk, without any significant sex difference. Diabetic retinopathy and sensory-motor neuropathy were also associated with higher 10-year CVD risk and female sex.

CONCLUSION

Both men and women with T1D are at high CVD risk. The 10-year estimated CVD risk was higher in men aged <55 years than in women of similar age, but these sex differences disappeared at age ≥55 years, suggesting that female sex was no longer protective.

Cancer incidence and mortality in 23 000 patients with type 1 diabetes in the UK: Long-term follow-up

Type 2 diabetes is associated with raised risk of several cancers, but for type 1 diabetes risk data are fewer and inconsistent We assembled a cohort of 23 473 UK patients with insulin-treated diabetes diagnosed at ages <30, almost all of whom will have had type 1 diabetes, and for comparison 5058 diagnosed at ages 30 to 49, of whom we estimate two-thirds will have had type 2, and followed them for an average of 30 years for cancer incidence and mortality compared with general population rates. Patients aged <30 at diabetes diagnosis had significantly raised risks only for ovarian (standardised incidence ratio = 1.58; 95% confidence interval 1.16-2.11; P < .01) and vulval (3.55; 1.94-5.96; P < .001) cancers, with greatest risk when diabetes was diagnosed at ages 10-14. Risks of cancer overall (0.89; 0.84-0.95; P < .001) and sites including lung and larynx were significantly diminished. Patients diagnosed with diabetes at ages 30 to 49 had significantly raised risks of liver (1.76;1.08-2.72) and kidney (1.46;1.03-2.00) cancers, and reduced risk of cancer overall (0.89; 0.84-0.95). The raised ovarian and vulval cancer risks in patients with type 1 diabetes, especially with diabetes diagnosed around pubertal ages, suggest possible susceptibility of these organs at puberty to metabolic disruption at diabetes onset. Reduced risk of cancer overall, particularly smoking and alcohol-related sites, might reflect adoption of a healthy lifestyle.

Prolonged lapses between pediatric and adult care are associated with rise in HbA1c and inpatient days among patients with type 1 diabetes

AIM

To quantify the association between the duration of the pediatric-to-adult care transfer with glycemic control among patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included patients with T1D who completed transfer between pediatric and adult diabetes clinics at a single academic medical center between 2004 and 2020. The primary exposure was time from the last pediatric to first adult diabetes care encounter. The primary outcome was the average HbA1c in the first year after entry into adult care.

RESULTS

A total of 449 patients (mean age at transfer 19.8yrs, 51.7 % male) were included for analysis. Transfer required a median of nearly 5 months (196 days; IQR:93-251) and in adjusted and unadjusted models was strongly associated with increased HbA1c within 1 year of transfer (0.19 %, 2 mmol/mol; 95 %CI:0.04 %-0.33 %) for each 6 months of latency. In secondary analyses, transfer latency also exhibited a significant association with days spent hospitalized (IRR 1.23 per 6 months; 95 %CI:1.08-1.33).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings isolate and quantify the impact of prolonged lapses in care associated with the pediatric-to-adult care transfer. These findings underscore the need for providers and healthcare systems to improve this care transition in order to improve outcomes for this vulnerable patient population.

Clinical characteristics and management of type 1 diabetes in Spain. The SED1 study

OBJECTIVES

To determine the sociodemographic and clinical profile of a representative sample of people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1) in Spain and identify factors associated with glycemic control.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A cross-sectional observational study was carried out in adults and children with DM1 treated in 75 Spanish public hospitals, geographically distributed in order to be representative of the Spanish population. Within each center, the patients were included on a consecutive basis as they visited the clinic. They were interviewed, and their clinical histories were reviewed. A descriptive statistical analysis was made, and factors associated with HbA_1c were analysed using multivariate linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 647 patients were included: 55.3% females, aged 36.6 ± 14.4 years, 97.2% Caucasians, BMI 24.7 ± 4.4 kg/m² (12.1% ≥ 30 kg/m²), and 74.0% had secondary / university education. A total of 20.2% were active smokers. The mean time from the diagnosis of DM1 was 17.9 ± 12.0 years. A total of 48.7% presented comorbidities: 19.3% retinopathy and 16.4% hypothyroidism. As regards treatment for DM1, 76.5% received basal-bolus insulin therapy and 20.7% continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII); 51.0% of the patients used an insulin/carbohydrate ratio (ICR), with 4.6 ± 1.6 self-monitored capillary blood glucose (SMCBG) measurements a day, and 24.8% used continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). The mean HbA_1c value was 7.6 ± 1.1% (30% below 7%). Metabolic control improved (lower HbA_1c) with more daily SMCBG (B = -0.053; p = 0.009), a higher educational level (B = 0.461; P < 0.001), greater number of hypoglycemia episodes (B = -0.253; P = 0.018) and carbohydrate counting (B = -0.190; P = 0.048), and worsened the longer the duration of the disease (B = 0.010; P = 0.010), higher total dose of insulin (B = 0.010; P < 0.0001), poorer adherence to diet (B = 0.650; P < 0.0001) and a family history of DM (B = -0.233; P = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

The management of patients with DM1 in Spain, as well as the treatment they receive, is similar to that seen in other Western countries. Blood glucose control is associated with educational level, disease duration, and the characteristics of treatment and self-care.

Clinical characteristics and management of type 1 diabetes in Spain. The SED1 study

OBJECTIVES

To determine the sociodemographic and clinical profile of a representative sample of people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1) in Spain and identify factors associated with glycemic control.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A cross-sectional observational study was carried out in adults and children with DM1 treated in 75 Spanish public hospitals, geographically distributed in order to be representative of the Spanish population. Within each center, the patients were included on a consecutive basis as they visited the clinic. They were interviewed, and their clinical histories were reviewed. A descriptive statistical analysis was made, and factors associated with HbA1c were analyzed using multivariate linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 647 patients were included: 55.3% females, aged 36.6±14.4 years, 97.2% Caucasians, BMI 24.7±4.4kg/m2 (12.1% ≥30kg/m2), and 74.0% had secondary / university education. A total of 20.2% were active smokers. The mean time from the diagnosis of DM1 was 17.9±12.0 years. A total of 48.7% presented comorbidities: 19.3% retinopathy and 16.4% hypothyroidism. As regards treatment for DM1, 76.5% received basal-bolus insulin therapy and 20.7% continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII); 51.0% of the patients used an insulin/carbohydrate ratio (ICR), with 4.6±1.6 self-monitored capillary blood glucose (SMCBG) measurements a day, and 24.8% used continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). The mean HbA1c value was 7.6±1.1% (30% below 7%). Metabolic control improved (lower HbA1c) with more daily SMCBG (B=-0.053; p=0.009), a higher educational level (B=0.461; P<0.001), greater number of hypoglycemia episodes (B=-0.253; P=0.018) and carbohydrate counting (B=-0.190; P=0.048), and worsened the longer the duration of the disease (B=0.010; P=0.010), higher total dose of insulin (B=0.010; P<0.0001), poorer adherence to diet (B=0.650; P<0.0001) and a family history of DM (B=-0.233; P=0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

The management of patients with DM1 in Spain, as well as the treatment they receive, is similar to that seen in other Western countries. Blood glucose control is associated with educational level, disease duration, and the characteristics of treatment and self-care.

[Immunological disorders in patients with purulent-inflammatory pathology of ENT organs in conditions of comorbidity with diabetes mellitus]

The article discusses the problems of the comorbid course of purulent-inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs and diabetes mellitus. The authors consider the main immunological factors of systemic and tissue immunity, which make it possible to detect immunodeficiency in conditions of purulent inflammation - immunoglobulins A, M, G, phagocytosis parameters, lysozyme, lactoferrin, general bactericidal activity, antibody affinity, determined in blood serum and saliva. In the course of the work, results were obtained that characterize a decrease in the systemic and tissue immune reactivity, which correlate with the degree of compensation of diabetes mellitus, which is a predictor of the occurrence and development of focal suppurative inflammation in the ENT organs. The authors conclude that rational antihyperglycemic therapy is necessary to maintain a satisfactory level of glycemia.

Group education for adolescents with type 1 diabetes during transition from paediatric to adult care: study protocol for a multisite, randomised controlled, superiority trial (GET-IT-T1D)

INTRODUCTION

Transition from paediatric to adult care is challenging for adolescents and emerging adults (ages 18 to 30 years) with type 1 diabetes (T1D). This transition is characterised by a deterioration in glycaemic control (haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)), decreased clinical attendance, poor self-management and increased acute T1D-related complications. However, evidence to guide delivery of transition care is lacking. Given the effectiveness of group education in adult diabetes glycaemic control and improvements in qualitative measures in paediatric diabetes, group education is a potentially feasible and cost-effective alternative for the delivery of transition care. In emerging adults with T1D, we aim to assess the effectiveness of group education visits compared with usual care on HbA1c, T1D-related complications, psychosocial measures and cost-effectiveness after the transfer to adult care.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

In a multisite, assessor-blinded, randomised, two-arm, parallel-group, superiority trial, 212 adolescents with T1D (ages 17 years) are randomised to 12 months group education versus usual T1D care before transfer to adult care. Visits in the active arm consist of group education sessions followed by usual T1D care visits every 3 months. Primary outcome is change in HbA1c measured at 24 months. Secondary outcomes are delays in establishing adult diabetes care, T1D-related hospitalisations and emergency department visits, severe hypoglycaemia, stigma, self-efficacy, diabetes knowledge, transition readiness, diabetes distress, quality of life and cost-effectiveness at 12 and 24 months follow-up. Analysis will be by intention-to-treat. Change in HbA1c will be calculated and compared between arms using differences (95% CI), along with cost-effectiveness analysis. A similar approach will be conducted to examine between-arm differences in secondary outcomes.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study was approved by McGill University Health Centre Research Ethics Board (GET-IT/MP-37-2019-4434, version 'Final 1.0 from November 2018). Study results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03703440.

Impairment of left and right ventricular longitudinal strain in asymptomatic children with type 1 diabetes

Aim

The relationship between type 1 diabetes (T1DM) and cardiac function in children is not well established. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether children and adolescents with T1DM present early asymptomatic abnormalities of left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) function. In addition, we evaluated the relationship of any such abnormalities with glycemic control and diabetes duration.

Methods

This was a prospective study. Standard echocardiography, tissue Doppler imaging, and two-dimensional strain analysis were performed prospectively in 52 children with T1DM. The results were compared with those from 52 healthy children matched for age and sex.

Results

There were no significant differences between the two groups in LV ejection fraction or RV systolic function. There was a difference between the two study groups in transtricuspid flow: the E-wave and A-wave velocities were significantly higher in the diabetic group. Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV GLS) was significantly lower in children with T1DM (−20.01 ± 1.86% vs. −22.99 ± 0.98%, respectively; P < .001), as was RV free-wall longitudinal strain (RV FWLS) (−29.13 ± 1.85% vs. −30.22 ± 1.53%, respectively; P = .002). LV GLS was correlated with diabetes duration (r = 0.444, P < .001) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (r = 0.683, P < .001); however, no correlation was found between RV FWLS and HbA1c or diabetes duration.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that LV GLS and RV FWLS are impaired in children with T1DM and that the decrease in LV GLS is correlated with diabetes duration and HbA1c levels.

Mortality and Cardiovascular Disease in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aims of this review are to summarize recent data on mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in type 1 and type 2 diabetes and to determine the interventions that could have contributed to a reduction in mortality.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies found a downward trend in mortality and CVD among both diabetics and non-diabetics worldwide over the last few decades. The decline among diabetics is steeper than that among non-diabetics. Despite a parallel trend of decline, an approximately twofold difference in mortality and CVD between the two populations remains. A greater emphasis on glycemic control, management of cardiovascular risk factors, quality improvement programs, and advances in treatment of conditions associated diabetes are the factors that potentially contributed to the improvement. Although the trend is encouraging, a rising prevalence of diabetes will continue the absolute disease burden to the society. Future interventions should focus on prevention of diabetes.

Gaps in Knowledge and the Need for Patient-Partners in Research Related to Physical Activity and Type 1 Diabetes: A Narrative Review

Regular physical activity (PA) is a cornerstone in the management of complications associated with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Most national guidelines advocate for regular PA for persons living with T1D, however the evidence to support these recommendations has not be reviewed recently. Additionally, in an era of patient-centered care and patient oriented research, the role of patient partners in the area of PA and T1D interventions has never been explored. The purpose of this narrative review is to overcome these two gaps in the literature. Here we review selected epidemiological evidence and identify gaps in research that would add important information to guide practitioners and future guidelines. We also provide an overview of patient-oriented research projects co-developed with persons living with T1D. Significant gaps in the field include: (1) a lack of adequately powered prospective cohort studies using serial measures of PA and hard chronic disease end-points; (2) no multi-centered, highly powered, randomized controlled trials of PA, and long-term health outcomes; (3) little data on the role of new technologies to support PA-related behavior change, and (4) no trials that involved patients in the design and execution of PA-based clinical trials. This review provides a template for scientists and patient partners to develop future research priorities and agendas in the field.

Mortality and acute complications in children and young adults diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in Yorkshire, UK: a cohort study

AIMS

To examine all-cause and cause-specific mortality in a population-based cohort of people with early and late onset of Type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

The Yorkshire Register of Diabetes in Children and Young People includes individuals with early (0-14 years) and late (15-29 years) Type 1 diabetes onset, diagnosed between 1978 and 2013. This register was linked to death certification data from the Office for National Statistics to calculate standardized mortality ratios, cumulative mortality curves using Kaplan-Meier survival estimates, and Cox regression modelling. Ethnicity was derived using Onomap. Deprivation status was classified using the Townsend index. The underlying cause of death in each case was clinically verified.

RESULTS

There were 229 deaths in 5498 individuals with 100 959 person-years of follow-up. The overall standardized mortality ratio was 4.3 (95% CI 3.8 to 4.9). There were no significant differences in standardized mortality ratios according to age of onset, sex or deprivation status. The standardized mortality ratios were significantly higher for people of white ethnic origin [8.1 (95% CI 6.9 to 9.4)] than for those of South-Asian ethnic origin [3.4 (95% CI 1.7 to 6.4)]. The mortality risk was lower in those diagnosed in later years (2002 to 2013 for the early-onset and 2006 to 2013 for the late-onset group) compared with earlier years (1991 to 1997 for the early-onset and 1991 to 1997 for the late-onset group) for both onset groups [hazard ratio 0.13 (95% CI 0.05 to 0.33) vs 0.24 (95% CI 0.07 to 0.81)]. Mortality risk improved over time for chronic complications in the early-onset group only, but there was no improvement in either onset group with regard to acute complications.

CONCLUSIONS

An excess of deaths in the population with Type 1 diabetes remains. Although the all-cause mortality risk has fallen over time, no improvement has been found in the mortality risk associated with acute complications.

Myocardial Perfusion Scans and Mortality in Asymptomatic Patients Awaiting Renal Transplantation

Cardiac risk assessment for asymptomatic patients awaiting renal transplantation is controversial. Patients awaiting renal transplantation in Southern Saskatchewan from 2005 to 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients underwent cardiac risk stratification with stress myocardial perfusion scan. Baseline clinical characteristics, nuclear scan results, all-cause mortality, and cardiovascular events were analyzed. Abnormal scans were defined as studies with reversible defects, wall motion abnormalities, lung uptake, or transient ischemic dilation. Descriptive statistics and survival analysis were calculated. Charts from 285 consecutive patients with 608 nuclear scans were analyzed. Mean age was 55.2 ± 11.7 years and 34.7% were female. Forty-three (15.1%) patients were transplanted and 99 (40.9%) patients died while awaiting renal transplantation. One hundred fifty-three patients (63.2%) had at least one abnormal scan. The mean follow-up period was 5.47 ± 3.11 years. An abnormal scan was not associated with decreased survival and/or coronary events (hazard ratio: 0.94, P = .77; 95% confidence intervals: 0.62 to 1.43). Patients awaiting renal transplantation in Saskatchewan with abnormal myocardial perfusion scans were not at greater risk of death or coronary events.

Health Care Transition Preparation and Experiences in a U.S. National Sample of Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Young adults with type 1 diabetes transitioning from pediatric to adult care are at risk for adverse outcomes. We developed a survey to evaluate transition experiences in two groups of young adults with type 1 diabetes, before (PEDS) and after (ADULT) transition to adult care.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We fielded an electronic survey to young adults (18 to <30 years) at 60 T1D Exchange Clinic Registry centers.

RESULTS

Surveys were completed by 602 young adults, 303 in the PEDS group (60% female, age 20 ± 2 years) and 299 in the ADULT group (62% female, age 24 ± 3 years). In the PEDS group, mean anticipated transition age was 22 ± 2 years; 64% remained in pediatric care because of emotional attachment to the provider. The ADULT group transitioned at age 19 ± 2 years, mainly after pediatric provider recommendation. More than 80% of respondents reported receiving counseling on type 1 diabetes self-management and screening tests from pediatric providers, but less than half (43% PEDS and 33% ADULT) reported discussing reproductive health. In the PEDS group, half had discussed transfer with pediatric providers. Of the ADULT participants, 63% received an adult provider referral, and 66% felt mostly/completely prepared to transition. ADULT participants with fewer pretransition pediatric visits or who felt unprepared for transition had increased odds of gaps >6 months between pediatric and adult care. Receipt of transition preparation counseling was not associated with self-reported hemoglobin A_1c <7.0% in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

These results support the need for intensive efforts to integrate transition preparation counseling and care coordination into pediatric type 1 diabetes care.

An Adult Health Care–Based Pediatric to Adult Transition Program for Emerging Adults With Type 1 Diabetes

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to evaluate an adult health care program model for emerging adults with type 1 diabetes transitioning from pediatric to adult care.

Methods

Evaluation of the Pediatric to Adult Diabetes Transition Clinic at the University of Pennsylvania included a cohort of 72 emerging adults with type 1 diabetes, ages 18 to 25 years. Data were extracted from transfer summaries and the electronic medical record, including sociodemographic, clinical, and follow-up characteristics. Pre- and postprogram assessment at 6 months included mean daily blood glucose monitoring frequency (BGMF) and glycemic control (A1C). Paired t tests were used to examine change in outcomes from baseline to 6 months, and multiple linear regression was utilized to adjust outcomes for baseline A1C or BGMF, sex, diabetes duration, race, and insulin regimen. Open-ended survey responses were used to assess acceptability amongst participants.

Results

From baseline to 6 months, mean A1C decreased by 0.7% (8 mmol/mol), and BGMF increased by 1 check per day. Eighty-eight percent of participants attended ≥2 visits in 6 months, and the program was rated highly by participants and providers (pediatric and adult).

Conclusions

This study highlights the promise of an adult health care program model for pediatric to adult diabetes transition.

Glycemic Control, Renal Complications, and Current Smoking in Relation to Excess Risk of Mortality in Persons With Type 1 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

A substantial excess risk of mortality still exists in persons with type 1 diabetes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the excess risk of mortality in persons with type 1 diabetes without renal complications who target goals for glycemic control and are nonsmokers. Furthermore, we evaluated risk factors of death due to hypoglycemia or ketoacidosis in young adults with type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

We evaluated a cohort based on 33 915 persons with type 1 diabetes and 169 249 randomly selected controls from the general population matched on age, sex, and county followed over a mean of 8.0 and 8.3 years, respectively. Hazard ratios (HRs) for all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality for persons with type 1 diabetes versus controls were estimated.

RESULTS

The adjusted HRs for all-cause and CVD mortality for persons with type 1 diabetes without renal complications (normoalbuminuria and eGFR ≥ 60 ml/min) and HbA1c ≤ 6.9% (52 mmol/mol) compared to controls were 1.22 (95% CI 0.98-1.52) and 1.03 (95% CI 0.66-1.60), respectively. The HRs increased with higher updated mean HbA1c. For nonsmokers in this group, the HRs for all-cause and CVD mortality were somewhat lower: 1.11 (95% CI 0.87-1.42) and 0.89 (95% CI 0.53-1.48) at updated mean HbA1c ≤ 6.9% (52 mmol/mol). HRs for significant predictors for deaths due to hypoglycemia or ketoacidosis in persons < 50 years were male sex 2.40 (95% CI 1.27-4.52), smoking 2.86 (95% CI 1.57-5.22), lower educational level 3.01 (95% CI 1.26-7.22), albuminuria or advanced kidney disease 2.83 (95% CI 1.63-4.93), earlier hospital diagnosis of hypoglycemia or ketoacidosis 2.30 (95% CI 1.20-4.42), and earlier diagnosis of intoxication 2.53 (95% CI 1.06-6.04).

CONCLUSIONS

If currently recommended HbA1c targets can be reached, renal complications and smoking avoided in persons with type 1 diabetes, the excess risk of mortality will likely converge substantially to that of the general population.

The Alphabet strategy — a tool to achieve clinical trial standards in routine practice?

The Steno-2 study and UKPDS showed that targeted intensified intervention on modifiable cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes reduces morbidity and mortality. The Alphabet POEM strategy (Practice Of Evidence-based Medicine) assessed the effect of systematic application of the Alphabet Strategy to care of patients with type 2 diabetes. In comparison to the Steno-2 intensive cohort, Alphabet POEM fared similarly with regard to diastolic blood pressure (BP), HbA1C, aspirin and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor use, but less well with respect to systolic BP, total cholesterol and use of statins. Alphabet POEM achieved better systolic and diastolic BP than UKPDS but glycaemic control was significantly worse. The standards achieved in the Steno-2 study and UKPDS are in principle, at least, partially achievable in a district general hospital in the UK, but fully achieving them in practice will probably need a radical restructuring, and greater provision of resources.

Mortality in Type 1 Diabetes in the DCCT/EDIC Versus the General Population

OBJECTIVE

Historically, mortality in type 1 diabetes has exceeded that in the general population. We compared mortality in the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial/Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications (DCCT/EDIC) study cohort to that of the current general U.S.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The DCCT (1983-1993) compared intensive versus conventional therapy, with HbA1c levels of ∼7 vs. 9%, respectively, over an average of 6.5 years of treatment. EDIC is the observational follow-up study of the DCCT (1994 to the present). Vital status was ascertained for 97.5% of the original DCCT cohort (n = 1,441) after a mean of 27 years follow-up. Expected mortality during DCCT/EDIC was estimated using the current age-, sex-, and race-specific risks in the general U.S. population, and the observed versus expected mortality compared using standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and Poisson regression models.

RESULTS

Mortality in the DCCT intensive therapy group was nonsignificantly lower than that in the general U.S. population (SMR = 0.88 [95% CI 0.67, 1.16]), whereas mortality in the DCCT conventional therapy group was significantly greater than that in the general population (SMR = 1.31 [95% CI 1.05, 1.65]). The SMR increased with increasing mean HbA1c, and above an HbA1c of 9%, the rate of increase in SMR among females was greater than that among males.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall mortality in the combined DCCT/EDIC cohort was similar to that of the general population but was higher in the DCCT conventional therapy group. Mortality increased significantly with increasing mean HbA1c, more so among females than males, especially for HbA1c >9%.

A Systematic Review of Cost-Effectiveness Models in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

Critiques of cost-effectiveness modelling in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are scarce and are often undertaken in combination with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) models. However, T1DM is a separate disease, and it is therefore important to appraise modelling methods in T1DM.

OBJECTIVES

This review identified published economic models in T1DM and provided an overview of the characteristics and capabilities of available models, thus enabling a discussion of best-practice modelling approaches in T1DM.

METHODS

A systematic review of Embase(®), MEDLINE(®), MEDLINE(®) In-Process, and NHS EED was conducted to identify available models in T1DM. Key conferences and health technology assessment (HTA) websites were also reviewed. The characteristics of each model (e.g. model structure, simulation method, handling of uncertainty, incorporation of treatment effect, data for risk equations, and validation procedures, based on information in the primary publication) were extracted, with a focus on model capabilities.

RESULTS

We identified 13 unique models. Overall, the included studies varied greatly in scope as well as in the quality and quantity of information reported, but six of the models (Archimedes, CDM [Core Diabetes Model], CRC DES [Cardiff Research Consortium Discrete Event Simulation], DCCT [Diabetes Control and Complications Trial], Sheffield, and EAGLE [Economic Assessment of Glycaemic control and Long-term Effects of diabetes]) were the most rigorous and thoroughly reported. Most models were Markov based, and cohort and microsimulation methods were equally common. All of the more comprehensive models employed microsimulation methods. Model structure varied widely, with the more holistic models providing a comprehensive approach to microvascular and macrovascular events, as well as including adverse events. The majority of studies reported a lifetime horizon, used a payer perspective, and had the capability for sensitivity analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Several models have been developed that provide useful insight into T1DM modelling. Based on a review of the models identified in this study, we identified a set of 'best in class' methods for the different technical aspects of T1DM modelling.

Health Care Transition in Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: Perspectives of Adult Endocrinologists in the U.S

OBJECTIVE

Young adults with type 1 diabetes transitioning from pediatric to adult care are at risk for adverse outcomes. Our objective was to describe experiences, resources, and barriers reported by a national sample of adult endocrinologists receiving and caring for young adults with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We fielded an electronic survey to adult endocrinologists with a valid e-mail address identified through the American Medical Association Physician Masterfile.

RESULTS

We received responses from 536 of 4,214 endocrinologists (response rate 13%); 418 surveys met the eligibility criteria. Respondents (57% male, 79% Caucasian) represented 47 states; 64% had been practicing >10 years and 42% worked at an academic center. Only 36% of respondents reported often/always reviewing pediatric records and 11% reported receiving summaries for transitioning young adults with type 1 diabetes, although >70% felt that these activities were important for patient care. While most respondents reported easy access to diabetes educators (94%) and dietitians (95%), fewer (42%) reported access to mental health professionals, especially in nonacademic settings. Controlling for practice setting and experience, endocrinologists without easy access to mental health professionals were more likely to report barriers to diabetes management for young adults with depression (odds ratio [OR] 5.3; 95% CI 3.4, 8.2), substance abuse (OR 3.5; 95% CI 2.2, 5.6), and eating disorders (OR 2.5; 95% CI 1.6, 3.8).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings underscore the need for enhanced information transfer between pediatric and adult providers and increased mental health referral access for young adults with diabetes post-transition.

Galantamine Attenuates Type 1 Diabetes and Inhibits Anti-Insulin Antibodies in Nonobese Diabetic Mice

Type 1 diabetes in mice is characterized by autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic β-cells. Disease pathogenesis involves invasion of pancreatic islets by immune cells, including macrophages and T cells, and production of antibodies to self-antigens, including insulin. Activation of the inflammatory reflex, the neural circuit that inhibits inflammation, culminates on cholinergic receptor signals on immune cells to attenuate cytokine release and inhibit B-cell antibody production. Here, we show that galantamine, a centrally acting acetylcholinesterase inhibitor and an activator of the inflammatory reflex, attenuates murine experimental type 1 diabetes. Administration of galantamine to animals immunized with keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) significantly suppressed splenocyte release of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-6 during KLH challenge ex vivo. Administration of galantamine beginning at 1 month of age in nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice significantly delayed the onset of hyperglycemia, attenuated immune cell infiltration in pancreatic islets and decreased anti-insulin antibodies in serum. These observations indicate that galantamine attenuates experimental type 1 diabetes in mice and suggest that activation of the inflammatory reflex should be further studied as a potential therapeutic approach.

All-cause mortality in a nationwide cohort of childhood-onset diabetes in Norway 1973-2013

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The aim of this study was to assess the association between all-cause mortality and sex, age at diagnosis and year of diagnosis in Norwegian patients with childhood-onset diabetes.

METHODS

The study was based on the nationwide, population-based Norwegian Childhood Diabetes Registry, which includes all newly diagnosed cases of childhood-onset diabetes at age 0-14 years in 1973-1982 and 1989-2012 (n = 7,884). Patients were followed until date of death, emigration or 30 September 2013.

RESULTS

Among the 7,884 patients, representing 132,420 person-years, 249 (3.2%) died during a mean follow-up of 16.8 (range 0.0-40.7) years. The standardised mortality ratio (SMR) for the total cohort was 3.6 (95% CI 3.1, 4.0), increasing by attained age. Absolute mortality was significantly lower in females than in males (HR 0.50 [95% CI 0.38, 0.65]), although the SMRs were similar. Cox regression analysis showed a significant decrease in mortality of 49% (HR 0.51 [95% CI 0.28, 0.93]) for those diagnosed in 1999-2012 compared with those diagnosed in 1973-1982 (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

In spite of improved diabetes care, mortality is still three to four times higher in those with childhood-onset diabetes compared with the general population in Norway. However, absolute mortality has declined among children diagnosed most recently (1999-2012) compared with those diagnosed in the earliest period (1973-1982).

Minimizing Hypoglycemia in Diabetes

Hypoglycemia caused by treatment with a sulfonylurea, a glinide, or insulin coupled with compromised defenses against the resulting falling plasma glucose concentrations is a problem for many people with diabetes. It is often recurrent, causes significant morbidity and occasional mortality, limits maintenance of euglycemia, and impairs physiological and behavioral defenses against subsequent hypoglycemia. Minimizing hypoglycemia includes acknowledging the problem; considering each risk factor; and applying the principles of intensive glycemic therapy, including drug selection and selective application of diabetes treatment technologies. For diabetes health-care providers treating most people with diabetes who are at risk for or are suffering from iatrogenic hypoglycemia, these principles include selecting appropriate individualized glycemic goals and providing structured patient education to reduce the incidence of hypoglycemia. This is typically combined with short-term scrupulous avoidance of hypoglycemia, which often will reverse impaired awareness of hypoglycemia. Clearly, the risk of hypoglycemia is modifiable.

Glycemic control and excess mortality in type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

The excess risk of death from any cause and of death from cardiovascular causes is unknown among patients with type 1 diabetes and various levels of glycemic control. We conducted a registry-based observational study to determine the excess risk of death according to the level of glycemic control in a Swedish population of patients with diabetes.

METHODS

We included in our study patients with type 1 diabetes registered in the Swedish National Diabetes Register after January 1, 1998. For each patient, five controls were randomly selected from the general population and matched according to age, sex, and county. Patients and controls were followed until December 31, 2011, through the Swedish Register for Cause-Specific Mortality.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients with diabetes and the controls at baseline was 35.8 and 35.7 years, respectively, and 45.1% of the participants in each group were women. The mean follow-up in the diabetes and control groups was 8.0 and 8.3 years, respectively. Overall, 2701 of 33,915 patients with diabetes (8.0%) died, as compared with 4835 of 169,249 controls (2.9%) (adjusted hazard ratio, 3.52; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.06 to 4.04); the corresponding rates of death from cardiovascular causes were 2.7% and 0.9% (adjusted hazard ratio, 4.60; 95% CI, 3.47 to 6.10). The multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios for death from any cause according to the glycated hemoglobin level for patients with diabetes as compared with controls were 2.36 (95% CI, 1.97 to 2.83) for a glycated hemoglobin level of 6.9% or lower (≤52 mmol per mole), 2.38 (95% CI, 2.02 to 2.80) for a level of 7.0 to 7.8% (53 to 62 mmol per mole), 3.11 (95% CI, 2.66 to 3.62) for a level of 7.9 to 8.7% (63 to 72 mmol per mole), 3.65 (95% CI, 3.11 to 4.30) for a level of 8.8 to 9.6% (73 to 82 mmol per mole), and 8.51 (95% CI, 7.24 to 10.01) for a level of 9.7% or higher (≥83 mmol per mole). Corresponding hazard ratios for death from cardiovascular causes were 2.92 (95% CI, 2.07 to 4.13), 3.39 (95% CI, 2.49 to 4.61), 4.44 (95% CI, 3.32 to 5.96), 5.35 (95% CI, 3.94 to 7.26), and 10.46 (95% CI, 7.62 to 14.37).

CONCLUSIONS

In our registry-based observational study, patients with type 1 diabetes and a glycated hemoglobin level of 6.9% or lower had a risk of death from any cause or from cardiovascular causes that was twice as high as the risk for matched controls. (Funded by the Swedish Society of Medicine and others.).

A clinical trial of the accuracy and treatment experience of the Dexcom G4 sensor (Dexcom G4 system) and Enlite sensor (guardian REAL-time system) tested simultaneously in ambulatory patients with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a tool widely used in the treatment of patients with type 1 diabetes. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate whether accuracy and patient treatment satisfaction differ between the Enlite™ (Medtronic MiniMed, Inc., Northridge, CA) and Dexcom(®) (San Diego, CA) G4 PLATINUM CGM sensors.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Thirty-eight ambulatory patients with type 1 diabetes used the Dexcom G4 and Enlite sensors simultaneously for a minimum of 4 and maximum of 6 days. Patients measured capillary glucose levels with a HemoCue(®) (Ängelholm, Sweden) system six to 10 times a day. In addition, two inpatient studies were performed between Days 1-3 and 4-6.

RESULTS

The mean absolute relative difference (MARD) in blood glucose for the Dexcom G4 was significantly lower (13.9%) than for the Enlite sensor (17.8%) (P<0.0001). The corresponding MARDs for Days 1-3 were 15.0% versus 19.4% (P=0.0027) and 13.6% versus 15.9% (P=0.026) for Days 4-6. For glucose levels in the hypoglycemic range (<4.0 mmol/L), the MARD for the Dexcom G4 was 20.0% compared with 34.7% for the Enlite (P=0.0041). On a visual analog scale (VAS) (0-100), patients rated the Dexcom G4 more favorably than the Enlite in 12 out of the 13 user experience questions. For example, more patients rated their experience with the Dexcom G4 as positive (VAS, 79.7 vs. 46.6; P<0.0001) and preferred to use it in their daily lives (VAS, 79.1 vs. 42.1; P<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The Dexcom G4 sensor was associated with greater overall accuracy than the Enlite sensor during initial (Days 1-3) and later (Days 4-6) use and for glucose levels in the hypoglycemic range. Patients reported a significantly more positive experience using the Dexcom G4 than the Enlite.

Experiences of health care transition voiced by young adults with type 1 diabetes: a qualitative study

Objective

This qualitative study aimed to explore the experience of transition from pediatric to adult diabetes care reported by posttransition emerging adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D), with a focus on preparation for the actual transfer in care.

Methods

Twenty-six T1D emerging adults (mean age 26.2±2.5 years) receiving adult diabetes care at a single center participated in five focus groups stratified by two levels of current glycemic control. A multidisciplinary team coded transcripts and conducted thematic analysis.

Results

Four key themes on the process of transfer to adult care emerged from a thematic analysis: 1) nonpurposeful transition (patients reported a lack of transition preparation by pediatric providers for the transfer to adult diabetes care); 2) vulnerability in the college years (patients conveyed periods of loss to follow-up during college and described health risks and diabetes management challenges specific to the college years that were inadequately addressed by pediatric or adult providers); 3) unexpected differences between pediatric and adult health care systems (patients were surprised by the different feel of adult diabetes care, especially with regards to an increased focus on diabetes complications); and 4) patients’ wish list for improving the transition process (patients recommended enhanced pediatric transition counseling, implementation of adult clinic orientation programs, and peer support for transitioning patients).

Conclusion

Our findings identify modifiable deficiencies in the T1D transition process and underscore the importance of a planned transition with enhanced preparation by pediatric clinics as well as developmentally tailored patient orientation in the adult clinic setting.

Challenges of emerging adulthood-transition from paediatric to adult diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a complex condition with far reaching physical, psychological and psychosocial effects. These outcomes can be significant when considering the care of a youth transferring from paediatric through to adult diabetes services. The art of mastering a smooth care transfer is crucial if not pivotal to optimising overall diabetic control. Quite often the nature of consultation varies between the two service providers and the objectives and outcomes will mirror this. The purpose of this review is to analyse the particular challenges and barriers one might expect to encounter when transferring these services over to an adult care provider. Particular emphasis is paid towards the psychological aspects of this delicate period, which needs to be recognised and appreciated appropriately in order to understand the particular plights a young diabetic child will be challenged with. We explore the approaches that can be positively adopted in order to improve the experience for child, parents and also the multi- disciplinary team concerned with the overall delivery of this care. Finally we will close with reflection on the potential areas for future development that will ultimately aim to improve long-term outcomes and experiences of the young adolescent confronted with diabetes as well as the burden of disease and burden of cost of disease.

Glycemic goals in diabetes: trade-off between glycemic control and iatrogenic hypoglycemia

The selection of a glycemic goal in a person with diabetes is a compromise between the documented upside of glycemic control-the partial prevention or delay of microvascular complications-and the documented downside of glycemic control-the recurrent morbidity and potential mortality of iatrogenic hypoglycemia. The latter is not an issue if glycemic control is accomplished with drugs that do not cause hypoglycemia or with substantial weight loss. However, hypoglycemia becomes an issue if glycemic control is accomplished with a sulfonylurea, a glinide, or insulin, particularly in the setting of absolute endogenous insulin deficiency with loss of the normal decrease in circulating insulin and increase in glucagon secretion and attenuation of the sympathoadrenal response as plasma glucose concentrations fall. Then the selection of a glycemic goal should be linked to the risk of hypoglycemia. A reasonable individualized glycemic goal is the lowest A1C that does not cause severe hypoglycemia and preserves awareness of hypoglycemia, preferably with little or no symptomatic or even asymptomatic hypoglycemia, at a given stage in the evolution of the individual's diabetes.

All-cause mortality in a population-based type 1 diabetes cohort in the U.S. Virgin Islands

OBJECTIVE

Type 1 diabetes remains a significant source of premature mortality; however, its burden has not been assessed in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI). As such, the objective of this study was to estimate type 1 diabetes mortality in a population-based registry sample in the USVI.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We report overall and 20-year mortality in the USVI Childhood (<19 years old) Diabetes Registry Cohort diagnosed 1979-2005. Recent data for non-Hispanic blacks from the Allegheny County, PA population-based type 1 diabetes registry were used to compare mortality in the USVI to the contiguous U.S.

RESULTS

As of December 31, 2010, the vital status of 94 of 103 total cases was confirmed (91.3%) with mean diabetes duration 16.8 ± 7.0 years. No deaths were observed in the 2000-2005 cohort. The overall mortality rates for those diagnosed 1979-1989 and 1990-1999 were 1852 and 782 per 100,000 person-years, respectively. Overall cumulative survival for USVI was 98% (95% CI: 97-99) at 10 years, 92% (95% CI: 89-95) at 15 years and 73% (95% CI: 66-80) at 20 years. The overall SMR for non-Hispanic blacks in the USVI was 5.8 (95% CI: 2.7-8.8). Overall mortality and cumulative survival for non-Hispanic blacks did not differ between the USVI and Allegheny County, PA.

CONCLUSIONS

This study, as the first type 1 diabetes mortality follow-up in the USVI, confirmed previous findings of poor disease outcomes in racial/ethnic minorities with type 1 diabetes.

Incidence of and mortality from Type I diabetes in Taiwan from 1999 through 2010: a nationwide cohort study

Objective

To evaluate the secular trend in incidence of and mortality from Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in Taiwan, 1999–2010.

Methods

All 7,225 incident cases of T1DM were retrospectively retrieved from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database from 1999 to 2010. Trend of bi-annual age- and sex-specific incidence rates of T1DM was calculated and tested with Poisson regression model. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated, using age-, sex-, and calendar years-specific mortality rates of the general population as the reference, to estimate the relative mortality risk of T1DM.

Results

The number of male and female T1DM was 3,471 (48%) and 3,754 (52%), respectively. The annual number of incident T1DM increased from 543 in 1999 to 737 in 2010. The overall bi-annual incidence rate rose from 1999–00 to 2003–04 and mildly declined thereafter rose to 2009–10, with an insignificant trend (P = 0.489) over the study period. Regardless of gender, the higher age-specific incidence rate was noted in the younger groups (<30 years) and highest at <15 years. The incidence rates in younger groups were constantly higher in female population than in male one. The SMR from all causes was significantly increased at 3.00 (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 2.83–3.16) in patients with T1DM. The sex-specific SMR was 2.66 (95% CI 2.46–2.85) and 3.58 (95% CI 3.28–3.87) for male and female patients, respectively. For both sexes, the age-specific SMR peaked at 15–29 years.

Conclusions

Among T1DM patients in Taiwan, there were significant increasing trends in males and female aged <15 years. We also noted a significantly increased overall and sex-specific SMR from all causes in patients with TIDM which suggests a need for improvements in treatment and care of patients with T1DM.

Long-term complications and mortality in young-onset diabetes: type 2 diabetes is more hazardous and lethal than type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate long-term clinical outcomes and survival in young-onset type 2 diabetes (T2DM) compared with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) with a similar age of onset.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Records from the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Diabetes Clinical Database, established in 1986, were matched with the Australian National Death Index to establish mortality outcomes for all subjects until June 2011. Clinical and mortality outcomes in 354 patients with T2DM, age of onset between 15 and 30 years (T2DM15-30), were compared with T1DM in several ways but primarily with 470 patients with T1DM with a similar age of onset (T1DM15-30) to minimize the confounding effect of age on outcome.

RESULTS

For a median observation period of 21.4 (interquartile range 14-30.7) and 23.4 (15.7-32.4) years for the T2DM and T1DM cohorts, respectively, 71 of 824 patients (8.6%) died. A significant mortality excess was noted in T2DM15-30 (11 vs. 6.8%, P = 0.03), with an increased hazard for death (hazard ratio 2.0 [95% CI 1.2-3.2], P = 0.003). Death for T2DM15-30 occurred after a significantly shorter disease duration (26.9 [18.1-36.0] vs. 36.5 [24.4-45.4] years, P = 0.01) and at a relatively young age. There were more cardiovascular deaths in T2DM15-30 (50 vs. 30%, P < 0.05). Despite equivalent glycemic control and shorter disease duration, the prevalence of albuminuria and less favorable cardiovascular risk factors were greater in the T2DM15-30 cohort, even soon after diabetes onset. Neuropathy scores and macrovascular complications were also increased in T2DM15-30 (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Young-onset T2DM is the more lethal phenotype of diabetes and is associated with a greater mortality, more diabetes complications, and unfavorable cardiovascular disease risk factors when compared with T1DM.

Multicentre randomized controlled trial of structured transition on diabetes care management compared to standard diabetes care in adolescents and young adults with type 1 diabetes (Transition Trial)

BACKGROUND

Transition from pediatric to adult diabetes care is a high risk period during which there is an increased rate of disengagement from care. Suboptimal transition has been associated with higher risks for acute and chronic diabetes-related complications. The period of emerging adulthood challenges current systems of healthcare delivery as many young adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) default from diabetes care and are at risk for diabetes complications which are undetected and therefore untreated. Despite the importance of minimizing loss to follow-up there are no randomized control trials evaluating models of transition from pediatric to adult diabetes care.

METHODS/DESIGN

This is a multicentre randomized controlled trial. A minimum of 188 subjects with T1D aged between 17 and 20 years will be evaluated. Eligible subjects will be recruited from three pediatric care centres and randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to a structured transition program that will span 18 months or to receive standard diabetes care. The structured transition program is a multidisciplinary, complex intervention aiming to provide additional support in the transition period. A Transition Coordinator will provide transition support and will provide the link between pediatric and adult diabetes care. The Transition Coordinator is central to the intervention to facilitate ongoing contact with the medical system as well as education and clinical support where appropriate. Subjects will be seen in the pediatric care setting for 6 months and will then be transferred to the adult care setting where they will be seen for one year. There will then be a one-year follow-up period for outcome assessment. The primary outcome is the proportion of subjects who fail to attend at least one outpatient adult diabetes specialist visit during the second year after transition to adult diabetes care. Secondary outcome measures include A1C frequency measurement and levels, diabetes related emergency room visits and hospital admissions, frequency of complication screening, and subject perception and satisfaction with care.

DISCUSSION

This trial will determine if the support of a Transition Coordinator improves health outcomes for this at-risk population of young adults.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01351857.

Effects of prior intensive versus conventional therapy and history of glycemia on cardiac function in type 1 diabetes in the DCCT/EDIC

Intensive diabetes therapy reduces the prevalence of coronary calcification and progression of atherosclerosis and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events in the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT)/Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications (EDIC) study. The effects of intensive therapy on measures of cardiac function and structure and their association with glycemia have not been explored in type 1 diabetes (T1DM). We assess whether intensive treatment compared with conventional treatment during the DCCT led to differences in these parameters during EDIC. After 6.5 years of intensive versus conventional therapy in the DCCT, and 15 years of additional follow-up in EDIC, left ventricular (LV) indices were measured by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging in 1,017 of the 1,371 members of the DCCT cohort. There were no differences between the DCCT intensive versus conventional treatment in end diastolic volume (EDV), end systolic volume, stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO), LV mass, ejection fraction, LV mass/EDV, or aortic distensibility (AD). Mean DCCT/EDIC HbA1c over time was associated with EDV, SV, CO, LV mass, LV mass/EDV, and AD. These associations persisted after adjustment for CVD risk factors. Cardiac function and remodeling in T1DM assessed by CMR in the EDIC cohort was associated with prior glycemic exposure, but there was no effect of intensive versus conventional treatment during the DCCT on cardiac parameters.

Sex-specific-differences in cardiometabolic risk in type 1 diabetes: a cross-sectional study

Background

Little is known about the impact of sex-specific differences in the management of type 1 diabetes (T1DM).

Thus, we evaluated the influence of gender on risk factors, complications, clinical care and adherence in patients with T1DM.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, sex-specific disparities in glycaemic control, cardiovascular risk factors, diabetic complications, concomitant medication use and adherence to treatment recommendations were evaluated in 225 consecutive patients (45.3% women) who were comparable with respect to age, diabetes duration, and body mass index.

Results

Although women with T1DM had a higher total cholesterol than men, triglycerides were higher in obese men and males with HbA1c>7% than in their female counterparts. No sex differences were observed in glycaemic control and in micro- or macrovascular complications. However, the subgroup analysis showed that nephropathy was more common in obese men, hyperlipidaemic women and all hypertensive patients, whereas peripheral neuropathy was more common in hyperlipidaemic women. Retinopathy was found more frequently in women with HbA1c>7%, obese men and in both sexes with a long duration of diabetes. The multivariate analysis revealed that microvascular complications were associated with the duration of disease and BMI in both sexes and with hyperlipidaemia in males. The overall adherence to interventions according to the guidelines was higher in men than in women. This adherence was concerned particularly with co-medication in patients diagnosed with hypertension, aspirin prescription in elderly patients and the achievement of target lipid levels following the prescription of statins.

Conclusions

Our data showed sex differences in lipids and overweight in patients with T1DM. Although glycaemic control and the frequency of diabetic complications were comparable between the sexes, the overall adherence to guidelines, particularly with respect to the prescription of statins and aspirin, was lower in women than in men.

Mortality after surviving traumatic brain injury: risks based on age groups

OBJECTIVE

To assess mortality, life expectancy, risk factors, and causes of death by age groups among persons who received inpatient traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

The TBI Model Systems.

PARTICIPANTS

8573 individuals injured between 1988 and 2009, with survival status per December 31, 2009, determined.

INTERVENTIONS

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Standardized mortality ratio, life expectancy, and cause of death.

RESULTS

Moderate-severe TBI increases risk of mortality compared with the general population in all age groups, with the exception of those 85 years or older at the time of injury. Teenagers to middle-aged adults are at particular risk. Risk factors for death varied by age group and included gender, marital and employment status, year and cause of injury, and level of disability. External causes of death predominate in younger groups. For the youngest male participants in the sample, longevity was reduced up to 16 years.

CONCLUSION

Risk factors and causes of death varied considerably by age group for individuals with moderate-severe TBI who were receiving acute care rehabilitation. Moderate-severe TBI is a chronic health condition.

Transition to adult care for youth with type 1 diabetes

Emerging adults with type 1 diabetes are at risk for poor glycemic control, gaps in medical care, and adverse health outcomes. With the increasing incidence in type 1 diabetes in the pediatric population, there will be an increase in the numbers of teens and young adults transferring their care from pediatric providers to adult diabetes services in the future. In recent years, the topic of transitioning pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes to adult diabetes care has been discussed at length in the literature and there have been many observational studies. However, there are few interventional studies and, to date, no randomized clinical trials. This paper discusses the rationale for studying this important area. We review both observational and interventional literature over the past several years, with a focus on new research. In addition, important areas for future research are outlined.

Health care transition in patients with type 1 diabetes: young adult experiences and relationship to glycemic control

OBJECTIVE

To examine characteristics of the transition from pediatric to adult care in emerging adults with type 1 diabetes and evaluate associations between transition characteristics and glycemic control.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We developed and mailed a survey to evaluate the transition process in emerging adults with type 1 diabetes, aged 22 to 30 years, receiving adult diabetes care at a single center. Current A1C data were obtained from the medical record.

RESULTS

The response rate was 53% (258 of 484 eligible). The mean transition age was 19.5 ± 2.9 years, and 34% reported a gap >6 months in establishing adult care. Common reasons for transition included feeling too old (44%), pediatric provider suggestion (41%), and college (33%). Less than half received an adult provider recommendation and <15% reported having a transition preparation visit or receiving written transition materials. The most recent A1C was 8.1 ± 1.3%. Respondents who felt mostly/completely prepared for transition had lower likelihood of a gap >6 months between pediatric and adult care (adjusted odds ratio 0.47 [95% CI 0.25-0.88]). In multivariate analysis, pretransition A1C (β = 0.49, P < 0.0001), current age (β = -0.07, P = 0.03), and education (β = -0.55, P = 0.01) significantly influenced current posttransition A1C. There was no independent association of transition preparation with posttransition A1C (β = -0.17, P = 0.28).

CONCLUSIONS

Contemporary transition practices may help prevent gaps between pediatric and adult care but do not appear to promote improvements in A1C. More robust preparation strategies and handoffs between pediatric and adult care should be evaluated.

Sex differences in cardiovascular disease risk in adolescents with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease is seen at a younger age and at a higher prevalence in patients with type 1 diabetes than in the general population. It is well described that women with type 1 diabetes have a higher relative risk of cardiovascular disease than men with type 1 diabetes, unlike that seen in the general population. The pathophysiology behind this is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

We performed a cross-sectional study to examine sex differences in cardiovascular disease risk factors in adolescents with type 1 diabetes between ages 13 and 20 years, compared with children of a similar age without type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

All patients underwent a dual energy x-ray absorptiometry scan to measure body composition and a pulse wave test measure of arterial elasticity. Fasting serum lipid levels, apolipoprotein B, and apolipoprotein C-III levels were measured in each patient. Twenty-nine children with type 1 diabetes (10 girls, 19 boys) and 37 healthy children (18 girls, 19 boys) participated.

RESULTS

Although no sex differences for body mass index (P = 0.91) and glycosylated hemoglobin (P = 0.69) were seen, girls with type 1 diabetes had a significantly higher percent trunk fat compared with boys (P = 0.004). No sex differences were found (P > 0.05) for percent trunk fat in adolescents without diabetes. There was no sex difference among any other cardiovascular risk factors in either children with or without diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Female adolescents with type 1 diabetes have more centrally distributed fat, which may contribute to their relatively higher cardiovascular disease risk. Attenuation of the central distribution of fat through exercise and dietary modifications may help ameliorate their subsequent cardiovascular disease burden.

Cardiovascular risk in double diabetes mellitus--when two worlds collide

Historically, clinical management of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) has been focused on glycaemic control, which is sometimes achieved at the expense of weight gain on intensive insulin regimes. Although HbA(1c) level is an important contributor to increased macrovascular risk, several prospective studies have concluded that factors related to obesity, metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance are more important than HbA(1c) for the prediction of cardiovascular risk, especially for coronary heart disease events. 'Double diabetes mellitus' describes a combination of T1DM with characteristics associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus, including central adiposity and exacerbation of insulin resistance. In lean patients with T1DM, portal insulinopaenia might actually confer cardioprotective effects via changes in hepatic lipid profiles (mainly increased HDL cholesterol levels) and a reduction in hepatic steatosis. In patients with double diabetes mellitus, this situation is reversed and atherothrombotic pathophysiology is potentially accelerated by the combination of chronic hyperglycaemia and abnormal lipid partitioning. The prevalence of double diabetes mellitus is increasing in parallel with the societal trend of increased adiposity. This Review discusses how to identify patients susceptible to double diabetes mellitus and suggests alterations to their clinical management that might reduce their risk of future premature coronary disease.

Risk of cardiovascular disease and total mortality in adults with type 1 diabetes: Scottish registry linkage study

BACKGROUND

Randomized controlled trials have shown the importance of tight glucose control in type 1 diabetes (T1DM), but few recent studies have evaluated the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality among adults with T1DM. We evaluated these risks in adults with T1DM compared with the non-diabetic population in a nationwide study from Scotland and examined control of CVD risk factors in those with T1DM.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

The Scottish Care Information-Diabetes Collaboration database was used to identify all people registered with T1DM and aged ≥20 years in 2005-2007 and to provide risk factor data. Major CVD events and deaths were obtained from the national hospital admissions database and death register. The age-adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) for CVD and mortality in T1DM (n = 21,789) versus the non-diabetic population (3.96 million) was estimated using Poisson regression. The age-adjusted IRR for first CVD event associated with T1DM versus the non-diabetic population was higher in women (3.0: 95% CI 2.4-3.8, p<0.001) than men (2.3: 2.0-2.7, p<0.001) while the IRR for all-cause mortality associated with T1DM was comparable at 2.6 (2.2-3.0, p<0.001) in men and 2.7 (2.2-3.4, p<0.001) in women. Between 2005-2007, among individuals with T1DM, 34 of 123 deaths among 10,173 who were <40 years and 37 of 907 deaths among 12,739 who were ≥40 years had an underlying cause of death of coma or diabetic ketoacidosis. Among individuals 60-69 years, approximately three extra deaths per 100 per year occurred among men with T1DM (28.51/1,000 person years at risk), and two per 100 per year for women (17.99/1,000 person years at risk). 28% of those with T1DM were current smokers, 13% achieved target HbA(1c) of <7% and 37% had very poor (≥9%) glycaemic control. Among those aged ≥40, 37% had blood pressures above even conservative targets (≥140/90 mmHg) and 39% of those ≥40 years were not on a statin. Although many of these risk factors were comparable to those previously reported in other developed countries, CVD and mortality rates may not be generalizable to other countries. Limitations included lack of information on the specific insulin therapy used.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the relative risks for CVD and total mortality associated with T1DM in this population have declined relative to earlier studies, T1DM continues to be associated with higher CVD and death rates than the non-diabetic population. Risk factor management should be improved to further reduce risk but better treatment approaches for achieving good glycaemic control are badly needed. Please see later in the article for the Editors' Summary.

Comorbidities and survival of patients with type 1 diabetes on renal replacement therapy

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Comorbidities are frequent among type 1 diabetes patients on renal replacement therapy, yet the effect of comorbidities on survival is unknown. Our aim was to estimate this effect.

METHODS

An incident cohort of all patients with type 1 diabetes entering chronic renal replacement therapy (n = 656) in Finland between 2000 and 2008 was followed until death or the end of follow-up on 31 December 2008. All data were obtained from the Finnish Registry for Kidney Diseases, which collects information on comorbidities at the start of renal replacement therapy. The main outcome measure was relative risk of death according to comorbidities.

RESULTS

At start of renal replacement therapy, 22% of the patients with type 1 diabetes had coronary artery disease, 19% peripheral vascular disease, 11% cerebrovascular disease, 33% left ventricular hypertrophy and 7% heart failure. All these comorbidities were significant predictors of death in univariate analyses (RR 1.6-4.9). The 5 year survival probability of patients without comorbidities was 74%, while it was 56% and 37%, respectively, for those with one or more than one comorbidity. When the comorbidities were studied in a multivariate model, adjusting for age and sex, peripheral vascular disease (RR 1.9), left ventricular hypertrophy (RR 1.7) and heart failure (RR 2.5) remained independent risk factors for death. Calculations indicated that one-third of deaths in the study population could be attributed to comorbidities.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Among patients with type 1 diabetes entering renal replacement therapy, comorbidities are common and strong predictors of death. Therefore, it is essential to identify and adequately treat comorbidities.

Life expectancy of HIV-positive adults: a review

We review studies estimating life expectancy (LE), the average number of additional years a person can expect to live, for HIV-positive adults and show variation by sociodemographic factors and level of immunosuppression. The LE of patients starting antiretroviral therapy early in the course of HIV infection and attaining restoration of a normal CD4 count may approach that of the general population. Improvements in treatment and the associated increase in LE imply that increasing numbers of HIV-positive patients will live to older age. Late diagnosis and presentation to care and treatment not concordant with guidelines contribute to reducing LE.

All-cause mortality trends in a large population-based cohort with long-standing childhood-onset type 1 diabetes: the Allegheny County type 1 diabetes registry

OBJECTIVE

Although management of type 1 diabetes improved dramatically in the 1980s, the effect on mortality is not clear.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We report trends in 30-year mortality using the Allegheny County (Pennsylvania) childhood-onset (age <18 years) type 1 diabetes registry (n = 1,075) with diagnosis from 1965-1979, by dividing the cohort into three diagnosis year cohorts (1965-1969, 1970-1974, and 1975-1979). Local (Allegheny County) mortality data were used to calculate standardized mortality ratios (SMRs).

RESULTS

As of 1 January 2008, vital status was ascertained for 97.0% of participants (n = 1,043) when mean age ± SD and duration of diabetes were 42.8 ± 8.0 and 32.0 ± 7.6 years, respectively. The 279 deaths (26.0%) observed were 7 times higher than expected (SMR 6.9 [95% CI 6.1-7.7]). An improving trend in SMR was seen by diagnosis cohort at 30 years of diabetes duration (9.3 [7.2-11.3], 7.5 [5.8-9.2], and 5.6 [4.0-7.2] for 1965-1969, 1970-1974, and 1975-1979, respectively). Although no sex difference in survival was observed (P = 0.27), female diabetic patients were 13 times more likely to die than age-matched women in the general population (SMR 13.2 [10.7-15.7]), much higher than the SMR for men (5.0 [4.0-6.0]). Conversely, whereas 30-year survival was significantly lower in African Americans than in Caucasians (57.2 vs. 82.7%, respectively; P < 0.001), no differences in SMR were seen by race.

CONCLUSIONS

Although survival has clearly improved, those with diabetes diagnosed most recently (1975-1979) still had a mortality rate 5.6 times higher than that seen in the general population, revealing a continuing need for improvements in treatment and care, particularly for women and African Americans with type 1 diabetes.