Problem solving and diabetes self-management: investigation in a large, multiracial sample

The Effect of Smartphone Application-Based Self-Management Interventions Compared to Face-to-Face Diabetic Interventions for Pregnant Women With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Meta-Analysis

Background: Face-to-face diabetic interventions (FFIs) are the gold standard for diabetic care, and smartphone application (app)-based self-management interventions (SBIs) can be a potential alternative. A few previous reviews compared the effects of both practices. Objectives: This study is aimed at (1) comparing the effectiveness of FFIs and SBIs on maternal and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and (2) exploring potential covariates affecting those outcomes. Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to January 15, 2024. Meta-analyses, subgroup analyses, and metaregression analyses were conducted using the R software package meta, Version 4.3.1. Cochrane risk of bias Version 2 (RoB2) and grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) criteria were employed to appraise the quality of studies and certainty of outcomes. Results: We selected 15 RCTs from 2505 women with GDM across 11 countries for this review. The meta-analyses revealed that women in the SBIs can significantly reduce gestation weight gain (t = -2.45, p = 0.04) and macrosomia (t = -3.35, p = 0.02) when compared to those in the FFIs. We observed a higher likelihood of cesarean delivery when using generic apps (RR = 1.12, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.59, 2.13) than GDM-specific apps (RR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.64, 1.06). There was similar fasting plasma glucose, 2-h postprandial plasma glucose, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), cesarean section delivery rate, neonatal birthweight, large for gestational age, neonatal hypoglycemia, and neonatal intensive care unit admission between SBIs and FFIs. More than half (52%) were rated low risk based on RoB2. According to the GRADE criteria, very low to moderate evidence was found. Conclusions: SBIs can be considered an alternative management method for women with GDM to reap the benefits of smartphone apps. More high-quality RCTs are required to reaffirm the findings.

Effectiveness of technology-based psychosocial interventions on diabetes distress and health-relevant outcomes among type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Poor management of type 2 diabetes mellitus may affect individuals' physical and emotional health. Access to ongoing psychosocial interventions through technological platforms may potentially minimise diabetes complications and improve health-related outcomes. However, little is known about the effectiveness of such interventions on diabetes distress and health-related outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To synthesise the best available evidence concerning the effectiveness of technology-based psychosocial interventions on diabetes distress, self-efficacy, health-related quality of life, and HbA1c level in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

A search of eleven databases was conducted to identify randomised controlled trials that examined the effects of technology-based psychosocial interventions on the outcomes. Randomised controlled trials reported in English from 2010 to 2020 were included. Selection of studies, quality appraisal, and data extraction were conducted by two reviewers independently. Meta-analyses, subgroup analyses and sensitivity analysis were performed using Review Manager. Intervention effects was measured using standardise mean difference.

RESULTS

Twenty randomised controlled trials fulfilled the eligibility criteria and 18 randomised controlled trials were included in meta-analysis. technology-based psychosocial interventions improved diabetes distress, self-efficacy and HbA1c levels with significant and small effect sizes. Subgroup analyses revealed greater improvement in health-related quality of life for participants with comorbid depression and lower HbA1c levels for studies with lesser than 100 participants.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this review increase knowledge on the effectiveness of technology-based psychosocial interventions on diabetes distress and self-efficacy. However, evidence to support the effects of technology-based psychosocial interventions on HbA1c and health-related quality of life was not strong. More research is needed to examine the effectiveness of the psychosocial interventions delivered through mobile applications or virtual reality.

Unmet basic needs and family functions gaps in diabetes management practice among Indonesian communities with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes: A qualitative study

Family members play a vital role in both helping and undermining diabetes mellitus selfmanagement practices. This qualitative study aimed to explore the potentially unmet needs of family function to support diabetes self-management (DSM) practices. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among different key informants, including uncontrolled T2DM patients, caretakers and healthcare providers (HCPs) at community health centres. An open-ended approach was applied to elicit responses from the key informants. A total of 22 participants were involved in this study. All interview and FGD processes were audiorecorded and transcribed verbatim. The results found that all key informants addressed six core themes, with sub-themes to describe the unmet needs of family function to support DSM practice. The critical unmet needs of family function include: 1) Lack of problem-solving skills to deal with poor diabetes management; 2) Ineffective communication and refusal to share the burden of diabetes management; 3) Lack of affective responsiveness to encourage patients' compliance; 4) Lack of affective involvement in DSM; 5) Insufficient family roles in supporting patients; 6) Poor behaviour control of T2DM. Our findings provide insights into how family function may influence the adoption and maintenance of healthy behaviours among diabetic patients. Since health providers seek new approaches to improve DSM practices, this valuable finding was essential to understand how family function can improve and empower patients in DSM practice.

Prevalence and factors associated with alcohol consumption among persons with diabetes in Kampala, Uganda: a cross sectional study

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of diabetes has been rising increasing rapidly in middle- and low-income countries. In Africa, the World Health Organization projections anticipate diabetes mellitus to be the seventh leading cause of death in by 2030. Alcohol consumption influences diabetes evolution, in such a way that it can interfere with self-care behaviours which are important determinants of diabetes prognosis. In this study, we evaluated factors associated with alcohol consumption among persons with diabetes in Kampala to inform management policies and improve comprehensive diabetes care.

METHODOLOGY

A cross-sectional study was conducted systematically among 290 adults with diabetes, attending diabetic clinics at Mulago National Referral Hospital and St Francis Hospital Nsambya. Data were entered and analysed in Epi-Info version 7 and STATA 13 software. Modified Poisson regression was used to identify factors associated with alcohol consumption among persons with diabetes. All tests were two-sided and the significance level for all analyses was set to p < 0.05.

RESULTS

The prevalence of alcohol consumption among persons with diabetes was 23.45% [95% CI: 18.9-28.7%]. Divorced, separated and widowed patients (Adj PR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.21-0.83); and Protestant (Adj PR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.24-0.82); Muslim (Adj PR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.14-0.62); and Pentecostal (Adj PR: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.15-0.65) patients were less likely to consume alcohol. Diabetic patients who had a diabetes duration greater than 5 years were more likely to consume alcohol (Adj PR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.25-2.88).

CONCLUSION

Approximately one-quarter of participants consumed alcohol. However being catholic, never being married and having diabetes for more than 5 years predisposed persons with diabetes to alcohol consumption. Sensitization messages regarding alcohol consumption among persons with diabetes should be target patients who have never been married and those who have spent more than 5 years with diabetes; religion should also be considered as an important venue for health education in the community.

Correlation of Symptom Distress, Self-Efficacy, and Social Support With Problem-Solving and Glycemic Control Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was to examine the associations of self-efficacy, social support, and symptom distress with perceived problem-solving and glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHOD

Using baseline data from a parent study, which examined the effect of a problem-solving-focused intervention on medication adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes, this secondary analysis examined the relationships among self-efficacy, social support, symptom distress, problem-solving, and A1C. Of 358 patients enrolled at baseline, 304 (mean age = 64.1 years, 57.2% female) were included in the current analysis. Multiple linear regression was used to identify potential correlates of problem-solving and A1C.

RESULTS

The results showed that self-efficacy, social support, and symptom distress were independent predictors of problem-solving; they significantly improved the prediction of perceived problem-solving in diabetes management after controlling covariates. Adding problem-solving to the model did not improve the prediction for A1C.

CONCLUSION

The current study suggests that self-efficacy, social support, and symptom distress are essential factors associated with patients' perceived problem-solving in diabetes management. Researchers and clinicians should consider both personal factors and psychosocial factors such as self-efficacy, social support, and symptom distress when examining patients perceived problem-solving and developing tailored interventions to improve diabetes management. In addition, health care providers should consider these important aspects when providing tailored care to this patient population.

Type 2 Diabetes Patients' Perspectives, Experiences, and Barriers Toward Diabetes-Related Self-Care: A Qualitative Study From Pakistan

Objective: This study aimed to qualitatively explore perspectives, practices, and barriers to self-care practices (eating habits, physical activity, self-monitoring of blood glucose, and medicine intake behavior) in urban Pakistani adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: Pakistani adults with T2DM were recruited from the outpatient departments of two hospitals in Lahore. Semistructured interviews were conducted and audiorecorded until thematic saturation was reached. Two researchers thematically analyzed the data independently using NVivo® software with differences resolved by a third researcher. Results: Thirty-two Pakistani adults (aged 35-75 years, 62% female) participated in the study. Six themes were identified from qualitative analysis: role of family and friends, role of doctors and healthcare, patients' understanding about diabetes, complication of diabetes and other comorbidities, burden of self care, and life circumstances. A variable experience was observed with education and healthcare. Counseling by healthcare providers, family support, and fear of diabetes-associated complications are the key enablers that encourage study participants to adhere to diabetes-related self-care practices. Major barriers to self care are financial constraints, physical limitations, extreme weather conditions, social gatherings, loving food, forgetfulness, needle phobia, and a hectic job. Conclusion: Respondents identified many barriers to diabetes self care, particularly related to life situations and diabetes knowledge. Family support and education by healthcare providers were key influencers to self-care practices among Pakistani people with diabetes.

Effectiveness of Social Cognitive Theory-Based Interventions for Glycemic Control in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

For those living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), failing to engage in self-management behaviors leads to poor glycemic control. Social cognitive theory (SCT) has been shown to improve health behaviors by altering cognitive processes and increasing an individual's belief in their ability to accomplish a task.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to present a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis to systematically identify, evaluate, and analyze the effect of SCT-based interventions to improve glycemic control in adults with T2DM.

METHODS

This protocol follows the 2009 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Data sources will include PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsychINFO, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, and data will be reviewed with the use of customized text mining software. Studies examining SCT-based behavioral interventions for adults diagnosed with T2DM in randomized controlled trials located in the outpatient setting will be included. Intervention effectiveness will be compared with routine care. Screening and data collection will be performed in multiple stages with three reviewers as follows: (1) an independent review of titles/abstracts, (2) a full review, and (3) data collection with alternating teams of two reviewers for disputes to be resolved by a third reviewer. Study quality and risk of bias will be assessed by three reviewers using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Standardized mean differences will be used to describe the intervention effect sizes with regard to self-efficacy and diabetes knowledge. The raw mean difference of HbA1c will be provided in a random effects model and presented in a forest plot. The expected limitations of this study are incomplete data, the need to contact authors, and analysis of various types of glycemic control measures accurately within the same data set.

RESULTS

This protocol was granted institutional review board exemption on October 7, 2019. PROSPERO registration (ID: CRD42020147105) was received on April 28, 2020. The review began on April 29, 2020. The results of the review will be disseminated through conference presentations, peer-reviewed journals, and meetings.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review will appraise the effectiveness of SCT-based interventions for adults diagnosed with T2DM and provide the most effective interventions for improving health behaviors in these patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42020147105; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=147105.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/17148.

Person-centred, occupation-based intervention program supported with problem-solving therapy for type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Individuals with diabetes mellitus have difficulty solving problems in meaningful occupations and have similar difficulties with self-care regimens. We examined the effects of an occupation-based intervention supported with problem-solving therapy in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus on participation in and satisfaction with meaningful occupations, diabetes-related psychosocial self-efficacy, preferred coping strategies and individual well-being.

METHODS

This study was planned as a single-blind, randomised controlled study with a 3-month follow-up involving 67 adults with type 2 diabetes. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, Diabetes Empowerment Scale, Brief COPE and five-item World Health Organisation Well-Being Index were used. This programme included evaluations, diabetes education, and problem-solving therapy. The intervention was conducted for 6 weeks, and each weekly session lasted approximately 60 min. Differences between groups were analysed using the Mann-Whitney U test, and the Friedman test was used to calculate group-time interaction differences (i.e., baseline, after 6 weeks and after 3 months).

RESULTS

All participants identified the most significant occupational performance problems in self-care as personal care. Significant improvement was reported in the intervention group compared to the control group regarding participation in meaningful occupation, satisfaction with performance, psychosocial self-efficacy, and well-being results (p < 0.001) after the programme and 3 months of follow-up. Participant use of effective coping strategies, active coping and acceptance strategies, and self-efficacy, as revealed by the results, suggested improvement in favour of the intervention group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Occupation-based problem-solving therapy encourages participation in meaningful occupations and improves psychosocial self-efficacy, effective coping styles, and well-being in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Problem-solving therapies that incorporate individuals' priorities via meaningful occupation can be used to lead to a meaningful and quality life for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03783598 . Retrospectively Registered. First Posted-December 21, 2018, Last Update Posted-February 18, 2020.

The Effectiveness of a Brief Psychological Intervention for Patients with Diabetes-Related Distress

BACKGROUND

Diabetes-related distress (DRD) is the negative emotional and psychological reaction to living with diabetes mellitus (DM). DRD has been reported to affect glycemic control and self-management practices adversely. Limited research is available on the effectiveness of psychological interventions for DRD. We aimed to study the effectiveness of a brief psychological intervention for patients with DRD.

METHODS

The findings of a targeted brief psychological intervention conducted for patients with DRD, as a part of psycho-endocrinology liaison services in a general hospital, are reported. Details regarding the assessment and intervention given were collected from the patients' records. Forty-one patients with DRD diagnosed using Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS) were given the single session intervention consisting of brief diabetes education focusing on physical activity and medication adherence, relaxation techniques, and illness-specific problem-solving strategies. Effectiveness was assessed using change in Clinical Global Impression-Severity (CGI-S), patient-rated visual analog scale, brief physical activity questionnaire, and medication adherence at baseline and 2-month follow-up.

RESULTS

Analysis using Wilcoxon signed rank test found a significant change in the follow-up scores on all the assessment scales.

CONCLUSIONS

The study highlights the benefits of brief intervention for reducing DRD, thus reducing the emotional burden of living with DM.

Enablers and barriers to effective diabetes self-management: A multi-national investigation

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to identify the common gaps in skills and self-efficacy for diabetes self-management and explore other factors which serve as enablers of, and barriers to, achieving optimal diabetes self-management. The information gathered could provide health professionals with valuable insights to achieving better health outcomes with self-management education and support for diabetes patients.

METHODS

International online survey and telephone interviews were conducted on adults who have type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The survey inquired about their skills and self-efficacy in diabetes self-management, while the interviews assessed other enablers of, and barriers to, diabetes self-management. Surveys were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Interviews were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Survey participants (N = 217) had type 1 diabetes (38.2%) or type 2 diabetes (61.8%), with a mean age of 44.56 SD 11.51 and were from 4 continents (Europe, Australia, Asia, America). Identified gaps in diabetes self-management skills included the ability to: recognize and manage the impact of stress on diabetes, exercise planning to avoid hypoglycemia and interpreting blood glucose pattern levels. Self-efficacy for healthy coping with stress and adjusting medications or food intake to reach ideal blood glucose levels were minimal. Sixteen participants were interviewed. Common enablers of diabetes self-management included: (i) the will to prevent the development of diabetes complications and (ii) the use of technological devices. Issues regarding: (i) frustration due to dynamic and chronic nature of diabetes (ii) financial constraints (iii) unrealistic expectations and (iv) work and environment-related factors limited patients' effective self-management of diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Educational reinforcement using technological devices such as mobile application has been highlighted as an enabler of diabetes self-management and it could be employed as an intervention to alleviate identified gaps in diabetes self-management. Furthermore, improved approaches that address financial burden, work and environment-related factors as well as diabetes distress are essential for enhancing diabetes self-management.

Users' preferences and design recommendations to promote engagements with mobile apps for diabetes self-management: Multi-national perspectives

Background

Mobile phone applications (apps) offer motivation and support for self-management of diabetes mellitus (DM), but their use is limited by high attrition due to insufficient consideration of end-users perspectives and usability requirements. This study aimed to examine app usage and feature preferences among people with DM, and explore their recommendations for future inclusions to foster engagement with diabetes apps.

Methods

The study was conducted internationally on adults with type 1 or type 2 DM using online questionnaire (quantitative) to investigate usage and preferences for app features that support diabetes self-management and semi structured telephone interview (qualitative) to explore suggestions on fostering engagement and specific educational information for inclusion into diabetes apps. Survey and interview data were analysed using descriptive/ inferential statistics and inductive thematic analysis respectively.

Results

A total of 217 respondents with type 1 DM (38.25%) or type 2 DM (61.8%), from 4 continents (Australia, Europe, Asia and America) participated in the survey. About half of the respondents (48%) use apps, mainly with features for tracking blood glucose (56.6%), blood pressure (51.9%) and food calories (48.1%). Preferred features in future apps include nutrient values of foods (56.7%), blood glucose (54.8%), physical exercise tracker (47%), health data analytics (42.9%) and education on diabetes self-management (40.6%). Irrespective of the type of DM, participants proposed future apps that are user friendly, support healthy eating, provide actionable reminders and consolidate data across peripheral health devices. Participants with type 1 DM recommended customised features with news update on developments in the field of diabetes. Nominated specific educational topics included tips on problem solving, use of insulin pump therapy, signs of diabetes complication and transitioning from paediatric into adult care.

Conclusions

The study has highlighted patients’ perspectives on essential components for inclusion in diabetes apps to promote engagement and foster better health outcomes.

Psychosocial and Behavioral Correlates of A1C and Quality of Life Among Young Adults With Diabetes

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate relationships between behavioral and psychosocial constructs, A1C, and diabetes-dependent quality of life (DQoL) among low-socioeconomic status, ethnically diverse young adults with diabetes.

METHODS

Using baseline data of 81 participants in the Resilient, Empowered, Active Living (REAL) randomized controlled trial, behavioral, cognitive, affective, and experiential variables were correlated with A1C and DQoL while adjusting for demographic characteristics, and these relationships were examined for potential effect modification.

RESULTS

The data indicate that depressive symptoms and satisfaction with daily activities are associated with both A1C and DQoL, while diabetes knowledge and participation in daily activities are associated with neither A1C nor DQoL. Two constructs, diabetes distress and life satisfaction, were associated with DQoL and were unrelated to A1C, while 2 constructs, self-monitoring of blood glucose and medication adherence, were associated with A1C but unrelated to DQoL. These relationships were largely unchanged by adjusting for demographic characteristics, while numerous effect modifications were found.

CONCLUSION

The data suggest that when tailoring interventions, depressive symptoms and satisfaction with daily activities may be particularly fruitful intervention targets, as they represent modifiable risk factors that are associated with both A1C and DQoL.

The Effectiveness of Self-Management Interventions for Individuals with Low Health Literacy and/or Low Income: A Descriptive Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

With the burden of chronic illness increasing globally, self-management is a crucial strategy in reducing healthcare costs and increasing patient quality of life. Low income and low health literacy are both associated with poorer health outcomes and higher rates of chronic disease. Thus, self-management represents an important healthcare strategy for these populations. The purpose of this study is to review self-management interventions in populations with low income or low health literacy and synthesize the efficacy of these interventions.

METHODS

A systematic review of trials evaluating the efficacy of self-management interventions in populations with low income or low health literacy diagnosed with a chronic illness was conducted. Electronic databases were primarily searched to identify eligible studies. Data were extracted and efficacy summarized by self-management skills, outcomes, and content tailoring.

RESULTS

23 studies were reviewed, with ten reporting an overall positive effect on at least one primary outcome. Effective interventions most often included problem-solving as well as taking action and/or resource utilization. A wide range of health-related outcomes were considered, were efficacious empowerment and disease-specific quality of life were found to be significant. The efficacy of interventions did not seem to vary by duration, format, or mode of delivery or whether these included individuals with low health literacy and/or low income. Tailoring did not seem to impact on efficacy.

DISCUSSION

Findings suggest that self-management interventions in populations with low income or low health literacy are most effective when three to four self-management skills are utilized, particularly when problem-solving is targeted. Healthcare providers and researchers can use these findings to develop education strategies and tools for populations with low income or low health literacy to improve chronic illness self-management.

Baseline Characteristics and Technology Training of Underserved Adults With Type 2 Diabetes in the Mobile Diabetes Detective (MoDD) Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose The purpose of this study is to describe the characteristics and technology training needs of underserved adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who participated in a health information technology (HIT) diabetes self-management education (DSME) intervention. Methods The baseline physiological, psychosocial, and technology use characteristics for 220 adults with poorly controlled T2DM were evaluated. Intervention participants received a 1-time intervention training, which included basic technology help, introduction to the Mobile Diabetes Detective (MoDD) website and text message features, and account activation that included subject-specific tailoring. Four additional on-site sessions for participants needing computer or Internet access or technology support were made available based on need. Data regarding on-site visits for usual care were collected. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis. Results The participants were predominately Hispanic and female with a baseline mean A1C of 10% (86 mmol/mol). Only half of the participants regularly used computers or text messages in daily life. The average introductory MoDD training session lasted 73.6 minutes. Following training, approximately one-third (35%) of intervention participants returned for basic and MoDD-specific technology assistance at their federally qualified health center. The most frequently reported duration for the extra training sessions was 30 to 45 minutes. Conclusions Training and support needs were greater than anticipated. Diabetes educators should assess technology abilities prior to implementing health information technology (HIT) diabetes self-management education (DSME) in underserved adults. Future research must invest resources in technology access, anticipate subject training, and develop new training approaches to ensure HIT DSME use and engagement.

The association of minor and major depression with health problem-solving and diabetes self-care activities in a clinic-based population of adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS

We examined whether problem-solving and diabetes self-management behaviors differ by depression diagnosis - major depressive disorder (MDD) and minor depressive disorder (MinDD) - in adults with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

METHODS

We screened a clinical sample of 702 adults with T2DM for depression, identified 52 positive and a sample of 51 negative individuals, and performed a structured diagnostic psychiatric interview. MDD (n=24), MinDD (n=17), and no depression (n=62) were diagnosed using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV (DSM-IV) Text Revised criteria. Health Problem-Solving Scale (HPSS) and Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) questionnaires determined problem-solving and T2DM self-management skills, respectively. We compared HPSS and SDSCA scores by depression diagnosis, adjusting for age, sex, race, and diabetes duration, using linear regression.

RESULTS

Total HPSS scores for MDD (β=-4.38; p<0.001) and MinDD (β=-2.77; p<0.01) were lower than no depression. Total SDSCA score for MDD (β=-10.1; p<0.01) was lower than for no depression, and was partially explained by total HPSS.

CONCLUSION

MinDD and MDD individuals with T2DM have impaired problem-solving ability. MDD individuals had impaired diabetes self-management, partially explained by impaired problem-solving. Future studies should assess problem-solving therapy to treat T2DM and MinDD and integrated problem-solving with diabetes self-management for those with T2DM and MDD.

Self-management in patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease is associated with incremental benefit in HRQOL

AIMS

There is insufficient and inconsistent data regarding the association between diabetes self-management, the process of facilitating the knowledge, skill, and ability necessary for diabetes self-care, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in people with diabetes and moderate to severe chronic kidney disease (CKD).

METHODS

In a cross sectional study, participation in diabetes self-management assessed by the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) questionnaire and HRQOL was examined in 308 patients with diabetes and CKD (stages 3 to 5) recruited from outpatient diabetes and renal clinics of 4 public tertiary hospitals. Associations were examined by Pearson correlation coefficients and hierarchical multiple regression after controlling for potential confounders. An examination of trend across the levels of patient participation in self-management was assessed using a non-parametric test for trend.

RESULTS

The median age and interquartile range (IQR) of patients were 68 and 14.8years, respectively with 59% of the population being over 65years old and 69.5% male. The median durations of diabetes and CKD were 18years (IQR-17) and 5years (IQR-8) respectively. General diet, exercise and medication taking were positively associated with at least one HRQOL subscale (all p<0.05) but diabetes specific diet, blood sugar testing and foot checking were not. As levels of participation in self-management activities increased there was a graded increase in mean HRQOL scores across all subscales (p for trend <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In people with diabetes and moderate to severe CKD, participation in diabetes self-management activities, particularly those focused on general diet, exercise and medication taking, was associated with higher HRQOL.

Resilient, Empowered, Active Living with Diabetes (REAL Diabetes) study: Methodology and baseline characteristics of a randomized controlled trial evaluating an occupation-based diabetes management intervention for young adults

OVERVIEW

This paper describes the study protocol used to evaluate the Resilient, Empowered, Active Living with Diabetes (REAL Diabetes) intervention and reports on baseline characteristics of recruited participants. REAL Diabetes is an activity-based intervention designed to address the needs of young adults diagnosed with type 1 (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) from low socioeconomic status or racial/ethnic minority backgrounds. The REAL intervention incorporates tailored delivery of seven content modules addressing various dimensions of health and well-being as they relate to diabetes, delivered by a licensed occupational therapist.

METHODS

In this pilot randomized controlled trial, participants are assigned to the REAL Diabetes intervention or an attention control condition. The study's primary recruitment strategies included in-person recruitment at diabetes clinics, mass mailings to clinic patients, and social media advertising. Data collection includes baseline and 6-month assessments of primary outcomes, secondary outcomes, and hypothesized mediators of intervention effects, as well as ongoing process evaluation assessment to ensure study protocol adherence and intervention fidelity.

RESULTS

At baseline, participants (n=81) were 51% female, 78% Latino, and on average 22.6years old with an average HbA1c of 10.8%. A majority of participants (61.7%) demonstrated clinically significant diabetes distress and 27.2% reported symptoms consistent with major depressive disorder. Compared to participants with T1D, participants with T2D had lower diabetes-related self-efficacy and problem-solving skills. Compared to participants recruited at clinics, participants recruited through other strategies had greater diabetes knowledge but weaker medication adherence.

DISCUSSION

Participants in the REAL study demonstrate clinically significant medical and psychosocial needs.

Development and validation of the hypoglycaemia problem-solving scale for people with diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

To develop and psychometrically test a new instrument, the hypoglycaemia problem-solving scale (HPSS), which was designed to measure how well people with diabetes mellitus manage their hypoglycaemia-related problems.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey design approach was used to validate the performance assessment instrument. Patients who had a diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus for at least 1 year, who were being treated with insulin and who had experienced at least one hypoglycaemic episode within the previous 6 months were eligible for inclusion in the study.

RESULTS

A total of 313 patients were included in the study. The initial draft of the HPSS included 28 items. After exploratory factor analysis, the 24-item HPSS consisted of seven factors: problem-solving perception, detection control, identifying problem attributes, setting problem-solving goals, seeking preventive strategies, evaluating strategies, and immediate management. The Cronbach's α for the total HPSS was 0.83.

CONCLUSIONS

The HPSS was verified as being valid and reliable. Future studies should further test and improve the instrument to increase its effectiveness in helping people with diabetes manage their hypoglycaemia-related problems.

Adopting the sensemaking perspective for chronic disease self-management

BACKGROUND

Self-monitoring is an integral component of many chronic diseases; however few theoretical frameworks address how individuals understand self-monitoring data and use it to guide self-management.

PURPOSE

To articulate a theoretical framework of sensemaking in diabetes self-management that integrates existing scholarship with empirical data.

METHODS

The proposed framework is grounded in theories of sensemaking adopted from organizational behavior, education, and human-computer interaction. To empirically validate the framework the researchers reviewed and analyzed reports on qualitative studies of diabetes self-management practices published in peer-reviewed journals from 2000 to 2015.

RESULTS

The proposed framework distinguishes between sensemaking and habitual modes of self-management and identifies three essential sensemaking activities: perception of new information related to health and wellness, development of inferences that inform selection of actions, and carrying out daily activities in response to new information. The analysis of qualitative findings from 50 published reports provided ample empirical evidence for the proposed framework; however, it also identified a number of barriers to engaging in sensemaking in diabetes self-management.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed framework suggests new directions for research in diabetes self-management and for design of new informatics interventions for data-driven self-management.

Depression, Coping Strategies, Glycemic Control and Patient Compliance in Type 2 Diabetic Patients in an endocrine Outpatient Clinic

Objective:

Diabetes is a multifactorial disorder posing a great challenge to public health. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between depression, coping strategies, glycemic control and patient compliance in type 2 diabetic patients.

Methods:

Total 110 outpatients (mean (SD) age: 57.9 years (10.5), 56.4% were females) with type 2 diabetes mellitus were included in this descriptive and cross-sectional study. They were followed-up in the endocrinology outpatient clinic at Baskent University Istanbul Hospital Turkey. A questionnaire including items on sociodemographics, patient compliance, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Ways of Coping Questionnaire (WCQ) were used. Glycemic control was measured by HbA1c levels.

Results:

Mean depression score was 12.6(9.2) with moderate to severe depression in 30.9% of study participants. Overall scores for BDI, fatalism and helplessness approaches were significantly higher among females compared with male patients. Depression scores were correlated positively to duration of disease (r=0.190, p=0.047), fatalistic (r=0.247, p=0.009), helplessness (r=0.543, p=0.000) and avoidance (r=0.261, p=0.006) approaches, and negatively to educational status (r=-0.311, p=0.001) and problem solving-optimistic approach (r=-0.381, p=0.000).

Conclusions:

Likelihood of depression was frequent, consistent with literature and was associated with gender, educational status, coping strategies, duration of diabetes and patient compliance with treatment in our study. Screening for depression and patient education may improve the quality of life in diabetic patients.

Telehealth interventions to reduce management complications in type 1 diabetes: A review

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic illness with a high burden of care. While effective interventions and recommendations for diabetes care exist, the intensive nature of diabetes management makes compliance difficult. This is especially true in children and adolescents as they have unique psychosocial and diabetes needs. Despite the development of effective in-person interventions targeting improving self-management and ameliorating psychosocial difficulties there are still a number of barriers to implementing these interventions, namely time, cost, and access. Telehealth interventions allow for the dissemination of these interventions to a broader audience. Self-management and psychosocial telehealth interventions are reviewed with a special emphasis on mobile phone and internet based technology use. While efficacy has been demonstrated in a number of telehealth interventions with improved cost effectiveness over in-person interventions, many challenges remain including high participant attrition and difficulties with receiving reimbursement for services rendered. These and other challenges are discussed with recommendations for researchers and telehealth providers provided.

Facilitators, barriers and expectations in the self-management of type 2 diabetes--a qualitative study from Portugal

BACKGROUND

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) have a central role in managing their disease, but the effective adoption of self-management behaviours is often challenging.

OBJECTIVES

The main objective of this study was to assess the facilitators, barriers and expectations in the self-management of type 2 DM, as perceived by patients.

METHODS

Patients with type 2 DM were recruited at the Portuguese Diabetes Association outpatient clinic, using a convenient sampling technique. Qualitative data was obtained using video-recorded focus groups. Each session had a moderator and an observer, and followed a pre-tested questioning route. Two independent researchers transcribed and analysed the focus groups.

RESULTS

Three major themes were identified: diet, physical exercise, and glycaemic control. Difficulties in changing dietary habits were grouped in four main categories: decisional, food quality, food quantity, and dietary schedule. Barriers related to physical exercise also included decisional aspects, as well as fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and other co-morbidities. Information and knowledge translation, as well as family and social ties, were commonly explored aspects across the three themes and were regarded as facilitators in some situations and as barriers in others.

CONCLUSION

This study provided new insight on the barriers, facilitators and expectations in type 2 DM self-management, pointing out the importance of tailored guidance. Future research should explore interventions designed to promote and facilitate behaviour change in this population.

Effective interventions to improve medication adherence in Type 2 diabetes: a systematic review

AIM

Medication adherence is associated with improved outcomes in diabetes. Interventions have been established to help improve medication adherence; however, the most effective interventions in patients with Type 2 diabetes remain unclear. The goal of this study was to distinguish whether interventions were effective and identify areas for future research.

METHODS

Medline was searched for articles published between January 2000 and May 2013, and a reproducible strategy was used. Study eligibility criteria included interventions measuring medication adherence in adults with Type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

Twenty seven studies met the inclusion criteria and 13 showed a statistically significant change in medication adherence.

CONCLUSION

Heterogeneity of the study designs and measures of adherence made it difficult to identify effective interventions that improved medication adherence. Additionally, medication adherence may not be solely responsible for achieving glycemic control. Researchers must emphasize tailored interventions that optimize management and improve outcomes, and examine the need for clear indicators of medication adherence.

An evaluation of a self-management package for people with diabetes at risk of chronic kidney disease

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The overall purpose was to develop, test and evaluate an educational package to help people with diabetes self-manage their risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD), one of the main complications of diabetes.

BACKGROUND

Management of people in primary care who have both CKD and diabetes can be controlled by strict blood pressure (BP) and blood sugar control and advice on lifestyle changes, such as smoking cessation. However, there is little evidence to support the assertion that self-management can slow the rate of kidney disease progression.

DESIGN

A mixed-method longitudinal study. Development of the self-management package was informed by the findings of a case study in six GP Practices and also through interviews with 15 patients.

METHODS

Testing of the self-management package was undertaken in the same six Practices, with one additional control Practice. Patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes at risk of kidney disease were included. Outcomes in patients in the participating surgeries who did receive a pack (n = 116) were compared with patients in the control group (n = 60) over 6 time points.

RESULTS

At the end of the study (time point 6), the intervention group had a mean systolic BP of 4.1 mmHg lower and mean diastolic BP of 2.7 mmHg lower than in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Self-management techniques such as understanding of, and subsequent concordance with, prescribed BP medication may contribute to a reduction in BP, which in turn will reduce cardiovascular risk.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

This study contributes to the evidence base for self-management of early kidney disease. Although the exact reason for reduced BP in the intervention group is unclear, the importance of practitioner understanding of kidney disease management and patient understanding of BP medication are likely to be the contributing factors.

Relationships among self-efficacy, social support, social problem solving, and self-management in a rural sample living with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Self-management behaviors are important for control of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Therefore, determining factors that promote effective self-management behaviors may be significant for improving the well-being of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study examined relationships among self-efficacy, social support, social problem solving, and diabetes self-management behaviors. Further, this study evaluated whether social support and social problem solving were mediators of the relationship between self-efficacy and diabetes self-management behaviors in those living with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Using a cross-sectional, descriptive correlational design, data from a convenience sample of 152 rural people living with type 2 diabetes mellitus were examined. Findings indicated that self-efficacy was a strong predictor of diabetes self-management. The effect of social support on diabetes self-management differed among men and women in the sample. Social support and social problem solving were significantly associated with diabetes self-management in men. Neither social support nor social problem solving were mediators of the relationship between self-efficacy and diabetes self-management in this sample. These findings suggest that nurses need to consider implementing interventions to improve patients' self-efficacy and potentially influence diabetes self-management.

An empirical study of self-efficacy and social support in diabetes self-management: implications for home healthcare nurses

This pilot study was conducted to evaluate relationships among self-efficacy, social support, social problem solving, and diabetes self-management in people living with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Self-efficacy, social support, and social problem solving were significantly correlated with diabetes self-management. These relationships indicate the importance of including interventions to promote self-efficacy, social support, and social problem solving in diabetes self-management programs.

Self-monitoring of blood glucose is associated with problem-solving skills in hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine the association between self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and problem-solving skills in response to detected hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia among patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the American Association of Diabetes Educators Outcome System, implemented in 8 diabetes self-management education programs in western Pennsylvania. SMBG was measured by asking patients how often they checked, missed checking, or checked blood glucose later than planned. Problem-solving skill was measured by asking how often they modified their behaviors after detecting high or low blood glucose.

RESULTS

Most patients checked their blood glucose at least once per day. However, when blood glucose was high or low, many of them reported doing nothing, and only some of them resolved the problem. There were significant associations between self-monitoring of blood glucose and problem-solving skills for hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, after controlling for age, gender, ethnicity, education, and time since diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients reported poor problem-solving skills when detecting hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia via SMBG. Patients need to learn problem-solving skills along with SMBG training to achieve glycemic control.

Specific cognitive abilities are associated with diabetes self-management behavior among patients with type 2 diabetes

AIM

Patients with diabetes differ in compliance to diabetes self-management which influences their long-term health. Psychological factors, namely depression and cognitive abilities, are associated with diabetes self-management behavior. The aim of the study was to identify independent association of particular cognitive functions with diabetes self-management.

METHODS

In a cross sectional study 98 adults with type 2 diabetes attending Diabetes Outpatient Clinic were examined using the measures of diabetes self-management (Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) measure), depression (Hamilton Depression Inventory (HDI)), diabetes distress (Problem Areas In Diabetes scale (PAID)), and the neuropsychological battery of tests for assessment of cognitive functions. Sociodemographic and diabetes-related data were collected. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to identify and evaluate the predictors of diabetes self-management.

RESULTS

Specific cognitive functions, namely immediate memory, visuospatial/constructional abilities, attention, and specific executive functions (planning and problem solving) were significantly associated with diabetes self-management. Among cognitive factors, planning and problem solving abilities were strongest predictors; furthermore, in a multivariate regression their association was independent from depression.

CONCLUSIONS

Specific cognitive abilities, particularly planning and problem solving, play an independent role in diabetes self-management behaviors. Assessing patients' cognitive abilities may be of value for adjusting self-management education and treatment regimen.

The association of mental conditions with blood glucose levels in older adults with diabetes

OBJECTIVES

People with diabetes must engage in several self-care activities to manage blood glucose; cognitive function and other affective disorders may affect self-care behaviors. We examined the executive function domain of cognition, depressive symptoms, and symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) to determine which common mental conditions can co-occur with diabetes are associated with blood glucose levels.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional in-person survey of 563 rural older adults (age 60 years or older) with diabetes that included African Americans, American Indians, and Whites from eight counties in south-central North Carolina. Hemoglobin A1C (A1C) was measured from a finger-stick blood sample to assess blood glucose control. Executive function, depressive symptoms, and symptoms of GAD were assessed using established measures and scoring procedures. Separate multivariate linear regression models were used to examine the association of executive function, depressive symptoms, and symptoms of GAD with A1C.

RESULTS

Adjusting for potential confounders including age, gender, education, ethnicity, marital status, history of stroke, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes knowledge, and duration of diabetes, executive function was significantly associated with A1C levels: every one-unit increase in executive function was associated with a 0.23 lower A1C value (p = 0.02). Symptoms of depression and GAD were not associated with A1C levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Low executive function is potentially a barrier to self-care, the cornerstone of managing blood glucose levels. Training aids that compensate for cognitive impairments may be essential for achieving effective glucose control.

A continuous glucose monitoring and problem-solving intervention to change physical activity behavior in women with type 2 diabetes: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Diabetes technology has the potential to provide useful data for theory-based behavioral counseling. The aims of this study are to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a continuous glucose monitoring and problem-solving counseling intervention to change physical activity (PA) behavior in women with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Women (n=29) with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to one of two treatment conditions: continuous glucose counseling and problem-solving skills or continuous glucose monitoring counseling and general diabetes education. Feasibility data were obtained on intervention dose, implementation, and satisfaction. Preliminary efficacy data were collected at baseline and 12 weeks on the following measures: PA amount and intensity, diet, problem-solving skills, self-efficacy for PA, depression, hemogoloin A1c, weight, and blood pressure. Demographic and implementation variables were described using frequency distributions and summary statistics. Satisfaction data were analyzed using Wilcoxon rank. Differences between groups were analyzed using linear mixed-modeling.

RESULTS

Women were mostly white/non-Latina with a mean age of 53 years, a 6.5-year history of diabetes, and suboptimal glycemic control. Continuous glucose monitoring plus problem-solving group participants had significantly greater problem-solving skills and had greater, although not statistically significant, dietary adherence, moderate activity minutes, weight loss, and higher intervention satisfaction pre- to post-intervention than did participants in the continuous glucose monitoring plus education group.

CONCLUSION

A continuous glucose monitoring plus problem-solving intervention was feasible and acceptable, and participants had greater problem-solving skills than continuous glucose monitoring plus education group participants.

Outcomes from a multiple risk factor diabetes self-management trial for Latinas: ¡Viva Bien!

BACKGROUND

Culturally appropriate interventions are needed to assist Latinas in making multiple healthful lifestyle changes.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to test a cultural adaptation of a successful multiple health behavior change program, ¡Viva Bien!

METHODS

Random assignment of 280 Latinas with type 2 diabetes to usual care only or to usual care + ¡Viva Bien!, which included group meetings for building skills to promote the Mediterranean diet, physical activity, stress management, supportive resources, and smoking cessation.

RESULTS

¡Viva Bien! participants compared to usual care significantly improved psychosocial and behavioral outcomes (fat intake, stress management practice, physical activity, and social-environmental support) at 6 months, and some improvements were maintained at 12 months. Biological improvements included hemoglobin A1c and heart disease risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The ¡Viva Bien! multiple lifestyle behavior program was effective in improving psychosocial, behavioral, and biological/quality of life outcomes related to heart health for Latinas with type 2 diabetes.

Self-Care and Health Outcomes of Diabetes Mellitus

Studies show that self-care improves diabetes mellitus (DM) outcomes; however, previous studies have focused on self-care maintenance, and little is known about self-care management. The objective of this study is to examine the influence of DM self-care maintenance and management on number of hospitalizations and hospitalization days. A cohort design with secondary analysis of data from the Health and Retirement Study 2002-2004 was used. Data from 726 adults with DM were analyzed with logistic regression and negative binomial regression adjusting for covariates. Self-care maintenance and management were significant determinants of hospitalization outcomes. Establishing a goal for HbA1c (self-care management) and eating ≥2 snacks or desserts per day (self-care maintenance) were associated with a decrease in hospitalizations (IRR = 0.860, p = .001; IRR = 0.914, p = .043, respectively). DM self-care maintenance and management influence health outcomes but in different ways. These data provide evidence that both elements are needed in the education of patients about DM.

Effect of problem-solving-based diabetes self-management training on diabetes control in a low income patient sample

BACKGROUND

Lower socioeconomic status is associated with excess disease burden from diabetes. Diabetes self-management support interventions are needed that are effective in engaging lower income patients, addressing competing life priorities and barriers to self-care, and facilitating behavior change.

OBJECTIVE

To pilot test feasibility, acceptability, and effect on disease control of a problem-based diabetes self-management training adapted for low literacy and accessibility.

DESIGN

Two-arm randomized controlled trial powered to detect a 0.50% change in A1C at follow-up with a 2-sided alpha of 0.05 in a pooled analysis.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty-six urban African-American patients with type 2 diabetes and suboptimal blood sugar, blood pressure, or cholesterol control recruited from a diabetes registry within a university-affiliated managed care organization.

INTERVENTIONS

A group, problem-based diabetes self-management training designed for delivery in an intensive and a condensed program format. Three intensive and three condensed program groups were conducted during the trial.

MAIN MEASURES

Clinical (A1C, systolic blood pressure [SBP], diastolic blood pressure [DBP], LDL and HDL cholesterol) and behavioral (knowledge, problem solving, self-management behavior) data were measured at baseline, post-intervention, and 3 months post-intervention (corresponding with 6-9 months following baseline).

RESULTS

Adoption of both programs was high (>85% attendance rates, 95% retention). At 3 months post-intervention, the between-group difference in A1C change was -0.72% (p = 0.02), in favor of the intensive program. A1C reduction was partially mediated by problem-solving skill at follow-up (ß = -0.13, p = 0.04). Intensive program patients demonstrated within-group improvements in knowledge (p < 0.001), problem-solving (p = 0.01), and self-management behaviors (p = 0.04). Among the subsets of patients with suboptimal blood pressure or lipids at baseline, the intensive program yielded clinically significant individual improvements in SBP, DBP, and LDL cholesterol. Patient satisfaction and usability ratings were high for both programs.

CONCLUSIONS

A literacy-adapted, intensive, problem-solving-based diabetes self-management training was effective for key clinical and behavioral outcomes in a lower income patient sample.

"It's a wild thing, waiting to get me": stance analysis of African Americans with diabetes

PURPOSE

This mixed methods study uses a unique approach from social science and linguistics methodologies, a combination of positioning theory and stance analysis, to examine how 20 African Americans with type 2 diabetes make sense of the practices that led to recurrent emergency department visits to identify needs for more effective intervention.

METHODS

In a purposive sample of postemergency department visit interviews with a same-race interviewer, people responded to open-ended questions reflecting on the decision to seek emergency department care. As applied to diabetes education, positioning theory explains that people use their language to position themselves toward their disease, their medications, and the changes in their lives. Transcriptions were coded using discourse analysis to categorize themes. As a form of triangulation, stance analysis measured language patterns using factor analysis to see when and how speakers revealed affect, attitude, and agentive choices for action.

CONCLUSION

Final analysis revealed that one third of the sample exhibited high scores for positive agency or capacity for decision-making and self-management, while the rest expressed less control and more negative emotions and fears that may preclude self-management. This approach suggests a means to tailor diabetes education considering alternative approaches focused on communication for those facing barriers.

Monitoring in diabetes self-management: issues and recommendations for improvement

The American Association of Diabetes Educators hosted a Monitoring Symposium during which 18 invited participants considered pre-set questions regarding how diabetes education can more effectively address barriers to monitoring for people with diabetes and related conditions. This report provides a summary of the moderated discussion and highlights the key points that apply to diabetes educators and other providers involved with diabetes care. The participating thought leaders reviewed findings from published literature and participated in a moderated discussion with the aim of providing practical advice for health care practitioners regarding monitoring for people with diabetes so that the overall health of this population can be enhanced. The discussants also defined monitoring for diabetes as including that done by the clinician or laboratory, as well as self-monitoring. The discussion was distilled into key points that apply to diabetes educators and other providers involved with diabetes care. Participants developed specific recommendations for a self-monitoring behavior and monitoring framework. People with diabetes benefit from instruction and guidance about self-monitoring and decision making that is based on monitored results and informed interactions with providers. Importantly, collaboration among the entire diabetes care community is needed to ensure that monitoring is performed and utilized to its fullest advantage. Going forward, it will be critical to mitigate barriers to diabetes self-management and training and to identify linkages and partnerships to address barriers to self-monitoring.

Linking glycemic control and executive function in rural older adults with diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVES

To examine the association between glycemic control and the executive functioning domain of cognition and to identify risk factors for inadequate glycemic control that may explain this relationship.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

In-person interviews conducted in participants' homes.

PARTICIPANTS

Ninety-five rural older African Americans, American Indians, and whites with diabetes mellitus (DM) from three counties in south-central North Carolina.

MEASUREMENTS

Participants underwent uniform evaluations. Glycemic control was measured using a validated method, and executive function was assessed using a previously established set of measures and scoring procedure. Information pertaining to medication for treatment of DM, knowledge of DM, and DM self-care behaviors were obtained.

RESULTS

In linear regression models adjusting for sex, age, education, ethnicity, duration of DM, and depressive symptoms, executive function was significantly associated with glycemic control. A 1-point higher executive function score was associated with a 0.47 lower glycosylated hemoglobin value (P=.01). The association between glycemic control and executive function became nonsignificant (P=.08) when controlling for several glycemic control risk factors, including use of DM medication and DM knowledge.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that poor glycemic control is associated with impairments in performance on composite measures of executive function and that modifiable risk factors for glycemic control such as use of DM medication and DM knowledge may explain this relationship.

Racial differences in diabetes-related psychosocial factors and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

We examined whether diabetes-related psychosocial factors differ between African American and white patients with type 2 diabetes. We also tested whether racial differences in glycemic control are independent of such factors.

METHODS

Baseline glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA(1c)) and survey measures from 79 African American and 203 white adult participants in a diabetes self-management clinical trial were analyzed.

RESULTS

Several psychosocial characteristics varied by race. Perceived interference of diabetes with daily life, perceived diabetes severity, and diabetes-related emotional distress were higher for African Americans than for whites, as were access to illness-management resources and social support. Mean HbA(1c) levels were higher among African Americans than whites (8.14 vs 7.40, beta = 0.17). This difference persisted after adjusting for demographic, clinical, and diabetes-related psychosocial characteristics that differed by race (beta = 0.18). Less access to illness-management resources (beta = -0.25) and greater perceived severity of diabetes (beta = 0.21) also predicted higher HbA(1c).

DISCUSSION

Although racial differences in diabetes-related psychosocial factors were observed, African Americans continued to have poorer glycemic control than whites even after such differences were taken into account. Interventions that target psychosocial factors related to diabetes management, particularly illness-management resources, may be a promising way to improve glycemic control for all patients.

Self-efficacy, self-care behaviours and quality of life of kidney transplant recipients

AIM

This paper is a report of an exploration of the effects of self-efficacy and different dimensions of self-management on quality of life among kidney transplant recipients.

BACKGROUND

Self-efficacy is an important factor influencing self-management. Patients with higher self-efficacy have better self-management and experience better quality of life. Self-efficacy influences the long-term medication-taking behaviour of kidney transplant recipients.

METHOD

A longitudinal, correlational design was used. Data were collected during 2005-2006 with 150 adult kidney transplant recipients on self-efficacy, self-management and quality of life using a self-efficacy scale, self-management scale and the Medical Outcomes Scale SF-36 (Chinese), respectively. Relationships among variables were analysed by path analysis.

RESULTS

Participants with higher self-efficacy scored significantly higher on the problem-solving (beta = 0.51), patient-provider partnership (beta = 0.44) and self-care behaviour (beta = 0.55) dimensions of self-management. Self-efficacy directly influenced self-care behaviour and indirectly affected the mental health component of quality of life (total effect = 0.14). Problem-solving and partnership did not statistically significantly affect quality of life. Neither self-efficacy nor self-management had any effect on the physical health component of quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Transplant care teams should incorporate strategies that enhance self-efficacy, as proposed by social cognitive theory, into their care programmes for kidney transplant recipients. Interventions to maintain and improve patients' self-care behaviour should continue to be emphasized and facilitated. Support to enhance patients' problem-solving skills and the partnership of patients with health professionals is needed.

Patient reported outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes on basal insulin randomized to addition of mealtime pramlintide or rapid-acting insulin analogs

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether treatment satisfaction and quality of life were affected by adding mealtime pramlintide or rapid-acting insulin analogs (RAIAs) to basal insulin therapy for patients with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In this 24-week open-label, multicenter study of adults with type 2 diabetes, mealtime pramlintide (PRAM) (120 microg fixed dose; n = 56) or titrated RAIAs (n = 56) was added to basal insulin therapy with or without oral antidiabetic medications.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.Gov NCT00467649.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Quality of life (Diabetes Distress Scale - DDS, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index - PSQI), and treatment satisfaction (Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire - DTSQ, and Pramlintide Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire - PRAM-TSQ) were assessed at baseline and week 24. Mixed-effect models estimated mean group changes from baseline to week 24 (adjusted for baseline scores) in patient reported outcomes.

RESULTS

PRAM patients experienced significant improvement in total diabetes distress, while RAIA patients did not; both groups experienced significant improvement in regimen-related distress and physician-related distress. Between-group differences in DDS measures were not significant. PRAM patients experienced significant improvement in sleep latency and daytime dysfunction, while RAIA patients did not; the difference between groups was significant for daytime dysfunction. Both treatment groups experienced significant improvement in most individual DTSQ items and total diabetes treatment satisfaction, while only PRAM patients experienced significant improvement in perceived hypoglycemia. Between-group differences in DTSQ measures were not significant. Both treatment groups experienced significant improvement in most individual PRAM-TSQ items and total treatment satisfaction; RAIA patients experienced increased eating flexibility and reduced perceived weight control. PRAM patients experienced significantly better perceived weight and appetite control than RAIA patients.

LIMITATIONS

The sample size was relatively small and there were few non-white subjects. The schedule for implementation of change in therapy may have affected study outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Adding pramlintide on a background of basal insulin improved some aspects of treatment satisfaction and quality of life relative to adding rapid-acting insulin analogs.

Coping as a mediator in the relationships of spiritual well-being to mental health in black women with type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Examine coping as a mediator in the relationships of spiritual well-being to mental health in Black women with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

METHODS

Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from a convenience sample of 45 Black women with T2DM. Measures of coping strategies, spiritual well-being (religious and existential well-being), and mental health, as measured by diabetes-specific distress (DSED), were collected. Bivariate findings informed mediational, trivariate model development.

RESULTS

Religious well-being was significantly related to cognitive reframing (CR) coping strategies (p = 0.026) but not DSED (p = 0.751). Existential well-being was significantly related to CR (beta = 0.575,p < 0.001), direct assistance (DA) coping (beta = 0.368, p = 0.006) and DSED (beta = -0.338, p = 0.023). Although CR (beta = -0.305, p = 0.021) and DA (beta = -0.262, p = 0.041) had significant bivariate associations with DSED, the relationships were not significant when existential well-being was controlled. However, the relationship of existential well-being to DSED was mediated by specific CR and DA strategies that were associated with DSED to varying degrees -"I came up with a couple different solutions to the problem" (beta = -0.301, p = 0.049); "I came out of the experience better than I went in" (beta = -0.308, p = 0.061); and "I talked to someone who could do something concrete about the problem" (beta = -0.272, p = 0.078).

CONCLUSION

Findings indicate that diabetes care address spiritual well-being, both its religious and existential components, in Black women with T2DM.

Development and implementation of an integrated, multi-modality, user-centered interactive dietary change program

Computer-tailored behavior change programs offer the potential for reaching large populations at a much lower cost than individual or group-based programs. However, few of these programs to date appear to integrate behavioral theory with user choice, or combine different electronic modalities. We describe the development of an integrated CD-ROM and interactive voice response dietary change intervention that combines behavioral problem-solving theory with a high degree of user choice. The program, WISE CHOICES, is being evaluated as part of an ongoing trial. This paper describes the program development, emphasizing how user preferences are accommodated, and presents implementation and user satisfaction data. The program was successfully implemented; the linkages among the central database, the CD-ROM and the automated telephone components were robust, and participants liked the program almost as well as a counselor-delivered dietary change condition. Multi-modality programs that emphasize the strengths of each approach appear to be feasible. Future research is needed to determine the program impact and cost-effectiveness compared with counselor-delivered intervention.

Costing behavioral interventions: a practical guide to enhance translation

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Cost and cost effectiveness of behavioral interventions are critical parts of dissemination and implementation into non-academic settings. Due to the lack of indicative data and policy makers' increasing demands for both program effectiveness and efficiency, cost analyses can serve as valuable tools in the evaluation process.

METHODS

To stimulate and promote broader use of practical techniques that can be used to efficiently estimate the implementation costs of behavioral interventions, we propose a set of analytic steps that can be employed across a broad range of interventions.

RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS

Intervention costs must be distinguished from research, development, and recruitment costs. The inclusion of sensitivity analyses is recommended to understand the implications of implementation of the intervention into different settings using different intervention resources. To illustrate these procedures, we use data from a smoking reduction practical clinical trial to describe the techniques and methods used to estimate and evaluate the costs associated with the intervention. Estimated intervention costs per participant were $419, with a range of $276 to $703, depending on the number of participants.