Diabetes in Hispanic American youth: prevalence, incidence, demographics, and clinical characteristics: the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study

Hemoglobin A1c and Type 2 Diabetes Incidence Among Adolescents With Overweight and Obesity

Importance

With the increase in prediabetes among adolescents with overweight and obesity, identifying those at highest risk for type 2 diabetes (T2D) can support prevention strategies.

Objective

To assess T2D risk by hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels among adolescents with overweight and obesity.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study was conducted using data for January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2019, from a large California health care system. The study population comprised adolescents aged 10 to 17 years who had a body mass index (BMI; calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) at or above the 85th percentile, had HbA1c measured during 2010 to 2018, and did not have preexisting diabetes. Data abstraction and analyses were conducted from January 1, 2020, to November 16, 2023.

Exposures

Baseline HbA1c, with covariates including BMI category (overweight: 85th to <95th percentile; moderate obesity: 100% to <120% of 95th percentile; or severe obesity: ≥120% of 95th percentile), age, sex, race and ethnicity, and Neighborhood Deprivation Index score.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was incident T2D during follow-up through 2019, including cumulative incidence and multivariable hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs using Cox proportional hazard regression analyses.

Results

This study included 74 552 adolescents with a mean (SD) age of 13.4 (2.3) years. More than half (50.6%) were female; 26.9% of individuals had overweight, 42.3% had moderate obesity, and 30.8% had severe obesity. Individuals identified as Asian or Pacific Islander (17.6%), Black (11.1%), Hispanic (43.6%), White (21.6%), and other or unknown race or ethnicity (6.1%). During follow-up, 698 adolescents (0.9%) developed diabetes, and 626 (89.7%) had T2D; 72 individuals (10.3%) who had type 1, secondary, or other diabetes were censored. The overall T2D incidence was 2.1 (95% CI, 1.9-2.3) per 1000 person-years, with a 5-year cumulative incidence of 1.0% (95% CI, 0.9%-1.1%). Higher baseline HbA1c (from <5.5% to 5.5%-5.6%, 5.7%-5.8%, 5.9%-6.0%, 6.1%-6.2%, and 6.3-6.4%) was associated with higher 5-year cumulative T2D incidence (from 0.3% [95% CI, 0.2%-0.4%] to 0.5% [0.4%-0.7%], 1.1% [0.8%-1.3%], 3.8% [3.2%-4.7%], 11.0% [8.9%-13.7%], and 28.5% [21.9%-36.5%], respectively). In addition, higher baseline HbA1c was associated with greater T2D risk (reference [HbA1c <5.5%]: HR, 1.7 [95% CI, 1.3-2.2], 2.8 [2.1-3.6], 9.3 [7.2-12.1], 23.3 [17.4-31.3], and 71.9 [51.1-101.1], respectively). Higher BMI category, older age, female sex, and Asian or Pacific Islander race (HR, 1.7 [95% CI, 1.3-2.2]), but not Black race or Hispanic ethnicity (compared with White race), were also independent indicators of T2D. In stratified analyses, incremental risk associated with higher HbA1c was greater for Asian or Pacific Islander and White adolescents than for Black and Hispanic adolescents.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of adolescents with overweight and obesity, T2D risk increased substantially with baseline HbA1c above 6.0%. Risk varied by BMI, age, sex, and race and ethnicity. These findings suggest that diabetes surveillance in adolescents should be tailored to optimize identification among high-risk subgroups.

Characteristics of Type 2 Diabetes in Female and Male Youth

The incidence of type 2 diabetes in children is rising and carries a worse prognosis than in adults. The influence of sex on pediatric type 2 diabetes outcomes has not been well investigated. We studied 715 youth with type 2 diabetes diagnosed at a median age of 13.7 years and compared sex differences in demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics within the first year of diagnosis. Females diagnosed with type 2 diabetes were younger and at a higher stage of pubertal development than males, yet presented with lower A1Cs, a lower prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis, and higher HDL cholesterol levels.

Epidemiology of Type 1 Diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Epidemiological research on type 1 diabetes (T1D) has traditionally focussed on the paediatric age group, but recent data in adults has confirmed it to be a disease of all ages with a wide clinical spectrum. We review the epidemiology and clinical features of T1D across the lifespan.

RECENT FINDINGS

While the peak incidence of T1D is still in early adolescence, T1D is now diagnosed more commonly in adulthood than childhood due to increasing recognition of adult-onset T1D and the length of the adult lifespan. It still follows the known geographic variations in incidence, being highest in Northern Europe and lowest in Asia. The onset of T1D in adulthood is usually less acute than in childhood and confers a lower, although still substantial, risk of complications and early mortality. Interventions to delay T1D onset are emerging and screening for those at risk at birth is increasingly available. Type 1 diabetes can develop at any age and may not present with ketosis or an immediate insulin requirement in adults. Macro- and microvascular complications are the greatest cause of excess morbidity and mortality in this population.

Neighborhood Conditions and Type 2 Diabetes Risk among Latino Adolescents with Obesity in Phoenix

Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) has reached epidemic levels among the pediatric population. Furthermore, disparities in T2D among youth are distributed in a manner that reflects the social inequality between population sub-groups. Here, we investigated the neighborhood determinants of T2D risk among a sample of Latino adolescents with obesity residing in Phoenix, Arizona (n = 133). In doing so we linked together four separate contextual data sources: the American Community Survey, the United States Department of Agriculture Food Access Research Atlas, the Arizona Healthy Community Map, and the National Neighborhood Data Archive to systematically analyze how and which neighborhood characteristics were associated with T2D risk factors as measured by fasting and 2-h glucose following a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test. Using linear regression models with and without individual/household covariates, we investigated how twenty-two housing and transportation sociodemographic and built and food environment characteristics were independently and jointly associated with T2D risk. The main finding from these analyses was the strong association between the density of fast food restaurants and 2-h glucose values (b = 2.42, p < 0.01). This association was independent of individual, household, and other neighborhood characteristics. Our results contribute to an increasingly robust literature demonstrating the deleterious influence of the neighborhood food environment, especially fast food, for T2D risk among Latino youth.

Utility of Diabetes Type-Specific Genetic Risk Scores for the Classification of Diabetes Type Among Multiethnic Youth

OBJECTIVE

Genetic risk scores (GRS) aid classification of diabetes type in White European adult populations. We aimed to assess the utility of GRS in the classification of diabetes type among racially/ethnically diverse youth in the U.S.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We generated type 1 diabetes (T1D)- and type 2 diabetes (T2D)-specific GRS in 2,045 individuals from the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth study. We assessed the distribution of genetic risk stratified by diabetes autoantibody positive or negative (DAA+/-) and insulin sensitivity (IS) or insulin resistance (IR) and self-reported race/ethnicity (White, Black, Hispanic, and other).

RESULTS

T1D and T2D GRS were strong independent predictors of etiologic type. The T1D GRS was highest in the DAA+/IS group and lowest in the DAA-/IR group, with the inverse relationship observed with the T2D GRS. Discrimination was similar across all racial/ethnic groups but showed differences in score distribution. Clustering by combined genetic risk showed DAA+/IR and DAA-/IS individuals had a greater probability of T1D than T2D. In DAA- individuals, genetic probability of T1D identified individuals most likely to progress to absolute insulin deficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes type-specific GRS are consistent predictors of diabetes type across racial/ethnic groups in a U.S. youth cohort, but future work needs to account for differences in GRS distribution by ancestry. T1D and T2D GRS may have particular utility for classification of DAA- children.

Cost-Utility Analysis of Once-Weekly Semaglutide, Dulaglutide, and Exenatide for Type 2 Diabetes Patients Receiving Metformin-Based Background Therapy in China

Introduction: The substantial financial burden associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) over a lifetime cannot be neglected. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the pharmacoeconomic value of three once-weekly GLP-1 RAs, namely subcutaneous semaglutide (sc. SEMA), dulaglutide (DULA), and extended-release exenatide (e-r EXEN), in treating patients with T2D that cannot be controlled with metformin-based background therapy, and to find a suitable price reduction for non-cost-effective medications, to provide reasonable recommendations to the administration for adjusting drug prices.

Methods: The baseline characteristics of the simulation patient cohort were sourced from a comprehensive meta-analysis synthesizing 453 trials evaluating 21 hypoglycemic agents from nine categories of drugs. The UKPDS OM2 was applied to project the long-term effectiveness and costs from a Chinese health care provider’s perspective. After cost-utility analysis, the reasonable price adjustment of non-cost-effective options was explored via binary search. Uncertainty was measured by means of sensitivity analysis.

Results: After a 40-year simulation, the sc. SEMA, DULA, and e-r EXEN groups yielded 9.6315, 9.5968, and 9.5895 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), respectively. In terms of expenditure, the total costs for the sc. SEMA, DULA, and e-r EXEN groups were $42012.47, $24931.27, and $40264.80, respectively. DULA was dominant over e-r EXEN due to the higher QALYs and lower total costs. The ICURs of sc. SEMA vs. DULA and sc. SEMA vs. e-r EXEN were $492994.72/QALY and $41622.69/QALY (ICUR > λ), respectively, indicating that sc. SEMA was not more cost-effective than DULA or e-r EXEN. The INMB and absolute NMB yielded the same conclusions which were robust to one-way, scenario, and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. After several assumptions in the binary search, sc. SEMA and e-r EXEN appear to become cost-effective when their annual costs are decreased by 57.67% and 70.34%, respectively, with DULA as a counterpart.

Conclusion: From the cost-utility analysis, DULA appears to be the most cost-effective option among sc. SEMA, DULA, and e-r EXEN for the treatment of patients with T2D receiving metformin-based background therapy. With a 57.67% or 70.34% reduction in cost, sc. SEMA or e-r EXEN, respectively, would become as cost-effective as DULA in China.

Cost and healthcare utilization analysis of culturally sensitive, shared medical appointment model for Latino children with type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated costs and healthcare utilization associated with a culturally-sensitive, medical and education program for pediatric Latino patients with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Program participants included Latino children ages 1-20 years old diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (n = 57). Control subjects with type 1 diabetes were matched by age, sex, and zip code to intervention participants from the Colorado All Payer Claims Database. Data included emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations, demographic information, and health insurance claims data 180 days prior to program start/index date through 1 year after program start/index date. We tracked program staff time and estimated costs for healthcare utilization using data from the scientific literature. Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) models with logit link were used to estimate group differences in probabilities of ED visits and hospitalizations over 6-month periods pre/post-study, accounting for correlation of within-subject data across time points. Sensitivity analyses modeled longer-term cost differences under different assumptions.

RESULTS

The intervention group had fewer hospitalizations, 2% versus 12% of controls (p = 0.047,OR = 0.13;95%CI: 0.02-0.97) for 6 months following start date. The intervention group had fewer ED visits, 19% versus 32% in controls (n.s.; p = 0.079,OR = 0.52;95%CI:0.25-1.08) and significantly fewer hospitalizations, 4% versus 15% of controls (p = 0.039,OR = 0.21;95%CI: 0.05-0.93) 6-12 months post-start date. One-year per-patient program costs of $633 and healthcare cost savings of $2710 yielded total per-patient savings of $2077, or a 5-year cost savings of $14,106.

CONCLUSION

This unique type 1 diabetes management program altered health service utilization of program participants, reducing major healthcare cost drivers, ED visits, and hospitalizations.

Twenty years of pediatric diabetes surveillance: what do we know and why it matters

SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth (SEARCH) was initiated in 2000 as a multicenter study to address major gaps in the understanding of childhood diabetes in the United States. An active registry of youth diagnosed with diabetes at age <20 years since 2002 assessed prevalence, annual incidence, and trends by age, race/ethnicity, sex, and diabetes type. An observational cohort nested within the population-based registry was established to assess the natural history and risk factors for acute and chronic diabetes-related complications, as well as the quality of care and quality of life of children and adolescents with diabetes from diagnosis into young adulthood. SEARCH findings have contributed to a better understanding of the complex and heterogeneous nature of youth-onset diabetes. Continued surveillance of the burden and risk of type 1 and type 2 diabetes is important to track and monitor incidence and prevalence within the population. SEARCH reported evidence of early diabetes complications highlighting that continuing the long-term follow-up of youth with diabetes is necessary to further our understanding of its natural history and to develop the most appropriate approaches to primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of diabetes and its complications. This review summarizes two decades of research and suggests avenues for further work.

Prevalence of Hypertension and Albuminuria in Pediatric Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Importance

Hypertension and albuminuria are markers of diabetes-related nephropathy and important factors associated with kidney outcomes in pediatric type 2 diabetes. However, their prevalence in these patients is unknown.

Objective

To measure the prevalence of hypertension and albuminuria in pediatric patients with type 2 diabetes and to evaluate the association of sex and race/ethnicity with these conditions.

Data Sources

MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, the gray literature, and references of the screened articles were searched for human studies from date of database inception to February 20, 2020.

Study Selection

Observational studies with at least 10 participants reporting the prevalence of hypertension and/or albuminuria in pediatric patients with type 2 diabetes were included. Three teams of 2 independent reviewers screened 7614 papers, of which 60 fulfilled the eligibility criteria.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Three teams of 2 independent reviewers performed data extraction, risk of bias analysis, and level of evidence analyses. The meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model and followed the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes included the pooled prevalence rates (percentages with 95% CI) for hypertension and albuminuria. The secondary outcomes assessed pooled prevalence rates by sex and racial/ethnic group.

Results

Sixty studies were included in the systematic review. Diabetes duration varied from inclusion at diagnosis to 15.0 years after diagnosis, and the reported mean age at diagnosis ranged from 6.5 to 21.0 years. Hypertension prevalence among 3463 participants was 25.33% (95% CI, 19.57%-31.53%). Male participants had higher hypertension risk than female participants (odds ratio [OR], 1.42 [95% CI, 1.10-1.83]), with Pacific Islander and Indigenous youth having the highest prevalence of all racial/ethnic groups (Pacific Islander youth: 26.71% [95% CI, 14.54%-40.72%]; Indigenous youth: 26.48% [95% CI, 17.34%-36.74%]; White youth: 20.95% [95% CI, 12.65%-30.57%]; African American youth: 19.04% [95% CI, 12.01%-27.23%]; Hispanic/Latino youth: 15.11% [95% CI, 6.56%-26.30%]; Asian youth: 18.37% [95% CI, 9.49%-29.23%]). Albuminuria prevalence among 2250 participants was 22.17% (95% CI, 17.34%-27.38%). Pacific Islander youth, Indigenous youth, and Asian youth had higher prevalence rates than White youth (Pacific Islander youth: 31.84% [95% CI, 11.90%-55.47%]; Indigenous youth: 24.27% [95% CI, 14.39%-35.73%]; Asian youth: 23.00% [95% CI, 18.85%-27.41%]; White youth: 12.59% [95% CI, 7.75%-18.33%]), with no sex differences (OR for male vs female participants, 0.68 [95% CI, 0.46-1.01]). Heterogeneity was high among studies, with a low to moderate risk of bias.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, markers of diabetes-related nephropathy were commonly detected in pediatric patients with type 2 diabetes, with a disproportionate burden noted among Pacific Islander and Indigenous youth. Personalized management strategies to target kidney outcomes are urgently needed in pediatric patients with type 2 diabetes to alleviate the burden of this condition on the kidneys.

Concordance and Discordance in the Geographic Distribution of Childhood Obesity and Pediatric Type 2 Diabetes in New York City

OBJECTIVE

As rates of childhood obesity and pediatric type 2 diabetes (T2D) increase, a better understanding is needed of how these 2 conditions relate and which subgroups of children are more likely to develop diabetes with and without obesity.

METHODS

To compare hotspots of childhood obesity and pediatric T2D in New York City, we performed geospatial clustering analyses on obesity estimates obtained from surveys of school-aged children and diabetes estimates obtained from health care claims data, from 2009 to 2013. Analyses were performed at the Census tract level. We then used multivariable regression analysis to identify sociodemographic and environmental factors associated with these hotspots.

RESULTS

We identified obesity hotspots in Census tracts with a higher proportion of Black or Hispanic residents, with low median household income, or located in a food swamp. Total 51.1% of pediatric T2D hotspots overlapped with obesity hotspots. For pediatric T2D, hotspots were identified in Census tracts with a higher proportion of Black residents and a lower proportion of Hispanic residents.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-Hispanic Black neighborhoods had a higher probability of being hotspots of both childhood obesity and pediatric T2D. However, we identified a discordance between hotspots of childhood obesity and pediatric diabetes in Hispanic neighborhoods, suggesting either under-detection or under-diagnosis of diabetes, or that obesity may influence diabetes risk differently in these 2 populations. These findings warrant further investigation of the relationship between childhood obesity and pediatric diabetes among different racial and ethnic groups, and may help guide pediatric public health interventions to specific neighborhoods.

Young-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus - implications for morbidity and mortality

Accumulating data suggest that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in younger people (aged <40 years), referred to as young-onset T2DM, has a more rapid deterioration of β-cell function than is seen in later-onset T2DM. Furthermore, individuals with young-onset T2DM seem to have a higher risk of complications than those with type 1 diabetes mellitus. As the number of younger adults with T2DM increases, young-onset T2DM is predicted to become a more frequent feature of the broader diabetes mellitus population in both developing and developed nations, particularly in certain ethnicities. However, the magnitude of excess risk of premature death and incident complications remains incompletely understood; likewise, the potential reasons for this excess risk are unclear. Here, we review the evidence pertaining to young-onset T2DM and its current and future burden of disease in terms of incidence and prevalence in both developed and developing nations. In addition, we highlight the associations of young-onset T2DM with premature mortality and morbidity.

Racial Ethnic Disparities in Youth With Type 1 Diabetes Participating in Diabetes Summer Camps

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes camps are beneficial for campers and include benefits such as increases in diabetes knowledge, glycemic control, and psychological functioning. Racial/ethnic minority youth are likely to have poorer disease management and glycemic control. We hypothesized that minority youth with type 1 diabetes have reduced participation in diabetes summer camps.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed deidentified data from 5,256 campers with type 1 diabetes who participated in a network of 48 American Diabetes Association-affiliated summer camps in 2018, and we compared participation rates by racial/ethnic category to the most recent SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth study prevalence rates.

RESULTS

Camper demographics were significantly different than in the general population of children with type 1 diabetes (P < 0.001). Minority youth were more likely to attend day camp, be first-time campers, and request financial aid, and they were less likely to be on insulin pump therapy or use continuous glucose monitors.

CONCLUSIONS

Racial/ethnic minority youth with diabetes are underrepresented in diabetes camps nationwide.

Association between 90o push-up and cardiorespiratory fitness: cross-sectional evidence of push-up as a tractable tool for physical fitness surveillance in youth

BACKGROUND

Despite being associated with health outcomes like abdominal adiposity, depression, anxiety, and cardiovascular disease risk among youth, largely, clinicians still do not adopt physical fitness testing. A clarion call for increased surveillance was previously issued, in order to address the US population-level lack of knowledge regarding pervasive inactivity among children. Because schools often do not send home annual physical fitness testing results, many lay parents are unaware of their child's physical fitness or the risk of associated adverse health outcomes. This study investigated associations between musculoskeletal fitness measures (including 90^o push-up), cardiorespiratory fitness, and weight status.

METHODS

Two hundred and ten students (9.7 ± 1.08 years, 138.6 ± 9.4 cm; 42.3 ± 14.4 kg) across third through fifth grades were tested for cardiorespiratory (i.e., Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER)) and musculoskeletal (90^o push-up, trunk lift, sit-and-reach and curl-up) fitness. The relationships between measures of musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory fitness were modeled using a series of linear regression analyses. Models were adjusted for age, sex, and weight status. Significant two-tailed tests were set at p < .05.

RESULTS

Of the four musculoskeletal fitness measures, only 90^o push-up was significantly associated (β = .353; p < .001) with PACER test scores (i.e., cardiorespiratory fitness). The related model (R² = .324; F (4,205) = 26.061; p < .001) accounted for 32% of the variance in cardiorespiratory fitness. 90^o push-up was associated with sit-and reach (β = .298; p < .001) and curl up (β = .413; p < = .001) test scores. When individually modeled, 90^o push-up (β = -.461; p < .001) and PACER (β = -.436; p < .001) were inversely associated with weight status.

CONCLUSIONS

The 90^o push-up test (a measure of upper body muscle strength and endurance) was associated with cardiorespiratory fitness, anterior trunk muscle strength and endurance, and lower back and posterior thigh muscle flexibility in youth aged 8-12 years old. Although the current findings do not establish a causal relationship, it is concluded that the 90^o push-up test is a tractable tool for physical fitness surveillance by clinicians, parents, and possibly youth themselves.

Racial/ethnic differences in the burden of type 2 diabetes over the life course: a focus on the USA and India

Type 2 diabetes is a common disease worldwide, but its prevalence varies widely by geographical region and by race/ethnicity. This review summarises differences in the frequencies of type 2 diabetes according to race, ethnicity, socioeconomic position, area of residence and environmental toxins. Type 2 diabetes susceptibility often begins early in life, starting with genetic susceptibility at conception and continuing in later life, via in utero, childhood and adult exposures. Early-life factors may lead to overt type 2 diabetes in childhood or in later life, supporting the concept of developmental origins of health and disease. The causes of the racial/ethnic differences in incidence of type 2 diabetes are not well understood. Specifically, the relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors to such differences are largely unknown. With a few exceptions in isolated populations, there is little evidence that differences in frequencies of known type 2 diabetes susceptibility genetic alleles account for racial/ethnic differences, although the search for genetic susceptibility has not been uniform among the world's racial/ethnic groups. In the USA, race/ethnicity is associated with many other risk factors for type 2 diabetes, including being overweight/obese, diet and socioeconomic status. Some studies suggest that some of these factors may account for the race/ethnic differences in prevalence of type 2 diabetes, although there is inadequate research in this area. A better understanding of the impact of these factors on type 2 diabetes risk should lead to more effective prevention and treatment of this disease. This has not yet been achieved but should be a goal for future research.

Prevalence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes among US pediatric population in the MarketScan Multi-State Database, 2002 to 2016

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the prevalence of type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among U.S. Medicaid pediatric population aged <18 years 2002 to 2016 by age, sex, and race/ethnicity.

METHODS

Participants aged <18 years old from 2002 to 2016 were identified from the MarketScan Multi-State Medicaid Database. Diabetes was defined as having (a) ≥1 claims for an outpatient or inpatient diabetes diagnosis and ≥2 prescriptions for any anti-diabetes medications or (b) records of ≥2 claims for an outpatient or inpatient diabetes diagnosis that were at least 30 days apart. Annual prevalence of diabetes and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Age-, sex-, and race-stratified prevalence were also assessed.

RESULTS

The annual prevalence of T1DM increased from 1.29 to 2.34/1000 pediatric persons from 2002 to 2016. The prevalence of T2DM rose from 0.70 in 2002 to 2.76/1000 in 2011, but then dropped to 2.12/1000 pediatric persons in 2016 in the Medicaid population. Prevalence of both T1DM and T2DM increased with age. While the prevalence of T1DM was similar in both sexes, and was most prevalent in Whites, prevalence of T2DM was higher in girls and was most prevalent in Blacks.

CONCLUSIONS

While the annual prevalence of T1DM in pediatric persons enrolled in Medicaid increased continuously from 2002 to 2016, the annual prevalence of T2DM increased from 2002 to 2011, with a subsequent decrease in 2016, possibly because of the increase of relatively healthier participants with the expanded eligibility through the ACA between 2011 and 2016.

Racial and ethnic differences in cardiovascular disease and outcome in type 1 diabetes patients

INTRODUCTION

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) has increased dramatically over the last two decades with global variation greater than 350-fold difference reflecting the ethnic, racial, and geographical variation. Diabetic patients remain at a higher risk of cardiovascular mortality than those without diabetes. Therefore, it is vital for clinicians to have in-depth knowledge of T1DM statistics and their impact on people health and health resources.

AREAS COVERED

This review will cover the epidemiologic characteristics of T1DM and the influence of race, ethnicity, and geographical variation on the incidence and the outcome. The minority populations health disparities in the clinical presentation and outcomes among youth with T1DM, the long-term glycemic control patterns in racially and ethnically diverse youth, and the long-term influence of these factors on cardiovascular outcomes will be elucidated. The PubMed database was searched using the terms: T1DM ± incidence, Race, ethnicity, and Genetic.

EXPERT OPINION

Understanding the epidemiological characteristics of T1DM including race, ethnicity and the genetic predisposition will help to develop guidelines target these higher risk patients of an unfavorable outcome. Further research and interventional strategies to identify infants at genetic risk of T1DM may help to prevent, stop or retard the destructive autoimmune process leading to T1DM.

Novel, culturally sensitive, shared medical appointment model for Hispanic pediatric type 1 diabetes patients

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Latino patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) face cultural and language barriers leading to poor outcomes. Shared medical appointments (SMAs) are recognized as effective models of care. Our aim is to develop a culturally sensitive, cost effective SMA program for Latino T1D.

SUBJECTS

Spanish speaking Latinos 1 to 20 years with T1D (n = 88) and their families.

METHODS

Routine care alternating with SMAs that included group education was provided. Teens, ages >11 received the SMA separate from parents. Younger children were seen together. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), behavioral questionnaires, and use of diabetes technology were measured at baseline and every 3 to 6 months.

RESULTS

57.7% of children and 77.27% of teens completed the 2 years of the Program. There was a significant association between age and change in HbA1c from baseline to year 1 (P = .001) and baseline to year 2 (P = <.0001). For participants <12 years, there was a significant improvement in HbA1c from baseline to year 1 (P = .0146) and from year 1 to year 2 (P = .0069). Participants ≥12 years, had an increase in HbA1c from year 1 to year 2 (P = .0082). Technology use increased significantly from baseline to year 2 for participants <12 years of age (19%-60%, P = .0455) and for participants who were ≥12 years of age (10%-23%, P = .0027). Participants reported a 98% satisfaction rate.

CONCLUSIONS

The culturally sensitive SMA proved to be an appreciated, feasible, and effective alternative to care for Latinos with T1D.

Design and patient characteristics of the randomized controlled trial TExT-MED + FANS A test of mHealth augmented social support added to a patient-focused text-messaging intervention for emergency department patients with poorly controlled diabetes

Although diabetes is a nationwide epidemic, US Latinos are a particularly vulnerable population. Culturally appropriate interventions can combat this disparity, especially those that increase social support. However, these interventions face significant cost and time barriers, which mHealth (mobile health) may overcome. This trial examines the benefit of adding social support to an existing text-message based, patient-focused mHealth intervention for emergency department patients with poorly controlled diabetes. Family members and friends of patients were randomized to mHealth augmented social support training (daily text-messages that synchronize with the patient messages) or a pamphlet based training (the same content mailed to their house.) We hypothesize that patients who received mHealth augmented social support will have a larger improvement in diabetes management (glycosylated hemoglobin or A1C) than those receiving standard support at six-months, and that improvement will be sustained at twelve-months. Secondary patient outcomes are clinical (weight, blood pressure), behavioral (medication adherence, self-care activities) and psychosocial (general and diabetes-specific social support, self-efficacy, diabetes-related distress, depression, fatalism and quality of life). We screened 2004 patients and enrolled 166 patient/supporter dyads. 70% of patients are Spanish-speaking, 51% female, with a mean A1C of 10.8. We employed innovative measures to remotely enroll family members and support a bilingual population, which will assist other investigators in design of similar trials. The findings of our trial will have real-world applicability for clinicians, health system administrators, health educators and mHealth developers who aim to improve the health of this vulnerable population.

Effects of a Community-Based Diabetes Prevention Program for Latino Youth with Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the short- and long-term effects of a community-based lifestyle intervention among Latino youth with obesity.

METHODS

Latino adolescents (14-16 years old) were randomized to a 3-month lifestyle intervention (n = 67) or comparison control (n = 69) and followed for 12 months. The intervention included weekly nutrition and health classes delivered to groups of families and exercise sessions (3 days/week) delivered to groups of adolescents. Comparison youth received laboratory results and general health information. Primary outcomes included insulin sensitivity and weight-specific quality of life (QoL) with secondary outcomes of BMI percentile (BMI%), waist circumference, and percent body fat.

RESULTS

At 3 months, youth in the intervention group exhibited significant increases in insulin sensitivity (P < 0.05) and weight-specific QoL (P < 0.001), as well as reductions in BMI%, waist circumference, and percent body fat compared with controls. Increases in weight-specific QoL and reductions in BMI% and percent body fat remained significant at 12 months (P < 0.001), while changes in insulin sensitivity did not. In a subsample of youth with prediabetes at baseline, insulin sensitivity (P = 0.01), weight-specific QoL (P < 0.001), and BMI% (P < 0.001) significantly improved at 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Lifestyle intervention can improve cardiometabolic and psychosocial health in a vulnerable population of Latino adolescents at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

Health Care Utilization and Burden of Diabetic Ketoacidosis in the U.S. Over the Past Decade: A Nationwide Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the U.S. Although our ability to treat diabetes and its associated complications has significantly improved, presentation with uncontrolled diabetes leading to ketoacidosis remains a significant problem.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We aimed to determine the incidence and costs of hospital admissions associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). We reviewed the National Inpatient Sample database for all hospitalizations in which DKA (ICD-9 codes 250.10, 250.11, 250.12, and 250.13) was the principal discharge diagnosis during 2003-2014 and calculated the population incidence by using U.S. census data. Patients with ICD-9 codes for diabetic coma were excluded because the codes do not distinguish between hypoglycemic and DKA-related coma. We then analyzed changes in temporal trends of incidence, length of stay, costs, and in-hospital mortality by using the Cochrane-Armitage test.

RESULTS

There were 1,760,101 primary admissions for DKA during the study period. In-hospital mortality for the cohort was 0.4% (n = 7,031). The total number of hospital discharges with the principal diagnosis of DKA increased from 118,808 in 2003 to 188,965 in 2014 (P < 0.0001). The length of stay significantly decreased from an average of 3.64 days in 2003 to 3.24 days in 2014 (P < 0.01). During this period, the mean hospital charges increased significantly from $18,987 (after adjusting for inflation) per admission in 2003 to $26,566 per admission in 2014. The resulting aggregate charges (i.e., national bill) for diabetes with ketoacidosis increased dramatically from $2.2 billion (after adjusting for inflation) in 2003 to $ 5.1 billion in 2014 (P < 0.001). However, there was a significant reduction in mortality from 611 (0.51%) in 2003 to 620 (0.3%) in 2014 (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis shows that the population incidence for DKA hospitalizations in the U.S. continues to increase, but the mortality from this condition has significantly decreased, indicating advances in early diagnosis and better inpatient care. Despite decreases in the length of stay, the costs of hospitalizations have increased significantly, indicating opportunities for value-based care intervention in this vulnerable population.

Considering Culture: A Review of Pediatric Behavioral Intervention Research in Type 1 Diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) incidence in youth is growing across all racial/ethnic backgrounds, with the most marked increase in African-American youth under 5. Underrepresented racial/ethnic minorities are at an increased risk for health complications. This review focuses on the reported disparities, demographics of samples in behavioral interventions, and study design considerations.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recruitment data from two ongoing behavioral intervention trials for young children with T1D are presented to compare enrolled/non-enrolled individuals and to discuss culturally appropriate study design considerations. Data were compared to the demographics of children (ages 1-6) with T1D in the clinic populations from the recruitment sites. Enrolling a representative sample and designing culturally appropriate behavioral interventions are important for generalizability, yet there is a gap between the individuals participating in T1D research and those who are most negatively affected by T1D. Suggestions are offered for ways to expand inclusion of diverse samples in behavioral intervention research in T1D.

Cultural understanding, experiences, barriers, and facilitators of healthcare providers when providing preconception counseling to adolescent Latinas with diabetes

Background

Latinas are at a higher risk than Caucasians for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes (DM), as well as DM-associated reproductive health (RH) complications. Healthcare providers (HCPs) should deliver culturally-sensitive care to enhance the care relationship between Latinos and HCPs and to improve patient outcomes. This study explored an expert panel's cultural understanding, experiences, barriers, and facilitators regarding RH and preconception counseling (PC) for adolescent Latinas with DM and their families.

Methods

This study used open-ended questions with a focus group of 8 HCPs from the mid-Atlantic, Southwest, and Northwest regions of the United States in a teleconference format. Two researchers transcribed and reviewed the transcript for accuracy. Using content analysis, four members of the team identified themes. All researchers discussed themes and a 100% consensus was reached. For confirmation, a coding protocol was created based on the emerging themes.

Results

Five themes related to cultural understanding and experiences were identified: 1) issues of identity; 2) acculturation; 3) stigma; 4) ambivalence toward birth control, RH education, and PC; and 5) cultural sensitivity vs. best practice. Four barriers were identified: 1) language; 2) religion; 3) access to healthcare, and 4) discomfort with discussion. Ten facilitators were identified: 1) the importance of support and support networks; 2) promoting trust among HCPs, daughters, and families; 3) assessing emotional development; 4) empowerment; 5) emphasizing safety; 6) communicating in patients' preferred language; 7) discussing RH-related topics and PC using cultural sensitivity; 8) importance of being ready/temporality/planning for the future; 9) the importance of family-centered care; and 10) variation in educational tailoring and dissemination/ care delivery.

Conclusions

Findings support the need for culturally sensitive and developmentally appropriate PC programs to empower adolescent Latinas with DM.

From Sea to Shining Sea and the Great Plains to Patagonia: A Review on Current Knowledge of Diabetes Mellitus in Hispanics/Latinos in the US and Latin America

The past two decades have witnessed many advances in the prevention, treatment, and control of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications. Increased screening has led to a greater recognition of type 2 diabetes mellitus (type 2 DM) and prediabetes; however, Hispanics/Latinos, the largest minority group in the US, have not fully benefited from these advances. The Hispanic/Latino population is highly diverse in ancestries, birth places, cultures, languages, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and it populates most of the Western Hemisphere. In the US, the prevalence of DM varies among Hispanic/Latino heritage groups, being higher among Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, and Dominicans, and lower among South Americans. The risk and prevalence of diabetes among Hispanics/Latinos are significantly higher than in non-Hispanic Whites, and nearly 40% of Hispanics/Latinos with diabetes have not been formally diagnosed. Despite these striking facts, the representation of Hispanics/Latinos in pharmacological and non-pharmacological clinical trials has been suboptimal, while the prevalence of diabetes in these populations continues to rise. This review will focus on the epidemiology, etiology and prevention of type 2 DM in populations of Latin American origin. We will set the stage by defining the terms Hispanic, Latino, and Latin American, explaining the challenges identifying Hispanics/Latinos in the scientific literature and databases, describing the epidemiology of diabetes-including type 2 DM and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)-and cardiovascular risk factors in Hispanics/Latinos in the US and Latin America, and discussing trends, and commonalities and differences across studies and populations, including methodology to ascertain diabetes. We will discuss studies on mechanisms of disease, and research on prevention of type 2 DM in Hispanics/Latinos, including women with GDM, youth and adults; and finalize with a discussion on lessons learned and opportunities to enhance research, and, consequently, clinical care oriented toward preventing type 2 DM in Hispanics/Latinos in the US and Latin America.

Racial and ethnic differences among children with new-onset autoimmune Type 1 diabetes

AIM

To compare demographic and clinical characteristics among children from ethnic minorities and non-Hispanic white children with new-onset autoimmune Type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

We analysed a single-centre series of 712 children with new-onset autoimmune Type 1 diabetes between January 2008 and March 2011. The median (range) age was 9.7 (0.3-18.1) years, the mean (sd) BMI percentile was 69.7 (25.4) and 48.3% of the cohort were girls. The cohort comprised 57.3% non-Hispanic white, 20.5% Hispanic and 14.8% African-American children, and 7.4% were of other, mixed or unknown race.

RESULTS

The Hispanic subgroup, compared with non-Hispanic white subgroup, had a higher mean (sd) C-peptide level [0.82 (1.62) vs 0.55 (0.47) ng/ml; P=0.004), and a greater proportion of children with elevated BMI (overweight or obesity; 49.6% vs 32.5%; P<0.001) and diabetic ketoacidosis (51.8% vs 38.2%; P=0.006). The African-American group had a higher mean (sd) glucose level [24.4 (12.8) vs 21.4 (10.7) mmol/l; P=0.017], a greater proportion of children with ketoacidosis (56.7% vs 38.2%; P=0.001), a greater proportion with elevated BMI (52.9% vs 32.5%; P<0.001), and a lower proportion of children at pre-pubertal stage (49.0% vs 61.6%; P=0.01), and tended to have higher C-peptide levels [0.65 (0.59) vs 0.55 [0.47] ng/ml; P=0.079) compared with the non-Hispanic white children. The differences in C-peptide levels compared with non-Hispanic white children persisted for Hispanic (P=0.01) but not African-American children (P=0.29) after adjustment for age, sex, BMI, ketoacidosis, glucose, Tanner stage and autoantibody number.

CONCLUSION

At the onset of paediatric autoimmune Type 1 diabetes, Hispanic, but not African-American children had higher C-peptide levels, after adjustment for potential confounders, compared with non-Hispanic white children. These findings suggest that ethnicity may contribute to the heterogeneity of Type 1 diabetes pathogenesis, with possible implications for intervention.

A Comprehensive Survey of the Roles of Highly Disordered Proteins in Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic and progressive disease that is strongly associated with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) related to either insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production. Among the various molecular events and players implicated in the manifestation and development of diabetes mellitus, proteins play several important roles. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database has information on 34 human proteins experimentally shown to be related to the T2DM pathogenesis. It is known that many proteins associated with different human maladies are intrinsically disordered as a whole, or contain intrinsically disordered regions. The presented study shows that T2DM is not an exception to this rule, and many proteins known to be associated with pathogenesis of this malady are intrinsically disordered. The multiparametric bioinformatics analysis utilizing several computational tools for the intrinsic disorder characterization revealed that IRS1, IRS2, IRS4, MAFA, PDX1, ADIPO, PIK3R2, PIK3R5, SoCS1, and SoCS3 are expected to be highly disordered, whereas VDCC, SoCS2, SoCS4, JNK9, PRKCZ, PRKCE, insulin, GCK, JNK8, JNK10, PYK, INSR, TNF-α, MAPK3, and Kir6.2 are classified as moderately disordered proteins, and GLUT2, GLUT4, mTOR, SUR1, MAPK1, IKKA, PRKCD, PIK3CB, and PIK3CA are predicted as mostly ordered. More focused computational analyses and intensive literature mining were conducted for a set of highly disordered proteins related to T2DM. The resulting work represents a comprehensive survey describing the major biological functions of these proteins and functional roles of their intrinsically disordered regions, which are frequently engaged in protein–protein interactions, and contain sites of various posttranslational modifications (PTMs). It is also shown that intrinsic disorder-associated PTMs may play important roles in controlling the functions of these proteins. Consideration of the T2DM proteins from the perspective of intrinsic disorder provides useful information that can potentially lead to future experimental studies that may uncover latent and novel pathways associated with the disease.

Preventing diabetes in obese Latino youth with prediabetes: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background

Obese Latino adolescents are disproportionately impacted by insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes is an intermediate stage in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and represents a critical opportunity for intervention. However, to date, no diabetes prevention studies have been conducted in obese Latino youth with prediabetes, a highly vulnerable and underserved group. Therefore, we propose a randomized-controlled trial to test the short-term (6-month) and long-term (12-month) efficacy of a culturally-grounded, lifestyle intervention, as compared to usual care, for improving glucose tolerance and reducing diabetes risk in 120 obese Latino adolescents with prediabetes.

Methods

Participants will be randomized to a lifestyle intervention or usual care group. Participants in the intervention group will attend weekly nutrition and wellness sessions and physical activity sessions twice a week for six months, followed by three months of booster sessions. The overall approach of the intervention is framed within a multilevel Ecodevelopmental model that leverages community, family, peer, and individual factors during the critical transition period of adolescence. The intervention is also guided by Social Cognitive Theory and employs key behavioral modification strategies to enhance self-efficacy and foster social support for making and sustaining healthy behavior changes. We will test intervention effects on quality of life, explore the potential mediating effects of changes in body composition, total, regional, and organ fat on improving glucose tolerance and increasing insulin sensitivity, and estimate the initial incremental cost effectiveness of the intervention as compared with usual care for improving glucose tolerance.

Discussion

The proposed trial builds upon extant collaborations of a transdisciplinary team of investigators working in concert with local community agencies to address critical gaps in how diabetes prevention interventions for obese Latino youth are developed, implemented and evaluated. This innovative approach is an essential step in the development of scalable, cost-effective, solution oriented programs to prevent type 2 diabetes in this and other populations of high-risk youth.

Trial Registration

NCT02615353, registered on June 8, 2016.

Preventing diabetes in obese Latino youth with prediabetes: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Obese Latino adolescents are disproportionately impacted by insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes is an intermediate stage in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and represents a critical opportunity for intervention. However, to date, no diabetes prevention studies have been conducted in obese Latino youth with prediabetes, a highly vulnerable and underserved group. Therefore, we propose a randomized-controlled trial to test the short-term (6-month) and long-term (12-month) efficacy of a culturally-grounded, lifestyle intervention, as compared to usual care, for improving glucose tolerance and reducing diabetes risk in 120 obese Latino adolescents with prediabetes.

METHODS

Participants will be randomized to a lifestyle intervention or usual care group. Participants in the intervention group will attend weekly nutrition and wellness sessions and physical activity sessions twice a week for six months, followed by three months of booster sessions. The overall approach of the intervention is framed within a multilevel Ecodevelopmental model that leverages community, family, peer, and individual factors during the critical transition period of adolescence. The intervention is also guided by Social Cognitive Theory and employs key behavioral modification strategies to enhance self-efficacy and foster social support for making and sustaining healthy behavior changes. We will test intervention effects on quality of life, explore the potential mediating effects of changes in body composition, total, regional, and organ fat on improving glucose tolerance and increasing insulin sensitivity, and estimate the initial incremental cost effectiveness of the intervention as compared with usual care for improving glucose tolerance.

DISCUSSION

The proposed trial builds upon extant collaborations of a transdisciplinary team of investigators working in concert with local community agencies to address critical gaps in how diabetes prevention interventions for obese Latino youth are developed, implemented and evaluated. This innovative approach is an essential step in the development of scalable, cost-effective, solution oriented programs to prevent type 2 diabetes in this and other populations of high-risk youth.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02615353, registered on June 8, 2016.

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.

Beta-cell function and insulin resistance among Peruvian adolescents with type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

To characterize and compare the beta-cell function and insulin resistance among Peruvian adolescents with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and their non-diabetic, overweight and lean peers.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study of 54 adolescents aged 10-19 years, distributed in three sex- and age-matched groups (n = 18): (i) adolescents with T2D; (ii) overweight adolescents without T2D; and (iii) lean adolescents without T2D, at the Diabetes, Obesity and Nutrition Research Center in Lima, Peru. Fasting glucose, insulin, C-peptide, and glycated hemoglobin were measured for all participants. In addition, a two-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT, 1.75 mg of glucose/kg body weight) was performed, during which glucose and C-peptide were quantified. The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and beta-cell function (HOMA-B) were derived for all participants, and beta-cell function was further examined by the area under the curve (AUC) of C-peptide.

RESULTS

The median HOMA-IR score was higher in adolescents with T2D compared to lean adolescents (6.1 vs. 2.1; p = 0.002), but was not different from that of overweight adolescents (6.1 vs. 4.0; p = 0.322). The median HOMA-B was higher in overweight adolescents than in lean adolescents (256.9 vs. 134.2; p = 0.015), and adolescents with T2D (256.9 vs. 119.8; p = 0.011). The mean AUC of glucose in adolescents with T2D was 1.8-fold higher than that of overweight adolescents, and 1.9-fold higher than that of lean adolescents (p < 0.001). Although the median AUC of C-peptide in adolescents with T2D was lower than that of overweight and lean adolescents, this difference was not statistically significant (230.7 vs. 336.6 vs. 267.3 nmol/l120 min, respectively; p = 0.215).

CONCLUSION

Among Peruvian adolescents with T2D, insulin resistance is the most prominent characteristic, rather than beta-cell dysfunction.

Psychosocial aspects of type 1 diabetes in Latino- and Asian-American youth

Latino and Asian-Americans represent the fastest growing immigrant populations in the United States. We aimed to review the current knowledge on the psychosocial factors that influence type 1 diabetes (T1D) care, education, and outcomes in Latino and Asian-American youth immigrants in the United States, as well as culturally sensitive programs to address health disparities. We conducted a narrative, conceptual review of studies on T1D in Latino and Asian-American youth and relevant studies in type 2 diabetes and adults. Approximately 50% of both Latino and Asian-American youth with T1D are in suboptimal glycemic control. Socioeconomic status, literacy, English proficiency, acculturation, access to health care, family functioning, mental health, and nutrition influence T1D care and outcomes. However, the degree to which these complex, inter-related and dynamic factors affect long-term T1D outcomes is largely unknown. Culturally sensitive programs for Latino or Asian-American youth with T1D are scarce in the United States. Research is needed among Latino and Asian-American youth with T1D so that comprehensive, culturally sensitive diabetes education, and care programs can be developed to decrease disparities in the health burden of these groups.

Racial and Ethnic Disparities in the Incidence, Treatment, and Outcomes of Youth with Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is the third most common chronic childhood disease in the United States. As more Hispanic and non-Hispanic black children are diagnosed with T1DM, racial and ethnic disparities in the treatment and outcomes of T1DM are increasing. This article reviews the increasing incidence and prevalence of T1DM in non-Hispanic white, non-Hispanic black, and Hispanic children. In addition, the racial and ethnic disparities in diabetes treatment, such as blood glucose monitoring, insulin therapy, and continuous glucose monitoring, and outcomes, including glycemic control, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe hypoglycemia, retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and diabetes-related mortality, are highlighted.

Life With Type 1 Diabetes

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to describe the experience of Hispanic adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) from the perspectives of adolescents and their diabetes clinicians.

Methods

Nine Hispanic adolescents with T1DM and 7 clinicians at a tertiary academic medical center participated in in-depth individual semistructured interviews. Adolescents were purposively sampled to obtain a range in age and metabolic control. Based on interpretive descriptive methodology, data were coded and combined into themes, which were constructed separately for the 2 groups and then compared across groups. Data were analyzed concurrently with data collection.

Results

Adolescents and clinicians reported similar themes related to (1) cultural aspects of living with T1DM; (2) finding the balance of: food, insulin, and exercise; being “perfect at diabetes” versus being a “normal teenager”; and being independent versus needing support, and (3) ways to improve life for Hispanic adolescents with T1DM. Although there were some key cultural distinctions, Hispanic adolescents with T1DM and their clinicians described life and daily management issues as being similar to those of their non-Hispanic peers.

Conclusions

Hispanic adolescents with T1DM have unique experiences and beliefs that affect their living with T1DM, but in many respects, their experiences are similar to those of their non-Hispanic peers with T1DM. Hispanic adolescents with T1DM want their clinicians to learn about their personal lives. Preferably, clinicians and parents should speak the same language. If not possible, interpreters should be used instead of having adolescents translate during clinic appointments.

Metabolomics Study of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery (RYGB) to Treat Type 2 Diabetes Patients Based on Ultraperformance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is one of the most effective treatments for long-term weight loss and diabetes remission; however, the mechanisms underlying these changes are not clearly understood. In this study, the serum metabolic profiles of 23 remission and 12 nonremission patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were measured at baseline, 6- and 12-months after RYGB. A metabolomics analysis was performed based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Clinical improvements in insulin sensitivity, energy metabolism, and inflammation were related to metabolic alterations of free fatty acids (FFAs), acylcarnitines, amino acids, bile acids, and lipids species. Differential metabolic profiles were observed between the two T2DM subgroups, and patients with severity fat accumulation and oxidation stress may be more suitable for RYGB. Baseline levels of tryptophan, bilirubin, and indoxyl sulfate measured prior to surgery as well as levels of FFA 16:0, FFA 18:3, FFA 17:2, and hippuric acid measured at 6 months after surgery best predicted the suitability and efficacy of RYGB for patients with T2DM. These metabolites represent potential biomarkers that may be clinically helpful in individualized treatment for T2DM patients by RYGB.

Physical activity and FTO genotype by physical activity interactive influences on obesity

Background

Although the effect of the fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene on adiposity is well established, there is a lack of evidence whether physical activity (PA) modifies the effect of FTO variants on obesity in Latino populations. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine PA influences and interactive effects between FTO variants and PA on measures of adiposity in Latinos.

Results

After controlling for age and sex, participants who did not engage in regular PA exhibited higher BMI, fat mass, HC, and WC with statistical significance (P < 0.001). Although significant associations between the three FTO genotypes and adiposity measures were found, none of the FTO genotype by PA interaction assessments revealed nominally significant associations. However, several of such interactive influences exhibited considerable trend towards association.

Conclusions

These data suggest that adiposity measures are associated with PA and FTO variants in Latinos, but the impact of their interactive influences on these obesity measures appear to be minimal. Future studies with large sample sizes may help to determine whether individuals with specific FTO variants exhibit differential responses to PA interventions.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12863-016-0357-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

High prevalence of elevated haemoglobin A1C among adolescent blood donors: Results from a voluntary screening programme including 31,546 adolescents

More than 1 in 10 US adolescents have prediabetes or diabetes, and elevated glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C) in youth is associated with increased risk of death before the age of 55 years. We conducted a prospective, cross-sectional study of 31,546 consecutive volunteer blood donors, 16-19 years of age, who donated blood during school blood drives between 1 September 2011 and 21 December 2012 in Texas. In the overall cohort, the prevalence of elevated HbA1C was 11.5%, including 11.0% in the prediabetes range (HbA1C 5.7%-6.4%) and 0.5% in the diabetes range (HbA1C ⩾ 6.5%). The prevalence of elevated HbA1C was higher in boys compared with girls (15.7% vs. 7.9%, p < 0.001) and was especially high in racial/ethnic minorities (Blacks 32.7%, Asians 19.7%, Hispanics 13.1%) compared with Whites (8.0%, p < 0.001). There was a significant increase in total cholesterol and blood pressure across categories of increasing HbA1C in the overall cohort and stratified by sex and race/ethnicity. Blood donation programmes can serve as unique portals for health screening with potential for intervention in adolescents.

Racial-ethnic disparities in management and outcomes among children with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Previous research has documented racial/ethnic disparities in diabetes treatments and outcomes. It remains controversial whether these disparities result from differences in socioeconomic status (SES) or other factors. We examined racial/ethnic disparities in therapeutic modalities and diabetes outcomes among the large number of pediatric participants in the T1D Exchange Clinic Registry.

METHODS

The cohort included 10 704 participants aged <18 years with type 1 diabetes for ≥1 year (48% female; mean age: 11.9 ± 3.6 years; diabetes duration: 5.2 ± 3.5 years). Diabetes management and clinical outcomes were compared among 8841 non-Hispanic white (white) (83%), 697 non-Hispanic black (black) (7%), and 1166 Hispanic (11%) participants. The population included 214 high-income black and Hispanic families.

RESULTS

Insulin pump use was higher in white participants than in black or Hispanic participants (61% vs 26% and 39%, respectively) after adjusting for gender, age, diabetes duration, and SES (P < .001). Mean hemoglobin A1c was higher (adjusted P < .001) in black participants than in white or Hispanic participants (9.6%, 8.4%, and 8.7%). More black participants experienced diabetic ketoacidosis and severe hypoglycemic events in the previous year than white or Hispanic participants (both, P < .001). There were no significant differences in hemoglobin A1c, diabetic ketoacidosis, or severe hypoglycemia between white and Hispanic participants after adjustment for SES.

CONCLUSIONS

Even after SES adjustment, marked disparities in insulin treatment method and treatment outcomes existed between black versus Hispanic and white children within this large pediatric cohort. Barriers to insulin pump use and optimal glycemic control beyond SES should be explored in all ethnic groups.

Lifestyle therapy for the treatment of youth with type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) in youth is a relatively novel condition facing paediatric health care providers. Few experimental trials exist to guide clinical management in this population. Supporting and prescribing modifiable lifestyle behaviours is cornerstone in the management of T2D in adults. Clinical trials in obese adolescents suggest that intensive lifestyle interventions that include both dietary changes and increased physical activity elicit clinically meaningful reductions in weight and improve cardiovascular risk profiles. Observational studies in youth with T2D suggest that better diet quality and increased physical activity are associated with better metabolic control; however, the limited experimental data available does not support these observations. Trials evaluating lifestyle monotherapy for the treatment of hyperglycaemia in youth with T2D do not exist, and the only study evaluating combined lifestyle and pharmacologic therapy did not show additional benefit over pharmacologic treatment with metformin alone. Physiological and psychosocial differences between youth and adults with T2D likely contribute to the differences in the effectiveness of lifestyle therapy for improving glycaemic control. The current review describes these topics in detail and provides recommendations for paediatric health care providers for the promotion of lifestyle therapy for the management of hyperglycaemia and cardiovascular risk factors for youth with T2DM.

Common Sense Illness Beliefs of Diabetes among At-Risk Latino College Students

This study examined the validity of the Implicit Model of Illness Questionnaire (IMIQ - Schiaffino & Cea, 1995) when used with Latino college students (n = 156; 34% male, 66% female) who are at-risk for developing diabetes due to family history of this disease. An exploratory principal-axis factor analysis yielded four significant factors - curability, personal responsibility, symptom variability/seriousness, and personal attributions - which accounted for 35% of variance and reflected a psychosocial-biomedical common sense perspective of diabetes. Factor-based analyses revealed differences in diabetes illness beliefs based on students' age, generational status, acculturation orientation, and disease experience of the afflicted relative.

Male-female differences in diabetic retinopathy?

The purpose of this paper is to review male-female differences in the incidence and prevalence of diabetes and diabetic retinopathy. These differences will be established primarily through results from our present research and a review of related literature. Previously, we have demonstrated that neuroretinal dysfunction can be used to predict the location of future retinopathy up to three years before it is manifest. Our current research suggests that, for type 2 diabetes, the normal differences in neuroretinal function between nondiabetic males and females under 50 years of age are altered in patients with type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, local neuroretinal function in type 2 diabetes is more abnormal in adult males compared with adult females. The literature also suggests that there are male-female differences in the occurrence of diabetes. In adolescence, the incidence of type 1 diabetes is greater in males, whereas in type 2 diabetes, the incidence is greater in females. This excess of females in type 2 diabetes shifts to a more equal incidence between the two sexes in adults. In addition, advanced retinopathy in type 1 diabetes appears to be more common in males, and the presence and severity of diabetic retinopathy at the time of diagnosis in type 2 diabetes appears to be more associated with male sex. Although the reasons for male-female differences identified in this review are unknown, sex appears to be a significant factor in certain aspects of diabetes incidence and diabetic retinopathy.

The SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth study: rationale, findings, and future directions

The SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth (SEARCH) study was initiated in 2000, with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and support from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, to address major knowledge gaps in the understanding of childhood diabetes. SEARCH is being conducted at five sites across the U.S. and represents the largest, most diverse study of diabetes among U.S. youth. An active registry of youth diagnosed with diabetes at age <20 years allows the assessment of prevalence (in 2001 and 2009), annual incidence (since 2002), and trends by age, race/ethnicity, sex, and diabetes type. Prevalence increased significantly from 2001 to 2009 for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in most age, sex, and race/ethnic groups. SEARCH has also established a longitudinal cohort to assess the natural history and risk factors for acute and chronic diabetes-related complications as well as the quality of care and quality of life of persons with diabetes from diagnosis into young adulthood. Many youth with diabetes, particularly those from low-resourced racial/ethnic minority populations, are not meeting recommended guidelines for diabetes care. Markers of micro- and macrovascular complications are evident in youth with either diabetes type, highlighting the seriousness of diabetes in this contemporary cohort. This review summarizes the study methods, describes key registry and cohort findings and their clinical and public health implications, and discusses future directions.

Early onset type 2 diabetes: risk factors, clinical impact and management

Early onset type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasingly prevalent with a significant impact on the individual, healthcare service delivery and planning. The individuals are likely to be obese, lead a sedentary lifestyle, have a strong family history of T2DM, be of black and minority ethnic (BME) origin and come from a less affluent socioeconomic group. They have a heightened risk of developing microvascular and macrovascular complications, often at an earlier stage and with greater frequency than seen in type 1 diabetes. As such, early and aggressive risk factor management is warranted. Early onset T2DM is complex and impacts on service delivery with a need for multidisciplinary care of complications and comorbidities', in addition to adequate educational and psychological support. This review on the impact of early onset T2DM provides the latest insights into this emerging epidemic.

Update on the American Diabetes Association Standards of Medical Care

The diagnosis and management of diabetes in primary care has increased immensely over the past several years. The focus of this article is on the latest substantive revisions in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diabetes, which was presented in the January 2014 issue of the ADA's journal Diabetes Care.

Effects of a diabetes prevention programme on weight-specific quality of life in Latino youth

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effects of a diabetes prevention programme on weight-specific Quality of Life (QOL) in obese Latino youth.

METHODS

Fifteen obese Latino adolescents (body mass index % = 96.4 ± 1.2; age = 15.0 ± 1.0) completed a 12-week culturally grounded, community-based intervention designed to improve physical and psychosocial health. Weight-specific QOL was assessed by the Youth Quality of Life-Weight module and compared with age, sex and ethnicity-matched lean youth.

RESULTS

At baseline, intervention youth exhibited significantly lower weight-specific QOL compared with lean youth (70.8 ± 5.4 vs. 91.2 ± 2.2, P = 0.002). However, following the intervention, total weight-specific QOL increased by 21.8% among obese youth (70.8 ± 5.4 to 86.2 ± 4.3, P < 0.001) and was no longer different from lean controls. Significant increases in weight-specific QOL were noted across all subdomains including self (45.7%), social (11.9%) and environmental (36.2%) despite the fact that weight did not change (90.6 ± 6.8 to 89.9 ± 7.2, P = 0.44). The improvements in QOL were maintained for up to 12 months after the intervention.

CONCLUSION

Weight-specific QOL among obese Latino youth can be improved through lifestyle interventions to a level similar to lean peers. Further, weight loss may not be necessary to observe improvements in QOL.

Addressing prediabetes in childhood obesity treatment programs: support from research and current practice

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and prediabetes have increased in prevalence among overweight and obese children, with significant implications for long-term health. There is little published evidence on the best approaches to care of prediabetes among overweight youth or the current practices used across pediatric weight management programs.

METHODS

This article reviews the literature and summarizes current practices for screening, diagnosis, and treatment of prediabetes at childhood obesity treatment centers. Findings regarding current practice were based on responses to an online survey from 28 pediatric weight management programs at 25 children's hospitals in 2012. Based on the literature reviewed, and empiric data, consensus support statements on prediabetes care and T2DM prevention were developed among representatives of these 25 children's hospitals' obesity clinics.

RESULTS

The evidence reviewed demonstrates that current T2DM and prediabetes diagnostic parameters are derived from adult-based studies with little understanding of clinical outcomes among youth. Very limited evidence exists on preventing progression of prediabetes. Some evidence suggests that a significant proportion of obese youth with prediabetes will revert to normoglycemia without pharmacological management. Evidence supports lifestyle modification for children with prediabetes, but further study of specific lifestyle changes and pharmacological treatments is needed.

CONCLUSION

Evidence to guide management of prediabetes in children is limited. Current practice patterns of pediatric weight management programs show areas of variability in practice, reflecting the limited evidence base. More research is needed to guide clinical care for overweight youth with prediabetes.

Nativity and serum concentrations of antioxidants in Mexican American children: a cross-sectional study

There is limited research on the effect of immigration on biological markers of nutrition among children of Mexican origin in the United States. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) (1988–1994), on a national and representative sample of 1559 Mexican American children, 4–16 years of age, and assess the associations of country of birth with serum concentrations of carotenoids, vitamin A, and vitamin E. In multiple regression analyses, Mexico-born Mexican American children had significantly higher serum concentrations of α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, vitamin A, and vitamin E than their counterparts who were born in the United States after adjustment for age, sex, poverty income ratio, level of education of family reference person, body mass index, total serum cholesterol, serum cotinine, total energy intake, and vitamin/mineral consumption. Our findings confirm evidence for a negative effect of immigration/acculturation on dietary quality in this population. These findings also suggest that immigrant Mexican families should be encouraged to maintain their consumption of fruits and vegetables. Prospective studies are needed to further assess the effects of immigration/acculturation on diet and other health outcomes in children of Mexican origin and immigrants.

Trends in the prevalence of ketoacidosis at diabetes diagnosis: the SEARCH for diabetes in youth study

OBJECTIVE

To estimate temporal changes in the prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes in youth and to explore factors associated with its occurrence.

METHODS

Five centers identified incident cases of diabetes among youth aged 0 to 19 years starting in 2002. DKA presence was defined as a bicarbonate level <15 mmol/L and/or a pH <7.25 (venous) or <7.30 (arterial or capillary) or mention of DKA in the medical records. We assessed trends in the prevalence of DKA over 3 time periods (2002-2003, 2004-2005, and 2008-2010). Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with DKA.

RESULTS

In youth with type 1 diabetes (n = 5615), the prevalence of DKA was high and stable over time (30.2% in 2002-2003, 29.1% in 2004-2005, and 31.1% in 2008-2010; P for trend = .42). Higher prevalence was associated with younger age at diagnosis (P < .0001), minority race/ethnicity (P = .019), income (P = .019), and lack of private health insurance (P = 008). Among youth with type 2 diabetes (n = 1425), DKA prevalence decreased from 11.7% in 2002-2003 to 5.7% in 2008-2010 (P for trend = .005). Higher prevalence was associated with younger age at diagnosis (P = .001), minority race/ethnicity (P = .013), and male gender (P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of DKA in youth with type 1 diabetes, although stable, remains high, indicating a persistent need for increased awareness of signs and symptoms of diabetes and better access to health care. In youth with type 2 diabetes, DKA at onset is less common and is decreasing over time.

Challenging recruitment of youth with type 2 diabetes into clinical trials

PURPOSE

To better understand and overcome difficulties with recruitment of adolescents with type 2 diabetes into clinical trials at three United States institutions, we reviewed recruitment and retention strategies in clinical trials of youth with various chronic conditions. We explored whether similar strategies might be applicable to pediatric patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

We compiled data on recruitment and retention of adolescents with type 2 diabetes at three centers (National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; and Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC) from January 2009 to December 2011. We also conducted a thorough literature review on recruitment and retention in adolescents with chronic health conditions.

RESULTS

The number of recruited patients was inadequate for timely completion of ongoing trials. Our review of recruitment strategies in adolescents included monetary and material incentives, technology-based advertising, word-of-mouth referral, and continuous patient-research team contact. Cellular or Internet technology appeared promising in improving participation among youths in studies of various chronic conditions and social behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents with type 2 diabetes are particularly difficult to engage in clinical trials. Monetary incentives and use of technology do not represent "magic bullets," but may presently be the most effective tools. Future studies should be conducted to explore motivation in this population. We speculate that (1) recruitment into interventional trials that address the main concerns of the affected youth (e.g., weight loss, body image, and stress management) combined with less tangible outcomes (e.g., blood glucose control) may be more successful; and (2) study participation and retention may be improved by accommodating patients' and caregivers' schedules, by scheduling study visits before and after working hours, and in more convenient locations than in medical facilities.