393-P: Association of Hypoglycemia Prevention Measures with Quality of Life: A Retrospective Analysis of Electronically-Reported Patient Data

Abstract

Introduction: Hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes presents deleterious effects on quality of life (QoL). We aimed to utilize electronically patient-reported data to identify the correlation of patients’ behaviors, intended to prevent and manage hypoglycemia, with QoL scores. Methods: In a retrospective single center cohort study, we identified adults with type 1 or 2 DM seen between January 2017 and March 2018 who completed two questionnaires. First, the ADA Low Blood Sugar Questionnaire which assessed the incidence of self-reported hypoglycemia and behaviors intended to prevent and manage hypoglycemia. Second, the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Survey which evaluated self-reported physical and mental QoL scores. Associations between hypoglycemic behaviors and QoL scores were determined using Spearman correlations. Results: We identified 538 subjects, with a mean (±SD) age of 53.1±15.3 years, a mean household income of $51,400 ±17,9384, 55% were female, and 66% were on insulin therapy. Patients with fewer severe hypoglycemic episodes had significantly better physical and mental QoL scores (p<0.001, for both). Subjects who carried glucagon emergency kits had significantly higher physical QoL scores (p=0.001), while having a relative able to administer glucagon was associated with significantly higher physical and mental QoL scores (p=0.001 and p=0.003). Carrying snacks or glucose tablets and monitoring glucose before driving were associated with higher physical QoL scores (p<0.001 and p=0.010). Conclusion: Significant positive correlations were found between patients’ practices intended to reduce and treat hypoglycemia and QoL scores. People with diabetes and low QoL scores require special treatment considerations. Disclosure K.F. Ali: None. L. Lawrence: None. L.A. Buehler: None. R.R. Gambino: None. M. Hamaty: Consultant; Self; Applied Clinical Intelligence, LLC. Funding Merck & Co., Inc.