737-P: Positive Impact of Social Support and Diabetes Community Participation on Patient-Reported Outcomes

Abstract

Social support plays an important role in both mental and physical well-being. This study used patient-reported outcomes to better understand the effect of social support and diabetes communities on the behaviors and health outcomes of those living with diabetes. People with diabetes (n=4,717) from an opted-in U.S. research panel were surveyed about their level of social support using the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List-12 (ISEL-12). Physical activity level was determined using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF) and health and demographic information were collected. Findings show that higher levels of support are associated with better glycemic control, healthier lifestyle choices, and lower rates of diabetes complications and comorbidities. Notably, when controlling for overall level of social support and evaluating participants within one SD of the ISEL-12 mean, diabetes community members are more likely than those not in a community to have high diet adherence (≥80%) and high levels of physical activity. These diabetes community members are also less likely to have A1c >7, heart/circulation problems, high blood pressure, and cholesterol/triglyceride problems. These findings emphasize the importance of social support on the overall health of those with diabetes and suggest that diabetes communities are an important tool for managing diabetes. Disclosure S. Suhl: Employee; Self; This work was funded by dQ&A Diabetes Research, a provider of research services to multiple companies and patient organizations in the diabetes field. J.B. Rost: Employee; Self; This work was funded by dQ&A Diabetes Research, a provider of research services to multiple companies and patient organizations in the diabetes field. K.C. Stoner: Other Relationship; Self; Various companies and organizations. R. Gowen: Employee; Self; This work was funded by dQ&A Diabetes Research, a provider of research services to multiple companies and patient organizations in the diabetes field. C. Florissi: Employee; Self; This work was funded by dQ&A Diabetes Research, a provider of research services to multiple companies and patient organizations in the diabetes field. R. Wood: Consultant; Self; Abbott, ADOCIA, American Diabetes Association, Ascensia Diabetes Care, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., CeQur Corporation, Dexcom, Inc., Eli Lilly and Company, Insulet Corporation. Employee; Self; dQ&A Market Research Inc.