OC43 Impact of flash and continuous glucose monitoring on quality of life and disease burden in children with diabetes mellitus and their families

Abstract

Introduction/Background Flash and continuous glucose monitoring technology has revolutionised the management of diabetes, particularly in paediatric populations. Recent government funding for flash glucose monitoring devices has enabled widespread usage in children and adolescents in the Republic of Ireland. We examined the impact of this novel technology on the lives of children with diabetes and their parents through the use of age modified questionnaires. Design/Methods Qualitative research was carried out using anonymised ‘Quality of Life’ questionnaires. All children and adolescents and their families attending the diabetes service in Children’s University Hospital were eligible for the study and were invited to contribute at routine outpatient visit. Those using the technology were divided into three groups; pre-school, primary school and secondary school. Together, children and their parents answered questions relating to ease of use, impact on schooling, independence, parent-child relationships and subjective burden of disease. Some sections were specific to the particular form of glucose monitoring [flash or continuous]; but those regarding impact on day-to-day management of diabetes and impact on quality of life were common to all. A separate questionnaire was used for patients not using either technology and explored the factors that influenced that decision. Results Preliminary data (n=39) shows that patient and parent experiences with flash and continuous glucose monitoring technology have been overwhelmingly positive. 90% of children surveyed are using one of these devices. Across all age groups, 100% of those using the technology reported subjective improvement in glycaemic control. All adolescents reported increased confidence in their ability to manage diabetes and a greater degree of personal independence. Parents reported significant reduction in frequency of hypoglycaemic events and > 80% reported reduction in anxiety surrounding hypoglycaemia. >85% of both patients and parents found a significant reduction in the day-to-day burden of diabetes. Those not using glucose-monitoring devices listed parental concern regarding device accuracy and attachment of the device on the skin as the major deterring factors. Conclusions This data demonstrates a positive impact of flash and continuous glucose monitoring on quality of life for children with diabetes mellitus. Government funding since 2018 has enabled equal access for all paediatric patients [over 4 years old] to this life-impacting technology which should now be offered to all children and adolescents, to include those with Type 2 Diabetes and other rarer sub-types, and those under 4 years old.