THU281 Real-World Survey Of Adherence To Guidelines Regarding Type 1 Diabetes And Aerobic Exercise

Abstract

Abstract Disclosure: J.A. Henske: None. G. Beach: None. A. Albashaireh: None. Background: Managing hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia before, during, and after aerobic exercise remains one of the greatest challenges for those living with type 1 diabetes. Several publications offer guidelines and recommendations but it is not well established to what extent these are followed by those living with diabetes. In order to assess the implementation and awareness of these guidelines and in particular guidelines around risk of hypoglycemia and safety recommendations, we created an online survey which was posted to focused social media groups limited to adults with type 1 diabetes who run, jog, or walk for exercise. Results: The entire 96-question survey was completed by 102 adults with a mean age of 42 and a mean duration of diabetes of 20 years. The self-reported average HbA1c of respondents was 7.1%. 68% of respondents reported exercise 4 or more days per week. Average mileage was 23 miles per week. The respondents were predominantly female (69%), Caucasian (94%), and from the United States (78%). There was a high rate of technology use as 97% of respondents report using CGM and 75% are using insulin pumps. 80% reported learning about diabetes and exercise mostly from trial and error, 46% from social media, 32% from their medical team, 28% from online searches, some using multiple methods. 27% of respondents reported fear of hypoglycemia as a significant barrier to exercise and 36% reported increased glucose variability as a result of exercise. 19% of respondents reported having hypoglycemia unawareness. 3% reported never having symptoms of hypoglycemia at any glucose level, 21% feel first symptoms with BG <50mg/dL, 26% at 50-60 mg/dL, and 40% at 60-70mg/dL. Despite published guidelines, 73% reported that they exercise even if severe hypoglycemia <50mg/dL in the last 24 hours, 74% do not check for ketones even if unexplained hyperglycemia >250mg/dL prior to exercise. 11% reported exercising with ketones present in blood or urine. 10% reported developing DKA after exercise. 86% experienced the need to stop exercise due to hypoglycemia and 18% reported a severe hypoglycemic event during exercise. 49% report not wearing diabetes identification during exercise. 41% reported difficulty with overnight hypoglycemia after exercise. Conclusion: In a real-world survey of 102 individuals with relatively well-controlled type 1 diabetes (mean A1c 7.1%) who walk, run, or jog extensively for exercise (23 miles per week), hypoglycemia awareness and management is a significant concern and barrier for them. Implementation science efforts and increased awareness of current guidelines and development of an educational curriculum surrounding type 1 diabetes and exercise may prove helpful to improve outcomes. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023