Burdens and Benefits of Continuous Glucose Monitoring Use in Patients of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Objective: The present study is designed to scan the positive outcomes and the barriers that hinder continuous glucose monitoring use in our set-up experienced by type 1 diabetes mellitus patients. 

Methodology: In this cross-sectional study data was collected from all the patients and parents of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus on insulin therapy enrolled with Meethi Zindagi. Data was collected through nonprobability convenience sampling from July to December 2023. The burdens and benefits of technology were assessed through a validated questionnaire in continuous glucose monitoring users and non-users. patients were distributed in two groups; CGM users and non-users to assess the burdens and benefits of CGM use.  

Results: Out of 84 study participants, 60% were males and 40% were females.  A total of 53 participants were continuous glucose monitoring users while 31 were non-users. Users described more benefits with significant p-values. Device users with HbA1c < 7% and participants of 01 and 13-18 years of age agreed with managing hypoglycemia, a sense of security, reduced finger prick frequency and better diabetes care with the device. Strong agreement about alarm usefulness was reported by parents of children of 1 year of age. Device users for >1-3 years reported stress-free diabetes care with this device. Among all the burdens, strong agreement was found with the high cost of sensors.

Conclusion: The study delivers evidence-based data on the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring for all type 1 diabetes mellitus individuals. At the same time, specific barriers should be identified and addressed to increase the use of continuous glucose monitoring.