Perceptions and experiences of adult patients with type 1 diabetes using continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy: Results of an online survey. (October 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Taleb, Nadine; Messier, Virginie; Ott-Braschi, Sylvie; Ardilouze, Jean-Luc; Rabasa-Lhoret, Rémi
• Is Part Of: Diabetes research and clinical practice. Volume 144(2018)
• Page Start: 42
• Page End: 50
• Publication Date: 2018-10
• Subjects: Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion -- Survey -- Type 1 diabetes -- Insulin pumps -- Insulin infusion set -- Insulin catheters; Diabetes -- Periodicals; Diabetes Mellitus -- Periodicals; 616.462
• DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2018.07.035
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0168-8227

Abstract

Abstract: Aims: To assess perceptions of patients using subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) about metabolic control, pump malfunctions, technical and insertion site adverse events (AEs) related to infusion sets/catheters as well as patients' practices. Methods: Online survey (from June 2016 to January 2017) using an actualized 39-item questionnaire directed to adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) using CSII therapy and living in the province of Quebec, Canada. Results: Participants with T1D (n = 115, 72% females, 39.7 ± 14.0 years, diabetes duration: 20.9 ± 12.2 years, CSII use: 6.2 ± 4.1 years) adequately completed the survey. Infusion sets were changed every 3.3 ± 0.9 day. Improved glucose control and decreased number/severity of hypoglycemic episodes were reported by 80% and 68%/50% of subjects, respectively. Over the past year of CSII use, participants perceived no increase in anxiety/worry (84%), no negative impact on life (89%) or on time off from work/school (82%). Conversely, many experienced at least one clinical AEs at insertion site [pain (84%), adhesion (76%), irritation (69%), lipodystrophy (45%)] and technical issues [blockage (52%), cannula kinking (50%), pump stop (55%), air bubbles (46%)]. No significant association was observed between catheter wear-time and AEs. All participants had one or more problems related to CSII use, although only 37% reported addressing these issues with health professionals. Conclusion: Our study suggests that patients positively perceived CSII use although they experienced a high frequency of clinical and technical AEs. This warrants further attention by health professionals, investigators and manufacturers to optimize CSII therapy.