Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) satisfaction and its effect on mental health and glycemic control in adults with type 1 diabetes.

Abstract

Background and aim: A continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) helps the user stay continuously informed about blood glucose levels and reach the right target range. This study aimed to compare glycemic control and mental health of adults with type 1 diabetes with or without CGM and to examine their experiences using it.

Methods: Patients were included in the survey, whether or not they had used a CGM. Standardized questionnaires were used to assess mental health, problems with disease management, hypoglycemia attitudes and behavior, as well as glucose monitoring satisfaction.

Results: 277 people participated in the study. CGM users (61.3%) had a more favorable glycemic control than those who were not. No differences were observed between the 2 groups in mental health and in response to hypoglycemic events; however, users reported more disease-related problems. CGM users reported they felt more open and free about diabetes, however, the pain and skin irritation caused by the device was disturbing and it was difficult to cope emotionally with the constant thought and worrying about diabetes.

Conclusions: CGM did not show clear satisfaction among users, however, less fear of hypoglycemia, fewer depression symptomology and improved glycemic control indicate better clinical status, which is one of the most important goals of disease management.