What Are the Changes and Burden Associated With COVID-19 in Diabetes Management and Delivery of the Diabetes Services?

Abstract

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an ongoing pandemic that has spread to almost all countries worldwide. Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been shown to increase the risk of COVID-19 disease severity. In this review, we provide a summary of the impact of COIVD-19 on diabetes management and related services. We searched the literature using the following databases: PubMed, Medline, Scopus and Google Scholar. These databases were searched using the keywords: COVID-19, diabetes type 1 and type 2. Lockdown causing social isolation and psychological issues, showed an influence on poor glycemic control amongst people with diabetes. Hence, the use of telemedicine and various technologies in the management of diabetes has substantially increased. In individuals with COVID-19, the current practice is not in favor of using sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. Furthermore, insulin is recommended for the management of diabetes in critically ill patients. The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with many changes in diabetes management and the delivery of diabetes services. J Endocrinol Metab. 2020;10(6):155-161 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jem699