Impact of Access to Modern Diabetes Technologies and Insulin on HbA1c Levels in Children with Type 1 Diabetes

Recent research published in JAMA Network Open highlights the significant influence of access to advanced diabetes management technologies and insulin on glycemic control in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The study, led by Dr. Alzbeta Santova from Motol University Hospital in Prague, analyzed data from 81 centers across 56 countries, involving over 42,000 children with T1D.

The findings reveal stark disparities in the availability and reimbursement of modern diabetes management tools such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), insulin pumps, and traditional glucometers. Centers in countries with full reimbursement policies for these technologies reported average HbA1c levels of 7.62% to 7.75%. In contrast, centers where these technologies and insulin were either unavailable or not reimbursed showed much higher average HbA1c levels ranging from 9.65% to 10.49%, indicating poorer glycemic control.

The study underscores that equitable access to modern diabetes management tools is critical for improving health outcomes globally. The authors emphasize that addressing disparities in technology availability and insurance coverage is essential to closing the gap in diabetes care for children worldwide. They call for increased efforts and innovative solutions to ensure all children with T1D have access to the necessary tools for effective management.

Disclosure of potential conflicts includes ties to the pharmaceutical industry by some authors. The data and conclusions are based on a comprehensive international registry, reinforcing the urgent need for healthcare policy reforms to promote equitable access.

This research adds to the growing understanding that technological accessibility is a cornerstone of optimal diabetes management and highlights the ongoing challenges and opportunities to improve health equity across nations.

Source: MedicalXpress