An internet-based program to improve self-management in adolescents with type 1 diabetes

Diabetes Care. 2010 Mar;33(3):602-4. doi: 10.2337/dc09-1881. Epub 2009 Dec 23.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE To report results from YourWay, an Internet-based self-management intervention for adolescents with type 1 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A total of 72 adolescents with type 1 diabetes, ages 13-17 years, were randomized to a usual-care-plus-Internet support or a usual-care group. The intervention was designed to enhance problem-solving barriers to self-management. A1C was obtained from medical records, and problem-solving and self-management were obtained via adolescent report. RESULTS Group differences were not statistically significant using intent-to-treat analyses. Using as-treated analyses, adolescents in the treatment condition showed statistically significant improvement in self-management (d = 0.64; P = 0.02) and important improvements in problem-solving (d = 0.30; P = 0.23) and A1C (d = -0.28; P = 0.27). Mean A1C for the intervention group remained constant (-0.01%), while the control group increased (0.33%). CONCLUSIONS This brief trial suggests that self-management support delivered through a secure website may improve self-management and offset typical decreases in adolescent glycemic control.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / physiology
  • Adolescent Health Services*
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / therapy*
  • Glycated Hemoglobin / analysis
  • Humans
  • Internet* / statistics & numerical data
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Patient Compliance / statistics & numerical data
  • Problem Solving / physiology
  • Self Care / methods*
  • Self-Help Groups

Substances

  • Glycated Hemoglobin A
  • hemoglobin A1c protein, human