Endocrine Abstracts

Objectives: To investigate the changes parameters of quality of life (QoL) in children and adolescents with diabetes mellitus type 1 (T1DM), using different regimes insulin therapy.

Research design and methods: Thirty patients with diabetes mellitus type 1, aged 5–18 years (mean 13.3±3.04 yr), with disease duration from 1 to 10 years (mean 5.4±3.4 yr) took part in paired study. QoL was assessed with the PedsQL (Generic Core Scales and Diabetes Module, Russian version) at two time points: 1^st – during multiple daily insulin injection (MDI); 2^d – after initiation continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII). Data were analyzed in subgroups aged 5–7 yr, 8–12 yr, 13–18 yr.

Results: Nevertheless, analysis demonstrated positive dynamic of QoL in patients after initiation CSII. Treatment barriers decreased due to reduction of a number of injections (75.3 vs. 90.0 P<0.05) in preschool-age children. Patients at the age of 8–12 evaluated higher physical function (74.2 vs. 94.0, P<0.05) after initiation CSII. In adolescent’s group social activity indicates improved (85.0 vs. 95.0, P<0.05). Further, they were less worried about long-term complications (70.0 vs. 85.0, P<0.05).

Conclusions: Using of insulin pump therapy in children with T1DM allows to improve of quality of life. Preschoolers get used to the necessary of insulin therapy easier, schoolchildren and adolescents have opportunity to increase the level of their physical and social activity.