Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: Childhood obesity is increasingly linked to early-onset Type 2 diabetes (T2D) in children and young adults (CYA), as shown by data from the National Paediatric Diabetes Audit (NPDA) and the National Diabetes Audit (NDA). Building on the success of the Type 2 App, DigiBete partnered with members of T2D National Working Group, National Children Young People’s Diabetes Network to co-develop accessible medication resources. These support the safe use of commonly prescribed medications like Metformin and GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), helping users understand how their medication works, how to take it, benefits, side effects, contraindications, safety measures (including contraception), and when to contact healthcare professionals.

Methods: The platform’s first version was co-designed over nine months and launched in 2023. A six-month extension in 2025 focused on expanding treatment content. Contributions came from:

1. A clinical oversight group, including a specialist pharmacist, to ensure medical accuracy and cultural relevance.2. A multicultural user group representing the diverse CYA population living with obesity and/or T2D.3. DigiBete’s clinical safety team.Resources were reviewed and endorsed by the Leeds Children’s Diabetes Team and the T2D National Working Group.

Results: New sections were added to the platform’s Treatment area for Metformin, GLP-1RA, and SGLT2 inhibitors. For each medication there is an animated explainer video and a visually engaging, easy-read PDF. Materials feature real individuals from diverse backgrounds and are fully compliant with WCAG AA accessibility standards. These resources enhance understanding and support treatment continuity by reinforcing previously advised care. These developments will feature on the app for the reassurance of instant off-line functionality.

Conclusion: The updated DigiBete platform is freely accessible to users and healthcare teams across England. Instructional animations—particularly for GLP-1RA use have greatly improved user engagement and understanding. The inclusion of the ReachDeck accessibility toolbar and multilingual translation enhances usability to support equity. Feedback via youngtype2.org reflects strong user engagement and points to the potential for developing a broader digital resource. The versatile content is also beneficial for Complications of Excess Weight (CEW) services, where similar medications are used in children without T2D, supporting education on related health issues.