Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease characterised by hyperglycaemia caused by absolute deficiency of insulin, and is the most common condition diagnosed in adolescence. It is known that young adulthood represents a period of suboptimal glycaemic control among individuals with T1DM. Emerging adulthood is a significant transitional life stage, which presents additional challenges for those with T1DM attempting to self-manage their condition. To date, studies have revealed a disparity in the education provided to young adults with T1DM regarding the potential harms of alcohol consumption. The aim of this audit is to determine the awareness of the potential risks associated with alcohol consumption among young adults with T1DM.

Methods: A survey was distributed among young adults with T1DM attending the Diabetes Day Centre at Galway University Hospital. Questions pertained to the patients experience and knowledge of the effects of alcohol on T1DM.

Results: Over 90% (30) participants self-reported an awareness of the effects of alcohol on glycemic control. Knowledge of the fluctuations in blood glucose levels with alcohol was demonstrated; the majority of participants stated blood glucose levels increase with drinking, and 14 participants reported a fall in blood glucose levels associated with alcohol consumption. Two patients surveyed reported admission to hospital with diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA) as a consequence of alcohol consumption.

Discussion: An awareness that alcohol has an influence on glycaemic levels was generally communicated by the cohort, and almost 70% of participants recall being formally educated in this regard.