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Survey: People with diabetes uncertain about management of hypoglycemia
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Results from an online survey of people living with type 1 or 2 diabetes was recently released, revealing that many are uncertain of how to prevent and manage hypoglycemia, according to a release from the American Association of Diabetes Educators.
The online survey, conducted between Sept. 24, 2014, and Oct. 1, 2014, included 1,000 adults aged ≥18 years with type 1 or 2 diabetes.
“Hypoglycemia can be a potentially debilitating — but often underrecognized — complication for people living with diabetes,” Evan Sisson, PharmD, MHA, CDE, associate professor at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Pharmacy and former member of the board of directors for the AADE, said in the release. “In addition to knowing the warning signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, people living with diabetes should be informed about how to effectively manage and prevent its onset. By consistently monitoring one’s blood sugar and working with a diabetes educator, individuals can effectively manage their diabetes and hope to reduce their risk of hypoglycemia.”
Sixty-two percent of participants reported being concerned about experiencing the condition and 81% reported viewing it as a serious health concern. Sixty percent experienced hypoglycemia and 19% of those had to report to the ED for treatment. The importance of controlling hypoglycemia was recognized by 98% of participants, and 81% acknowledged the possible serious health consequences without proper management.
Avoiding alcohol as a way to prevent hypoglycemia was reported by 30% of participants, and 49% were unaware that glucose tablets could be used to treat an episode.
Forty-two percent of participants who had never experienced hypoglycemia were unable to correctly define it.
“These survey findings illustrate the importance of educating about hypoglycemia,” Andrew Purcell, vice president and head of US Diabetes at Sanofi US, said in the release. “Working with AADE, we are committed to raising awareness about the impact and management of hypoglycemia and how those living with diabetes can help to reduce their risk of having a low blood sugar event.”
Disclosure: The survey was funded in part by Sanofi US.