P-401: School-based challenges and glycaemic risks among children and young adults living with type 1 diabetes in Kenya
G Gathecha, E Onyango, J Kimetto, N Ngugi, C Karekezi, P Wamalwa, E Makena, C Langat, B Muchoki, O Nabeta, V Nabeta, N JonesAbstract
Introduction
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) can significantly affect school attendance, safety, and academic performance among children and young adults. In Kenya, where many children rely on school environments for daily learning and social development, understanding the school experiences and challenges is essential for designing effective T1DM support systems and policies.
Objectives
To describe school-based challenges and glycaemic risks experienced by children and young adults living with T1D in Kenya.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among children and young adults aged 0–25 years with T1DM enrolled in 46 Changing Diabetes in Children (CDiC) clinics across Kenya. Data was collected using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Analysis was done using R software to generate descriptive statistics summarising the characteristics of the respondents.
Results
A total 3,847 participants were interviewed and majority (68.8%) were attending school. Overall, 41.7% of respondents reported experiencing hypoglycaemia while at school. Fainting in school within the past one year was reported by 15% of the respondents. More than one-third (36.5%) had not disclosed their condition to teachers. Only 65% reported carrying hypo kits to school. One-quarter (25.0%) indicated poor academic performance attributable to diabetes-related challenges. The mean number of school days missed due to T1DM was 5.4 days per year.
Conclusions
These findings highlight the need for stronger integration of diabetes care within the education system. The Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education should establish supportive policies for students with diabetes, including teacher training on recognition and management of hypoglycaemia and promotion of safe disclosure. Strengthened collaboration between families, schools, and healthcare providers is also essential to improve attendance, safety, and academic outcomes for learners with T1DM.