P-407: Self-care management practices and glycaemic control among adolescents with type 1 diabetes in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
L Malasa, E Godfrey, M Fataki, F Salvatory KalabamuAbstract
Introduction
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an increasing non-communicable disease in sub-Saharan Africa. In Tanzania, approximately 6,915 youth under the age of 20 years have T1D. Despite improvement in diabetes care, maintaining optimal glucose levels in adolescents with T1D remains challenging, with many exhibiting poor glycemic controls. Therefore, this study aimed to assess self-care management practices and glycemic control among adolescents with T1D. This study stems from the critical need to identify areas of self-care management practices where support is most needed.
Objectives
The broad objective of this study was to assess self-care management practices and glycemic control among adolescents with type 1 diabetes in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study in which adolescents with T1D attending clinics at Amana, Temeke and Mwananyamala regional referral hospitals in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania were enrolled. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 27.
Results
Out of 155 adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes recruited into the study, 51.6% were females. The majority of participants (62.6%) were between 15-19 years old. Participants demonstrated low levels of self-care management practices recording blood glucose results, keeping food records, carrying quick-acting sugar to treat low blood glucose, exercise, and adjusting insulin dosage practices. The majority of participants, 122 (78.7%), had poor glycaemic control with glycated haemoglobin of more than 7.5%.
Conclusions
There is an urgent need for targeted interventions for this population. These interventions should address the multifactorial nature of poor glycaemic control by incorporating age-appropriate education, family-centered care approaches, peer support programs, and enhanced healthcare system capacity for adolescent diabetes management.