P-49: Frequency of blood glucose monitoring and glycaemic control in children and young adults with type 1 diabetes in Kenya
C Lagat, J Kimetto, N Ngugi, A Omondi, G Gathecha, E Onyango, V Nabeta, O Nabeta, B Muchoki, E Omondi, Y JonesAbstract
Introduction
Frequent blood glucose (BG) monitoring is essential for optimal management of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). In resource-limited settings, access to monitoring remains constrained, and its relationship with glycaemic outcomes is not well characterized.
Objectives
To assess the distribution of BG monitoring frequency and examine its association with glycaemic control among children and young adults with T1D in Kenya.
Methods
A cross-sectional analysis was conducted across 46 clinics including 3,847 participants aged <25 years enrolled in a national T1D program in Kenya. Self-reported BG monitoring frequency per day was categorized (<1, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, >5 times/day). Mean HbA1c was compared across categories, and trends were assessed.
Results
Most participants reported testing 2–3 times/day (32% and 28%, respectively), while 21% tested ≤1 time/day. Mean HbA1c decreased with increasing frequency of BG monitoring, from 11.5% among those testing <1 time/day to 10.4% among those testing 4 times/day. Participants testing 2 and 3 times/day had mean HbA1c levels of 11.3% and 11.1%, respectively, while those testing 5 times/day had HbA1c of 10.6%. A clear inverse trend was observed, with individuals testing ≥3–4 times/day demonstrating better glycaemic control.
Conclusions
More frequent BG monitoring is associated with improved glycaemic control among children and young adults with T1D in Kenya. Expanding access to monitoring supplies and reinforcing self-management practices could improve outcomes in resource-limited settings.