In the EQUAT1D study, we want to learn why some people with type 1 diabetes do not use technologies like insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors. We will determine what makes it hard or easy for people to use these technologies. Then, we will design a plan to help everyone with type 1 diabetes who wants to use diabetes technology fairly.
About Diabetes Technologies
Insulin pump therapy and continuous glucose monitors (CGM) reduce Hemoglobin A1c (A1c), hypoglycemia, diabetes burden and distress, and improve quality of life. Closed-loop systems, which integrate insulin pumps and CGM, have even greater benefits on A1c, hypoglycemia, and quality of life.
For individuals with T1D from historically socially disadvantaged communities, inequitable use of diabetes technologies contributes at least in part to worse diabetes outcomes (such as higher A1c, greater diabetes distress, and more frequent diabetes complications).
A significant proportion of the disparities in A1c between non-Hispanic Black and White American youth is accounted for by differences in use of insulin pumps and CGM. Inequitable adoption of closed-loop systems may further widen disparities in diabetes outcomes.
Individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) are living longer and healthier lives thanks to advances in these diabetes technologies. However, not all are equally benefitting from their use.
Simply providing public funding for diabetes technologies is insufficient to address disparities. Non-financial barriers to use of diabetes technologies requires greater understanding and problem-solving.
