ASSESSMENT OF ADHERENCE, BARRIERS AND STRENGTHS TO ADHERENCE AMONG ADOLESCENTS WITH TYPE 1 DIABETES IN QATAR: PERSPECTIVES OF PATIENTS AND THEIR CAREGIVERS

Abstract

Background: Metabolic control among adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is generally poor. Non-adherence is one of the contributors to this poor glycemic control, leading to high complication rates. The objective of this study was to assess the level of adherence among adolescents with T1DM in Qatar and to identify the barriers and strengths to adherence from the perspective of patients and caregivers. Methods: Average blood glucose monitoring frequency (BGMF) was used to assess adherence level among adolescents with T1DM. Adolescents who had an average of ?4 checks/day were considered adherent. A qualitative approach was used to identify barriers and strengths to adherence through semi-structured, online interviews with adolescents and their caregivers. Results: The level of adherence among adolescents with T1DM in Qatar was found to be 40%. Ten adolescents and 14 caregivers described factors that are associated with adherence including patient-related factors/influencers, societal influence, medication and device-related factors, healthcare system-related factors, and lifestyle, school, and environment-related factors. Conclusion: Poor adherence is common among adolescents with T1DM in Qatar. Factors impacting adherence are multifactorial in nature, requiring comprehensive interventions aimed at improving adherence and ultimately optimizing glycemic control.