Effectiveness of Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Glucose Control and Quality of Life Among Type 1 Diabetic Patients in Madina City: A Cross-Sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes is a growing global health problem, affecting millions of people worldwide and in Saudi Arabia in particular. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) offers real-time glucose levels, alerts, and 24/7 coverage, making it an affordable treatment option. The study aimed to assess CGM's effect on diabetes control and quality of life among type 1 adult diabetic patients in Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study enrolled Saudi adults diagnosed with type I diabetes and was conducted from 1 April 2024 to 30 May 2024 in Madinah City, Saudi Arabia. Data was collected from patients' medical records and the diabetes quality of life questionnaire (DQoL).

RESULTS

This study enrolled 317 participants, mostly male (52.1%) and a mean age of 34.34±12.28 years. After three months, the HbA1c levels significantly decreased (p<0.001). Older participants reported lower overall quality of life and satisfaction with their level of well-being when using CGM. Univariate analysis found that age had a significant negative association with the total score (B=-0.062, P=0.049) and satisfaction (B=-0.109, P=0.011. Marital status significantly affected the impact score (B=0.567, P=0.024). Education level notably affected satisfaction (B=-0.906, P=0.008) and monthly income influenced satisfaction (B=-1.25, P=0.033). However, multivariate analysis showed that age, education level, and monthly income did not significantly (p>0.005) affect the CGM impact, quality of life, and satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that CGM significantly improved diabetes control, while improved quality of life was not significant. The impact, quality of life, and satisfaction were influenced by age, marital status, education, and income level, though not statistically significant independent predictors. Therefore, we recommend longitudinal studies, controlling for confounders.