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Adolescents with type 1 diabetes and risky behaviour
Ae Scaramuzza1, A De Palma, C Mameli
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy. scaramuzza.andrea@hsacco.it
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|April 10, 2010
Summary
Adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) engage in risky behaviors similarly to their peers. This highlights the need for guidance on managing diabetes and preventing complications.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) requires lifelong management.
- Adolescence is a critical period for risk-taking behaviors.
- Understanding behavioral differences in adolescents with T1DM is crucial for care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare risky behaviors in Italian adolescents with T1DM versus healthy peers.
- To identify potential links between risky behaviors and diabetes management.
Main Methods:
- Anonymous questionnaires were administered to 215 adolescents with T1DM (aged 14±2 years) and 464 healthy controls.
- Data collected included sexual behavior, substance use (alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs), and diabetes treatment mismanagement.
- Disease duration averaged 7±5 years for the T1DM group.
Main Results:
- Adolescents with T1DM showed similar rates of sexual intercourse in males but lower rates in females compared to controls.
- Males with T1DM reported higher tobacco use; females exhibited similar or higher illicit drug use.
- Among T1DM patients, those engaging in risky behaviors had significantly higher rates of treatment mismanagement (76% vs. 34%).
Conclusions:
- Adolescents with T1DM exhibit comparable levels of risky behavior to their healthy counterparts.
- Anticipatory guidance is recommended to address glycemic control and reduce risks of acute/chronic complications.
- Targeted interventions may be necessary for adolescents with T1DM engaging in risky behaviors.
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