Efficacy and implementation of an Internet psychoeducational program for teens with type 1 diabetes

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Digital Health Interventions
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Type 1 diabetes (T1D) management in adolescents presents unique challenges.
• Internet-based interventions offer potential for improved engagement and health outcomes.
• Existing psychoeducational programs require evaluation for efficacy and participation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess participation and preliminary efficacy of the Teens.Connect internet psychoeducational program.
• To compare Teens.Connect with an open-access diabetes website (Planet D).
• To evaluate effects on A1C, quality of life (QoL), and psychosocial/behavioral factors.

Main Methods:

• 124 adolescents (11-14 years) with T1D were randomized to Teens.Connect or Planet D.
• Data collected at baseline, 3, and 6 months, including A1C from clinic records.
• Participation metrics: log-ins, discussion posts, lessons completed; analyses used descriptive and mixed models.

Main Results:

• 85% registered; satisfaction and log-ins were similar between groups.
• Planet D had higher discussion forum participation (28 vs. 19 posts/teen).
• Teens.Connect lesson completion was low (69%); no significant differences in A1C or QoL at 6 months, but lower perceived stress in Teens.Connect group.

Conclusions:

• Low active participation in Teens.Connect, potentially due to insufficient reminders, may have hindered treatment effects.
• Adolescents face competing demands impacting program engagement.
• Strategic implementation with reminders and family support is crucial for participation and improved health outcomes.