Disordered Eating Behaviors in Emerging Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: A Common Problem for Both Men and Women

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• Emerging adults (EA) with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) and disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) face heightened risks for severe diabetes complications.
• While DEBs are documented in women with T1D, research involving men is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• This study aimed to determine the prevalence of DEBs in both male and female emerging adults diagnosed with T1D.
• To investigate the association between DEBs and clinical indicators like glycemic control and body mass index.

Main Methods:

• The study utilized the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey-Revised (DEPS-R) to assess DEBs in 27 women and 33 men (mean age 21 years).
• A DEPS-R score of 20 or higher indicated a need for further evaluation for DEB.

Main Results:

• A significant portion of participants exhibited DEBs, with 27% of women and 18% of men scoring 20 or higher on the DEPS-R.
• Elevated DEPS-R scores were strongly correlated with higher Hemoglobin A1c levels (p < .001) and increased body mass index (p < .05).

Conclusions:

• Disordered eating behaviors are a concern for both male and female emerging adults with T1D.
• Healthcare providers should proactively screen all emerging adults with T1D for DEBs, with particular attention to those who are overweight and have suboptimal glycemic control.