A mixed method approach to understanding the factors surrounding delayed diagnosis of type one diabetes

This study examined delayed type one diabetes (T1D) diagnosis, along with the associated severity markers, in the United States. Qualitative reflection was explored to add depth of understanding.

975 parents of a minor child with T1D were recruited through snowball, social media requests to complete a 55-question online survey on the experience of diagnosis.

34% of children with T1D had a delayed diagnosis. When compared to those without a delayed diagnosis, these children were more likely to have an Emergency Room diagnosis (39.8% vs. 24.6%), be transported by ambulance or life flight (30.7% vs. 15.3%), be hospitalized (93.7% vs. 83.9%), spend time in an Intensive Care Unit (42.2% vs. 21.3%), and be in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) (42.2% vs. 21.3%). Younger children were at increased risk, with higher rates of DKA and fewer days of symptoms. Many parents experienced frustration receiving a prompt diagnosis for their child, including an inability to schedule a physician appointment, proper glucose testing, and concerns being dismissed by professionals.

More physician and parent education is needed. Doctors should conduct glucose screenings when diabetes symptoms are present. Parents need education to recognize excessive thirst and frequent urination as reasons to seek medical treatment.