A Digital Health Intervention (SweetGoals) for Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: Protocol for a Factorial Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Digital health interventions
• Type 1 diabetes management
• Adolescent and young adult health

Background:

• Young adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) face challenges in managing their condition, often resulting in poor glycemic control.
• Existing interventions are not tailored to the specific needs of this age group.
• Adherence to complex medical regimens is a significant barrier for young adults with T1D.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile app (SweetGoals) combined with incentives and health coaching for young adults with T1D.
• To test a novel digital, direct-to-patient recruitment and intervention delivery model.
• To improve glycemic control (HbA1c) and self-regulation in young adults with T1D.

Main Methods:

• A 2x2 factorial randomized trial involving 300 young adults (ages 19-25) with T1D and HbA1c ≥ 8.0%.
• Participants receive the SweetGoals app, with randomization to receive additional incentives and/or web health coaching.
• The intervention duration is 6 months, with primary outcome of HbA1c reduction and secondary outcomes including self-regulation and engagement metrics.

Main Results:

• Data collection is ongoing, with completion expected by February 2025.
• Primary and secondary outcome analyses are anticipated by December 2025.
• Results will inform the effectiveness of digital interventions for T1D self-management in young adults.

Conclusions:

• This study will provide crucial data on the effectiveness of a digitally delivered intervention for young adults with T1D.
• Findings will support the dissemination of the SweetGoals intervention to improve glycemic control in this high-risk population.
• The novel recruitment and delivery model aims to overcome traditional barriers in clinical trial participation.