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A High-Throughput Multiplexed Screening for Type 1 Diabetes, Celiac Diseases, and COVID-19
Published on: July 5, 2022
Effects of Two COVID-19 Lockdowns on HbA1c Levels in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes and Associations with Digital
Daniel Tajdar1, Dagmar Lühmann1, Laura Walther1
1Institute and Outpatients Clinic of General Practice/Primary Care, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
COVID-19 lockdowns worsened glycemic control in type 1 diabetes patients, increasing HbA1c levels. Patients with fewer check-ups, lower education, and poorer self-management faced greater risks, highlighting the need for targeted medical care.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Previous short-term studies indicated improved glycemic control during COVID-19 lockdowns.
- Long-term effects of lockdowns on glycemic control in type 1 diabetes remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze changes in laboratory-measured HbA1c during and after two COVID-19 lockdowns.
- To investigate factors influencing HbA1c changes in type 1 diabetes patients.
Main Methods:
- A 3-year cohort study of 291 adults with type 1 diabetes, including prepandemic and lockdown phases.
- Multivariable linear regressions analyzed HbA1c levels using medical records and validated questionnaires (health literacy, diabetes self-management, general self-efficacy, social support).
Main Results:
- Lockdowns were associated with a significant increase in HbA1c levels (e.g., first lockdown: β=0.23, p=0.005; second lockdown: β=0.27, p<0.001).
- HbA1c changes were influenced by check-up frequency, prior HbA1c values, education level, health literacy, and diabetes self-management scores.
- Continuous glucose monitoring or insulin pump use did not impact HbA1c changes.
Conclusions:
- COVID-19 lockdowns negatively impacted glycemic control in type 1 diabetes patients.
- Individuals with fewer check-ups, lower education, poor self-management, and low health literacy are at higher risk.
- Targeted medical care, potentially via telemedicine, is recommended for at-risk populations during lockdowns.
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