Patient Perspectives and Experiences From Participation in the Glycemic Excursion Minimization Prediabetes...

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Diseases
• Digital Health Interventions

Background:

• Prediabetes affects 88 million American adults, with 1.5 million progressing to type 2 diabetes annually.
• Lifestyle modifications are crucial for delaying type 2 diabetes progression.
• The Glycemic Excursion Minimization/Glucose Everyday Matters (GEM) intervention utilizes a guide, continuous glucose monitor, and activity monitor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore participant perspectives and experiences with the GEM self-guided intervention for prediabetes.
• To identify key themes related to the GEM guide and intervention components.
• To gather feedback for future adoption and refinement of the GEM intervention.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews with 16 participants who completed the GEM intervention.
• Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis with two coders.
• Data analysis focused on identifying overarching themes regarding the GEM intervention's impact.

Main Results:

• Five major themes emerged from the analysis, highlighting positive outcomes.
• Participants reported increased knowledge of the link between lifestyle choices and glucose excursions.
• Positive insights were gained regarding overall health status, disease understanding, and perceived support during the trial.

Conclusions:

• The GEM intervention effectively increased participant knowledge regarding lifestyle choices and glucose excursions.
• Participants expressed positive experiences and insights into the GEM intervention and its components.
• Findings will inform the further adoption and optimization of the GEM intervention for prediabetes management.