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Relationship Between Hypoglycemia Frequency and Academic Performance in Children With Type 1 Diabetes
Kiramat U Wazir1, Hafsah Naz2, Amna Mahmood3
1Paediatrics, Mardan Medical Complex, Mardan, PAK.
Cureus
|May 20, 2026
Summary
Frequent hypoglycemia in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is linked to lower academic scores and increased school absenteeism. Optimizing glycemic control is crucial for improving both health and educational outcomes in these children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Diabetology
- Child Psychology
Background:
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in children requires intensive insulin therapy.
- This therapy can lead to frequent hypoglycemic episodes, impacting daily life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between the frequency of hypoglycemia and academic performance in children with T1DM.
- To correlate glycemic control patterns with scholastic achievements.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 275 children with T1DM at Children Hospital Lahore.
- Collected data on hypoglycemia frequency, glycemic control (HbA1c), academic scores, and school attendance.
Main Results:
- Children with high-frequency hypoglycemia had significantly lower academic scores (65.8% vs 82.1%) and reduced school attendance (81.7% vs 93.4%).
- A strong negative correlation (r = -0.62) was found between hypoglycemia frequency and academic performance.
- 29.1% of children experienced high-frequency hypoglycemia, and 25.8% reported severe episodes.
Conclusions:
- Recurrent hypoglycemia is significantly associated with poorer academic outcomes and increased absenteeism in children with T1DM.
- Optimizing glycemic control is essential for enhancing both clinical and educational results in pediatric T1DM patients.
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