Exploring Diabetes Management Behaviours With FreeStyle Libre 2: Insights From Adults With Type 2 Diabetes in Quebec

To understand the long-term behaviour changes associated with use of the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor-based glucose monitor by people living with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

This was a qualitative study of adults with T2D living in Quebec and using FreeStyle Libre 2. Discussions were moderated by an experienced facilitator using a semidirected discussion guide. Discussions were transcribed and analyzed thematically.

A total of 16 people living with T2D who had been using FreeStyle Libre 2 for >6 months participated in 2 focus groups (non-insulin treatments, 6 women and 3 men; basal insulin, 2 women and 5 men). No material differences in responses or anecdotes between the 2 groups were found. Use of FreeStyle Libre 2 was associated with the following 4 main themes: 1) personalized knowledge, including participants' sense of autonomy and control and their ability to see the effect of their actions on glucose levels and to make informed choices, such as modifying their diet; 2) improved communication with health-care providers, who can access patients' glucose data in real time if shared through the smartphone application; 3) reductions in hypoglycemia, particularly due to warnings of low glucose levels; and 4) long-term benefits, including reductions in stress and improved health-related quality of life.

Long-term users found that FreeStyle Libre 2 improved their diabetes self-management, communication with health-care providers, health-related quality of life, and stress levels and facilitated lifestyle changes. Individuals with T2D described the device as empowering ongoing healthy behaviour change. This research serves as a person-centred qualitative finding to be considered in access decisions.