DiaSHoT18: A cross-sectional national health and well-being survey of university students with type 1 diabetes

Abstract

Objective: To achieve a better understanding in how university students live with and are able to manage their type 1 diabetes (T1D). Methods: In 2018, all fulltime Norwegian students aged 18 to 35 years pursuing higher education were invited into a national survey, which included data on demographics and health. In all, 162 512 students fulfilled these inclusion criteria. Students that stated having diabetes were asked to answer further questions about their diabetes care. Results: We included data from 50 054 students responding to the survey, and identified 324 students with T1D (64% females, mean age 23 years, mean HbA1c 7.65% [60 mmol/mol]). Male students had a lower HbA1c (7.28% vs 7.86%, 56 vs 62 mmol/mol), reached an HbA1c of <7.5% (58 mol/mol) more often (62.2% vs 44.2%) and were using continuous glucose measurement (CGM) less often (19.5% vs 36.7%). Exercise and smoking habits in students with T1D were equal to the non-diabetic group. More students with T1D were overweight or obese (44.1% vs 32.2%). Students who achieved an HbA1c <7.5% (58 mmol/mol) measured their blood sugar more often, had a lower body-mass index, exercised more and were smoking less. An HbA1c >7.5% (58 mmol/mol) was associated with less activity, more overweight or obesity, and smoking. The use of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion and CGM was not associated with a better metabolic control. Conclusions: These data have implications for the follow-up of adolescents and young adults, showing the need to focus on general lifestyle habits, especially in female subjects, whereas the use of technical devices might be of secondary importance.