Visual Abstract
Disparities exist in diabetes technology recommendations and use. We developed a CGM+online peer support community (OPSC) intervention optimized for Spanish-speaking adults with type 2 diabetes not using insulin. The CGM+OPSC intervention combined CGM use with weekly personal experiments posted to the OPSC managed by trained bilingual peer facilitators. This mixed method study assessed how participants used the intervention.
Participants completed a 1-week blinded baseline CGM recording (N=31) then CGM+OPSC for 12 weeks. Of those that continued into unblinded phase (n=22) study engagement was excellent (N=21). Analysis of exit interviews identified 3 themes: (1) CGM “personal experiments” helped participants gain knowledge about how diet, exercise, medications, stress, and sleep impacted glucose levels; (2) the OPSC reinforced healthy behaviors through personal experiments, collective learning and social support; and (3) CGM engagement increased OPSC participation and participation in the OPSC resulted in greater CGM utilization, suggesting a positive feedback loop.
Spanish-speaking adults with type 2 diabetes have a great desire to use diabetes technology that is optimized for their language and social support needs. CGM+OPSC provided the tools necessary to learn, problem-solve, and make healthy behavior changes. CGM+OPSC is a promising intervention to address health disparities.
M. L. Litchman: Research Support; Self; Abbott Diabetes. A. Ng: Advisory Panel; Self; Know Diabetes, Consultant; Self; Roche Diabetes Care, Research Support; Self; Abbott Diabetes. B. Gonzales: None. A. C. Sanchez-birkhead: None. N. A. Allen: Research Support; Self; Dexcom, Inc. E. Iacob: None. D. Greenwood: Consultant; Self; LifeScan Diabetes Institute, Employee; Self; Dexcom, Inc., Other Relationship; Self; Abbott Diabetes, Stock/Shareholder; Self; Dexcom, Inc.
Abbott Diabetes Care
