Visual Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine accuracy of self-reported blood glucose monitoring compared to objectively downloaded data from diabetes devices.
Devices were downloaded from 79 adolescents (44% male, age=14.9±1.9 years; A1C=9.8±1.6%) who were participating in a RCT that provided integrated behavioral intervention to improve A1C.
Objective blood glucose data were obtained for up to 90 days prior to enrollment. Prior to any intervention, adolescents self-reported blood glucose monitoring frequency on the Diabetes Self-Management Profile (DSMP). Each adolescent’s self-report was compared to his or her device data. Almost half (48.6%) overestimated the frequency of fingerstick blood glucose monitoring; only 28.9% accurately estimated and 22.4% underestimated. Objectively measured frequency of blood glucose monitoring was significantly associated with A1C (p<0.05), whereas the Glucose Testing subscale of the DSMP was not.
Seventy-one percent of adolescents inaccurately self-reported blood glucose monitoring frequency, with almost half overestimating. Objective data is the closest approximation to actual behavior. Thus, researchers should consider only using objectively downloaded data because self-report is prone to inaccurate recall and social desirability.
H. O’donnell: None. K. A. Driscoll: None. T. B. Vigers: None. G. T. Alonso: None. T. Gomer: None. S. Majidi: Advisory Panel; Self; Companion Medical. L. Pyle: None. D. A. Sileo: None. J. K. Snell-bergeon: Stock/Shareholder; Self; GlaxoSmithKline plc. R. Wadwa: Consultant; Self; Tandem Diabetes Care, Research Support; Self; Dexcom, Inc., Eli Lilly and Company, Tandem Diabetes Care.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (DP3DK113363)
